Just about every MS thriver dreads this time of year. The summer. The heat. The numerous invitations to outdoor barbecues, concerts, reunions, weddings, vacations, and birthday parties get overwhelming for us as MS thrivers. While others look forward to summer and all its fun, it can feel like a jail sentence for MSers! In the early years of my diagnosis, I felt like life the way I knew it was over for me. No more entertaining, going on vacations, attending parties, graduations because it meant more work on my body that was already beginning at zero. I didn’t know what to do, so I did nothing. And nothing led to heavy depression. 

After realizing that life didn’t have to be over for me, it just needed adjustments. My husband and I slowly began to get back into being more sociable and attending events and planning trips again. The first couple of times we ventured to go on vacation, I was full of anxiety and worry. I even had feelings of embarrassment and fear of others watching me use any mobility aids. Now after 12 years of being a MS thriver, I know the dos and don’ts of traveling. I’m sharing two great tips that you can use and implement and you can say goodbye to the summer blues!

Tip #1: Plan ahead.

This relieves the anxiety of forgetting something. I plan weeks in advance to give myself time to pack so that I don’t feel rushed. I create travel to-do lists to keep track of all my duties to be done and also what to pack pre-trip. Packing light, airy clothes that are easy to get in and out of will keep you cool during your stay. Do pack handheld fans fully charged and ready to keep you cool. Another great option is to purchase a cooling vest to wear or a small cooling device to keep your area cool also. This was a Godsend for me while contending with high heat temperatures. Schedule wheelchair assistance to assist you to your airline gate so that you don’t overexert yourself before your trip begins.

Tip #2 Think ahead.

You might not think of things that could go bad, but it is always beneficial to be prepared. Carry your medication with you at all times in your purse or carry-on. Write a list of medications to give to your spouse or others you are traveling with. Be sure to highlight any allergies you may have. A MS ID bracelet is vital to wear to alert medical professionals in case of a medical emergency. Proper hydration is a must  in hotter weather be sure to pack an insulated water bottle. Sunscreen, sunglasses, hats are all additional must-haves to keep you protected from the sun for long periods of time.

These are impactful tips that helped me get back to enjoying  life again with travel. I hope they will help you as well get back to living and thriving.