229. Living with MS: Ardra Shephard on Identity, Humor, and Redefining Normal

In this episode of The MSing Link Podcast, I’m thrilled to reconnect with Ardra Shephard, a brilliant author, blogger, and advocate for those living with multiple sclerosis (MS).  Join us as we dive into her journey from blogger to author and discuss her powerful new book, "Fallosophy: My Trip Through Life with MS," which offers a candid, humorous take on living with MS.  Ardra opens up about maintaining identity amidst an MS diagnosis, harnessing humor in challenging times, and embracing the ever-changing "next normal." We also tackle practical strategies for adjusting to new symptoms and prioritizing self-care with MS. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation that brings insight, community, and optimism to all of us navigating life with MS. About Ardra: Ardra Shephard is the Toronto based author of Fallosophy: My Trip Through Life With MS (Douglas & McIntyre). She is the creator and host of AMI-TV's groundbreaking makeover show Fashion Dis and the creator of Tripping on Air, an award winning blog and podcast about life with MS.    *Headshot taken by Alkan Emin   Connect with Ardra: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ms_trippingonair/ Tripping On Air Blog: https://trippingonair.com/ Adra’s Book On Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Fallosophy-My-Trip-through-Life/dp/1771624302   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

This is the first time I’m talking about my career journey! I dive into my personal journey from being camera shy to becoming an MS specialist and creating "The MSing Link," an online program specifically designed for those with multiple sclerosis (MS). Discover how my early days as a Beachbody coach unexpectedly led me to develop accessible exercise programs tailored for people with MS. I'll share insights into how showing up regularly, both personally and on social media, helped me engage with a community eager for wellness expertise. Join me as I talk about modifying workouts for Beachbody and how that led to modifying exercises for daily variations in MS symptoms, and how this practice can advance your strength, mobility, and energy levels. Learn about my passion for helping individuals navigate their MS journey using research-driven approaches, cultivating a supportive community, and celebrating every victory along the way. Tune in for strategies, exercises, and motivating advice to empower your life with MS and discover the transformative potential of consistency and accessible adaptations.   Resources mentioned in the episode: The MSing Link, Episode 158, 5 Year Anniversary of The MSing Link Online Wellness Program - Apple | Spotify   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

In this episode, I delve into the intricacies of Ampyra, an FDA-approved medication designed to enhance walking in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). Sharing insights from both research and my experience as a physical therapist specializing in MS, I discuss the medication’s impact on walking speed and quality.  Discover the importance of maintaining a strict 12-hour medication schedule and learn how Ampyra acts as a potassium channel blocker to enhance nerve conduction. I also provide real-life anecdotes from my MS clients, highlighting improvements in walking quality, reduced spasticity, and fatigue.  Join me in exploring how combining Ampyra with tailored physical therapy can maximize benefits and improve walking and balance. This episode is packed with expert advice, practical tips, and resources to empower those living with MS to enhance their mobility and quality of life. Don’t miss this informative session on navigating walking challenges with MS and discovering potential treatment options!   Resources mentioned in the episode: MSWS-12, Multiple Sclerosis Walking Scale - 12 steps: https://www.apta.org/patient-care/evidence-based-practice-resources/test-measures/12-item-multiple-sclerosis-walking-scale-msws-12   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

