Tefl.NET Forums

Hi Lucy,

I am on the cusp on going to get my Celta so as to teach abroad, which I have been wanting to do for some years. I now however realize that my condition, as asymptomatic as it may be, could be a problem. I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis a little over a year ago and have been getting paid treatments as the subject of a medical study. Given that I am otherwise in perfect health, and still fairly young (33), I rarely consider this as a barrier to my life goals.

How much of a problem do you think this will be? Should I just pull out now and change my life plans altogether?

Thanks a ton,

shawniemc

Dear Shawniemc,

I always encourage people to follow their life plans. All goals can be achieved with the right attitude and application. It’s also essential to be realistic.

In your case, I suggest you contact course providers and explain your situation to them; ask them what their opinion is. Think about where you would like to live and work then contact the consulate of that country and other official bodies. Find out what health care is like in your chosen country: how much health care costs, what medication is available. Find out too whether there are any regulations regarding health that might affect a visa application. I am not familiar with MS and can’t give any specific advice.

Good luck with your plans and let us know what you decide to do.

Lucy

Hello Lucy and anyone else reading this,

I have spoken with TEFL instructors and they know of others with chronic conditions who work abroad. They are reasonably optimistic that only a minority of countries will bar someone from a work visa for such a reason, those likely being middle-eastern nations. Therefore, I am moving forward with my goals and will begin working towards my CELTA in a few weeks. Thank you for your vote of confidence.

As far as MS itself; and in my case the most common and (fortunately) mild type, known as relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis; the treatments have become, and are yet becoming even more so, affordable and accessible throughout the world. When diagnosed, this was the most difficult aspect to swallow, that my dreams of living internationally might be put to rest. This fear still occasionally raises its head, as it did a a few days ago. But it appears as if this will only be an occasional inconvenience to my life.

Thanks again,

Shawn