Expert Care and Evolving Therapies Help Make Life With Multiple Sclerosis Manageable

Christine Kayser can vividly recall the strange symptoms that emerged over 15 years ago.

"I was struggling with my balance, not really sure where my feet were," said Christine, who currently lives in Uxbridge, Massachusetts. "Then there were coordination problems. I'd try to pour some water and completely miss the glass or accidentally poke myself with the fork while trying to eat. I was having trouble typing too."

The symptoms worsened over the course of several days. Since her mother, aunt, and three cousins were visiting, she didn't want to disrupt the fun by going to a doctor. On the day her guests were scheduled to leave, however, Christine was so disoriented that she walked into a wall in her hotel room. Her mom, a long-time emergency nurse, insisted on taking her to an emergency room right away.

At the Massachusetts General Hospital Department of Emergency Medicine, Christine learned that she probably had multiple sclerosis (MS). This chronic condition of the central nervous system is thought to be an autoimmune disorder (meaning the body attacks itself by mistake).

The multiple sclerosis diagnosis came as a shock to Christine, only 26 at the time. Given the worst-case scenarios that had been swimming around her head, though, she took the news pretty well.

"I thought maybe I'd had a stroke or a brain tumor," she said. "I knew very little about MS, other than that it could be a debilitating disease that could put me in a wheelchair. But I was actually relieved because at least there was something that explained my symptoms."

A reassuring voice

Christine underwent a series of tests in the emergency room. After an MRI scan showed lesions (damage) on the areas of the brain that control balance and coordination, she was admitted to Mass General for further evaluation.

Within hours, a series of caregivers visited Christine. A social worker discussed her anxiety and reviewed possible treatment options. A physical therapist and an occupational therapist taught her how to use a cane, in case that form of assistance became necessary.

Following a neurological evaluation, Christine began a steroid treatment to address the inflammation. She spent two nights at Mass General before being discharged.

A few weeks later, Christine had an appointment with Mass General Brigham neurologist Eric Klawiter, MD. He specializes in treating MS and related diseases, and has been seeing patients with MS at Mass General since 2010.

"I was immediately comfortable with him," Christine said. "He had a steady, levelheaded demeanor, and he was very reassuring about my outlook."

Due to his extensive clinical experience, Dr. Klawiter has a keen understanding of what patients with MS are going through. Many of his patients are diagnosed around age 30—a time when they are advancing in their professional career and leading an active lifestyle.

"Part of my role is to make sure my patients' life goals remain attainable," he said.

After enduring much anxiety about her condition early on, Christine has become accustomed to life with MS. Since she has responded so well to treatment, she only sees Dr. Klawiter once a year. She also has a brain MRI annually and a full spinal MRI every few years to watch out for any new developments.

"She has had minimal, if any, disability since her initial diagnosis," Dr. Klawiter said. "That's a testament to her not only taking the prescribed medications but also modifying her diet, regularly exercising, and doing other things that help optimize her treatment."

Christine praises Dr. Klawiter and the rest of her care team for their skill, compassion, and dedication to keeping her healthy.

"Fifteen years ago, I would have assumed I'd have some kind of mobility aid or daily symptoms by now. But some combination of excellent care, medical research, and maybe luck has meant I don't have any of that," she said. "The care I've received has always been uplifting, forward-looking, and with an eye toward minimizing the impact of MS on my life."

Christine noted that her experience at Mass General Brigham was a major factor in her decision to join the organization as a marketing manager in October 2025.