52 msfocusmagazine.org By Kathryn Bradbury Life with MS has its fair share of ups and downs, challenges, and triumphs. No matter where your journey takes you, I believe that people with MS should choose to remain empowered. This is a very powerful word that should be used deliberately and with intent. I have had the honor and privilege of working with support group leaders in our network during the past several months. I have found they remain empowered as they continue to lead the groups within their communities. They offer guidance for the newly diagnosed, provide information regarding hot topics within the group, and organize informative speakers and discussions – all meant to bring the community together with a shared goal: to live their best possible lives with MS. You may be thinking, “easier said than done,” but it can reallybe as simple as changing your focus. When you shift the focus from MS to living life, you empower yourself. When you take time to do something you love, you empower yourself. When you share your MS story, you empower yourself. Taking care of yourself,whetherit’sthroughtakingmedication, attending a yoga class or physical therapy, or going out and enjoying the day with friends and family, you are empowering yourself. Once you have taken such steps, you will be able to better serve yourself, your family, and the community at large. Changing your focus can have a profound effect on how you view life, how you handle the challenges MS gives you, and could truly help you live your best possible life. There is a trend occurring when speaking about living with MS: we see an emphasis being placed on your well-being through better nutrition and exercise, aswell as mental health.Afeeling of empowerment is directly related to your overall well-being. A positive attitude can go a long way toward a positive outcome. Support groups can help you to feel connected to your community and offer ways to accomplish your goals, contend with the challenges you face and celebrate your triumphs. If you don’t have access to a support group in your area, are you interested in starting one? MS Focus is here to help. We can help you get started and have various ways of assisting you on your journey as a support group leader. But, most importantly, take time to find out what empowers you and embrace it. Act on it and watch how your life changes! Please welcome these newly affiliated groups: The Huddle MS Faith-Based Telephone Support Group Sumter Warriors MS Support Group, Sumter, S.C. Tioga County MS Support Group, Mansfield, Pa. Barefoot Bay MS Warriors Support Group, Barefoot Bay, Fla. Please visit our website at www.msfocus.org for the meeting dates, times, and locations or to find the support group nearest you. Life with MS