Appreciating Life Much More
Debbie Gomez-Trost and husband Bob with their 11-year old triplets, Mackenzie, Cole, and Jacob.
When a neurologist diagnosed Debbie Gomez-Trost with MS in 2004, she and her husband were living in a new home with their seven-year-old triplets. Gomez-Trost had a career as a microbiologist, spending her days working in a lab. One year later, she decided to leave her job under the advice of her physician.
The 43-year-old mother of three has now adapted to having a disability by making changes in her life. One difference was learning that her house didn't need to be perfect. She also found that she had to make time for her own needs.
Gomez-Trost explains, "I have to cope with school, Scouts, basketball, and homework for three kids while my husband works shift work. Taking time to unwind helps. Last night, I went fishing for an hour and it was great. Relaxing is important for survival, and this sometimes means using babysitters or asking family members to help, so we can have time for ourselves. "
Gomez-Trost feels empowerment is the most important step in living with MS. "Empowerment happened in stages. As the disease progressed, I realized I had to make the best out of life, since a positive attitude is best for anyone. To keep active for my children, I began using mobility aids and continued taking my prescription medications. This way, I am not so tired. You must be proactive against MS.
"Having triplets as well as MS means looking at my week, figuring out which days I need to be active, and resting on the other days. I tell others to give their kids all the love they can. Talk things out with them. Let them know what's going on, if they are old enough to understand."
The stay-at-home mom feels that having MS has brought her family closer. She believes her children are better people because of this experience. "From having a mother with a disability, they are more compassionate, loving, and tolerant people. They are the first to hold a door for another person or to pick up whatever someone drops. Some days, they thank me just for all I do despite my disability. This really helps me to appreciate life so much more. "
- Maryann B. Hunsberger
