At Lakewish, our mission is more than just creating stylish, comfortable apparel in the spirit of up-north Wisconsin—it’s about making a difference. It’s about giving back to the organizations that are close to our hearts and that have supported us throughout our journey. And my journey, as the founder of Lakewish, has been shaped by a deeply personal experience: my battle with Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
My hope is that in sharing my own personal experiences, people like me feel less alone and committed to living an adventurous life full of making their wishes come true.
A Personal Journey with MS
"A generation ago, most people with multiple sclerosis could expect to rely on walkers and wheelchairs or be limited to their bed within 15 years of diagnosis. Today, UC San Francisco’s discoveries are keeping millions with MS healthier for longer – many disability-free. Now, the university is paving the way for an MS cure in our lifetimes." (UCSF),
I was diagnosed with MS in the fall of 2009, at the age of 24. What started as a strange numbness on the right side of my face eventually led to an official diagnosis: Multiple Sclerosis, a disease that affects the central nervous system. Since then, I’ve experienced a range of symptoms and challenges, but I consider myself lucky. I have a relatively mild case, with only a few major attacks over the past 15 years, including some numbness in my lower body and a flare-up in my arm.
There was a time when starting a family felt impossible because of my condition, especially since many MS treatments are not safe during pregnancy. But after some difficult decisions and a miscarriage, we were blessed with a healthy pregnancy and, eventually, our son. MS even put me into remission during pregnancy, which was a wild and unexpected turn of events.
While my personal experience with MS hasn’t been easy, it’s shaped me in ways I never anticipated. It’s given me a deep appreciation for life’s adventures—whether big or small—and the importance of being together with the people you love. It’s also sparked a passion in me to give back.
Giving Back Through Lakewish
Lakewish was born out of a love for the Northwoods and a desire to make a difference. The name “Lakewish” represents my connection to the lakes of Northern Wisconsin, where I feel most at peace, and my wish for advances in medical research. That wish is not only personal but shared by many others living with MS. One of the reasons Lakewish exists is to support the research and organizations working to cure MS. A portion of every sale goes to organizations focused on MS research and support, helping those affected by this challenging condition.
Just as my journey with MS has led to a deep connection with the value of being together, enjoying life, and embracing the adventure of every day, Lakewish’s mission is also to bring people together and help them embrace those moments. Whether you’re gathered around a campfire with friends, enjoying the serenity of the lake, or just wearing your favorite cozy crewneck sweatshirt, we believe in living fully and supporting causes that matter.
Adventure, Togetherness, and a Wish For a Bright Future
MS has shaped my outlook on life. It’s taught me to cherish the moments we have, to appreciate the joy of adventure, and to never take life for granted. My story is one of resilience, but it’s also one of hope—hope that research will continue to move forward, that a cure for MS is within reach, and that others living with MS will have access to the support and care they need.
Lakewish is taking this hope and turning it into action.
As we continue to grow Lakewish, we remain committed to supporting the causes that have made a difference in our lives. Whether through donations or spreading awareness, we are proud to contribute to MS research and help improve the lives of those affected by the disease.
Thank you for being part of this journey with us. With your support, we can continue to make a difference, not only by offering cozy apparel for lake lovers but also by supporting the fight against MS and giving back to the communities we love.