MY EXPERIENCE
Hey, I'm Matt. I'm a husband and father working in TV production in Maine. I'm pretty new to RMS, having been diagnosed in 2021, and KESIMPTA is my first RMS treatment. I love scootering with my son, working in the yard, and I hope to participate in a National MS Society event someday!
Taking Advice
The best advice I received was to involve my son from the very start. My journey started one hot summer day when I lost feeling in my right leg while mowing my lawn. This incident eventually led to my RMS diagnosis in March 2021. When I got the diagnosis, I honestly just thought about my son. How was I going to tell him? How was he going to react? He was just 12 years old at the time, but having an open conversation with him was the best thing I could have done because I don't have to hide anything. After all that worrying, he's been able to easily adapt to this whole thing and feel prepared for the future.
Needle Fear
When I talked to my doctor about treatments, he shared an infusion option and an injection option. I knew the infusion option was just not for me. But when he told me all about KESIMPTA and how the needle is hidden, I decided it was worth trying. I felt better hearing that it goes just under the skin, not into the muscle, and I can take it just once a month* at home.
Coordinator Connections
The Alongside™ KESIMPTA team has been a gift. It's something I didn't know I needed. They've communicated with me and guided me through any confusion or obstacle. Especially being a "newbie" to RMS, I've needed that extra support. No matter how many pamphlets you read, it's hard to know what questions I should be asking. Having the Alongside team reach out has been so great. I'm going to add my Coordinator, Lisa, to my speed dial!
Tips for "Newbies"†
Tips for "Newbies"†
There are a couple things I'd recommend to "newbies" like me. First, there is a lot of information and opinions out there. It's important to sift through what is relevant to you, and work with your doctor to find the right treatment choice for you. Second, get enough sleep. That goes for everyone, but I think it's especially important for people with MS. Getting enough sleep allows me and my body to be on our A game. Next, if heat is your archnemesis like it is mine, cool showers work for me. Lastly, don't be afraid to lean on loved ones for support. They won't think you are overbearing—that's all in your head. Communicating with my family, friends, and coworkers has been so encouraging for me.
Focused and Motivated
My focus is to stay motivated. That's all I can hope for at this time. The KESIMPTA data has really encouraged me to stay confident. I have so many future plans, from participating in a National MS Society walk to maybe watching my son become a father someday. I trust my body, my doctor, and my treatment to keep me going.
*Once monthly after 3 weekly starter doses.
†Please consult your health care provider before making any changes to your lifestyle.
Maggie is a mom and recent college grad. She went from thinking her
life was over to accomplishing amazing things.
Maggie is a mom and recent college grad. She went from thinking her
life was over to accomplishing amazing things.
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