Hey there, I’m Bri.
I started Stumble Pup when I was freshly diagnosed with Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis. I’d been struggling with mysterious symptoms for years, and had several different misdiagnosis. Once I finally heard those words, I made a promise to myself – I promised I was going to take my life back, and Stumble Pup is a record of that journey.
My diagnosis was in 2018 – now that it’s been a few years, I can unequivocally say this journey has evolved and transformed beyond what I originally anticipated. So has this blog. I’m grateful to say that overall, despite a few setbacks and flare ups, it’s been a mostly positive experience.
I tried to change my lifestyle to accommodate my new “normal” post-diagnosis. But, I’m just a normal midwestern girl, too. I’ve had to learn to do this on my own, without a coach or teacher, and on a budget. I’ve tried a lot of different things – some I’ve stuck with, others not so much. I fail often, but most importantly, I keep going. It doesn’t have to be all or nothing – slow and steady wins this race, and moderation is key.
Some of the changes I’ve stuck with include adopting a more plant based, oms-ish diet most of the time. I meditate and use other stress reduction techniques like exercise as a way to combat anxiety. I’ve been seeing an acupuncturist since 2018, and I’ve been to physical therapy, chiropractors, and massage therapists for some of my ms’ey symptoms over the years.
I used to go to counseling regularly FOR YEARS, and am a HUGE mental health awareness advocate. I think it should be as normal to go to the therapist when you’re struggling as it is to see the doctor when you have strep throat.
Right now, I’m on Aubagio after being on Rebif for a few years. I believe blending Eastern & Western medicine heavily contribute to my overall wellbeing.
Outside the autoimmune world –
I’ve been married to my better half for almost a decade now. While I’m currently focused on building my Etsy & Ebay shops, I have a degree in social work and also licenses in the beauty industry. I’ve basically got a furry little zoo at home, who I spend a lot of my time spoiling. I’ve spent the last few years learning how to grow a native garden, which is finally producing plenty of produce and flowers for us to enjoy. I started canning and learning home preservation methods to savor our garden year round. I love traveling to new, exciting places, and seeing the world outside of our little cornfield. If the weather permits, I also love camping and being out in nature.
This is my stumbling journey with ms – the ups and downs, the joys and the sorrows, my uncomfortably real journey.
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See you soon.
