Writer, yoga teacher, founder of Modern Day MS
Welcome to “7 Questions with A Couple,” a monthly series that includes quick conversations with a variety of experts and influencers from throughout the MS community. This month we are beyond thrilled to share this conversation we had with Beth Prystowsky. Beth is responsible for launching and maintaining Modern Day MS – a key blog and social media resource for people within the Multiple Sclerosis community. She is a dynamic MS advocate who also is a yoga teacher and author. And it’s the tagline on her blog that continues to give us and so many living with MS a perpetual sense of comfort: “You are not alone.”
1. Why was it important for you to launch Modern Day MS after you were diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis?
It was important to create Modern Day MS because I felt that the majority of information online about MS was dated. I was told that, “This is a good time to be diagnosed,” because the medication, technology and research has changed so much in the last few years.
2. You’re coming up on nearly 10 years since you were diagnosed with MS in 2012. Did you envision this is where you’d be a decade later?
Great question. I have learned so much about the disease, gotten to advocate for MS and have met many people living with Multiple Sclerosis across the world since my diagnosis. That is something positive that I could not have envisioned happening.
3. What keeps you motivated as a person living with MS? What about as an influential voice in the MS community?
My kids keep me motivated to get out of the bed and put one foot in front of another every day. As for being an influencer in the MS Community – I think that happened by accident. But, I can tell you every time I receive an email or message from someone with MS that my words have helped them; I am very grateful and it encourages me to continue sharing and putting myself out there.
4. You are a yoga teacher. How has your relationship with yoga changed since you’ve been living with MS?
Yoga was what helped me discover my diagnosis of MS. Yoga has given me body awareness so I knew when my right side was numb and my balance was off that it wasn’t “normal.” The breathwork has been vital for MRIs, doctors’ appointments and awkward situations and the poses are a gentle way to get my body moving. I am grateful yoga is a part of my life before and after my diagnosis.
5. You live in Chicago, a city many Midwesterners visit for fun and vacation. Where are your favorite places you recommend people check out when they’re in the Windy City?
Honestly, we moved to the burbs five years ago which was a great decision for me. The suburbs is quieter, less stressful and chaotic which I appreciate. We still go to the city occasionally, and besides going to our old neighborhoods, I love Wrigley Field, the lakefront and Chicago’s river walk.
6. Speaking of the Windy City, winter is right around the corner. As a person who has experienced how brutal winter can be, what tips do you have to help people with MS make it through the season of ice, snow and frigid temperatures?
I wish I had good tips. The winter is hard, but so is the summer so I don’t want to live somewhere hot all the time. The suburbs have also helped with cold winters because now I have a garage and parking, etc., is easier. I stay home a lot during the winter, and I am not looking forward to the one ahead.
7. The Mighty recently shared an article you wrote encouraging people to find a bright light in their MS journey. Who have been the brightest ones on yours?
My light is the two of you and the other people living with multiple sclerosis that have become my friends. This community are the only people that truly understand MS. We have a camaraderie and understanding that is unique and special.