Not "Just a Bill"

I'm sure many of you remember when we were children the School House Rock character Bill. You know how it goes… I'm just a Bill. Sitting here on Capitol Hill. But I hope to be a Law someday.

Well, I would have to say after being diagnosed with MS in August of 2002 I am no longer just any old Bill.

Prior to my diagnosis I had my priorities backwards. I did what many people do right out of school. I got a job, I focused on making money, and then I focused even harder on how to spend that money. My focus was all "About Me". However, after diagnosis I changed for the better. It took about a year but late 2003/early 2004 I started thinking about others before thinking "About Me".

I started to realize how important life is and to not be so down about something I had no control over happening to me. Instead I decided to take control of this disease now and keep it from controlling the outcome of my life and yes the life of others as well.

I have come to recognize I am a very passionate person. When I love someone or something I love them/it completely. There is no other way to live life. I have a love for my wife, dog, family, and friends that fills me up and makes me happy. I also have a love for Golf and oh yes Food.

I love a game that constantly humbles you when you start thinking you're getting good at it. And yet at times it will reward you when you start thinking about giving it up.

Then comes this food thing and I. I'm almost as obsessed with food as I am with golf. As a personal chef for my own company, Plates & Palates, I was able to share my love of food with others. There is something about opening a person's eyes on how food can touch all five of their senses.

I have to say if I was never diagnosed with MS I would not be the same strong (stubborn), passionate (persistent), and caring (emotional) person I am today. I am no longer just a Bill.