I have had MS for about 1 year now and it seems like it just keeps getting worse and worse not the ms but the dealing with the MS. I use to think that my life was over when the dr told me, but after about 2 months of nothing but self pitty i started to think that i dont feel any different then i did before. except for a couple of little thing and i'm lucky some people who have ms is in a wheel chair, or cant even get out of there bed. and so far i can walk like normal no trouble getting around just a couple seziures here and there and a little weakness on my left side. but my family still treats me like i shouldnt lift a finger. I know alot of people would love that but i want to do as much as i can while i still can. but with my family it seems impossible. when i am around my family i start feeling self pitty again. Is that normal? Has anyone else felt that way?

Hey hun. It's tough isn't it? I've been officially diagnosed for just over a year myself.

You're absolutely right. Not necessarily the MS, but the dealing part.

We're all unique, so I can only speak for myself. I decided for the most part to ignore the MS. Yup. As much as I can. Which is tough where I have daily pain. But there's certain things I've done differently.

I got rid of most of my MS sites and bookmarks. I come here now, and don't frequent other forums, and I cut back on my time here. I made the tough decision (I don't recommend this, it's just what was right for me) to stop shooting needles into myself everyday. I changed my diet completely, eat low fat, exercise, get good sleep.

Most importantly, I got the diagnosis and was determined to keep going as long as I could, and not let things hold me back. When I returned to work and people asked if I was 'better', I answered, "I'm no worse, only I can name it now and get better medications!". Which is pretty much the case!

Keep positive, have fun with what you have, not with what you don't have, and live life to the fullest every day. Don't dwell on the 'what ifs'. Guess what? That person beside you without MS could be gone tomorrow. What's the use in worrying, you know?

Show the fam you can kick major butt. Maybe they'll never 'get' it, but spend that energy trying to get them to 'get it' elsewhere

hang in there. Its an uphill climb, and sometimes you just have to sit down, and take a ME ME ME break. I have easier periods, and harder periods, but there is rarely a block of time that I have normalcy anymore. hugs for ya

No KY, dealing with the MS monster doesn't get easier, but you learn to manage your time a little better. You learn to save your energy for the important things and you learn to let people help you, when you need it.

Take care of yourself and I wish you a long remission.

you have the right idea. to do as much for yourself as you can.
you might consider getting some basic MS reading material for your family members. call 1-800-FIGHT MS to find your local MS society. and, ask for the newly dx'd packet.

sometimes some simple education can help to allay fears.
and a loving talk about what you want can help too.

It takes time...but one thing you seem to have is the will to live as normal a life as possible...
now you need your family to get on board. You want to live a fulfilled life. Tell them this. They are scared for you, I'm sure, and don't want you to overdo...but as you learn your capabilities and your limitations, you will feel more in control.
We only get this very moment...the past is gone, the future is not here yet. Learn to appreciate the moment...and quietly go and live the life YOU want to live. Good luck!