The old adage “If life gives you lemons, make lemonade” could well be Dennis Caples’ motto.

Caples was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1985 after years of relapsing, remitting symptoms of the chronic, often disabling disease that attacks the central nervous system. His progressive symptoms caused him to retire at age 45.

“I went from never being home to being home 24/7,” Dennis says, from his home in Independence.

But MS hasn’t stopped him from fully living his life.

He now uses a wheelchair to get around and a specialized van to drive.

And it also hasn’t stopped him from using his skills to help others with MS. He refurbishes computers from his home office for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Mid America Chapter.

“Dennis is very active with our chapter, specifically our Technology Connector program,” says Nicole Long, spokesperson with the NMSSKC. “He donates his time, energy and expertise to rebuild computers so we can donate them to people with MS.”

His wife, Marilyn Caples, whom he has fondly nicknamed, “Nurse Marilyn,” also shares his positive attitude. They serve as voluntary board members of the Citizens With Disabilities Advisory Board in Independence.

The council seeks to prevent or eliminate discrimination against persons with disabilities in a variety of ways, including helping to make the community more accessible to persons with disabilities, investigating complaints and recommending legislation.

“Independence is really good,” Dennis says. “All you have to do is mention a problem or issue, and it’s done.”

The couple say they also rely upon their sense of humor to sustain them, especially when faced with the unpredictable symptoms of MS.

One annoying symptom he experiences is his foot may suddenly kick, and at the most inopportune time.

“Especially while working on a computer and I kick the bottom of my desk,” he says.

And then there’s the story about their dog.

“Poor little dog,” Marilyn says. “He kicked him right out of the bed.”

The couple laugh. They laugh a lot.

Dennis and Marilyn say they will not give into MS.

“It’s there and there’s nothing you can do about it,” Marilyn says. “You don’t give into it.”

Dennis agrees.

“You adjust to it.”

Or, in other words, you make lemonade.

The Examiner