Monique’s family already knew multiple sclerosis (MS) well when she told them of her diagnosis. The disease has affected her mother, her grandmother and most recently, her uncle. But she didn’t tell them right away. "I have never been afraid they wouldn’t support me, I just saw how sad my mother was because my brother wasn’t feeling well at the time and I didn’t want to ‘drop another bomb.’" Finally, once she had finished all of the physical examinations and tests, she asked her mother to come with her to one of her medical appointments. Through her mother’s experience, Monique learned the importance of starting treatment as early as possible. "I wanted to get on treatment soon after my diagnosis to help delay any disabilities."

After her diagnosis, she took a part-time job close to home because she didn’t know how the MS would affect her, although she received interesting full-time offers that were further away. "I felt insecure about whether I could handle a full-time job. I worried I wouldn’t have enough energy. I make my living as a Web designer in a small firm, which sometimes consumes a lot of energy, but I make accommodations so I’m able to manage my workload. My goal as a freelance photographer for my very own business is to make my work visible so people can see what I do. The Internet is a great medium for this."

"For six years I didn’t tell my coworkers about my condition. But at one point, some things were just too much for me. I always told myself to stay honest. I did not want to go home with excuses like saying I had a headache or something." Once it was out in the open, work became more pleasant, like it used to be.

So far, Monique has been doing well at the same job for four years and she has no fear of that changing anytime soon. Occasionally she wishes she had more energy go on the large photo shoots she organizes, but she’s learned to accept her body’s limitations. Monique’s decision to start treatment early has also helped her manage her symptoms and she believes it is one of things that has helped her maintain her energy so she can concentrate on the things that are important to her. "Nowadays I don’t think so much in amount of time but in levels of energy."

"I was a bit afraid that having MS might scare people off. And how and when would you inform someone of your illness?" But finding love wasn’t as difficult as she expected. Her current boyfriend, Paul, was introduced to her through a mutual friend. Paul has a treatable condition called myasthenia gravis, which affects his strength and muscle control. Friends often point out that it must be ‘nice’ that they can sympathize with each other about some of the challenges, but as Monique explains, "It’s definitely not always ‘nice’. When I’m tired and his muscles ache, for example, it can be hard to give each other attention."

Their relationship has been a source of strength for both of them for more than six years now. "He gives me support and motivation to do things, to take challenges and explore things. He also helps me inject my medication when it’s hard for me to reach."

Keeping a positive attitude helps her get through the more stressful days at the office. "My advice to any one dealing with MS is: Focus on what you can do!"