Inked in Hope

My favorite word is hope. Anyone who knows me well, knows that’s my word. About two years after my MS diagnosis, I clung to that word knowing that I needed something to get me through the tough times that were ahead.
My favorite verse from the Bible says: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to  harm you, plans to give you a HOPE and a future.” ~ Jeremiah 29:11
I named our boxer puppy “Hope” nine years ago.
I named my MS Walk Team “Team Hope” in 1999.
People have asked me before what I’m hopeful for. I hope for a cure of course. But I also hope that I don’t lose vision in my one good eye. I hope that I can one day see and play with my grandkids. I want to be able to walk, travel around the world, and continue my active lifestyle for many, many years to come. On my bad MS days when my energy is zapped or my body is aching, I hope that tomorrow will be better.
About 10 years ago, the National MS Society came out with a red wristband (the rubber LiveStrong type) that just happened to be emblazoned with the word hope.  I was so excited! My son Jake and I decided to wear the bands as a symbol of unity and optimism.
It has served as a constant reminder to have hope —  important in all life circumstances, but especially when it comes to my multiple sclerosis. But for me, a wristband wasn’t enough. I wanted to get the word “hope” tattooed on my body somewhere… someday.
That day came last year when my sister Stacey, as well as my friends Patty, Kelly, and Anita, joined me on a quest to get inked! Not only were they getting my favorite word tattooed on them (forever!), but they let me pick out what the tattoo would look like…they insisted that all of ours look the same. Knowing they too “hope” for a cure bonds us in a unique way.
I took off my red hope band the day I got my tattoo. My son still wears his every day.

With love and HOPE,

Tricia