Quote:
Originally Posted by kim ames
Please help me/
I have two teenage kids; 18 and 15. They just don't seem to understand about RSD. I have talked with them about this; however, it just doesn't sink in. When I was their age, my grandmother had cancer; so I can understand that they don't grasp it.; However, they continue to be cold and unresponsive to my needs and concerns. How can I possibly convey to them the magnitude of this crippling disease and also relay to them the coping skills they surely need? I have resorted to turning their cell-phones off as a matter of discipline; in which I feel horrible about. They continue to "diss" me even after I have tried to enforce my (not horrible) threats to them. I tend to over-compensate to make up for my shortcomings. In which I feel has led to this situation. I would appreciate any advice and/or lecture on this subject. I am heartbroken over this. So, any advice is more than welcome~ Thanks!  |
Kim....
I so understand how our illness is hard on our kids... My children are currently 13 and 16.. boy and girl.. I was diagnosised 2 + yrs. ago... not a day goes by that I don't feel bad for my kids and my husband in that they have to see and live this horrible disease along with me ...I am very concious of my "gaitly walk" and moods swings and lost disires and need of answers... it is a hard pill to swalllow for them and it was like yesterday I was their age.. I remember what it was like battling the stage they are currently at and that is a bunch already on their plates... I try to be patient, although.. it is not always easy..keep in mind "understanding is accepting" and who wants to accept and see their Mom, loved one going down such a sad road???? I would like you to know that just two nights ago..I had an apt. with my councilor (yes, I gave in and final began to see one due to my RSD).. and my daughter, the 16 yr. old asked to go along.. when we got home she said she really enjoyed going with me and asked if she could attend all of my sessions with me. Have you thought to possibly involve them in that type of setting?? I didn't plan that but it seemed to have a favorable outcome... and it was just very light, giggling conversation.. sometimes hearing facts good and bad from someone else helps..Not for one second would I change places with my family..I rather I be the sick one as it pulls my heart out watching what it does to my family.. esp. kids... please don't punish over this reason or situation... go the other way and pour out the love..you'll get alot more respect and understanding in return...they will connect better and eventually strive to help and please you...
Keep us posted.. and heres to a low pain level day!!!
