Stephen White Part 2

Stephen has had relapsing-remitting MS for the past 23 years. He was diagnosed in 1986, but believes he had symptoms at least 10 years before that. In the 70's and early 80's, MRI's weren't as readily available as they are now. When he eventually had an MRI in 1986, doctors said it suggested MS. He, however, was sure.

Although he never kept the fact that he had multiple sclerosis a secret, Stephen White is just now talking publicly about it. People are often surprised when they find that he has MS. They comment that he "looks good". As a person with MS, many of your symptoms are internal or "invisible".

"I don't think it is something that most Americans understand. With MS, what you see is not what you get. And I prefer it that way."

Treatment and Symptoms

He uses one of the interferon treatments to manage his usually mild multiple sclerosis symptoms. They range from daily fatigue, to vision problems, numbness and tingling, vertigo, spasticity, weakness, pain, balance difficulties, to an occasional drooping left eye. Most of these come and go.

He is still active and enjoys swimming and hiking, as well as traveling. He avoids sports and activities that cause him to get overheated.

"I don't go outside on hot days or spend excess time in direct sun. I don't hang out in hot tubs or saunas," White says.

He's thankful that he has a flexible job like writing. He's able to work when he's able and rest when he needs to. In other words he says:

"It's not just seize the day, it's seize the hour. If you have a good hour, you use it."

I don't know if there is an autobiography in him, but I for one would like to read it. His story through the interviews I've read is very inspirational. Even though I don't have MS, (Cir does), I have gained much just by reading his responses to the questions.

Here are a few more links you may enjoy. Find out more about Stephen White by clicking the links below. (Links will open in a new window.)

His official website

His latest interview about his new book, The Siege, by USA Today. Also includes a short video.

Interview FAQs

Have you searched and searched and still can't find what you're looking for? Try using the search box below.