Another Way of Living With Multiple Sclerosis

Sonya Ingram does not like needles. But after experiencing migraines and vision problems, she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). And after several MS relapses, doctors prescribed a self-injectable medication, so needles became a major part of her life. 

In the years after her diagnosis, Sonya tried five pharmaceutical MS treatments — including several injections — but each one included troublesome side effects for her and frequent trips to the doctor’s office. 

As an Army veteran, Sonya receives care at the Veterans Affairs hospital in Atlanta. Someone at the VA suggested she get involved with the National MS Society, which led her to Shepherd Center’s Eula C. and Andrew C. Carlos Multiple Sclerosis Rehabilitation and Wellness Program. The program opened her eyes to a new way of living with MS. 

“I was just in complete shock that there was a place out there for people with MS, and there’s another way of living besides being on medication and in the hospital all the time,” she says. “I get a little chill thinking about that now, because I thought my life was over and it wasn’t.” 

Sonya comes to Shepherd every Monday for MS Wellness sessions with exercise physiologist Sheree Love, where she exercises to improve her strength and balance. When she first started attending the sessions, she used a cane, but as she’s gotten stronger, she no longer needs it every day. While medication is often an important part of managing MS, Sonya no longer takes medications to manage her symptoms. 

The MS Wellness Program addresses more than just the physical aspects of living with MS. Community outings and holiday parties allow people with MS to connect, which has been Sonya’s favorite part of the program. She’s also involved in Shades of MS, a group Love started for the Black MS community to provide a safe space for participants to discuss their illness. 

“It’s worth the hour drive in the morning to go, because I’m with other people who have multiple sclerosis. I’m with people who understand what we’re going through,” she says. 

Community — both through Shepherd Center and Sonya’s Christian faith — has helped her navigate more than just her illness. She recently moved into a new house and started a business selling customized tumblers — something she loves, and something she says wouldn’t be possible without prayers and support from her community. 

“I love learning something new, even at an older age,” Sonya says. “I never thought about having a business or doing something like this, but being a part of a community shows you, ‘Hey, you can move forward, you can do new things.’” 

Written by Erin Kenney