Health

Take a Pause

/ Nicole Cherise / Leave a comment

Raw Post….

Sometimes it all seems overwhelming and annoying. The fatigue, nerve pain, headaches, wobbly legs makes me feel extremely exhausted.

However, at this moment, I took deep breaths and counted reasons why I will be ok. Is that what we lack? Not taking that time to just breathe during our hectic lives?

As a wife, mom, MS enthusiast that’s working, I realize the importance of “me” time and needing those moments.

I hope you all find ways to just be in the NOW. Despite our health or mental challenges, remember We are stronger than we think. I’m here ♥️

Thank you for Reading,

Nicole Cherise♥️

8 years

/ Nicole Cherise / 8 Comments

Hi all!! Today is my 8th wedding anniversary. I’m extremely blessed and thankful to continue this journey with my bestfriend 😁♥️😁.

When I was first diagnosed with MS (4/13/2010) and learned about the debilitating disease, we were 24 years old. In my head, I thought the chance of having a fulfilled relationship was no more. Who would want to marry me when I’m sick? With the progression of the disease, my body would never be the same, who has the patience for that? I was preparing myself to no longer be with my high school sweetheart because I didn’t want to hold him back. As I shared the news it was devastating to us all, a lot of anger, tears, frustration but one thing stuck out. My then boyfriend said “I’m going to take care of you, I got you”. At the end of that year he asked me to marry him (12/25/2010) and we married 8/9/2012.

To all my dear friends and loved ones who battle illnesses, love and support goes a long way. Please don’t give up on the hope that you can have a meaningful relationship or marriage. Don’t let the disease take that away from you. You are worth MORE than these doctor reports. Thanks for reading! Have a great day!

Nicole Cherise ♥️

MSversary-4/13/2010

/ Nicole Cherise / Leave a comment

On today, 9 years ago, I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. After receiving the news I felt relief. I was experiencing symptoms for a year before getting this news and I was just happy that I wasn’t crazy. The symptoms at that time was numb and weakness on my left side of my left shoulder, arm, fingers, leg, feet and toes. I would fall, and needed assistance to walk. My hands would fall asleep a lot and I battled nerve pain. It all made sense once the neurologist showed me the images of my Brain that at the time had 9 lesions on it. This was all the confirmation I needed.

I’ve learned a lot about myself since the diagnosis. I realized that I am strong, my Faith was tested, I can be too critical of myself, it’s ok to say “No” and I learned the importance of support.

The Long Island MS Walk is May 18th and I’m super excited this year. I will have my family, friends and some friends from work to walk along with me and other MS Warriors.

Thank you to my family and friends for loving me and all of the challenges that may come with me. Thank you to all who have prayed for me. Thank you to those who reach out to see how I’m feeling. Thank you to those who donated to our Walk MS team “Nicole Cherise”. Thank you to those who have reached out to me for support during their own MS diagnosis. Lastly, thank you to my New MS Warrior friends, we are in this journey together and I love the fact that I can chat with others who can Relate.

The Fight Continues 💪🏾💪🏾💪🏾

Nicole Cherise ♥️

Thumbs up for MS Warriors!!!

/ Nicole Cherise / 2 Comments

Hi friends!

Where is the Love for the MS Warriors? Right here!!!

As I’ve written before, March is MS Awareness Month and this week is MS Awareness week. Even with my wobbly legs, I am continuing to Push Through!

MS ribbon earrings

I made a choice to show up strong for my loved ones, go to work even when it hurts, and I’ve modified outfits so that I’m comfortable as an effort to beat the challenges of MS. There are some days that I’m not able to give 100% but trust and believe giving 0% is NOT an option .

To my fellow Warriors and Caregivers, I’m proud of you for Not giving up. The Pain and Depression is real and can effect us but I believe in You! I also believe that we will be Victorious against this horrible disease. Therefore, I will continue to send spiritual and positive energy your way! Thank you all for being supportive to me as well!

Much love to all and Thanks for reading 🧡

Nicole Cherise-MS Warrior since 4/13/2010

Pushing Through

/ Nicole Cherise / Leave a comment

Hi friends, happy Tuesday!

Push through…

That’s something I continue to tell myself during challenging times. It’s not easy battling a difficult disease like MS, but I can’t give in to it. I know many that read my blog, are battling other autoimmune diseases, mental health issues, or spiritual brokenness. I also, know that Caregivers have a challenging task when it comes to watching someone they love suffer. WE ARE NOT ALONE! Together, we can lift one another up because Support goes a long way.

