A Few Simple Rules
A diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis is devastating, but it is a beginning not an end. Your life is not over. Being a woman with MS, you know that there are issues that are not always covered in general MS discussions. As a parent with MS, you worry about how to continue to provide the best for yourself and your family. As a mother of a child with MS, you find yourself trying desperately to "make it all go away." Fears, anger, and sadness threaten to overwhelm you
Consider this your life raft. If you climb on, you will not drown. As you slip over the edge of the boat, you will notice that it is much larger than it appears. This boat reaches all over the world. Rows upon rows of people sit in this boat with you. Each of them knows MS intimately. Whether it be through a family member with MS, or through having MS themselves, they have found themselves drowning under the diagnosis, until they find their way to this life raft.
1. Learn all that you can about Multiple Sclerosis. You can not fight a battle if you do not know your adversary. MS does not have you. YOU have MS.
2. Get support. You are not the only one in this boat and you do not have to face this challenge without help. There are many organizations that can put you in contact with people like you. You will find support groups for your family members as well.
3. You are your own advocate. No one else is going to make sure you get the best health care, best information, and best support. If you find that your doctor or counselor does not have all the answers, search them out yourself. You do not have to remain in the dark.
4. Listen to your body. Ignoring your aches , pains, and fatigue to push yourself that extra mile will only cause you to fall faster and harder. If you're tired, rest. If you hurt, stop what you're doing and try to ease it. If you're sad, do what you need to let it out. Call a friend or cry. It's okay to need help.
5. It's okay to need help. Sometimes you need to swallow your pride and reach out. You were able to get on the boat, but that is only the beginning. If you feel that you can't do something, ask for help. Don't push yourself. People who have MS need to listen to this rule. You are a super person, not a SUPERHERO. You can not take on the whole world if you have not taken on yourself first.
6. Go ahead and feel. Scream. Cry. Ask why. You have a right to feel what you are feeling. Contrary to what others may tell you, you don't have to "get over it." You will always have MS. You may learn to accept it, but you can never forget it. So, if you find yourself overwhelmed, go ahead and break down. Don't keep it all inside. Sooner or later, the storms will rage.
7. Laugh. Sure, it's not funny. Or is it? The ability to laugh at yourself can do more than you may think. Picture yourself on a roller coaster. MS is that roller coaster. You never know what will happen next. Will it drop or turn? Instead of gripping the seat, closing your eyes, and trying to change the track, throw your arms up and enjoy the wind in your hair.
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Disclaimer:
This site is designed to inform and support those with Multiple
Sclerosis. It is not a comprehensive medical guide to the disease.
This information is taken from many different resources. The
writings on this site are not intended to diagnose nor treat. Our
panel writes from their own personal experience and knowledge,
their ideas are not to be substituted for the medical advice of a
practicing physician.
FDA disclaimer: Alternative treatments or nutritional products mentioned on this site are not intended or claimed to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
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