My name is Melissa.

I was diagnosed with MS in Summer 2006 after a seizure episode, and then experienced balance and occasional memory loss issues. I had an MRI that exposed the white lesions on my brain. I started on Dilantin for the seizures. When I experienced my second seizure I decided on my own to go for another MRI to determine for SURE that I had MS.

As a solo individual, I felt isolated as I moved back to my family's ranch in Gonzales, CA. My father Daniel would look over the property and me as he could. According to Tony Tabulsee, MD, new tools are better at diffusing MS. I came upon my cousin June going to Bible Study. She invited me to several meetings where I felt less frustrated about the fact the I have MS.

I was in need of lots of encouragement and especially knowledge of the disease. Especially being a young woman in her early 40s who was a ballerina for 20-plus years, I found my flexibility and energy levels had changed dramatically.

My education to become a Dental Hygienist basically became a financial burden as I needed to pay for doctor visits and medications instead. I still dabble in singing in church, dancing, and some gardening, as I realize sufficient Vitamins A and D through ultraviolet rays are necessary for my health and well-being.