Don't hurry for anything or anyone. It'll keep.

pills
 

Have a supply of extra medicine in your purse/car so if you are away from home, and get spastic, you can fix it. If you are delayed in getting home, you dont have to worry.

Record Keeping
 

For the newly diagnosed, keep a separate day planner for your MS; use it to record any changes or symptoms. You neuro will appreciate it when you can say what happened, when, and how long it lasted.

Learn to shift gears . . .
 

Just like driving a car and listening to the engine, learn how to shift gears with your body by listening to it. Full throttle at 100 mph over X amount of time doesn't really work well when you have MS.

I take a wardrobe to work with me because chances are I'll end up too hot, cold or uncomfortable for whatever reason. I also keep different shoes that I can change into, and a heavier/lighter coat depending on the season. I also carry a pharmacy in my purse and keep it zipped in the break room. :rolleyes: :D

Make a list of all your meds & Supplements, Doctor's phone numbers, etc.
 

For your Doctor's:This can be invaluable to print out and give to all your different doctors.
For yourself: A file with each doctor's address and Suite #'s, phone numbers, fax numbers, doctor's nurse's phone number extensions, pharmacy's phone numbers ( local and mail order) and fax numbers.

Become well informed
 

Read all the information you can find regarding MS. Suggestions: From your doctors, the National MS Society, books, internet, participate in telephone/on-line information sessions. Ask questions! The more you know, the more confident you will feel.

Support
 

You're not alone! Investigate the many multiple sclerosis support forums on-line. Check out support groups in your town. Nothing like hearing from those who have been there and done that.

Build your support system -- family, friends, clergy, etc.

Be Adaptable
 

Learning to be adaptable is important. Things change from day to day, hour to hour, minute to minute, etc. Being able to adapt to these changes will help you in the long run. Also being able to look at a situation/task, such as climbing stairs, and figuring out how you can accomplish the task at hand. It will not only help with maintaining your independence but also your self confidence - that you can do this and can figure out a way to get things done. Adapt, adapt, adapt.

Explaining to others
 

Never waste your valuable time, energy or emotional peace trying to explain your MS to others. A common frustration is, "He/she just doesn't get it."

Like pregnancy, blindness, or amputation, one has to personally experience the condition to appreciate its very broad and ever-changing spectrum of impact on daily life.

Try to teach others that you do not expect them to understand your circumstances but that you do expect them to simply accept your needs and choices as they present themselves.

Teach acceptance, do not demand understanding.