Newly diagnosed
Hello all,
I was diagnosed a week ago after just 4 months of symptoms. I have no idea what type I have im hoping I'll get an appointment with the ms nurse through soon and start treatment.
Everyone keeps saying to me this doesn't stop you doing what you do but I feel after trying so hard for my little boy and my career just 4 months ago I was able to finally start enjoying that and then a relapse happened and then diagnosis. How the hell do people cope?
@Ridge you're at that overwhelmingly scary stage right now, newly diagnosed and the 'what now?' question foremost in your thoughts. It's a lot to unpack and process it really is. Having an appointment will help, as you can then discuss potential treatment options and be moving forward. As to your question, I guess different people cope in different ways. The big thing is to accept that yes, your life has taken an unexpected and unwelcome twist but you need to focus on the positives. Perhaps your career will need to be adjusted, less hours or change of role if possible and if required. It's trying to adjust to your new reality and although nobody said that would be easy, it can be achieved xx
We can totally relate to your feelings. It was very abrupt for me as well. Woke up one day with fingertips that felt like frostbite and was diagnosed several weeks later. I remember getting the call at work and they told me over the phone. Looking back, I’m surprised I didn’t have a meltdown. By that time, I think I already knew that something was wrong, and thought maybe it didn’t matter what it was called. I was just glad they were able to ID it. To boost your thoughts, let me share that my diagnosis was in 2006 and it wasn’t until 14 years later that I needed to modify my full time work schedule. Looking back on my career, I can now say that a total of 20 years full time work was fulfilling. And now I am able to work a few hours from home each day. Be proud of what you are able to do in whatever time frame fits your body. But first thing, yes, consider what DMT is right for you and be thankful every time you receive it. I often think 100 years ago, there was nothing available to fight this disease. So we are lucky people to have been born during a time when HELP is available and effective. And I firmly believe your little boy will learn lessons through watching how you deal with this…and I bet it will make him have a great deal more empathy for others. Last word, set reasonable limitations on your obligations. Some times I have to say no to activities just because I’m trying to reserve my energy for special days or events. You can do this!