It's interesting how everyone is able to list what they've lost but also what they've learned and gained. It's amazing you can lose something so important such as physical abilities yet gain something intangible.

I've lost the ability to work and play outdoors when it's warm. We planted grass over my 12x30 foot veggie garden several years ago. I could get it planted in the springtime but as soon as it got warm it would get overgrown with weeds since I couldn't go outside to maintain it. Now I doubt I could even get it planted!

I've lost the ability to multi-task, and even the ability to do any task at all if I'm in veg mode!

My high energy is a thing of the past as well. Being a type A+ personality living in the body of a 90yo woman is frustrating.

It's all I can do to make it into the office four days a week; that's hard for a workaholic! I've lost my patience for chronic whiners. (Especially if it's coming straight at me and I can't get out of the way!)

I think about the possibility of SSDI and it makes me sad. I haven't been in the workforce for that many years. I was hoping to work into my 80's like my Dad did.

I went through a period of feeling very vulnerable and helpless for a few years, but I gained something new and unfamiliar to me: a backbone!! I learned to stand up for myself and for issues I consider unfair. That can be painful at times but it always seems to net good results so I'm assuming I only use it at appropriate times. That has improved my marriage a lot, to name just one benefit.

I have an even greater appreciation for my family and friends. Living with this, and losing several of my loved ones over the years, I try to not sweat the small stuff anymore and focus on the important things.

I realize that I'm imperfect and that's ok, I don't need to be the best at everything. My personal best is ok by me.

Hey Cheryl, my hortoculturist(sp) buddy. This year, I really really hate that I can't get out and play in the dirt. I guess it's because of the great spring weather we're having.

So, I guess, I am missing my ability to get up and down and walk and just do it....Frustrating....Bah!!!! I wish it would snow..

I can't wait untill you get better and can get out there and do what ya can, soon, dammit, and show me pictures..

EDIT: Well, Wiz, dang it, you and I must have been posting at the same time. I could have just dittoed your fine post..

You know, Wiz, that's one of the things I gained soon after my DH died. I had to - or risk being chewed up and spit out by those who counted on me being spineless and timid.

Once I was given my dx of MS I seemed to regrow a little of that backbone I had acquired a few years before.

Being on my own and having to make decisions about my health and my financial security all by myself was an eye opening experience - but I'm a better person (and smarter, I hope) because of it.

I have gained a wealth of knowledge, patience and compassion in the last few years. Not sure I would have had it not been for the dx.

So....I'm not sure that MS has taken away anything from me that I have not replaced with something better. At least that's how I'm going to look at it.

whuh?

Whuhz whut, AMN?

whuh? !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I guess I meaned I aren't as good at things as I use to be. Don't make me think AMN, it's late and it's Friday, my poor little pea brain is resisting!

Wiz said 'pea'!

Peaple keep saying the "p" word and I'm not going to need any meds, I'll just be collecting wine! Suits me just fine!!!