ms sucks

A friend of mine is battling an illness that I never knew much about. Since her diagnosis she's been very upfront & honest about the challenges it imposes but does her best to never let it get her down. She's become an advocate for Multiple Sclerosis and through her I've learned so much about this crippling disease. My heart goes out to all those affected but mostly at this moment it goes out to her.

She has good days and bad days but even in the middle of the worst days she's doing all she can to hide her symptoms so they don't get in the way of life with her family + affect her kids. She's a true wonder woman! Seriously. She has four beautiful daughters and continually works to ensure they have fun family memories. She's always planning some creative activity for them to do together and comes up with unique + special ways to celebrate them. She's a fantastic photographer and donates half her profits to incredible organizations. She's the most inspiring person I've ever met and I truly feel blessed having her in my life. You've heard me mention her name often on this blog. It's my friend Tracie.

Several days ago she posted on what's it's like to live with MS and her words tugged on my heart + didn't let go. I've been wanting to link back to that post ever since but something always seemed to sidetrack me from that goal. No more. Today is a hard day for her and while she normally wouldn't admit to that, she has. At first I thought all I could offer her is a virtual hug + lots of prayers but then realized this is the perfect time to use my blog to help raise awareness for this disease. I'd also like to ask that you keep Tracie in your prayers. I fully believe in the power of prayer and know she does too. Let's get her to feeling better!

My friendship with her was born out of me reading her blog. I first started when she was the owner of Broadway Paper and then followed her over to her photography blog which is filled with gorgeous photos, personal moments, and a plethora of inspiring posts. If you've never read her blog I strongly suggest you grab a cup of tea, diet soda, or glass of wine [whatever makes you the happiest] and pop over there. I have no doubt her words will inspire you and you'll want to stay for awhile and read as far back into the archives as you can. I kid you not, she has the power to draw you in and fill your soul. Although I've never met her in person I consider her a close friend and look forward to catching up daily either through her blog or on Twitter. Quite honestly, I don't know what I'd do without her.

I'm afraid she's going to be embarrassed by me going on and on about her but I can't help it. She inspires me to be a better person on a daily basis and I just couldn't let another day pass without asking you to help me lift her up in prayer. Thank you.