THE DIAGNOSIS

After the initial testing of six weeks ago, Janell got a phone call from her younger sister Lisa while I was posting the pictures below. Lisa has MS...multiple sclerosis. Honestly, we're too stunned right now and I'll have more posted later. Right now I'd just ask for your prayers.

MS 101

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, long-term condition that affects the central nervous system, including the brain and the spinal cord. MS is an autoimmune disease, which means that the body's immune system mistakenly attacks itself, targeting the cells, tissues, and organs.

MS is part of the family of autoimmune diseases that includes:

• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Psoriasis
• Type 1 Diabetes
• Lupus
• Crohn's Disease

Scientists now believe that MS results from an abnormal response to an infection or an environmental factor. Numerous studies show that genetics may play a role in the development of MS, but are not the sole cause of the disease.

MS affects over 400,000 people in the US, and may affect 2.5 million people worldwide.