Families First

Our families are often the first tier of support we have when we learn about our diagnosis. As a parent with a spouse whose mental health was fragile I felt my obligation to ‘protect’ those I loved was more important than my own need for support. Years later when my disability could not be denied and I had to confess, I realized how much it had cost me to be silent. I wonder now if my own vanity about being strong in the face of danger, the male testosterone thing, was not the real reason behind my decision.

3 Comments

1. the “I’m really fine, really” syndrome is not just attributed to males, but seems to be displayed by the male population-in my opinion, it delays dealing with the disorder, no matter what- i’m sure your confession will hit home with many, not just the male pop. thanks for being so frank-

   Comment by gloria schimmel - April 5, 2008 @ 3:06 pm

2. My initial fear upon finding out I had MS was how my daughter would react. She was a teenager at the time. Surprise, surprise, she’s been one of my best supporters.

   Comment by Christine - April 9, 2008 @ 5:37 pm

3. Family understanding has been a real struggle for me, most especially with my daughter unlike one of the other MSrs. Our relationship was already shaky since I also suffered the even scarier word depression. None of my 3 children, even my husband, understood that disease. I felt alone and misunderstood for quite some time. I think the understanding was “weakness”. Then when diagnosed with M.S. at first it generated genuine concern. But when I didn’t end up in a wheelchair and many symptoms were not especially visible, especially fatigue and cognitive changes; there gradually grew an invisible “oh well! attitude”.I even felt and still do sometimes that the thought of if only she’d try harder etc etc. prevails. My physical health aside from M.S. has caused some concern.I seem to be a bit closer. Hope this continues. Diane

   Comment by Diane - April 13, 2008 @ 1:12 pm

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