I still have MS but I am now a CrossFit athlete too! The coaches have been supportive and wonderful at modifying and scaling workouts to meet my needs."
I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in March of 2013 after my left arm became suddenly paralyzed. The disease had a period of rapid progression and by November 2013 I was unable to use my right leg and spent three weeks in a rehabilitation facility relearning how to walk again. I quickly found myself using a wheelchair after deteriorating through several other devices such as a leg brace, cane, and walker. After several months of physical therapy and occupational therapy, I was able to move with the help of two forearm crutches and then later just one forearm crutch. My husband had started with CrossFit Viral in November 2014 with intent of gaining strength to lift and position me as needed. He was tasked to see if this is something I could do to help regain strength, mobility and improve neurological functions. I began CrossFit Viral in March of 2015. I was nervous about being in a gym with “normal” people and not being able to keep up. All of the coaches have always been very supportive and wonderful at modifying and scaling workouts to meet my needs. Since starting CrossFit, I have gained muscle, endurance and only occasionally need to utilize my canes. I believe that I have improved my disease-damaged neurological functions through the functional movements programmed with CrossFit. Some days are better than others….I still have MS but I am now a CrossFit athlete too! Viral’s coaches and members are very welcoming, supportive and I have made many friendships with wonderful people.