Sheena.

There is no way to know if this is just a lot of initial activity, i.e. if these are exacerbation(s), which is common in the first few years, or if you are SPMS, until you can be assessed over time.

I struggled a lot the first two years (1991 - 1993), then I did really well for the next 12. Then I struggled again (2003 - 2005), and then things started to look like SPMS for me. I was lucky in that I found a drug that works for me, and you may too. Most of our meds take time to work, so don't get too discouraged yet.

As far as your vacation with your daughter, I understand your apprehension. I have only had one vacation with my kids since 2003, and I did all right because I stayed put once I got somewhere. My daughters have traveled a fair bit . . . but always with friends and family.

She is young enough that hopefully she will be happy just hanging with mom. Alternatively, could you get her into a summer camp or something, where you don't have to go, but she still gets the same exposure to beaches, etc. that she is looking for?

Cherie