In 2000, Murrieta resident, business owner and community leader Adria Poindexter was a hardworking young woman with a phenomenal career at her fingertips. Out of nowhere, she began developing increasing degeneration of the vision in her left eye, accompanied by pain. An ophthalmologist diagnosed her with Optic Neuritis, telling her that this condition was often the first symptom of Multiple Sclerosis. This was a shocking revelation to Adria, and one that was not going to be quickly confirmed. In fact, the process of diagnosis of MS would take another five years.
The next time MS reared its head was in 2005, in the form of increasing dizziness – to the point that Adria could not work, drive, or even walk around her home without hanging on to something, for about six weeks. It was during this relapse that she was diagnosed with MS. Adria, at this point, decided to step off of the career path and wrap her head around this life-perspective changing news. She spent several years at home with her then 12-year-old daughter, Meghan.
The National MS Society defines MS as a “chronic, unpredictable disease of the central nervous system.” There is no cure. Many people are not familiar with the details of this disease, and the laundry list of “could be” and “might be” is far too long for this article. Currently, Adria has been in a relapse for about 18 months, where her balance is very poor. She has resigned herself that this is her “new normal.” Adria says, “It is what it is, and it could be worse.” She can be found at the gym, walking through her neighborhood with her Nordic walking poles, or driving her stick-shift Jeep – because she CAN.
Adria is seeking contributions to the Walk MS event she is participating in, in San Diego on April 25. Adria and her husband Steve will be walking together with friends and supporters. The easiest way to sponsor Adria is to visit her event page (Google San Diego Walk MS Team YOYO), or just text or call Adria on her cell at 951-265-1815. If you know someone with Multiple Sclerosis and the uncertainty they live with, you will understand why Adria is so committed to helping fund the search for a cure. She thanks you in advance!