@Lightning87 

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Lightning87

I need some positive thoughts

Since my diagnosis I’ve been really positive, apart from the odd wobble here and there. Over this weekend, having told my friend who I haven’t seen for over a year, and me talking among other friends who have known since my diagnosis, I’ve had the following comments:- “We’ll all chip in for a wheelchair!” - that was a serious comment... “Will your work care for you later down the line?” “I have a tingly hand, I’m worried I have it - maybe I caught it off you?” ...the last part was meant to be in jest... Now I feel my positivity is being battered down. I know some people don’t know the ins and outs of MS and some comments I try to laugh off but had these in such a short space on time, I am needing a positivity boost :( I think my friend’s instant shock when I told her also made me feel a bit pants. I suppose I shrug it off and say it’s no big deal. Maybe I shouldn’t? Maybe I need to realise it is?? Sorry, bit of a crap post. I can’t even put into words what I’m feeling right now. I just want to say to people I’m not a victim and I am okay. Should I have a talking to myself and be more a realist?? This makes no sense, just had to write it down. Xx
@MaraJade

I think it’s always going to be hard for people to understand. Being positive yourself is really what will keep you going. I have adopted the “all I can do is laugh or make others laugh” attitude. This is what I’ve recently said to a friend who constantly asks if I’m better. “ NO. It won't get better like the flu. Multiple sclorosis has been a real bitch this last year...1. Many facets of my brain function have run away (no worries, because I can't remember that most of the time anyway) 2. Partial feeling in my left arm has run away (again, no worries. I eat tacos with my right hand anyway). 3. My toned abs have run away (serious problem. If my abs are spotted, please tell them to knock their shit off and get their asses home right away to help look for the others!) Running away is never the answer” I feel like they see me as less of a victim if we can laugh. It’s not always easy, but it helps

@rea

Hello lightning87, Don’t change your attitude, it will help you keep everything in perspective and get on with your life. When I told my best friend she was devastated & couldn’t believe how calm & positive I was. Eight years later and we are completely on the same page; it’s just something I have and I have to deal with, it’s not who I am. Yes it has changed some things that I do/ don’t do , but we still talk about all the usual stuff- kids/ husbands/ work etc. And of course if the MS is being a bitch she’s there for me. It will take a while for your friends to get their heads around it , but when they realise that you’re the same person with the same interests ( or you might have some new ones) then things will hopefully settle down. You are not a victim, this is not who you are it’s just what you have. xx