True Inspiration: An Interview with Patty Tucker

By KaeBeth Rosenberg

In 1984 Patty Tucker began experiencing numbness in her feet. Her doctor decided to try an MRI, new technology at the time, which could show lesions in the spine or on the brain. Patty was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis.

Since then, her greatest challenges have been day-to-day living, and learning to let go of things she is no longer able to do.  To help her through the process of living with MS, Patty read a book: We Are Not Alone: Learning to Live With Chronic Illness, by Sephra Kobrin Pitzele.  Patty says, “Everyone has limitations.  People with allergies or glasses have limits too.  The difference is how we deal with things.  You can’t keep problems from happening.  MS has helped me become who I am.  I listen to people.  I can relate to others’ problems.  I am more human.”

For anyone who has learned that they have Multiple Sclerosis, Patty reminds them that there are worse things in life.  She recommends doing things you are able to and spending time with people who help you feel good about life.  She says, “Get a Cocker Spaniel.  Find ways to exercise.  And always get a second opinion, as often the symptoms of MS are actually signs of other health problems.  Go to someone who specializes in MS, like a doctor at the Mayo Clinic, or the University of Michigan.  Find out what your options are, and what meds are available.”

Through this experience Patty’s major support has been her husband Randy.  “He expects me to still be able to do stuff.  People who expect, and allow me, to do things, are great.  If I need help, I’ll ask for it.  It’s good for people with limitations to do what they can.”

Patty’s biggest pet peeves are “fake handicapped people”: those who park in handicapped parking spots when they don’t need to.  Then there are those who focus on what they can’t do, and expect others to do for them, rather than doing for themselves.

Patty Tucker is a true inspiration to anyone blessed to spend time with her.  We could all benefit from her positive attitude towards limitations and life.  Says Patty, “I’ve learned to appreciate the things that are working, and not worry about the rest.”