Cycleops,
I think many of us survive because we still maintain a sense of humor.
If not, the alternatives are unthinkable.
It is rare though, to be able to set that humor down in writing.
You've accomplished this, and many other things...that are necessary
to live with this insidious disease.
I truly wish I had that talent.
Mine seems to have been to 'show off' and be a performer,
but my PN has squelched even that desire, any longer.
My PN and CTS have forced me to shelve my guitars due to
inability to use my hands properly.
I am (or was) a flamboyant, outgoing personality, with
a loud projecting voice & a desire to perform... in many different ways.
My degree is in Broadcasting, and my minor was Performing Arts.
I've done many different things in my 63 years on this earth.
I'm an old 'Folkie' from the '60's & I've been determined
to continue my music, by taking up an instrument more easily worked with - that doesn't require the same amount of hand strength .. the 5 string banjo, but Old Time Music style, not 'bluegrass'.
It keeps me from getting depressed about my inability to make music
as I once did (for over 45 yrs- since a teenager).
I've become more introspective & sit alone to practice and play,
not having any desire to perform in front of an audience any longer.
My inability to think clearly enough to memorize properly
(lotsa 'brain fog' meds) has put a hiatus to my community theatre,
theatrical performing as well. But I still stay on the board of a play festival & sometimes am asked to direct a show, but I haven't done that in over 2 yrs.
I can't seem to be able to commit to a 5-6 nites per week rehearsal schedule then a 4-5 weekend performing schedule. I don't know if I'll feel well enough.... consistently, for 10-12 weeks to be able to do it.
So I sit and play my banjo and am sort of......content.