This past week, I had my Tysabri treatment and the days after were rough. I had difficulty walking, it was a task to get dressed, I fell twice and I cried because of the pain and weakness in my legs. Even during this time of despair, I promised myself that I wouldn’t give up and I would PUSH through it all at my own pace. I urge you all to do the same. I went to the gym on Sunday and did my best with what I had for that day (I do the spoon theory in my head lol). The amount of support that was given to me was overwhelming and it truly melted my heart. People re-posted my video and tagged me as Inspiration for them to exercise.

Please continue friends. Don’t give up on yourself or the process. Below is the video that I posted and keep in mind that days prior, I was not able to walk far alone. God is good. Thanks for reading!!!

Nicole Cherise ♥️

We fall down

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Hi friends, Happy Sunday!

I hope all is well.

People often ask me if I’m in pain when I fall down or how often does it happen. In the beginning, I used to be scared. However, my family and friends have been with me each step of the way so I’m never down for long. Now, don’t get me wrong, it’s frustrating to fall or have the sensation of falling but I’m stronger because of it. I’m stronger not only physically but mentally as well.

I’m a proud Warrior and Survivor battling Multiple Sclerosis (MS). With that being said, I know the importance of cognitive thinking which has an influence on our attitude. I’m a woman of grace, courage and wisdom therefore, I won’t give up.

Friends, I know not all who follow me are MS Warriors, many battle other auto-immune diseases, mental illness and much more. This message is for all no matter the circumstance. Things may fall apart in your life, you may feel like things are piling up on top of you but I urge for you to continue. Slowly but surely RISE from your challenges and don’t be ashamed of the falls. You are going to be Ok!

If you ever need someone to talk to, I’m here. We are in this journey together so please don’t feel alone. Thank you all for reading!

Nicole Cherise ♥️

Motivational Monday: the Sunrise

/ Nicole Cherise / Leave a comment

Happy Motivational Monday friends!

I know Mondays can come in tough especially when we had a busy weekend and a pending busy work week ahead. I, too, have to really push myself as well but today was different.

I over slept today, had to rush to get my son ready for preschool and as we were waiting for his bus, I saw the sunrise. It was at that moment that I picked him up to view it as well. Now, I know you may be thinking what’s so special about that? It’s special because I haven’t been feeling well.

Ever since the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, my left leg has been on and off weak, I’ve been experiencing nerve pain in the left side of my head and a new recent issue with my ear. I have not been able to HOP out of the bed, I’ve needed walking assistance during the first steps after getting out of the bed. Also, as I held my son watching the beautiful sky, I realized that I haven’t been able to hold him for that length of time the past couple of weeks. Therefore, I immediately thanked God.

As a Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Warrior, I have to be grateful for those moments because the disease is unpredictable. I’ll feel great now then a hour later, it can go down hill again. On today though, I had another chance at Life. Just as the Sunrises, I know many are fighting their lives just to see that and I won’t take that for granted. I’m here for a reason, another opportunity to succeed while the sunrises for my soul. If you’re reading this, you too had another opportunity at the hustle and bustle of life.

Friends, I hope you have a wonderful week, I’m grateful for your support and I’m here to support you as well!

Thanks for reading!

Nicole Cherise ♥️

Testimony

/ Nicole Cherise / 6 Comments

Emotional Days happen.

MS symptoms can try to take over my spirit. Being a wife, a mother, a scholar, and a hard worker can be overwhelming. I’m sure many of you have felt the same. I’m here to tell you that victory is ours.

This picture was taken after crying my little heart out but a crooked smile was able to surface. I continued to think about my “why?” and I was able to wooo saaa and calm down. I pray that you all can find reason to smile after your storms. I’m here for you if you need me ♥️

Thank you for reading,

Nicole Cherise ♥️

Take advantage of every moment you get

/ Nicole Cherise / 1 Comment

I took this picture at the gym after getting off the treadmill and leg machine. Now, I don’t go as often as I’d like but when I can I do. My shirt says Warrior because I believe that’s exactly what we are. 

Stay strong friends. No matter what battles you are currently facing, just know you are not alone and you Are strong! 

Nicole Cherise ❤️