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Author: Dr. Claire Leegard

March is Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Awareness Month. I want to take a moment to share insights from my years of nursing experience and my passion for helping families care for loved ones with MS. This month is a special time to raise awareness, educate our communities, and highlight the incredible support available—especially right here in Illinois. Whether you’re a caregiver, a family member, or someone living with MS, my team and I are here to help you navigate this journey with compassion and expertise.

Understanding Multiple Sclerosis: A Nurse’s View

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic condition that affects the central nervous system, causing a range of symptoms like fatigue, mobility challenges, muscle stiffness, and even emotional ups and downs. As a nurse, I’ve seen firsthand how unpredictable MS can be—what’s manageable one day might feel overwhelming the next. That’s why personalized, in-home care is so vital. It allows us to adapt to each person’s unique needs, offering support where it matters most: in the comfort of their own home.

At Home Helpers^® of Wheaton and Naperville, we believe caregiving starts with understanding. MS isn’t just a medical diagnosis; it’s a daily experience that affects the whole family. Our goal is to empower you with practical care strategies and connect you to resources that make life a little easier.

Caring for Someone with MS at Home

As a nurse, I’ve learned a few keyways to support individuals with MS at home. Here’s what I recommend based on my experience:

• Prioritize Comfort and Safety: Simple home adjustments—like removing trip hazards, adding grab bars, or using adaptive tools—can make a big difference. We often work with families to assess the home environment and suggest changes that promote independence and reduce risks like falls.
• Manage Fatigue Together: Fatigue is one of the most common MS symptoms. Encourage rest breaks, plan activities for peak energy times (often mornings), and let us help with tasks like meal prep or light housekeeping to save energy for what matters most.
• Stay Ahead of Symptoms: From muscle spasticity to bladder challenges, MS symptoms can shift. Our caregivers are trained to assist with mobility exercises, medication reminders, and personal care, all while keeping an eye out for changes that might need a doctor’s attention.
• Lift the Emotional Load: Living with MS can bring frustration or sadness—for both the individual and their loved ones. We’re not just here for physical care; we offer companionship and a listening ear. Sometimes, a friendly chat over coffee can brighten a tough day.
• Team Up with Professionals: As a nurse, I can’t stress enough how important it is to work with a care team. Neurologists, physical therapists, and MS nurses are invaluable, and we collaborate with them to ensure our in-home support aligns with medical plans.

Where to Find Resources in Illinois

Illinois is home to some fantastic resources for MS education and support. Here are my top picks for families and prospective clients:

National Multiple Sclerosis Society – Illinois Chapter

The Illinois branch offers local support groups, educational webinars, and a helpline (1-800-344-4867) staffed by MS Navigators who can guide you to services. Visit their website at nationalmssociety.org for events near you, especially during MS Awareness Month.

Rush Multiple Sclerosis Center (Chicago)

A leader in MS care, Rush provides cutting-edge treatment and support services. They’re a great resource for connecting with specialists or exploring therapy options. Check them out at rush.edu.

Illinois Department of Human Services

Need help finding home care or financial assistance? Their Division of Rehabilitation Services can point you toward programs tailored for chronic conditions like MS. Visit dhs.state.il.us for more.

Local Support Groups

Cities like Chicago, Springfield, and Peoria host MS support groups where you can share experiences and learn from others. The National MS Society’s site has a “Find Support” tool to locate one near you.

Home Helpers^® of Wheaton and Naperville

Of course, we’re here for you too! Based in Naperville, Wheaton, and surrounding cities, we offer personalized care plans—everything from daily assistance to respite for caregivers. Contact us at 630-800-3837 to learn how we can support your family.

Why Choose Home Helpers®?

As a nurse-led agency, I bring understanding of the disease process, provide recommendations on supportive measures and with a caring heart to every home we serve. My team includes trained caregivers who understand that individuals with MS require the best care they deserve. We’re not just about tasks; we’re about building trust and giving families peace of mind. During MS Awareness Month, we’re offering free consultations—let’s sit down, talk about your needs, and see how we can help.

Let’s Celebrate MS Awareness Month Together

This March, let’s honor the resilience of those living with MS and the caregivers who stand by them. Whether you’re looking for education, support, or a helping hand at home, you don’t have to go it alone. Reach out to us at Home Helpers^® of Wheaton and Naperville or tap into Illinois’ rich network of resources. Together, we can make every day a little brighter for someone with Multiple Sclerosis.

Home Helpers® Wheaton & Naperville is proudly Making Life Easier℠ for veterans, differently abled, and senior men and women in Aurora, Bartlett, Bloomingdale, Hanover Park, Hoffman Estate, Roselle, Itasca, Medinah, Naperville, Plainfield, Schaumburg, Warrenville, West Chicago, Wheaton, and Winfield.