Hailey Stevely – Meath | MS Journeys
For Hailey Stevely from Co. Meath, living with multiple sclerosis means recognising that each day can bring a different experience.
“It is part of your life but not all of it.”
Describing life with MS in one sentence, Hailey says it is “a different experience on most days.”
MS has changed Hailey as a person, but she is clear that it is only one part of her life.
Her advice to someone newly diagnosed is simple and reassuring:
“It is part of your life but not all of it.”
Support from family, friends and her wider network has been hugely important throughout Hailey’s MS journey.
“Words wouldn’t give my people enough thanks, I don’t know where I would be without the support network I have.”
MS Ireland has also played an important role in her life. Hailey has taken part in different classes and attended events over the years, which she says have been a great way to meet people, share stories and receive support when needed.
For Hailey, being part of the wider MS community means being able to listen to others and share advice. She says this kind of connection is especially important in the early days after diagnosis.
One of the things that has surprised her most about living with MS is “how kind people are and how resilient we are.”
Among the biggest challenges Hailey faces are mobility and fatigue, which can make daily tasks difficult at times.
To help manage MS physically and emotionally, she focuses on “accepting the bad with the good” and surrounding herself with supportive, loving family and friends.
Hailey is proud of keeping a positive attitude, even when things get hard.
She is also keen to challenge the misconception that a person is inadequate or “less than” because they live with MS.
Her message to others living with MS is:
“Find the joy in every situation.”
For Hailey, World MS Day is important because it raises awareness and helps highlight some of the lesser-known aspects of MS.
Hailey’s story is one of positivity, resilience and connection, showing the importance of support, community and finding joy in everyday life while living with MS.
Hailey’s MS Diagnosis Journey
