I think I understand what you mean..I never went thru the denial phase, or anger, or hopelessness, or "poor me"..I'm not sure why, believe it or not I was a little concerned that I didn't have any of those reactions. It was definately a good feeling to start some kind of medication. Whether it worked for me or not, at least I felt as though I was "doing" something..It's a strange thing to try and describe. It was certainly a shock, and definately not something I wanted, but it is what it is..I hope the Copaxone works well for you!

I never went through that period because my symptoms and diagnosis was so sudden for me. But knowing what it is and knowing that you are going to injection yourself is just so empowering!

I think that even those of us who are lucky enough to be doing well come to realize that our life could change at any minute. But really, it's the same for people who aren't in our situation! Wrapping my head around that concept has been very meaningful to me. I'm sure there are other things but that's the first thing that comes to my mind. And I DO find that empowering because it motivates me to take control of the things I CAN control as long as I am able. (Well, on a good day -- I admit that I can still get pretty lazy! )

You know, the Dr. asked me if I thought I would have problems with the injections and I told him that I didn't think so. I am going to start coaching myself into believing that it is not going to be so bad...... I figure the more I tell myself that I believe this, the more likely I will be able to tolerate the injections.

I really like Dr. Parry and it was because of your recommendation that I had the fortune to meet him! I believe in Karma....and therefore believe that good things will come your way for your kindness!

I'm just really glad you like him and that this all worked out for you!
The Copaxone shots aren't bad. I had them for awhile, and while the daily thing could get old at times, the shots themselves weren't particularly painfull..I used the autoject, which made it even easier (I didn't have to watch..LOL)..

sometimes its empowering just to have some answers. To finally stop chasing answers, and to be able to settle into a diagnosis, and roll up your sleeves poking MS in the eye, instead of chasing one medical test after another, and getting told to go home, and call if things get worse. I found just having the answers was enough to motivate me into action.

I started on Beta, and had to switch to Copaxone after Liver issues. Copaxone can have a bit of a bee sting bite to it during the early days, and I want you to know that it get better. MUCH MUCH MUCH better. I have found that after the injection (using injector or manual doesnt matter) take your cotton ball, and PUSH directly into the injected area. DONT RUB! copaxone is a sharp crystal style med, and rubbing will fracture the crystals. Just PUSH hold FIRM pressure for 15 to 30 seconds. This will push the med from the upper layer of fat, into the deeper layers of fat, where its more easily absorbed.

Many folks find that using a claritin or zyrtec product during the first six months, and maybe some benedryl/hydrocort cream will help with that itch that seems to land on it for for the first lil bit. After about six months, its magic time! its like your body just sort of gives up, and realizes that this stuff is here to stay. It also takes between six months, and a year to build up to a therapuedic level. I of course took longer than the rest.

Copaxone has been a decent drug for me. No flu side effects, no depression, no liver side effects. Its a combo of 4 amino acids, and a sugar based mannitol to keep it stable.

Please come back when you start and let us know how you do. Its so empowering to take charge of your health, and get poking! welcome to the copaxone club.