In the heart of the Pacific Northwest, the Olympic Peninsula Loop presents a formidable challenge for cyclists, especially those cycling with MS. For Nikki, a rider on the 2023 Olympic Peninsula Bike Tour with Bike the US for MS, this ride was not just a test of physical endurance, but a profound journey of personal triumph over multiple sclerosis (MS). From Livingston, Montana to the scenic routes of the Olympic Peninsula, Nikki’s story is one of resilience, adaptation, and spirit, highlighting the significant impact of initiatives like the Nina Fraser Scholarship Fund in empowering individuals with MS.
Nikki’s Story – From Diagnosis to Determination
A Life-Altering Diagnosis
Nikki’s story begins in Livingston, Montana. After embarking on her college journey at the University of Montana, she stepped into the professional realm, taking a leadership role at a telecommunications company. This period of her life was marked by ambition and a ceaseless drive, characteristics that would soon be tested in ways she never expected.
The first signs that something was amiss came subtly, yet unsettlingly. Nikki experienced numbness on one side of her face, a symptom she initially brushed off as Bell’s palsy. The reality, however, was far more serious. A visit to her primary doctor and a subsequent MRI revealed a truth that would forever alter the course of her life: lesions consistent with multiple sclerosis. The diagnosis was confirmed one Saturday morning, a moment etched in memory, marking the beginning of a new, uncertain chapter.
Facing the Reality of MS
The early days following her diagnosis were a maelstrom of emotions and physical challenges. A debilitating MS flare-up soon ensued, hindering her ability to walk due to extreme numbness and vertigo. Her speech slurred, and her body’s functions seemed to stall, turning everyday activities into monumental tasks. Nikki found solace and support in moving back home with her parents, leaning on the love and care of her family and friends. Given that MS ran in her father’s side of the family, there was some knowledge of what lay ahead, but the reality was still a harsh and grim awakening.
Redefining Life with MS
Adjusting to life with MS was not just about coping with the physical symptoms; it was also about redefining her identity and expectations for the future. The once relentless pace of her life had to be recalibrated, as she learned to navigate the new limitations and challenges posed by her condition. This period was marked by significant changes, both in how she viewed herself and how she approached the world around her.
Nikki’s story, however, is not just one of challenges and adjustments; it’s a tale of resilience and determination. Faced with a life-altering diagnosis, she embarked on a journey of self-discovery and adaptation, finding new ways to thrive despite the obstacles MS placed in her path.
Living with MS – A New Perspective on Life
Adapting to a New Normal
Today, Nikki’s life stands in stark contrast to those initial months post-diagnosis. Initially overwhelmed by the implications of MS, Nikki has since found a balance that allows her to live a life where the presence of MS is subtly woven into her routine, rather than dominating it. She credits this transformation to a combination of effective medication and lifestyle adjustments. Starting with Copaxone and later switching to Gilenya, these medications have helped stabilize her condition, reducing the frequency and severity of her MS flare-ups.
Self-Awareness and Managing MS Symptoms
However, it’s not just medication that has brought stability. Nikki emphasizes the importance of being attuned to her body’s needs and triggers. She has become adept at managing potential MS relapses by prioritizing rest, minimizing stress, and staying vigilant about environmental factors, particularly heat, which can aggravate her symptoms. This heightened self-awareness has been crucial in maintaining her health and quality of life.
Nikki’s life revolves around her passions and her role as a career coach at the University of Montana. In this capacity, she draws on her own experiences of navigating life’s uncertainties to guide students in finding their paths. It’s a role that holds a mirror to her journey — from grappling with the unknowns of MS to discovering a renewed sense of purpose. Her work is not just a job; it’s a reflection of her belief in empowerment and the potential to thrive despite life’s challenges.
Personal Life and Slower Pacing
Her personal life, too, has seen a transformation. Nikki and her husband Wes have cultivated a life that values quality time at home, working on their house and garden, and enjoying each other’s company. This slower, more intentional pace has not only been beneficial for managing her MS, but has also brought a newfound appreciation for life’s quieter moments. Travel and adventure still hold a place in her heart, but they are now balanced with a love for the tranquility and comfort of home.
Nikki’s life with MS is a narrative of how a life-altering diagnosis can lead to a profound reevaluation of what matters most, and how, in the face of adversity, there can be growth, change, and even unexpected joy.
