Living with a chronic illness like MS means embracing unpredictability—something that can feel as frustrating as it is humbling. One day, I might be walking without any support, and later that same day, I might be relying on my cane or even a wheelchair. That contrast can be jarring, not just for others watching from the outside, but for me too.
I’ll be honest: I’ve had to do a lot of internal work around using mobility aids. I currently have a love-hate relationship with my cane and walker. I love that they give me freedom, that they allow me to keep doing the things I love and showing up in life. But it also took time—and a big shift in mindset—to move past the feeling that needing them meant I had somehow failed.
It’s tough to reconcile the image of yourself you used to carry with the reality of needing help. I was in my thirties when I first needed assistance walking. That wasn’t part of the plan. It wasn’t what I imagined my life looking like. And when kids would ask me things like, “Are you a grandma?”—not out of malice, but curiosity—it stung. (And side note to parents: gently correcting those comments matters. - But that’s another post for another day.)
This one is about pride. About how I had to set it aside in order to live well and fully. It’s about asking for help—not because I’m weak, but because I’m strong enough to know my limits and take care of myself.
It’s about humility. It’s about grace.
Because living with MS means acknowledging what my body needs from moment to moment, without shame. And part of that journey has been learning that using a cane, or walker, or wheelchair isn’t giving up—it’s choosing to keep going. It’s refusing to miss out on life.
So if you see me walking well one moment and in a chair the next, just know: I’m doing what I need to do to keep showing up. And maybe that’s the bravest thing any of us can do.
Your Turn:
Have you ever had to shift your mindset around asking for help or using a tool (mobility aid or otherwise) to support your health or independence? I’d love to hear your story. Let’s open up this conversation and help normalize support—whatever it looks like. Drop a comment or share your experience below.
Repeat these positive affirmations to yourself...
* I am resilient and can overcome life's challenges.
* I am strong and have the power to make the right choices for me.
* I am grateful for what I can do.
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