When Jennifer, who has multiple sclerosis (MS), first lost her ability to walk, she believed that she would not be able to find love again.
“I thought, ‘I’m never going to find a man who wants to be with a woman in a wheelchair. I would think that all the time.”
Fast forward a few months later at a National MS Society event, Jennifer was proven wrong. Admitting that he did not plan on “finding love” that day, Dan could not help but feel an attraction toward Jennifer. “I just went because it sounded like a good program, and well, there she was.” And thus began their love story, and they have been together for over 10 years now.
Facing challenges together
As a married couple with MS, Jennifer and Dan face MS together, and their future is limitless. “[Dan] always says, ‘Challenge accepted,’” says Jennifer. MS plays a significant role in their lives, and it continues to build them up as stronger individuals, a stronger team.
In any situation, believing in yourself is a huge step in overcoming your obstacles. Jennifer shares, “If I were to look back I would say, ‘Have faith. You are more than just a wheelchair,’” Jennifer shares. “I’m a person who has hopes and dreams and a sense of humor and really good taste in music… and sports teams,” she continues, glancing a cheeky grin towards Dan that gives us a glimpse of their inside jokes. “And, I enjoy my life.”
Similarly, being surrounded by a good support system including individuals who can encourage and motivate you is equally important as well, something which Jennifer and Dan have found in each other.
“People always say, ‘I’m not going to let MS define me’, I’d rather say, ‘we’re defining what MS is, what MS can be.’”
And that’s what Jennifer and Dan are doing – defining what MS is, together.
Do you know anyone who doubts that they can find love? Share this post with them to show them that finding love is most definitely possible!