b"Life with MSAAnnAAffrriiccaannAAmmeerriiccaannWWoommaannLLiivviinnggwwiitthhMMSSBy Latoya JohnsonThank you so much for the opportunity tothe spotlight. But through it all, I've discovered sharemystory.AsanAfricanAmericanresilience, embraced grace, and I understand womanlivingwithmultiplesclerosis,Imthat true strength is found in the support of honored to contribute to a space where ourones community and outside connections. voices matterunltered and unapologetic.One of the most important lessons MS My name is Latoya Johnson, and I live byhas taught me is the power of self-advocacy. the phrase: I have MS, MS doesnt have me.Whether its in a doctors office, at work, or Beingdiagnosedwithrelapsing-remittingin everyday life, you have to speak up for MS in 2018 turned my world upside down yourself, ask the hard questions, and ght for but it also turned it right side up. I often say thatthe care and support you need. No one knows MS was my blessing in disguise. It forced meyour body better than you do. Advocacy is not to slow down, listen to my body and take myjust empoweringits necessary for survival health seriously, ultimately leading me downand peace of mind. a path I never saw coming: entrepreneurshipTo anyone reading this: your voice matters, and advocacy.your voice is powerful, and your diagnosis I founded MS Scents Candle Co., a clean- does not dene your destiny.burning luxury candle brand thats rooted inIm happy to share my journey with your purpose and self-care. We handcraft coconutreaders, and Ive attached a photo along with apricot wax candles and wax melts, andmy social media handle: donate 10 percent of all sales to the MS Focus: the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation. This business was born not just out of creativity, but out ofInstagram: a need for healingmental, emotional, and@msscentscandleco physical. Every candle I pouris infused with intention: to comfort, to calm, to uplift, andFacebook: to remind others in the MS community thatMS Scents we are resilient, worthy, and never alone. Living with MS hasnt been easy. ThereCandle Companyaredayswhenmybodyfeelslikeitson strike, when fatigue and brain fog try to steal msfocusmagazine.org 20"