Unbreakable Love: A Journey of Support and Strength

Celebrating 21 Years of Love

Twenty-one years ago today, I married my best friend and soul mate. So, I thought today would be the perfect time to reflect on unconditional love and the profound role it has played in my life—especially in my journey with illness. I have been blessed beyond measure to be surrounded by love, both firsthand and through the beautiful examples set by others. I truly would not be where I am today without the unwavering support of my husband, family, friends, coworkers, and even strangers. Despite the hardships of my illness, I have been given countless opportunities to witness the kindness and generosity of humanity, and for that, I am deeply grateful.

Facing an Uncertain Future Together

When I was first diagnosed, Jeremy and I were young—we had been married for just four and a half years. We were high school sweethearts, together for nearly nine years. We were both terrified of what the future might hold. I (stupidly) wondered if he would want to stay married to someone with a disability. I didn’t want to become a burden to him. But not only has he never made me feel like a burden, I have never again questioned his love and dedication. As I mentioned in a previous post, before I began this healing journey, he was helping me with nearly everything—without complaint. A dear friend has always described the way Jeremy helps me as our “dance”—he instinctively knows all the steps, always moving in sync with my needs.

The Hardest Years and Jeremy’s Unwavering Support

The past few years have been some of the most difficult times of our lives. My health was steadily declining, and before the pandemic, I required near-constant help. Jeremy never hesitates to drop everything if I need him—whether it’s rushing home during lunch to help me after a fall or carrying me when I physically can’t walk. After working all day, he comes home and cooks delicious meals, always taking my restrictive diet into account (which I’ve maintained for the last 15 years). I could fill pages with examples of the ways he ensures I live my best life. I truly don’t know where I would be today without his unconditional love and support.

Unwavering Friendship: Love Beyond Obligation

Some might argue that Jeremy made a vow and is legally bound to uphold it, but my friends have made no such commitment—yet their love and support are just as unconditional. I know it’s not always easy to make plans when accessibility needs must be considered, but my friends do so with grace. They are always mindful of my needs, going above and beyond to make sure I feel included and comfortable.

Unconditional love is when your friend—or even your boss—helps you off the toilet and pulls up your pants without hesitation. It’s a friend who designs assistive devices to help lift my right leg when it refuses to cooperate. Another friend is currently growing mushrooms known to alleviate MS symptoms just so she can make tinctures for me. And then there was the group of Jeremy’s coworkers and our friends who recently spent an entire day cleaning, making repairs, painting, and doing yard work at our house—just because.

The Kindness of Strangers

Beyond my inner circle, I have witnessed the kindness of complete strangers in ways I never expected. A woman once offered to pump my gas because she saw me struggling. Strangers have literally picked me up off the ground after I’ve fallen. These moments remind me that even the smallest gestures—kind words, patience, and a simple smile—can make a world of difference when someone is struggling.

Gratitude and Hope for the Future

“Thank you” never feels like enough, and I hope to find ways to pay it forward someday. MS is relentless, and there are days when I feel like I just can’t do it anymore. But through it all, I have never felt alone. The love and support surrounding me keep me going. Thanks to the selflessness of friends, family, and even strangers, I have found hope and inspiration for the future. And for that, I am forever grateful.

An Official Diagnosis