When someone asks me, which is rare, I say I have multiple sclerosis. The whole words, not MS.

Karousel, apparently your friend is not shy and might be searching for (another) kindred spirit.

Kitty, sounds like you could use some guidance on cane-walking! Do you see your neurologist soon? You should ask. There are different ways to use a cane; depends on what you're wanting from it.

Well, my balance is so bad that it seems like the cane just makes it worse. Maybe I'm beyond help from a cane? I use a rollator if there is a lot of walking involved.....or a shopping cart. I've practiced using my cane here at home but it just isn't helpful to me. I'll be sure to discuss it with my Neuro next time I go.

my annoyance and my response varies on my mood.

If a child asks it is usually because they are genuinely curious or scared. They just want a simple answer. The parents usually are mortified LOL. I just say I use X to help me walk/get around because my legs don't work right. They often want to know of it hurts - I always say "not really" so they aren't frightened of people that are different. I will relate my sticks or wc to their sister's stroller or the child's glasses.

Adults/strangers asking: depend on how they asked and my mood. If a stranger says "What's wrong with you?" I will give a sharp look and a smartas* answer like "Shark attack". Often I simply reply with a snippy "Why do you need to know?!?" then I move on.

If I know the person and they seem sympathetic and curious I say I can't walk well or have a neuro problem. I rarely reveal my medical details to anyone but very close friends/family. After all, I don't ask about their medical issues unless I genuinely care about the person and want to help.

I probably give some smart remark answer too often but this is personal, ya know? I guess we as a society went from whispered curiosity & looking away to the the bold & uninhibited.

Yepp and I don't mind it.