Dancing is one of my favorite things in the world. For the past 25 years I had been taking a class with a group of women. Over the years we have become a type of community of support and love. It has been very hard for me to give it up. The doctors think my symptoms come from my spine and I was afraid that dance would possible make my situation worse.

My doctor urged me to try it being careful so about 4 months ago I went. I promised myself I wouldn't jump or do anything stupid. However, as soon as I started the warm-up my legs began to burn badly and felt heavy. I know it wasn't going to work.

Last month I put the same sneakers on with socks to take a walk and immediately the exact same sensations began. I then remembered reading about some of you not being able to wear socks and certain shoes. So I did an experiment and tried all my sneakers without socks. I found one pair that did not trigger anything and to make a long story short, yesterday I put on those sneakers, went to my class, stood toward the back making sure I didn't jump or do anything too crazy. I was elated. It was wonderful to move, feel the music and be surrounded by the love and energy of people I've basically grown up with. I am a happy, grateful girl today.