Four years ago, I had HSCT for MS. I was told more than once that it wouldn’t work.

Four years later, I’m still holding my own.

Life is very clearly divided into pre and post-HSCT. Black and white. It hasn’t been perfect — so many ups/downs — but the improvements I gained are still here.

Horses have become part of my routine, more than a hobby. Riding gives me full-body neurological stimulation and constant balance work. What it doesn’t give me in cardio, it makes up for in strength, coordination, and core stability. And there’s the social aspect — time with horses and actual humans. That combination is more than most gym programs ever could.

Highlights of the last year: first Christmas in 24 years with my family (wow!), indoor sky diving with my nephew, and many days training and competing (para) dressage.

Driving again has probably been one of the biggest lifestyle shifts. I don’t exactly live a wild, glamorous life, but being able to get myself somewhere — anywhere — beats feeling like being a prisoner at home. OMG a breath of independence…

I still use a mobility scooter. Heat hits me harder every year, and no amount of ice vests or cooling packs handles the high temps. What else can be done? Just get on with it.

To the parts of the healthcare industry that said this treatment wouldn’t work — I’m walking proof you were wrong. Hopefully that statement has a long shelf life.

And to the people — known and unknown — who put kindness, support, and resources into my health: thank you. You know who you are. You helped make these four years possible 🌸

Anyway. Happy stem cell birthday to me 🍾

Chocolate (or candies) can be shipped at your convenience.

Jenny ❤️