Author Karen J. Zielinski, O.S.F., was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at the age of 22. Over the years, the disease has forced her to change and adapt parts of her personal and professional life. Her present ministry affords her the opportunity to write about chronic disease and disability. But she says “the deeper outreach and ministry which emerged for me is listening to, responding to, and supporting those who need someone to calm their fears or share their loneliness.” In this CareNote, she does just that, using her own experiences to help others with chronic health conditions discover their own gifts and live healthy, hopeful lives.

By Karen J. Zielinski, O.S.F.