From Diagnosis to Determination: Mika’s MS Bike Journey

“When I was diagnosed with MS at just 24 years old, it felt like my life had suddenly shifted in a way I wasn’t prepared for. After unexplained numbness in my foot and pain in my arm led me to see a neurologist, I was diagnosed within a week. While I was grateful for the quick answers, it was very overwhelming to hear, and everything felt like it was moving very fast. 

I was in the prime of my twenties, building my career, friendships, and a busy life, so the last thing I expected was to be slowed down by chronic illness. At first, I kept my diagnosis to myself and my family because I didn’t want anyone to treat me differently and because the thought of telling people made the diagnosis more real. I grieved the version of the life I thought I would have and learned to move forward in a way that honoured my health. With the support of incredible doctors and nurses, the right medication, and the love of my family, I found a rhythm that felt both fulfilling and sustainable. 

I eventually decided to share my story publicly as an Impact Speaker at MS Bike, hoping I could reach another young person who was recently diagnosed and feeling lost. I want to be an example of hope and show you're never truly alone in the MS community.  

Before my diagnosis, MS Bike had already been part of my life. As a child, my cousins and I would go door-to-door fundraising for our dads who were participating in the ride. My family and our friends would head to Gimli for the MS Bike event and while the dads were riding, we would wait at the finish line to cheer them on. We'd even load up on pom-poms, cowbells, and noisemakers ahead of time for our cheer squad. It was like our very own version of the Olympics. We’d finish the day celebrating on the beach surrounded by the other riders and volunteers; it was an absolute blast! 

I was inspired to join as a rider myself because one of the ways I’ve coped with the fear and uncertainty of my MS diagnosis is to get involved and help however I can. One of the best things about MS Bike is that it can be whatever you want it to be. If you go the full distance, it’s a ton of fun and a great bonding experience. There’s no rush, and plenty of snack stops along the way. Plus, the smiling faces in the Safety Cars are always ready to give you a lift to the next station. If the full ride feels like too much, there’s also a shorter route option. No matter which distance you choose, the energy of the community is welcoming, fun, and supportive. The best part is that we’re all there to support each other—biking any number of kilometres is just a bonus. 

When I crossed the finish line for the first time, I felt all sorts of emotions. Knowing that so many Canadians live with MS and face the challenges that come with it reminded me why events like MS Bike matter. At the same time, I feel proud to be part of a community that dedicates itself to improving the lives of those living with MS and gives me hope of a brighter future. Seeing my friends and family biking alongside me, cheering me across the finish line, and embracing me when I share my story fills me with a gratitude that I can’t put into words. 

For me, MS Bike represents hope and community. When everyone comes together, we can create real, lasting change that transforms lives. Whether you’re biking, volunteering, cheering, or simply showing up, it’s a gift to be part of such a caring group. Everyone has their own personal connection to the cause, but together as a collective, we’re all working to create a better future for everyone living with MS. Raising awareness and funds for MS research has become more than just giving back—it’s become empowering. It helped me rebuild my confidence and gave me the opportunity to support someone else as they begin their own journey. 

I’ve met so many incredible people through the MS Bike community, people who truly get what it’s like to live with MS. The MS research, advocacy, and support programs we raise funds for continue to make a real difference in my life. It motivates me to contribute wherever I can, so progress keeps moving forward and someone diagnosed after me can have an easier path with more resources. 

After four years of learning to navigate my life with MS, I’ve found a pace that works for me and supports my health. I feel much steadier than I did in the early days of my diagnosis, and I don’t carry the same sense of uncertainty and fear that I once did. At the same time, there is still more to do. I’m doing well today, but MS is unpredictable, and nobody knows what tomorrow may bring. I’m able to move forward with hope because of the people who dedicated themselves to fundraising and advancing MS research long before I was diagnosed. Their commitment has changed the course of my life. 
 
That’s why we keep showing up. That’s why we keep pushing forward. And that’s why we ride.”