When the Diagnosis Is Multiple Sclerosis: Help, Hope, and Insights from an Affected Physician

Kym Orsetti Furney was a 34-year-old physician, specializing in Internal Medicine, busy with her exciting job and enjoying life with her husband and young daughter in 2000, when she suddenly began to experience dizziness repeatedly, which rapidly led to a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis. Her world was rocked for a time, but Furney has recovered from the shock and - empowered by information, acceptance and support - continues working as a doctor, teaching and taking care of her family, despite the challenges of MS. For all people dealing with a personal or family diagnosis now, she offers help, hope and insights by explaining all the medical perspectives, but also reflecting on her own personal experiences after diagnosis. Never forgetting the fear and hopelessness she felt at the time she learned of her own MS, she discusses the many challenges, from depression and overcoming fear of injection medications, to how and when to tell others about having MS and understanding the impact MS may have on one's career. Readers will find a strong connection with this talented physician and the thoughts and emotions that she has had facing MS.

Kym Orsetti Furney, M.D. is in private practice at Mecklenberg Medical Group of Carolinas Healthcare System in Charlotte, North Carolina. She is also Adjunct Associate Clinical Professor at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine. Furney graduated magna cum laude from the University of Notre Dame and received her doctor of medicine degree with honors from the University of Rochester School of Medicine. After ten years of teaching medical students and residents, she joined a private practice group. In 2000, Furney was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.