MS Gallery − Hans-Dieter
“MS has changed my life in the sense that I’m living more consciously now and I’m creating a more interesting life for myself. I do everything a bit more slowly, but with the same energy.”
Hans-Dieter
Age: 45
Hometown: Filderstadt, Germany
Onset of symptoms: 2003
First symptoms experienced: Fatigue, sore knees and vision problems
Diagnosed: 2004
Started treatment: 2004
Dieter’s sister and niece have MS. So when he began to experience fatigue, sore knees and problems with his vision, it wasn’t long before he suspected that he might have the disease, as well.
When Dieter’s symptoms appeared in 2003, he and his fiancée, Daniela went to see various doctors, but no one could explain them. When Dieter experienced numbness in his face and had difficulty walking and using his hands, Daniela took him to hospital where he received an MRI scan and lumbar puncture – both of which confirmed he had MS.
Shocked by the news, the couple postponed their wedding not knowing what their future held. “I imagined the worst possible scenarios. I felt very empty.”
One week after being diagnosed, Dieter started treatment and has now made it part of his normal routine. Dieter also found support from other MS patients while learning how to cope with this new challenge, and formed lifelong friendships in the process.
Eventually, he returned to work full-time thanks to the support from his employer. He and Daniela also were finally married. His outlook on life has improved and he’s now looking forward to a happy future. “I think I will carry on living a varied and enjoyable life – perhaps occasionally at a slower pace. It is important to not waste a single day.”
