Okay, maybe not first, but it is in my immediate action list of things to do now that I have been diagnosed (Dx'd) with Relapsing-Remitting ms (RRms)
There are a lot of chores that have to be done first and most of them "YOU" can do quickly and at the same time, sort of. Amazon for your protective underwear, sisters "YOU" know from experience this is easy, brothers soil yourself once and "YOU" are looking for Men's flexfit Depends. One Problem solved, "YOU" are on a roll. Well done. I was thinking last night about some guidance as what is going on and what to do next, what to expect. Neurologists (Neuros) are not the most communicative of people I have found. Some are, some are not. Goes with the territory, I guess. Okay, "YOU" need a good book about ms. What it is, it's ups and down,s, of course, its sideways and backwards. msAA and NmsS are good for this, but I feel an ms book written by a Doctor with ms is, good as well. Maybe not better but a little less airy-fairy but overly technical, and it is at least written by a Doctor with ms. The advice has to be relevant.
Nineteen or so years ago I got a book called "Taking Control of ms" by Professor George Jellinek md. A very interesting resource, thank you Copaxone patient assistance. Not to horribly technical, but not written as if I am a fool. Remember I was a Pilot so technical books do not bother me. "YOU" may want something simpler. If "YOU" are lost ask your neuro for book advice. Make him work for the money "YOU" pay him every visit. Giving yourself a good grounding in your illness is important. Knowing that bladder and bowel are affected by ms, makes sense now why I am always saying to wear protective underwear. "YOU" may never need it, but all "YOU" need is once to regret not wearing them.
When "YOU" have learned what "YOU" can about your ms, then "YOU need to start on the hard part. How do I cope with this? Cope with, my friend "YOU" must. For there is no cure and "YOU" are alone to bear this illness. Nobody else, "YOU" and only "YOU" until the day "YOU" die in many many years time. Yes, "YOU" like me are going to live with ms for a very long time, I am sorry if that scares "YOU" but, that is the reality we face. By being a smart and questioning person with ms (PWms) "YOU" can live a very full and rewarding life, with multiple children and a loving spouse. Of course "YOU" can have a dog if one chooses "YOU"
There is so much to learn. Many new health techniques, mental techniques for "YOU". Not everything can be told to "YOU", some of the answers are all yours, but look deeper and "YOU" will find them, they are waiting there for "YOU". There are some things that are unknowable. Why me, is a good one, learn to accept what is and adapt to what is not. A very happy life can be had with ms. I can not stress that enough, just have your eyes open to opportunity.
Royce ( the ms writer)
a very good life can be had with ms, it is your choice how good
