My Journey So Far: Finding Strength and Connection

Today, I want to share a bit of my journey with you. My hope is that through this blog, we can become more connected—not just through my story, but through yours as well. I need your help, support, advice, and suggestions too. Together, we can create a space where everyone feels seen and supported. After all, together, we are stronger.

The Beginning of My New Chapter

My journey took a sharp turn in 2009 when I was no longer able to work and was officially on disability. At that point, my symptoms made it impossible to keep up with a regular work schedule or the fast pace of the world around me.

I have multiple sclerosis (MS), a condition that affects everyone differently. Its symptoms are unpredictable and often made worse by stress—a perfect storm I know all too well. Back in the early days (yes, the 1900s—I’m dating myself here), we didn’t have the same level of testing or diagnostic equipment we do now. I had been living with the disease for some time, but it wasn’t until 2003, during a particularly stressful hurricane season, that my symptoms became undeniable.

It started with vision problems in my right eye. Thinking I might just need glasses, I saw a doctor, but one appointment turned into many—tests, specialists, and eventually an MRI and spinal tap. That’s when I got the confirmation: MS.

The Impact of Change

At the time, I had a job I loved and coworkers I enjoyed spending time with. Before that, I had served over 7 years in the military, building a career and a life I was proud of. Suddenly, it all felt like it came to a screeching halt.

That’s when depression crept in, as it often does with big, life-changing events. I felt isolated, lost, and unsure of how to move forward. If there’s one thing I’ve learned since then, it’s that talking to someone is vital. Depression is real, and it thrives in silence. When I finally reached out for help, I realized I wasn’t alone.

Finding a New Path

Group therapy became a lifeline for me. I started attending lectures and classes to help me understand and manage this “new me.” It wasn’t always easy, but it was during one of these group sessions that something extraordinary happened.

Someone introduced me to a hand cycle. I had never considered it before, but the moment I got on, I fell in love. Slowly but surely, I began training with others who had spinal cord injuries and diseases. At first, we started small. But before I knew it, I was participating in marathons. For the first time in what felt like forever, I was finding joy and purpose again.

That hand cycle was the spark that lit a fire in me. It opened up an entirely new world of adapted sports and activities—cycling, kayaking, and so much more. I dove in headfirst, and it’s been one of the most transformative parts of my journey.

Let’s Hear Your Story

That’s enough about me for now—I want to hear your story. Have you faced challenges that changed your path? How did you adapt? If you’re feeling stuck or unsure of where to start, let me know. I’d love to help you get outside, try something new, and discover the incredible world of adapted sports and activities.

We’re all in this together, and together, we can make life richer, fuller, and more adventurous.

Let’s connect, share, and grow—one step, one cycle, and one story at a time.