March is Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex and often unpredictable disease that attacks the body’s central nervous system. While the symptoms can present differently in different people, MS often brings many challenges, especially as the disease progresses. 180 Medical Community Member Irvinder’s life was upended by his diagnosis nearly three decades ago, but getting the right support and supplies was a huge help in his journey of life with MS.
He shares his story and even a few tips to help others who might have to use catheters because of their MS.
“The Prognosis Was Bleak:” The Initial Diagnosis of MS
In the late 1990s, Irvinder began experiencing strange symptoms that wouldn’t let up. He eventually decided to see a doctor about his symptoms.
That’s when he got the unexpected diagnosis: multiple sclerosis.
“When I was diagnosed with MS, very little was known about this autoimmune disease. The prognosis was bleak,” Irvinder begins, reflecting on the early days of his diagnosis at 35. He was told by his doctor that he would most likely end up using a wheelchair within five years due to issues with gait and mobility. “With this prognosis, I was dismayed. I was 35 years old, married with a 5-year-old child and a newborn. My entire future as a banker, husband, and father was suddenly in turmoil, and I grieved, much like a death.”
Finding Strength, Support, and Community
Despite the initial shock and grief Irvinder felt, he soon found solace and support in his faith and church family.
“By faith, I resolved to move forward one day at a time and give 100%,” he says. It was this resolve that empowered him to accept his new diagnosis and seek out resources for navigating life with MS.
Initially, the resources and books he found about multiple sclerosis weren’t a lot of help to him. However, he did some research online to start learning about multiple sclerosis. Soon, he found a community of support in online Facebook groups, where he met others like him who were also living with MS.
Dealing with Bladder Issues with MS
In 2021, Irvinder began to experience one of the most common symptoms that people with multiple sclerosis may face: bladder issues. In fact, according to the National MS Society, “bladder dysfunction may occur in at least 80% of people with MS.”
Irvinder had no idea where to start. Thankfully, after a visit to his urologist, he heard about 180 Medical, a catheter supplier that could help him.
“My familiarity with catheters was very limited. Thankfully, 180 Medical’s instructional videos were very informative,” Irvinder says. “And once I started to work with 180 Medical’s staff, I was able to find a catheter and a plan. After that, the process became much easier.”
Today, Irvinder says he is finally comfortable with intermittent self-catheterization to empty his bladder. And he’s thankful that he was able to try and choose from several different catheter samples and brands.
Hoping to find the right supplier for your catheters? You can get started by requesting free catheter samples at 180 Medical today!
Irvinder’s Tips for Life with MS
Irvinder has a few helpful tips and advice for other folks who may be facing a recent MS diagnosis or are new to using catheters.
1. Take on challenges day by day.
“The initial concept of using a catheter may seem frustrating or scary at first. Dealing with a new diagnosis of multiple sclerosis can also be daunting and life-altering,” says Irvinder.
He suggests breaking down your challenges on a day-by-day basis. What do you have to face right here, right now? Don’t think about tomorrow or what may happen several years from now.
2. Check out 180 Medical’s catheterization resources.
For Irvinder, using catheters seemed incredibly daunting. However, “once you see the instructional videos, it is easy-peasy! Just take the first step, and you will quickly become a pro.”
3. Find the right catheter supply company.
Getting the right catheter supplier can make all the difference in your experience. You’ll want a company that specializes in catheter supplies. Irvinder’s experience with 180 Medical was a game-changer.
“First impressions go a long way,” Irvinder says. “From the very first contact with 180 Medical, I have found the highest level of professionalism and service. I have never experienced running out of catheters.”
4. Avoid infections by staying hygienic and prepared.
For some, especially people on certain medical treatments, using catheters may cause an increased risk of infections like UTIs (urinary tract infections).
Irvinder says, “It’s very important to always wash your hands before handling your products to continue sterility.”
5. Prepare in advance for travel or being away from home.
“Being a regular user of catheters means I have had to make adaptations for traveling, visiting family, or attending trainings and conferences.” He suggests preparing in advance by keeping extra supplies where you’ll need them.
There are options for keeping your catheter supplies discreet, even when you’re away from home. For Irvinder, he never leaves home without extras in his travel bag. He also keeps his catheter packages in his pocket with a lubricant packet, so he’s ready to cath anytime he’s near a restroom.
Embracing Life with MS with Resilience
Irvinder’s journey serves as a beacon of hope, and he has come through all his challenges with some practical advice for tackling the occasional hurdles life throws his way.
Above all, he reminds us that life with MS can still be lived fully and meaningfully. It’s important not to give up hope or immediately think the worst when facing a new MS diagnosis.
“Since my diagnosis over 28 years ago, I have accepted my disease. I make every attempt to keep up with the latest education, treatments, contributing factors, and potential cures,” he shares. “And I am still not in a wheelchair.”
As we recognize MS Awareness Month, Irvinder’s story inspires and reminds us to approach any challenges with hope, faith, and courage.
