While MS has altered some of the things I’m able to do, and my relationships with others, I am lucky to have a strong, meaningful relationship with my family. But I have learned that there is the potential for MS to have a negative influence on family relationships. While my family has been supportive, I have learned from others that if family members aren’t willing to learn about MS and how it affects the person, or to listen to and respect each other, this can be a great source of tension.
MS is unpredictable. Individuals with MS and their family members may have difficulty anticipating what the next day or week will bring, let alone the distant future. Planning becomes difficult, creating an ongoing need for everyone to stay flexible. For example, instead of making plans to go to the movies, maybe have the family over and rent one.
My family lives in Wisconsin while I live in California. I have lived on the West coast for 15 years so we have gotten used to seeing each other only a few times a year. Since I was diagnosed, those visits have fallen dramatically. MS has disrupted my family's rhythm. I am not comfortable flying since I no longer walk and airports, let alone airplanes, don’t really cater to the disabled. Unfortunately, that means family has to come to me, which they do. We have adapted and still have fun and good laughs. But adaptation is key. MS changes things for everyone.
Sometimes it has to be all about me. I may not feel up to certain things. Truly, it’s not you, it’s me. If you ask how I’m doing and I say ‘fine’ or ‘okay’ think about this. My MS means I’m experiencing life with difficulty. A difficulty most can’t understand. I hope everyone gets the respect and care from family that I do. If not, know that strong connections with others are an important ingredient in a fulfilling life.
MS is unpredictable. Individuals with MS and their family members may have difficulty anticipating what the next day or week will bring, let alone the distant future. Planning becomes difficult, creating an ongoing need for everyone to stay flexible. For example, instead of making plans to go to the movies, maybe have the family over and rent one.
My family lives in Wisconsin while I live in California. I have lived on the West coast for 15 years so we have gotten used to seeing each other only a few times a year. Since I was diagnosed, those visits have fallen dramatically. MS has disrupted my family's rhythm. I am not comfortable flying since I no longer walk and airports, let alone airplanes, don’t really cater to the disabled. Unfortunately, that means family has to come to me, which they do. We have adapted and still have fun and good laughs. But adaptation is key. MS changes things for everyone.
Sometimes it has to be all about me. I may not feel up to certain things. Truly, it’s not you, it’s me. If you ask how I’m doing and I say ‘fine’ or ‘okay’ think about this. My MS means I’m experiencing life with difficulty. A difficulty most can’t understand. I hope everyone gets the respect and care from family that I do. If not, know that strong connections with others are an important ingredient in a fulfilling life.
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