That winter was a turning point, but in the years since, Ralph has steadily adapted to life with MS. Over the years, his treatment has evolved, was less disruptive and helped controlling his disease, from self-administered injections every other day to daily tablets, and now, twice-yearly infusions. "In the beginning, injecting myself took a lot of willpower,” he recalls. “And traveling for work with Interferon syringes? That was always an adventure at airport security.” But despite the challenges, one thing has remained constant: his determination to stay active and independent (he came to our interview on his bike).
Though some symptoms linger, Ralph has found ways to adjust. Running for the bus or going for a jog may no longer be an option, but Nordic walking has become his go-to activity. His fingertips remain numb, but a simple habit, double-checking emails before sending them, keeps him on top of his work. From the outside, most people wouldn’t even know he has MS unless he tells them.