Shortly after I was diagnosed with MS, I decided that I wanted more specialized care than I was getting at the large neurology group I was using. For months after my diagnosis, Bruce and I attended tons of events where we learned about Multiple Sclerosis. We met neurologists from all over the state simply because we went to so many of the educational programs offered, through the MS Society as well as through various pharmaceutical companies. It was at one of these events that I first met Dr. Amos Katz. 

The reason I wanted a new neurologist is probably the same reason many people leave large medical practices: I got fed up. I was feeling horrible, symptoms escalating by the day, and when I called the office nothing happened. I left messages upon messages with no response. The receptionists had no sensitivity whatsoever, clearly vocalizing their irritation with my incessant calls. This was not the level of care I wanted for myself, or my future. I had always heard that it’s important to “shop around” for a neurologist that felt like a perfect fit, and that I would know when I found that person. 

Thinking back to when I met Dr. Katz, I figured I could at least give it a shot. I thought I would have to wait eons to get an appointment, since I he is an MS Specialist and he only sees MS patients. In fact, he is the founding doctor and Medical Director of the MS Center. To my surprise (and relief) the wait was just a few weeks, which gave me just enough time to gather all the records I needed to bring with me. 

As soon as I walked in the door for my appointment, I knew I was meant to be there. The space was small and cramped (we’re now in our third space!), but that didn’t matter. At that time, the staff at the MS Center included the doctor, one nurse (shout out to Michele!) and one receptionist (should out to Rita!). I was amazed at how comprehensive an exam I had, and how much time was spent with me. We still talk about this appointment to this day and the story goes like this. Before my physical exam, Dr. Katz spent a good deal of time with me, simply discussing my medical history, and how my MS had progressed thus far. Then, he asked me to put on a gown, open to the back, and he’d be back. Ok. My former neurologist had never put me in a gown before. So I did as I was told. I must mention that my mother accompanied me to this particular appointment. As I said, the space was small, and let’s just say that I was scolded for not wearing “appropriate” panties. 

Through the years, everyone at the MS Center has become a beloved part of my family.  I have come to depend on them for much more than treating MS. During my most difficult times the door was always open for me to vent when I needed it, to cry if I wanted to, or to just rest if I had to. Since my first appointment, the center has moved twice, each time to a bigger and better space, bringing in more amazing staff along the way to compensate for increasing numbers of patients seeking specialized care.  No matter where it is located physically, the hallways that take me to the MS Center have always led me home. 

This is the hallway that leads to the MS Center where I am a patient as well as a volunteer.

Last year (February 20 to be exact), I tendered my resignation as a teacher and have since taken disability retirement. You can imagine how flattered I was when I was asked if I would consider volunteering at the MS Center. I did not even hesitate. It’s my way of giving back, even in the tiniest way, for everything they have done for me through the years. I know it’s just once a week, but it feels good. It’s the one day of the week that I actually wear real clothes (not exercise apparel) and put on makeup. I feel productive and useful when I’m “working”, and there is never a lack of appreciation for anything I do when I’m there. 

It has given me great perspective to see things from the other side of the counter. I get to see how deeply compassionate the entire staff is, while also witnessing how horribly  they are treated at times. I think that if every patient (and there are many more now than there were back in the day!) sat where I sit, just one time, each one would walk out feeling at least a smidge more grateful for everything that happens behind the scenes. 

MS sucks no after what, but at least I have confidence in the people who help me feel better in so many ways. The advice to “shop around” was probably the best advice I got early in my journey with MS. And they were right… I knew within seconds of walking in the door that I had found the perfect fit. The rest is history!