In this episode, I'm thrilled to have Lynne Peeples, a science journalist and author of "The Inner Clock," join us to explore the fascinating world of our circadian rhythms!  Discover how understanding and optimizing your inner clock can lead to better sleep, happiness, and improved performance—particularly important for those of us navigating life with multiple sclerosis (MS). Lynne delves into the essential role of our circadian rhythm in health, while sharing tips to align your inner clock for enhanced well-being.  If you're looking for practical strategies to boost your energy and manage MS symptoms, this conversation is packed with expert insights and actionable advice. Join us to learn how these small changes can make a big difference in your MS journey!   About Lynne: Lynne Peeples is a speaker and science journalist. Her recent book, THE INNER CLOCK: Living in Sync with Our Circadian Rhythms, explores how circadian science can help us sleep better, feel happier, and improve our performance, productivity, and overall health. Her writing has appeared in The Guardian, Scientific American, The Atlantic, TIME, and other publications. Peeples herself has appeared on television and radio shows including MSNBC, NPR Fresh Air, and BBC News. Before becoming a journalist, she crunched numbers as a biostatistician for HIV clinical trials and environmental health studies. Peeples holds master’s degrees in biostatistics from the Harvard School of Public Health and in science journalism from New York University. She is also a recipient of an MIT Knight Science Journalism fellowship.   Connect with Lynne: Website: https://lynnepeeples.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lynne.peeples LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynnepeeples/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lynne.peeples X: https://x.com/lynnepeeps Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/lynnepeeps.bsky.social Threads: https://www.threads.net/@lynne.peeples   Resources mentioned in the episode: The Inner Clock, Living In Sync with Our Circadian Rhythms by Lynne Peeples - https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/703281/the-inner-clock-by-lynne-peeples/   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

In this episode, I discuss why multiple sclerosis (MS) is commonly misdiagnosed and delve into conditions that often mimic MS symptoms.  We'll explore the McDonald criteria updates, diagnostic challenges, and conditions like fibromyalgia, migraines, Lyme disease, and others that often lead to misdiagnosis.  I also provide insights into key symptom similarities and differences, along with potential distinguishing tests. If you suspect a misdiagnosis, I'll guide you on steps to take, from self-assessment to approaching your neurologist confidently.  Join us for an exploration of MS misdiagnosis that aims to empower you with knowledge and strategies to ensure accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.    Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

In this episode, I have the pleasure of chatting with Jayne Mattingly, an inspiring figure in the realms of chronic illness and disability advocacy.  We dive into the concept of body grief and explore its seven stages, offering insights and strategies that can resonate deeply with those living with multiple sclerosis (MS). Jane shares her personal and professional journey, highlighting how acknowledging body grief can lead to healthier coping mechanisms and a more resilient approach to managing chronic illnesses. Our discussion provides valuable perspectives aimed at improving your quality of life with MS while navigating the challenges it may bring.  Tune in for a heartfelt and insightful conversation filled with expertise and encouragement for your MS journey! About our guest:  Jayne Mattingly, 33, is an Eating Disorder therapist turned, Chronic Illness and Disability Advocate, Author and Body Acceptance social Media Influencer and Artist.    Jayne is a leader who speaks up for those that are disabled, chronically ill, struggling with eating disorders, and/or mental illness. Her vulnerable, open, and honest content breaks barriers for those who are left out and unseen in an ableist-focused world. She holds a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, specializing in eating disorder recovery and body image struggles.   Jayne candidly shares her learnings, hardships, and growth, all while breaking stigmas and normalizing body grief. Her content, mission, upcoming book; This is Body Grief (published by Penguin Random House) and newsletter, Body Grief (on Substack), non-profit, provide a safe space and support for an unseen and unheard community.  Jayne is also newly disabled by her progressive and degenerative illnesses; Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, intracranial hypertension, and now a severe allergy to the metal that has been implanted in her body and as a result has had more than 19 brain procedures and total hysterectomy. She relies on her rollator, wheel chair and her service dog Wheatie.     Jayne is a Chicago, Illinois, native and now lives in Charleston, South Carolina, with her husband and pets. Connect with Jayne: Website: https://www.jaynemattingly.com/   Resources mentioned in the episode: Jayne’s book, This Is Body Grief - https://www.jaynemattingly.com/the-book Jayne’s substack: https://jaynemattingly.substack.com/   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink  

In this episode of The MSing Link Podcast, I delve into the 2024 updates to the McDonald Criteria for diagnosing Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Join me as I explain these significant changes and what they mean for patients seeking an accurate MS diagnosis. You'll gain a clearer understanding of the evolving landscape in MS diagnosis. I also discuss the addition of optic nerve involvement and changes to dissemination in time requirements, offering practical advice and questions you can take to your neurologist for a confident diagnosis.  Stay informed, empowered, and ready to take action on your MS journey with this comprehensive episode filled with the latest MS diagnosis criteria insights and expert guidance.   Resources mentioned in the episode: McDonald Criteria - https://mstrust.org.uk/a-z/mcdonald-criteria The MSing Link Book - https://www.drgretchenhawley.com/the-msing-link-book   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink  

