MS Stories
Jillbert from Missouri, USA
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) doesn’t follow a schedule. One day, walking feels easy; the next, it can be a struggle.
MS affects around 2.9 million people worldwide, causing unpredictable symptoms like fatigue, muscle weakness, and balance issues. But a diagnosis doesn’t mean life has to slow down.
We spoke with someone who’s navigating life with MS, proving that mobility challenges don’t define what’s possible.
This is Jill’s story:
Meet Jill
A born traveler, Jill spent years working as a tour director and food tour guide, uncovering hidden gems and sharing them with others. Exploring new places, tasting new flavors, and creating unforgettable memories – it’s in her DNA.
And then Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis threw her an unexpected detour. But if you think that stopped her, think again.
In 2024, during MS Awareness Month, Jill won the MS special edition orange Carbon Ultralight rollator – a perfect match for her personality.
Now, whether she’s leading a tour, exploring a new city, or enjoying life in Missouri with her husband, three grown kids, two dogs, a cat, and a flock of quirky chickens, she’s proving that MS may change the journey, but it doesn’t stop the explorer.
But let’s hear it from Jill directly:
The journey to diagnosis
A few years ago, I was having walking difficulties – my legs were heavy and clumsy. I also had reduced energy and growing problems with my vision. This led to my diagnosis of Primary Progressive MS.
The biggest impact was on my job. As a walking food tour guide, leading groups through the city was everything. But as my walking became more unsteady, those three-hour tours became harder and harder. I started to worry that I wouldn’t be able to continue doing what I loved.
I started using a rollator just over a year ago. At first, I bought a used one off Facebook Marketplace because I wasn’t sure what kind I needed – and, honestly, I was still in denial, thinking it would be temporary. The one I got was heavy, clunky, and covered in wires, and covered in wires, and instead of helping, it made me feel even more self-conscious. I avoided using it because I felt like it drew attention to my disability instead of giving me freedom.
Using a mobility aid
“To accept the need of using a mobility aid was quite difficult! Especially with a progressive disease where leveling up on mobility aids means acknowledging the one’s physical health is declining.”
I’d been thinking about getting a rollator for well over a year before getting my sad, used one. I did walk better with it but the stigma – the glaring disability aspect of pushing a clunky rollator – kept me from using it consistently.
To accept the need of using a mobility aid was quite difficult! Especially with a progressive disease where leveling up on mobility aids means acknowledging the one’s physical health is declining.
I needed the extra support of a rollator. It was no longer an option to rely solely on a cane or hiking poles. Once I realized that it was going to be part of my life (and daily mobility), I started looking for one that wasn’t horrible.
The impact in my life
“More than anything, my byACRE rollator changed my perception – of myself, of mobility aids, and of what’s possible. At first, I worried using a rollator would make me feel limited or stand out in a way I didn’t want. But instead, it gave me freedom. I stopped focusing on every step and started focusing on living.”
Orange Julius has completely transformed my life. Living with MS means dealing with ataxia and poor balance, which used to make every step feel uncertain. But since winning my byACRE last March for MS Awareness Month, I’ve been able to move with confidence again.
Over the past year, it’s been with me through it all -leading tours, traveling, and embracing new adventures. Instead of worrying about falling, I can focus on experiencing life. It’s lightweight, sleek, and so easy to maneuver, making it the perfect companion for whatever comes next.
I used to think mobility aids were limiting – now I know they’re what set me free.
“Honestly, it allows me to keep doing what I love – traveling and exploring. When my legs get tired, I can pause and take a seat. It provides the support I need to cover a multitude of surfaces from smooth floors to pavements to paths to sand.”
Orange Julius comes EVERYWHERE with me. We walk in parks with friends, cook together in my kitchen (handy & mobile seating), dine in restaurants (so easy to fold & stow!), and a perfect airport travel companion. We’ve gone to NYC, Chicago, Washington DC, and Mexico. We’ve enjoyed beaches, museums, art galleries, and parties.
Honestly, it allows me to keep doing what I love – traveling and exploring. When my legs get tired, I can pause and take a seat. It provides the support I need to cover a multitude of surfaces from smooth floors to pavements to paths to sand.
The misconception of mobility aids
“There’s this idea that mobility aids are a sign of giving up when, in reality, they’re what allow us to keep moving, working, exploring, and truly living.”
I think one of the biggest misconceptions about rollator users – and people with disabilities in general – is that we’re sad, inactive, or stuck at home. There’s this idea that mobility aids are a sign of giving up when, in reality, they’re what allow us to keep moving, working, exploring, and truly living.
Seeing someone who is visibly disabled out in the world – smiling, working, traveling – can be surprising to some people. But that’s exactly why representation matters.
The importance of style & function
“Do I think that style and design play a role in reducing the stigma of using a rollator? 100%! I get so much positive attention with my Carbon Ultralight. People ask about the equipment not “what’s wrong with me.””
Its style fits me perfectly! The sleek design and color not only complement my style but genuinely make me excited to use it.
The lightweight frame makes it incredibly easy to take anywhere – I can lift it into a car or taxi without hassle.
Beyond that, it improves the way I walk, helping me stand straighter and move more naturally. And when I need a break (which, admittedly, is more often than I’d like), having a comfortable seat right there is a lifesaver. It’s the perfect blend of function, style, and freedom.
When I won my orange Carbon Ultralight, it was a dream. First, orange is my signature color! And it is so bright and cheerful and, well, sleek, that I was not embarrassed to take it out. I immediately began to use it to give tours and it was LIFE CHANGING – in the best way!
Do I think that style and design play a role in reducing the stigma of using a rollator? 100%! Bright colors and modern design are so so much better than drab and mechanical-looking mobility aids. I get so much positive attention with my Carbon Ultralight. People ask about the equipment not “what’s wrong with me.”
I don’t need to customize it; the style IS me!
My advice
“Instead of worrying about what others might think, focus on what truly matters – your freedom, your independence, and your ability to live life on your terms. A rollator is a tool, not a reflection of who you are. If it helps you keep doing the things you love, that’s what counts.”
Honestly, since using my byACRE Carbon Ultralight, I’ve only received positive comments. It’s sleek, stylish, and anything but stigmatized. To me, it’s not just a mobility aid – it’s a symbol of freedom.
Follow Jill
Join Jill on her adventures as she explores new places, discovers amazing flavors, and navigates life with MS. Follow her on social media for a glimpse into her journey – because the explorer in her is never slowing down!
