Josie Benassi was officially diagnosed with MS in October 2009 when she was 38 years old. Her first symptoms age 15 was optic neuritis where she had lost significant vision in one eye. After multiple tests (MRI, CAT scan, Spinal Tap), she was told that "it was dormant." She got re-evaluated every three months until her vision returned to normal and then eventually everything went back to 'normal'. Losing her vision was probably one of the scariest and most vivid experiences she has had. 

Fast forward 20+ years and although she had other symptoms like numbness and balance problems, she never thought anything of them. It wasn't until after a family outing at a public skating rink did she realize something was seriously wrong. Josie had been a very active person (figure skating, track & field, biking, etc.) and she found herself having difficulty balancing on skated and holding onto the boards for support. A visit ti the neurologist and MRI quickly confirmed her official diagnosis with Multiple Sclerosis. She really wasn't surprised when she received the official diagnosis because deep down she knew something had been going on. 

In an effort to stay active, Josie's husband Joe bought a used tandem bicycle and gave it a go. Josie loved being back on a bike and the couple rode several thousand miles until it became more difficult for Josie to get on and off. A close friend (and fellow board member Troy DiNapoli) donated a more accessible tandem bike from DaVinci Tandems and this allowed them to continue riding for several more years. Ten years and almost 10,000 miles later, bike riding is not currently an option for Josie but she hopes she can someday get back to it.