Tom and Vera Forkner have been in love for more than 30 years. The couple has been through a lot during that time, including a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis when Vera was in her early 40s.
The disease attacks the covering of the nerves of the brain and spinal cord and has affected Vera’s mobility.
Vera and Tom have adapted, both physically and emotionally. Instead of exploring caves as they once did, they now teach self defense classes and work together. Being able to laugh together helps marriages with tough challenges says neurologist Ben Thrower.
“I’ve certainly noticed if they can employ a sense of humor in dealing with the challenges of that chronic illness, it makes things that much easier,” says Thrower.
CNN’s Dr. Sanjay Gupta has the complete story.