I’m Maria Cohen. I am 39 years old and I live on Long Island NY. I live a normal life, I have a husband, a 5 year old daughter named Charlotte, I work every day, I have car payments, bills, and grocery lists. But, there is one thing that separates me from most - I have Multiple Sclerosis.

I was diagnosed with Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS) in 2002 (17 years ago) during my Junior year of college at the age of 21. I have been navigating the challenges associated with this life controlling disease for more than half of my life. Because of MS, everyday I am presented with obstacles to overcome. These things can be so ‘simple’, such as navigating stairs, or the seemingly easy task of carrying my sleeping daughter into the house from the car. These things are real obstacles because of balance issues – a direct result of MS.

I am seeking a breakthrough treatment called HSCT that will help to give me my life back. Thank you in advance for taking the time to read my story. I’m grateful to have the opportunity to share some important details about MS and HSCT with you. 

My HSCT journey will begin on July 6th at Clinica Ruiz in Puebla, Mexico.  My sister Alex will be with me each step of the way as my caregiver and will maintain this blog to provide updates to everyone interested in my progress.