MS Living Well Podcast: Being Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis

Julian Gamboa shares his first symptoms of multiple sclerosis including spinning sensation and double vision. He had substantial obstacles and setbacks in being diagnosed including a prolonged hospitalization. After being in a very low place, Julian rallied with the support of others including his family. He conveys how he eventually obtained superb MS care and utilizing his social media guru skills to help others being diagnosed with MS.

Dr. Jakai Nolan

Dr. Jakai Nolan opens up about her own unique insights on being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis since she is both a neurologist specializing in multiple sclerosis and a person living with MS. As she shares her own personal story, she reviews key symptoms suggestive of MS and the importance of advocating for prompt evaluation to prevent a delay in diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Nolan covers treatment selection, mental health concerns and lifestyle modifications for someone recently diagnosed.

This podcast episode is sponsored by Octave.

Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews:

Julian Gamboa

Julian Gamboa is the Social Media Director for Maximum Effort, supporting brands affiliated with Ryan Reynolds including Mint Mobile, Aviation Gin and Wrexham AFC. He received his BA in marketing from the University of California, Berkeley. Previous work experience includes leading Telemundo LA’s first organic social strategy in live streaming and celebrity advertising and senior marketing and social media manager at Adweek. In 2017, LinkedIn recognized Mr. Gamboa as a Marketing and Social Media Top Voice. In late 2021, Mr. Gamboa was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and serves on the Board of Directors of the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America.

Dr. Jakai Nolan

Dr. Jakai Nolan is a neurologist specializing in multiple sclerosis in Villa Rica, Georgia and Endowed Neurology Chair for Tanner Medical Center. She received her undergraduate degree in Neuroscience from Vanderbilt University, a Master’s degree in Public Health at Emory University and her medical degree from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Georgia Campus. Dr. Nolan completed her residency training in neurology at Kettering Medical Center in Dayton, OH and a clinical fellowship in neuroimmunology/multiple sclerosis and spasticity management at Riverside Medical Center in Columbus, OH.