b'Mobility and transportation barriers Psychosocial and mental health issuesMany MS patients require transportationDepression is one of the most common for doctors appointments, MRIs, infusions,symptoms of MS. Living with a chronic illness and physical therapy. However, limited publicoften leads to social isolation, particularly for transportation infrastructure forces them toyoung individuals, in what should be their rely on caregivers. For those dependent onhealthiest years. Many MS patients struggle to wheelchairsandscooters,accessibilitymaintain personal relationships, and invisible challenges are even greater because of thesymptoms such as fatigue, cognitive impairment, high cost of adaptive vehicles and the lack ofand depression add to the challenge. Well-wheelchair-accessibleoptionsinstandardmeaning but dismissive comments such as rideshare services. These barriers limit access"Butyoulooksogood"canmakeiteven to medical care and restrict social interactionsharder for individuals to receive the support and overall quality of life.theyneedandfeelunderstoodbythose Lifestyle challenges around them. Unfortunately for Jane, the system failed Many daily MS symptoms can be alleviatedher at a very young age, despite the efforts of through lifestyle modications, such as regularthose who tried to help. I still remember her exercise, dietary adjustments, balanced mentalwordsthat, in the end, she was grateful she was health, and an active lifestyle routine. However,the one with this disease rather than her son. nancial constraints, transportation limitations,Jane may not remember methe doctor who and the high cost of wellness activities oftencared for her one night during her hospitalization make implementing these lifestyle changesyears ago. But what she doesnt know is on that difficult. The inability to maintain a healthyvery night, I decided to dedicate my future lifestyle can lead to additional comorbidities,career to treating people living with MS, striving including cardiovascular and metabolicto reduce the challenges and barriers they face diseases, further complicating overall health so I can contribute to a future where fewer outcomes.individuals endure what she did. Ways You Can Help Us Help OthersDid you know you can donate your unwanted car, truck, boat, or RV to benet MS Focus? Contact carsforcharity.net or call 888-755-5435. They arrange to pick up your donated vehicle from anywhere and handle all the details. Your vehicle is sold and the money is donated to MS Focus. You will receive a thank you and donation receipt letter within a month. Its a great way to make an easy tax-deductible donation.msfocusmagazine.org 19'