My name is Angie Anderson, but here, I write as Eve Phoenix—a name I chose to symbolize my rebirth, rising from the ashes after my diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in March 2024. That moment became a defining chapter in my life, bringing with it a wave of uncertainty. How would I balance the roles of wife, mother to four, and grandmother to a vibrant grandson while facing a chronic condition? Would I still be able to engage in the activities that fuel me—like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and weightlifting, which have always been pillars of my strength? And, what would this mean for my new role as Development Coordinator at a university? And, how will that affect me as I pursue my masters degree?

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MS challenged me in ways I had never anticipated, but I’m no stranger to facing adversity head-on. From a young age, I thrived on pushing my limits—whether it was riding horses, playing sports, or doing heavy farm work. That same competitive spirit now drives me to face MS with resilience, surrounded by my loving family and my quirky pets (two dogs and two cats).

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Writing has become a crucial part of my journey, a way to process and express the complex emotions that come with living with an invisible illness. Through my blog, I hope to offer a voice to those who feel unseen in their own struggles. It’s my way of reaching out to others, sharing my story, and reminding them that they are not alone. There’s a unique isolation that comes with invisible illnesses, and I want my words to foster a sense of connection, empathy, and hope.

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As I pursue a Master’s degree in Communication, the program has taken on new significance. I’m learning about conflict resolution and workplace dynamics, all while grappling with my own personal challenges. MS has given me a deeper understanding of boundaries, vulnerability, and advocacy, and these insights influence both my academic work and my leadership approach in my professional life.

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Staying active through running, BJJ, and weightlifting has been key to preserving my identity. Though MS presents new physical challenges, stepping onto the mat, logging miles, or lifting weights reminds me of my strength—both physical and mental. It’s a different kind of battle now, but one I face with the same determination that has shaped my life.

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Motherhood and being a grandmother have taken on new meaning since my diagnosis. My children and grandson are my motivation to keep going, to remain present and active in their lives. As a grandmother, I dream of a future where I’m still laughing, playing, and showing my grandson that true strength comes in many forms. As a wife, my husband’s unwavering support has given me the courage to navigate MS together, as partners in this journey.

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Writing as Eve Phoenix allows me to explore my experiences with a sense of freedom, giving voice to the frustration, fear, and hope that come with living with a chronic illness. But it’s also about connecting with others who face similar struggles. MS may be part of my story, but it doesn’t define me. I am a fighter, a student, a writer, a wife, a mother, a grandmother—and my journey is one of growth, learning, and resilience.

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By sharing my story, I hope to reach those who feel invisible in their own battles. Together, we can redefine what it means to live with unseen illnesses and remind each other that we are far more than our diagnoses.

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Much love,

Eve Phoenix