#303 – Living with MS: Personal Stories and Insights for World MS Day

Welcome to Episode 303 of the Spun Today Podcast—your home for honest conversations about writing, creativity, and the journeys that shape us. I'm your host, Tony Ortiz, and today we're releasing a truly special episode to honor World MS Day. In this heartfelt conversation, I sit down with my wife, Zoila Ortiz, to share her powerful story of living with multiple sclerosis. We dive deep into her first symptoms, the uncertainty of diagnosis, and the emotional and physical challenges that come with MS. Zoila walks us through her search for information, the importance—and dangers—of online self-diagnosis, and the strength found in community. Through candid discussion, Zoila offers an inside look at adapting to adversity, the rollercoaster of medications (Glatiramer by injection (Copaxone) and Fingolimod (Gilenya) to the current day infusion Rituximab which is a monoclonal antibody). We touched on clinical trials, and the vital role of support systems. She talks openly about how MS can impact confidence, independence, and daily routines—but also about how determination and a strong mindset can turn even the most daunting obstacles into new paths forward. We dig into the importance of raising awareness, supporting one another, and using our platforms to connect and inspire. Tune in for a conversation about resilience, empathy, and the healing power of storytelling—and learn how you, too, can advocate for others and yourself.   The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing, but unlimited in scope.  Give it a whirl.      Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spuntoday   Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home  Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe    Links referenced in this episode:      Follow Zoila: @melodyrosa2083   What is Multiple Sclerosis video from ASAP Science: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Naecv3h868c   To donate for MS research or partake in activities like Bike MS, Walk MS, or just to learn more, check out the National MS Society: http://www.nationalmssociety.org/     Jpmetz YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@jpmetz     Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN (Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!)   Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support     Check out my Books Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way ÁBRЕТЕ CAMINO: CONSEJOS PARA DEJAR DE SER TU PROPIO OBSTÁCULO (Spanish Edition) FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories   http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback and Hardcover are now available)   Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you're passionate about your craft.  I'll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/     Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: https://amzn.to/4km592l      Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10   Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, Notebooks, T-Shirts and more: https://spuntoday-shop.fourthwall.com/   Music: https://www.purple-planet.com   Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com   Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/   Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk   Listen on: ApplePodcasts | Spotify | Pocket Casts | YouTube | Website