Lindsey Santiago

Lindsey Santiago, 38, Multiple Sclerosis

How would you explain Multiple Sclerosis to a child?

That the signals that carry messages from my brain/spine to the rest of my body are a bit worn out and don’t work like they should, so that is why it makes it difficult for me to walk etc. I am not getting the messages clearly.

What would you want the world to know about Multiple Sclerosis?

That even though there is a lot I can’t do physically like run etc. there is still so much I am capable of doing. I try to educate people to get the best treatment and take care of themselves as much as they can in order to have MS affect their life/ quality of life  as little as possible. 

What does it feel like to live with Multiple Sclerosis? 

It is hard to remember what it was like before I was diagnosed, but the planning and thinking that I have to do on a daily basis. I can’t just get up and go…I have to think what am I doing today…how much walking will I be doing…is there accessible parking where I am going…will I be able to complete the tasks I need to do today…

What brings you joy?

Spending time with my family and friends. I love being able to do activities with my son, and I enjoy having nice dinners with my husband and friends. Talking about anything Harry Potter and Disney :) Playing adaptive tennis and being able to smack the ball across the net!