But my story, like many, is layered. Even before MS found its name, my body whispered its own unique tales of fleeting pains and puzzling difficulties, leading to a lifelong feeling of being a bit of a ‘giraffe’ in a world expecting horses or zebras. Now, navigating the realities of MS – the fluctuating energy, the shifting mobility, the unseen sensory changes – has only deepened my understanding of the strength it takes to live, truly live, within the complexities of chronic illness.

Jewel and Ash was born from this very space – the intersection of resilience (the jewel) and the fragility of life with chronic illness (the ash). It’s a space where I aim to illuminate the often-shadowed realities of this journey, not just for those living it, but for their loved ones, and the professionals who care for them.

Through authentic and vulnerable storytelling, I share my own experiences – the unexpected detours, the moments of frustration, the ongoing process of adaptation, and yes, even the ironic humor that sometimes surfaces in the most unlikely places (like the saga of a certain yellow giraffe). Alongside these narratives, I pour my creativity into handcrafted goods, tangible expressions of comfort and connection, hoping to offer a touch of beauty and solace in the midst of struggle.

Family is my anchor. I’m married to a wonderful man with his own visual impairment, and together we navigate life with our blended family, including a bright stepdaughter with ADHD and anxiety, and another incredibly resilient and creative stepdaughter managing a connective tissue disease who is deaf in one ear. Their journeys, alongside my own, have underscored the vital importance of empathy, understanding, and finding strength in our shared vulnerabilities. They became a part of my life at the end of 2020. Since then, I have found a way to fall in love with them, being a bonus mom and a wife more and more each day. I am also luck to be a part of a very connected and loving immediate and extended family. It is because of all the support and love from them all that I am able to share my story and hopefully inspire others to notice their strength as well. 

My background as a mental health counselor has also profoundly shaped my approach. I believe in normalizing the challenges, fostering genuine connection, and empowering individuals to not just survive, but to thrive within their unique realities. Jewel and Ash is an extension of this belief – a space to share practical tools, offer heartfelt support, and build a community that sees the whole person, beyond the diagnosis. I started my counseling journey in 2020 when I decided to go back and get my master’s degree. At that time, I told my now husband that I didn’t have time for a boyfriend because I was going to school. Not to spoil the ending, but he didn’t take no for an answer. Fast-forward to July 2024, just one year until I can apply for my license as a counselor, and I am told that I have a chronic health condition that has no cure. Well, I took a page from my husband’s book, and I am not taking no for an answer. 

Ultimately, I hope Jewel and Ash can be a light for others – a reminder that even after the burn, brilliance can emerge. That even with cracks, strength can be found. That through sharing our stories and offering tangible comfort, we can navigate this journey together, one layer at a time.

I am continually evolving Jewel and Ash, and I envision it growing to offer even more support and connection. Like a jewel with many facets, my mind is constantly exploring new possibilities for Jewel and Ash, some that might dull, others that will shine. Check back here for updates on these unfolding layers. If you feel called to support this journey and its impact, you can contribute below. And if you find a gem here that might illuminate someone else’s path, please share it freely.

Thank you for being here. I hope you find something within these pages that brings you comfort, understanding, or a spark of hope.

Jade Aspen