Embracing New Challenges – The Call to Cycle
Finding Strength on Two Wheels
Nikki’s draw to cycling began shortly after her diagnosis, inspired by close friend, and former Bike the US for MS Executive Director, Cassie Wertz’s participation in a cross country bike trip on the Northern Tier from Bar Harbor, Maine to Seattle, Washington. Purchasing her first bike, Jake the Snake, she gradually immersed herself in cycling. Her first major venture was a 60 mile cycling event in Montana.
Building on this experience, Nikki gradually increased her cycling challenges, culminating in her participation in the Olympic Peninsula Bike Tour. The decision to join the MS bike tour was driven by a desire to be part of something greater—a collective effort to bring hope and support to those affected by MS.
The Olympic Peninsula Loop – A Test of Endurance and Spirit
A Cycle Ride to Remember
The Olympic Peninsula Bike Tour was a remarkable journey for Nikki, spanning 7 days and 361 miles of breathtaking landscapes. This endeavor was not only a physical challenge but also a mental one, filled with moments of camaraderie and personal triumph. Nikki’s reflections on this experience, especially during the ferry ride back to Seattle, were filled with a deep sense of pride and accomplishment.
The tour had its share of highs and lows, which were integral to the overall experience. Nikki recalls a particularly challenging day when she fell into a mud puddle, only to be met with support and laughter from her fellow riders. These moments, from the trials to the triumphs, encapsulated the essence of the journey, showcasing the spirit of resilience and the power of a supportive community.
Cycling with MS – A Personal Perspective
Balancing Challenges with Passion
Cycling with MS presents unique challenges for Nikki, but it also offers unparalleled rewards. Her experiences on the bike, both during training and on bike tours, have taught her the importance of listening to her body and adapting to her needs. Especially significant is her approach to managing the heat, a known trigger for her MS symptoms, which often involves choosing indoor training sessions over outdoor rides in the warmer months.
Nikki’s journey in cycling reflects a balance between acknowledging her limitations and pushing her boundaries. Despite initial apprehensions about outdoor cycling, particularly with navigation and traffic, group cycle rides like the Olympic Peninsula Bike Tour, and other routes run by Bike the US for MS, have given her confidence and a sense of safety.
Beyond the Ride – The Impact of Support and Scholarship
Empowered by Community and Support
The Nina Fraser Scholarship Fund played a crucial role in Nikki’s participation in the Olympic Peninsula Bike Tour. The fund, aimed at providing support to those living and cycling with MS, provided financial support for essential equipment. With sleep so critical for Nikki’s MS management, a new sleeping pad for better rest was pivotal. This assistance among others was instrumental in ensuring Nikki could fully engage in and enjoy the ride, highlighting the significance of such support systems for individuals with MS.
Nikki’s experience underscores the importance of community and financial assistance in empowering those with MS to take on new challenges like Bike the US for MS. The scholarship not only eased her practical concerns but also reinforced the sense of belonging and motivation among the riders. Her story highlights the importance of such support in making these adventures accessible to individuals with MS, encouraging others to consider similar experiences.
Looking Ahead – Future Rides and Continued Advocacy
The Road Forward
Nikki’s cycling journey doesn’t stop with the Olympic Peninsula ride. Nikki has already set her sights on future rides and events, both with Bike the US for MS and other organizations like RAGBRAI and RATPOD. These plans reflect her growing passion for cycling and her commitment to supporting the MS community. It goes beyond personal achievement; it’s a powerful form of advocacy for MS awareness and support.
Wrapping Up
Nikki’s journey, from her MS diagnosis to conquering the Olympic Peninsula Bike Tour, is a powerful story of resilience, community, and hope. Her experiences serve as a beacon, not just for those living with MS, but for anyone facing life’s challenges. Nikki’s story is a reminder of the strength that lies in perseverance and the transformative power of support systems like the Nina Fraser Scholarship Fund.
Her journey with Bike the US for MS transcends the physical feat of cycling; it’s about the collective effort to bring awareness, support, and empowerment to those living with MS. It is a call to action for us to be part of something greater than ourselves, to contribute to a community that uplifts and empowers, much like Nikki has through her inspiring journey.
