Like a tree

Never saw a tree like this in Long Island. I thought they were mainly in the south. I guess I’ve been under a rock lol 🤣. Taking the time to admire its beauty during “fall” temps, gave me a sense of calmness. The way the leaves swayed as if it had its own dance moves gave me peace. To think the amount of storms the tree went through but it’s still standing strong. Lately, I have not been feeling my best (up and down with weather change/post partum body changes) but like this tree, I know I have to still show up and stay strong. I hope you can too my friends. Not every day we are super strong, but you continue to keep going, you got this 💪🏾.

Thank you for reading,

Nicole Cherise ♥️

We fall down

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 ♥️

4/13/2010, MSanniversary

Today is a day that I will always remember because it was the day my life changed forever. “You have MS, Nicole” were words that made me scared and relieved at the same time. After not being to operate my legs, numbness in my hands and feet, weakness in my limbs, I felt relief that I wasn’t crazy. Can you imagine having to tell yourself to pick up your foot as you walk? Or not realizing that you are holding a cup because you couldn’t feel it in your hand? I knew I had to get tough and battle this diagnosis. I never knew how strong I was until being strong was the only option. I have my cheerful days and I Also have days of being scared. Scared that if this disease progresses having the ability to walk or needing assistance like some of my other fellow MS Warriors. I feel like maybe that’s my purpose in life, to inspire others who may think they are alone with any health diagnosis and encourage them to keep going. My faith and relationship with the Lord grew deeper. My family and SOME of my friends bonds grew closer. I’ve met some amazing people on this journey and look forward to a CURE!!

MS Sister, Jamie-Lynn 

Hi Friends!

I was so excited when I got my issue of Neurology Now magazine! It features  Jamie-Lynn Sigler, an actress who went public about her Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis.

I entitled this post,”MS Sister” because when it comes to MS Warriors, I look at them as sisters and brothers. If you haven’t seen or read the article, please do! 

I’m so happy for Jamie-Lynn. I know opening up about MS wasn’t easy (especially as an actress) but it’s good for those who are scared to know that they are not alone. We are in this battle together. We are Mighty Strong!!

Nicole Cherise ❤

Feel good Friday: Our struggle is not in vain 

  
Lately, this has been me. I’ve been feeling that the battle with MS is serving a purpose. It’s extremely difficult, especially when you don’t know what “normal” feels like anymore. I walk with my head held high, I smile even when I’m not happy, but it’s those moments that only my husband sees. He sees the tears, the pain, he carries me when I can’t walk. 

I share that not only because it’s MS Awareness month, but also because not all diseases are visible and I know in my heart this journey has been for a reason. I’m going to continue to fight, I can promise that. Friends, I know and understand that not all are vocal about their struggles or issues but you are not alone. Your strength that is gained from the struggle is a part of your story. Let’s stick together in this race, we call life. Don’t give up. 
Nicole Cherise

Today..

  
Today has been one of those days. As a MS Warrior, I often deal with chronic pain, fatigue and weakness. However, I know that joy comes in the morning and I’ll be ok. 

Keep that in mind friends. Your illness doesnt not define you. You will be ok. 

Nicole Cherise 

Feel good Friday’s : everyone faces a battle

Hi all!!

It amazes me that whenever someone ask questions about my journey with MS, I end up learning about their own battles. Some people are private about their different ailments and some are like myself who are open about it. 

So what does this tell us? Everyone battles something rather it’s physical or mental and we should be more sensitive to one another. Sometimes it’s the support or smile from someone that truly helps us feel good. With anything that you are being treated for, please educate yourself. We can’t rely solely on the professionals. Take everyday with a stride even when it’s hard to do so. I hope you feel good and better!

Nicole Cherise 

Feel good Friday’s: pushing through life’s obstacles 

Hi all!

When I think about all that I encounter daily, what gives me the most humbling experience is pushing through challenges. Let’s face it, life is and can be unfair. Challenges will arise in your life and some will make you feel like you hit a brick wall. So what do you do? Keep going!

As a MS Warrior, I have days where walking is a difficult task to do. I’ve cried, been angry and had self-pity MOMENTS but they can’t last long. If we feed those negative vibes and energy to ourselves, it will be our new cognitions. So do what you need: pray, meditate, yoga, watch a comedy, go to the gym to blow off steam, write, call someone, speak to a support group or me *wink*, etc. You need to do whatever it takes for you to transition out of that obstacle. 

  
This is a collage that I made last night and shared to social media.  Could you believe that just three weeks ago I couldn’t use my left leg efficiently and had a limp? Believe it friends, I’m just like you, a fighter. We have to claim victory because we CAN’T lose. 

Keep your chin up and head in the game. No worries, things will get better. Keep going. 

Enjoy your day and Happy 4th of July weekend!

Nicole Cherise