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03/07/2016 11:00 PMTaking on a new job is always a challenge, but for Amanda Bernier, a former North Madison firefighter who is now confined to bed in her battle with ALS, it’s not only a challenge she’s ready for, but one she wants.
Bernier has documented her battle with ALS since she was diagnosed in May 2014, just two weeks after she and her husband Chris learned she was pregnant with their first child. Despite the odds, Bernier was able to carry the baby and gave birth to a healthy daughter, Arabella, in 2015.
There is no known cure for ALS, which is a progressive disease that causes the deterioration of motor neurons. Bernier was diagnosed with the most aggressive form of the disease, but despite the physical toll, still continues to be active in the community.
Bernier, who is now only able to move her eyes to communicate via a computer, recently became a consultant for the nail wrap company Jamberry, which sells nail wraps, an alternative to manicures. Bernier said becoming a consultant was a no-brainer.
“I have always worked two jobs plus the Fire Department, so I am not one to just sit around as ALS has forced me to do,” she said. “One day it dawned on me that I should be a Jamberry consultant. I love their products and I could do work in between my care.”
Bernier said she was first introduced to the Jamberry product when she saw one of her friends wearing the nail wraps.
“I immediately noticed her Jamberry manicure as I had never seen her with even nail polish on after all those years of knowing her,” she said. “So I knew Jamberry wraps had to be good. I went online to look and I immediately fell in love. I have been wearing the nail wraps ever since then.”
The online nature of the work is ideal for Bernier.
“I love that I can do the work when it’s convenient for me,” she said. “My care takes a while throughout the day. Or if I have a busy day with visitors and care services, I can work while Arabella is napping. I also appreciate that home parties are not required. I can do online parties through Facebook, which is perfect for me.”
The online job has also offered Bernier the opportunity to contribute financially to her growing medical bills, she said.
“It breaks my heart knowing that I will be leaving behind so much debt for Chris,” she said. “He has done so much for me that he deserves to be happy and not have to stress over having to pay the bills or work multiple jobs and Arabella deserves to spend time with her dad.”
Bernier said her business venture is already a big success.
“I have been blessed with my friends and strangers supporting me and purchasing products,” she said. “Not only are they supporting me, but they are also getting to enjoy the awesomeness of Jamberry. I am thankful to have been able to do something that ALS has not taken from me.”
For more information, visit https://amandabernier.jamberry.com or visit Amanda Bernier’s Facebook .