PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW
PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW
Frank Palpallatoc BY LIESEL SCHMIDT
As someone who was used to leading an active lifestyle, when Frank Palpallatoc first began experiencing the symptoms of MS, it began to take a heavy toll. It took months before he was actually diagnosed with the degenerative condition—time that seemed to knock the strong, dependable, and loving man off of his feet: he’d lost his job and was, at one point, even living in his car. Throughout it all, however, he showed faith in God and His plan; and now Frank is learning to live with MS without letting it rob him of life. SOCIAL NORTHSHORE: When were you diagnosed with MS? FRANK PALPALLATOC: April 12, 2017 SN: How did you first know that something was wrong? FP: I fell while I was rollerblading, and I couldn’t seem to bounce back from it. It almost felt like I had a stroke, because one whole side of my body felt numb with a tingly sensation. SN: Does MS typically present in men? FP: It’s unusual for men of my age and is actually more typical in young women. SN: How do you manage it? 66
SOCIAL NORTHSHORE
FP: Carefully, slowly, and day-by-day. I receive Ocrevus infusions twice a year to help prevent more lesions from forming. SN: How do you stay positive, even when you’re having hard days? FP: I usually just try not to think about it—with something like this, you just do what you’ve got to do. SN: Are you active in any community organizations? FP: Not really right now, because of COVID; but I used to volunteer and help coach a special needs cheer squad with my ex-wife. She started the special needs cheer squad, and my daughter volunteered to help. Since I have a background in dance, I thought I might have something to offer, as well. I danced at UCLA. SN: How has your family supported you through all of this? FP: They’re always there when I need them. SN: How do you like to spend your free time? FP: I like watching TV, visiting with my grandson, and cruising around town in the car—with someone else driving, of course, since I can no longer drive.
