Over 90,000 Canadians are living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a disease that impacts the body’s central nervous system (CNS). The CNS is composed of the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves and affects the quality of life for individuals diagnosed with MS.
Women are three times more likely to develop MS than men, with a majority of diagnoses developing in adults ages 20 to 50.
Stacey Thiessen was diagnosed at 21 with Relapsing Remitting MS in 2015 and currently resides in Garson.
“The body’s immune systems attack the myelin, which is the protective covering of nerves,” explained Thiessen.
MS impacts each person differently, as each diagnosis will bring a different set of symptoms. Most commonly, someone with MS will experience chronic fatigue, muscle weakness, coordination issues, bladder and bowel complications, vision impairments and mood changes.
Thiessen explained that she lives with fatigue, brain fog and back and leg pain impacting her mobility.
“I was diagnosed nine years ago, and since then, I have purchased a house, got married, and now I have a two-year-old little boy,” said Thiessen.
She uttered that being a mother with MS is a challenge, but in her eyes it is worth it.
“The main thing (challenge) is learning my new limitations and new normal, then honouring those limitations.”
Thiessen learned to listen to her body and accept help when needed. She relies on her support system for assistance.
“It is scary when you are first diagnosed,” Thiessen said.
Thanks to the exceptional neurology team at the MS Clinic in Winnipeg and finding a medication that works, Thiessen has learned to live her life with MS.
“The progression of the disease is so different today than it was 20 years ago, thanks to the research done and money raised,” she added.
Thiessen has been honoured to be involved with the MS Society since 2016. She first participated in several MS walk and bicycle fundraising events, and now she is an MS Ambassador.
“It has been a big part of me accepting this new health diagnosis and grieving the old me.”
She noted that MS Canada is here to help people across Canada navigate MS.
“I have learned a lot about MS through the MS Society,” said Thiessen.
“It (MS) can limit you, but it doesn’t have to halt your life completely.”
Thiessen added that it is important that Canadians see a sample of positivity in the work that MS Ambassadors do.
Ambassadors help educate, spread awareness, and raise funds for MS. Of course, the MS Society Ambassadors have had a lot of support from other organizations in Canada.
For 16 years, A&W Canada has held an annual fundraising campaign supporting MS.
Burgers to Beat MS is a nationwide event that donates $2 from every Teen Burger sold to help fund MS research and support programming.
Since 2008, A&W has donated more than $20 million towards MS Canada.
“It is a very successful campaign,” said Thiessen.
On Aug. 22, you can buy a Teen Burger at any A&W location in Canada and help fundraise to find a cure for the life-long disease.
“It is a fun day and an easy way to support MS,” Thiessen added.
Selkirk’s A&W will host a series of events for their Burgers to Beat MS campaign.
Lily Pad Cruisers and Cruisin’ The Dub will display an array of classic vehicles outside the restaurant.
Be sure to stop by for some live entertainment as well. Daylin “Elvis” James will arrive at the Selkirk location at 5:30 p.m., just in time for you to grab a Teen Burger for dinner.
If you are looking for other ways to support the MS Society, A&W allows you to round up your bill at the till or you donate online at www.mscanda.ca.
Remember to swing by A&W on Aug. 22 and purchase a Teen Burger supporting the Burgers to Beat MS campaign.
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