Sheila's blog: 2025 - The Year of Everyday Miracles

Living with a chronic illness is undeniably challenging. There’s no sugar-coating it. For me, Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (SPMS) and mobility issues are daily realities. There’s no cure, and the prognosis is either stability or decline—neither of which I’d wish on my worst enemy. But I face it head-on and do what I can to manage.

I’m part of the Octopus trial at UCLH, a step toward advancing research and treatment. I regularly attend physiotherapy sessions and undergo hyperbaric oxygen therapy at the Harrow MS Centre. Once a month, I have private physio at home. I’m also fortunate to have a wonderful friend who’s a personal trainer and pushes me at the gym weekly. When I need it, I seek out therapy to strengthen my mental resilience.

While managing my health is a full-time job in itself, I also have a career that I love. I work in human capital at a global investment firm, and it’s a role that constantly challenges and inspires me. My work revolves around creating opportunities, driving meaningful change, and fostering inclusivity—all things that are deeply personal to me. I’m passionate about helping to build environments where people feel supported and can thrive, even when facing challenges of their own.

Generally, I consider myself a positive person, but I’ll admit that some days test my resolve more than others. Over time, I’ve learned that keeping a routine helps me stay grounded and focused on the good in life. At the same time, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of stepping back to rest, recharge, and recalibrate.

During the festive season, I took two full weeks off work. I spent quality time with family, rested, and even travelled. It was bliss. Waking up each morning and realizing the biggest decision was what to eat that day felt like pure luxury. Enjoying my morning coffee at our local café with my family became a treasured ritual.

When it comes to New Year’s resolutions, I’m not usually a fan. But for 2025, I’ve decided to declare it the “Year of Miracles”. I’m not referring to grand, life-altering miracles, like divine interventions that cure illnesses – although I’m all up for that one. Instead, I’m talking about the small, everyday miracles that surround us when we choose to notice them.

These miracles can be as simple as a stranger’s smile as you pass them on the street (did you know smiles are scientifically proven to be contagious1?). It’s the unexpected phone call from a loved one with good news or the sense of accomplishment when you excel at a project, and someone acknowledges your effort. In my work, I’ve seen these moments unfold in powerful ways - whether it’s creating a new opportunity for a colleague or receiving heartfelt gratitude for a small gesture of support. These moments, though seemingly small, have the power to transform a day.

In 2025, I’m committed to manifesting more of these everyday miracles in my life. And yes, science supports the power of positive thinking and manifestation2! So here’s to 2025—the Year of Miracles. Let’s embrace and celebrate the beauty of life’s little wonders together.

Sheila has worked in the asset management industry for over 15 years. She is married to a wonderful husband, is mother to two amazing children, has Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis and lives in London. Sheila goes to the MS Therapy Centre in Harrow for physio and hyperbaric oxygen therapy once a week. Donations to support this wonderful organisation are very welcome. Sheila can be found on Instagram @MS_in_the_City. https://www.harrowmscentre.co.uk/donate

References:

1) https://neurosciencenews.com/smiling-social-connection-27834/

2) https://www.self.com/story/neuroscientist-science-behind-manifestation

Tags:
• Disability