The Chronic Illness Chronicles: Anna Giannakouros

Today I’m sharing my interview with Anna Giannakouros. She is an amazing 44-year-old living in Montreal, Canada. She worked as a software tester and is now retired. Her hobbies include reading, cooking, and exercising.

WHAT CHRONIC ILLNESS DO YOU HAVE AND WHEN WERE YOU DIAGNOSED?

I have Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and was diagnosed about 11 years ago.

HOW HAS IT IMPACTED YOUR LIFE?

I’m now disabled and have difficulty walking. I also suffer from other symptoms like spasticity and chronic fatigue.

WITH MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS, WHAT HAVE BEEN THE HARDEST THINGS TO DEAL WITH?

The loss of my independence since I require aid in getting around and people to help me do things like dress and take care of my home and children. The feeling of being disabled and feeling like a shell of the active and lively person I used to be.

WHAT BLESSINGS HAVE HAPPENED IN YOUR LIFE AS YOU’VE FACED MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS?

I’m blessed with an incredibly supportive family and incredibly supportive friends. I’m also blessed to have had access to good insurance and the Medicare system we have in Canada.

WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED?

I’ve learned not to take anyone or anything for granted. I’ve learned to truly appreciate the ability I still have and appreciate all that my body does for me in spite of its’ challenges. I’ve learned that happiness is a state of mind and, though it may be difficult to see at times, if you choose happiness you will be able to find it. I’ve learned to surround myself with only people that make me feel higher.

WHAT POSITIVE IMPACT HAS MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS HAD ON YOUR LIFE?

It has taught me to slow down and smell the roses. It has made me more dedicated to my children and spend more time with my family. It has made me much more health conscious.

WHAT DO YOU DO TO STAY POSITIVE?

I practice daily affirmations. I try and change my mindset when I feel myself getting depressed by getting out of the house or reading something inspirational. I work out and exercise to boost endorphins and other feel-good chemicals in the body. I work on a project like journaling or even a chore like organizing or cleaning out a drawer so that I am preoccupied with something positive and feel a sense of accomplishment once finished.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO OTHERS WHO ARE FIGHTING CHRONIC ILLNESS?

Never give up. Stay positive. Don’t see yourself as a victim, see yourself as a warrior. Focus on what you can do and not on what you can’t do anymore. Life isn’t fair sometimes but you will only make it worse for yourself if you focus on that. Focus on living your best life with the cards that have been dealt to you.