[Friend2U]

I wish it would just do what ever it's on it's way to doing and get it over with.My body is not doing and going where I want it to. I feel like I'm staggering around and I don't like it one bit.

I don't know if I'm in a relapse or if I'm just getting progressively worse. But it's making me sad.

Sorry, just needed a shoulder to cry on...and I know you are out there friends!

[Kitty]

Friend

It's scary when our bodies seem to have a mind of their own and do the opposite of what we want them to. I know the feeling.

I get this way when the weather changes...or when there's a drop in the barometric pressure. This past week has been a doozy for me. We had really warm weather, storms, then cooler....all in one week. There were several mornings when I could barely walk first thing when I got up. Literally.....I had to hold onto the dresser and then wall-walk into the bathroom. I'm used to having some trouble walking immediately after lying in bed for some time.....but this was totally different. Could the weather changes be causing your problems? Or at least some of it?

I hope you feel better soon.

[Lynn]

You could try stopping the gin on your cornflakes.

Seriously though, that is the flippant excuse I use when I am like that. Temperature increase will do me in everytime - so will fatigue and getting up during the night, oh, and getting out of the car after a longish trip...walking too long or too fast....the list goes on.

Sorry you are feeling so bad. I am just wanting you to know that I get it.

Hugs

Lyn

[NeuroNixed Craig]

Hi Friend2U,

The whole journey when dealing with a chronic or potentially chronic disease is scary to everybody. DO NOT feel like you are alone. You are not, by a long shot. We've all been there or are going through it right now.

It is totally illogical not to have control over that which we have had control all of our lives. Now our body seems to have a mind and life of its own. There is no reason and it is a waste of positive energy and time to even ask, "Why?" The key to survival is to evaluate, adapt, and overcome the challenges as they are presented.

My disease, not MS, has progressed to involve severe involuntary movements of my head, neck, torso, arms and hands. To the point my wife bought me a 1lb. wrist weight to wear so I can better control the computer mouse and eat without throwing food on her or the people around us. Personally, I think the food thing is the real reason.

I never know moment to moment what my body is going to do including simply fall down. Although at restaurants we do charge for a "floor show." OK, just kidding! You got to have a sense of humor and laugh at yourself to relieve your tension and those around you who don't understand.

In our family the motto is, "Just go with the flow." It makes life so much easier. You may try and fight it, but soon you realize that too is a waste of positive energy better spent elsewhere.

Your are in the right place because we know and understand. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Peace be with you,

[Friend2U]

It could be the weather partly. I have not had a problem with the weather affecting me too much in the past. But as I seem to be progressing over this last year, it may be that the weather will start playing a bigger role. I hadn't thought of that.

It is scary, as you all know. I appreciate the words of encouragagment from ALL OF YOU! I knew where to come for a shoulder.

Kitty, I know what you mean about wall walking... I try to go right and take two steps left. I try to step forward and take a step backward.

Lynn, you have my middle name . Thanks for letting me know you get it! But, sorry....you have to get it, too.

Craig, most days I have the most positive outlook in the world. Sometimes, like this time, it gets too me a little. As we all know, everytime something weird starts to happen....we can wonder, is this going to be the time it doesn't go back to 'normal'? Thank you for you prayers...I believe in them 200%.

Love you guys!
Friend

[Dejibo]

I do this at the turn of seasons. esp fall to winter. I get stompy and stumbly with my feet. Its like they just dont want to pick up when I am walking, and I easily drag my toe across door ways and thresholds. As winter settles in, this passes.

I hope you feel better.

[Snoopy]

Friend2U,

Would it help to know staggering, walking like you are drunk, having poor balance, is normal with MS and does not necessarily mean you are getting worse.

My neuro told me years ago those with MS walk with a wider stance as a way to compensate for balance -- one day I realized I was walking with a wider stance.

When I was a child I was unable to walk straight, I was constantly walking into family and friends -- everyone kept telling me to walk straight. This has never changed. Yes, I have had MS symptoms since I was a child.

My daughter who is almost 19 told me not too long ago she had numerous friends ask her if I was drunk or why was I was I coming to school functions drunk. She only explained my staggering/drunk walk to those she was close to otherwise she gave them a dirty look and moved on (that's my daughter ).

Friend2U, I don't walk right and it doesn't look pretty but I AM still walking. I have started using trekking poles many times when I am out doing things. The trekking poles have been great for my balance problems as well as helping with endurance.

You could always try PT for your balance, some have found it to be quite helpful.

[SallyC]

Originally Posted by Friend2U

Sorry, just needed a shoulder to cry on...and I know you are out there friends!

You bet we are and with you every stumbly step of the way..

[Lady]

F2U,
Make sure you are not getting sick. I have the flu and a UTI. I am tripping, falling over, and wish I was drunk so I would not feel so crappy. But then I guess a hangover would follow.

Vent away, we all do when we feel we need it, and it helps. Do you use a cane? The weather has been very drastic lately. That never helps us.

We all understand. I hope it passes for you or get a check up. Feel better.

[missj]

On days like that I wear my t-shirt that says
"I do the MS Walk everyday"