In today's episode, I'm thrilled to dive into "Must-Have MS Mobility Tools: A Complete Guide for Better Walking and Independence." Whether you're living with multiple sclerosis (MS) or supporting someone who is, finding the right mobility tools can be pivotal for independence and improved quality of life. Discover how adaptive clothing like magnetic closure bras can save energy and time, allowing you to enjoy what matters most. You'll learn about key tools that improve balance, extend activity time in heat, and boost walking confidence. We'll bust myths about mobility aids and highlight how the right tool used the right way can help you stay strong and independent. Tune in for expert advice, exercises, and strategies designed to empower your MS journey. Don't miss out on transforming your daily routine with tools that make a difference! Resources mentioned in the episode: Link to free MS Mobility Tools PDF: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/ms-mobility-equipment-guide-podcast  Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected] Website:www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1

In this episode of The MSing Link Podcast, I engage in a meaningful conversation with Cherie Binns, a knowledgeable MS nurse, about the intricate relationship between multiple sclerosis and menopause.  We explore how hormonal changes can exacerbate MS symptoms and discuss the potential benefits of hormone replacement therapy for individuals experiencing these changes. Cherie provides insights into recognizing whether symptom changes are due to MS progression or menopause and offers practical tips to manage these challenges.  With 30% of the MS population being perimenopausal or menopausal, this episode is essential for understanding how to navigate these dual challenges effectively.  Join us for an enlightening discussion filled with expert advice and actionable strategies to understand MS and hormone, menopause effects on MS symptoms, treatment options during menopause, and HRT considerations for patients with MS.  If you're someone with MS or know someone who is, this episode is a must-listen! Tune in to gain valuable insights and empower yourself on your MS journey. About our guest, Cherie:Cherie is not only a registered nurse who happens to have MS, she is also one of about 1300 nurses worldwide who is classified as a Multiple Sclerosis Certified Nurse by the Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers (CMSC)  and the International Organization of Multiple Sclerosis Nurses (IOMSN).  She has been an RN for more than 50 years.  She is the Patient Healthcare Liaison for the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation and has been an Advisor to the National Aging Initiative for several years focusing on Aging with multiple chronic comorbidities. Cherie also is a research reviewer for several National entities and writes for the MSFOCUS magazine as well as being an author on a number of peer reviewed articles in the MS arena.   Connect with Cherie: Website: www.msfocus.org Resources mentioned in the episode: www.nationalmssociety.org will give you links to several clinical trials related to the impact of menopause on MS progression when you use the same search criteria. New Study Indicates MS May Worsen During Menopause: https://www.nationalmssociety.org/news-and-magazine/news/associations-with-menopause Research Study: Menopause and Cognition: https://www.nationalmssociety.org/how-you-can-help/get-involved/participate-in-research-studies/research-study-menopause-cognition www.msfocus.org If someone searches "Menopause and MS", More than 200 articles pop up in our online magazine.  We also have a "Women and MS" booklet which is downloadable or free through the mail that addresses menopause and its impact on MS symptoms. Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

In this episode of The MSing Link Podcast, I delve into the vital topic of foot drop, a common issue faced by individuals with multiple sclerosis. As a seasoned physical therapist, I highlight the importance of recognizing the signs of foot drop, such as toe catching, shoe scuffing, and modified walking patterns that could impact mobility.  Tune in as I reveal the five signs you should never ignore and discuss practical exercises and strategies to address foot drop effectively.  Discover how muscle strengthening, balance practices, and the right ankle braces can enhance walking and independence. Whether you're newly diagnosed with MS or have been managing it for years, these insights are tailored to empower your journey towards improved mobility and quality of life.  Don't miss the opportunity to learn how addressing foot drop can make a significant difference in your daily activities and overall well-being!   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink