Living Safely in a Toxic World: My Journey with Severe MCS

Creating a Safe Haven at Home and on the Road

How we turned our RV into a mobile sanctuary from chemical exposures

Over the years, I've learned what triggers my symptoms and created a safe home environment. My husband and I travel in our RV, allowing me to avoid exposure to fragrances, food chemicals, latex, silicone, and other toxic substances. At home or in our RV, we keep our windows closed and run air purifiers to protect me from smoke, pollution, and our neighbors' activities, such as BBQing. In our RV, we even bring a backup air purifier, a portable washing machine, and a drying rack to ensure my safety.

Invisible Dangers Are Everywhere

What it's like navigating public spaces with extreme chemical sensitivity

I wear a respirator mask everywhere—scented products are common, even on remote trails or in ghost towns. I get sick from these products even outside, with severe asthma, sinus, and ear congestion, as well as other severe symptoms.

A Severe Reaction in Death Valley

How I can get very ill from one exposure despite all precautions

Despite all my precautions, I'm still vulnerable to things I can't control. While visiting Death Valley, I entered Badwater Basin's restroom and immediately began coughing and wheezing. By the time I walked out, my chest hurt so badly that I thought I might be having a heart attack. Slowly, I realized it was a severe asthma attack—one of the worst I've experienced.

My respirator mask, which protects me from smoke, pollution, Tide laundry soap, and so much else, couldn't block whatever was in that bathroom. Later, my husband discovered the source: a single Little Trees air freshener. It had completely overwhelmed my system.

On the drive back to our RV in Beatty, Nevada, I experienced intense ear pain from the altitude—something I haven't dealt with in over 20 years. My body was so inflamed and congested that it took 24 hours to recover. Usually, my symptoms clear within minutes, or at most, an hour or two. This time, the reaction was prolonged and frightening.

That tiny air freshener—a product most people don't think twice about—was a stark reminder of how toxic our environment can be. For me and many others with MCS, these everyday chemicals can be truly dangerous.

Searching for Answers, Finding Healing

How decades of trial and error are finally paying off

I have endlessly searched for answers, and my health is improving. For the first time in 49 years, since I was 22, I feel well as long as I am not exposed to toxins. I've learned how toxic our world is, and I have learned this has contributed to our rise in chronic illness and cancer, even in children.

Grief, Isolation, and the Gift of Support

The emotional toll of MCS and the power of one person's kindness

The hardest part of MCS is the lack of understanding and support. Many people end up living in their cars rather than being exposed to the mold, cigarette smoke, fragrances, and other toxins of their apartments or homes. They cannot find a safe place. Others face cruelty or isolation from coworkers, friends, or even family. My own parents wouldn't use safe products, which made me ill and left deep grief.

I'm fortunate to have a loving, supportive husband. Without him, I might be in the same desperate situation as many others. Friendships are hard to maintain when simply being around others can make you sick.

The Hidden Cost of a Toxic World

Why MCS is more common than we think—and what that means for everyone

I'm learning what makes me ill, and as I do, my health continues to improve every day. Through research, I've discovered that the toxins affecting me are not just personal threats—they're harmful to everyone and our planet.

Choosing Hope Over Hardship

What I focus on to keep going—and keep getting better

This realization has been both eye-opening and empowering. Rather than focusing on what causes me grief, I choose to pay attention to what brings healing and hope.

When something saddens me, I begin my day, go about my usual routine, and before long, my spirit lifts again.

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