Why write this?

As I celebrate a successful ten years since my diagnosis, I'd like to document some of the things I've learned. This will be where I do it.


Here are some motivators for me:

• MS can be a physically debilitating disease. Nonetheless, the most challenging problem I've faced isn't physical, it's mental. MS sufferers are in danger of letting the illness set the rules. I was in danger of settling into a helpless victim psychology when I was afflicted. This is a bit of mental shield. When I talk about my fight out loud, it's easier to hold myself to live it.


• This is like a snapshot of my philosophy at this moment in time. It might be interesting for me or my kids to look back on it some day.


• With all seriousness, having MS has improved the quality of my life. I need to give back. I hope my observations can help others.

My email to RONA

sent to their sponsorship address.

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Hi,
I’ve been diagnosed with MS for 9 years. On May 16, 2010, it will be the 10 year anniversary of my diagnosis.

I’m planning a series of events for 2010 to celebrate. The cornerstone of the celebrations will be a fundraising event on Saturday, May 15, 2010. All proceeds will go to the MS Society of Saskatchewan.

The culmination of the evening would be a draw for the top raffle prize, a custom-built deck. I’ve confirmed some experienced deck builders to undertake the work.

My request is that RONA be the materials supplier for the event. I would acknowledge your sponsorship in all ticket sales, in any advertising and at the event itself.

With your donation of deck materials, you would of course get title sponsorship. The working title is Nevin and Kerri’s RONA Backyard Deck Party.

I’m excited at the prospect of bringing a unique fundraiser to my community, having some fun and promoting a message of "success despite MS." As a long-time MS Bike Tour participant, I have seen first-hand the effort and passion RONA puts into supporting the MS Society. I hope we can work together on this exciting event.

If this sponsorship opportunity is of interest, I would suggest I could organize the specifics with a representative from my local Regina RONA, determining such things as appropriate acknowledgement of RONA sponsorship, materials to be donated and deck size.

Here’s my contact info:
Nevin Danielson
*****I don't really want all this on the 'net. I'm at ndanielson at sasktel dot net*******

Thanks for the consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.
Nevin

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stay tuned! I'll post their response.

An introduction of sorts

This is a c&p from my main blog:

2010 marks the 10 year anniversary of my diagnosis with Multiple Sclerosis. By most accounts, I’m smarter, happier and healthier than I was back on May 16th, 2000. I think we should celebrate.

I’ve always been open about my diagnosis, and I’ve always sought to help those who also suffer. I think my 10 year anniversary is a good time to take it up a notch.

I’m calling it The Year of the Nevin.

Starting January 1, 2010, the party begins. We’re celebrating Success with MS. MS has drastically changed my life. It’s made some things harder. It’s made others a lot easier.

The following list is as scientific as I get:
Harder
Balancing
Getting enough rest
Catching flying objects
Walking without bumping something
Exercising
Maintaining my ego
Letting go of “jock Nevin”

Easier
Acknowledging my mortality
Sharing feelings
Connecting with my family
Walking away from work
Committing to exercising
Subjugating my ego
Embracing “well-rounded Nevin”

Here’s some things I’d like to do as commemorative acts in 2010:
Publish a booklet of things I’ve learned about MS
Distribute the booklet in Saskatchewan MS Society offices
Host a party and fundraiser on Saturday, May 15th
Write a blog that celebrates The Year of the Nevin
Commemorate my 11th consecutive MS Bike Tour with my biggest team ever
Complete an Olympic-distance triathlon
Distribute commemorative The Year of the Nevin souvenirs

It will also be 10 years of marriage for Kerri and I in 2010. Another reason to celebrate... another big party, I think.

Please help me out here. Is it too bold? What else should I do?