Reading, Teaching, and Raising Hope

“MS Read-a-Thon has been a meaningful part of my life for many years. I participated as a child when my elementary school took part. My family was especially motivated to get involved because my mom had a close friend living with MS, and we wanted to help her get the care and support she needed. Some of my fondest memories are of my parents reading to me during that time. Those moments, reading together for a cause that mattered to our family, have stayed with me ever since. What we didn’t realize back then was that years later, I would be diagnosed with MS myself. 

Receiving my own diagnosis was devastating. I felt scared and completely alone. Those first few years were especially difficult, as I faced multiple relapses. It took time to adjust, but that experience taught me resilience, self-advocacy, and the importance of listening to my body—lessons that have shaped who I am today. I see life through a different lens now and truly appreciate every moment, especially the good days. I’ve learned to live in the present, because I never know what kind of day I’m going to have.

I focus on positivity and perseverance, because those two things have carried me through so much. This outlook has deeply influenced my teaching. I’m an elementary school teacher now, and every day I show up for my students with a smile, ready to give my best. I want them to see that challenges are part of life, but with support, positivity, and heart, we can overcome anything and reach the goals we set for ourselves.

My school participates in MS Read-a-Thon, and it’s so special to help my own students take part in the same program that once inspired me. I’ve been transparent about my MS from the very beginning, sharing my story with colleagues and students, and even presenting at our annual MS Read-a-Thon school assembly. I use it as an opportunity to raise awareness about MS and what it means to live with an invisible disability. 

Being open about my journey has allowed me to connect with my students in ways I never expected. Sharing my story in the classroom not only helps them understand MS, but also inspires them to make a difference through initiatives like MS Read-a-Thon.

When my students learn that I live with MS and that this cause is personal to me, they’re always curious and full of questions. The first thing they usually ask is, ‘Can I get it too?’ or ‘Is it contagious?’ It opens the door to important conversations about invisible disabilities and how you can’t always tell when someone is struggling just by looking at them. They often say, ‘But you look great’ or ‘You don’t look sick!’ It gives me the chance to teach them about empathy, understanding, and kindness. They’re compassionate and supportive, offering to help whenever they can and checking in to see how my appointments and treatments are going. It’s incredibly touching to see how learning about MS not only helps them understand me better but also shapes them into more caring and empathetic individuals.

MS Read-a-Thon means so much to me. It’s a powerful reminder that my school community, students, colleagues, and parents truly support me and want to make a difference. It also allows me to show my students the impact they can have through kindness, compassion, and action. They’re not only developing a love of reading but are also learning the importance of giving back and supporting others. I read to my students every day, showing them how special it is to get lost in a story, use their imagination, and explore different worlds through books. I want them to see that reading isn’t just an assignment, it’s an adventure. 

To keep students engaged throughout MS Read-a-Thon, I help organize activities with our community service team. We create fundraising posters, present at our school assembly, and in the past, we’ve made handmade bookmarks to sell. This year, we’re hosting a school-wide ‘Drop Everything and Read’ period, where every class will spend 45 minutes cuddled up with their favourite stuffies and stories. I’m a little competitive and love seeing which class can raise the most money! That friendly competition motivates students to get involved, stay engaged, and see the real impact they’re making.

My favourite moments during MS Read-a-Thon are when I share my story and see students come up afterwards to ask questions or offer their support. Another highlight is seeing our school’s final fundraising total. It’s incredible to witness the impact we can make together. I’ve also had parents reach out to share their empathy and encouragement, which makes the experience even more special. Moments like these remind me why participating in MS Read-a-Thon is so rewarding, both as a teacher and as someone living with MS.

Each year when we come together to raise money and awareness, I feel an incredible sense of unity and hope. Knowing we’re all working together, year after year, to raise funds and move closer to finding a cure is deeply inspiring. I hope other schools and teachers see the importance of participating, not just for students but for families and educators too. 

MS Read-a-Thon teaches children about charity, giving back, and supporting those in need, while also encouraging reading for pleasure. It’s a wonderful way to connect teachers, students, and parents through a school-wide initiative, helping create a strong sense of community. 

I’m inspired by the progress being made in MS research and by the growing awareness of this disease. Research brings us closer to better treatments, and ultimately, a cure. Support programs provide critical resources, guidance, and community for those navigating the challenges of MS every day. Without ongoing funding, progress slows, and the people who rely on these programs may not receive the care and support they need.

Every donation, every fundraiser, and every act of awareness helps improve quality of life, fosters hope, and drives meaningful change for those living with MS. Participating in MS Read-a-Thon is one way we all contribute to that change. 

For me, MS Read-a-Thon is more than just reading or fundraising—it’s about hope, support, understanding, and a brighter future for people like me living with MS.”

Ready to inspire your students like Jaclyn? Sign up your class or school for MS Read-a-Thon today and turn reading into hope, connection, and impact.

Register today!