In the beginning we know something is not quite right though we have no idea what we are going to face. Finally and hopefully down the road and after much testing we get an answer to the problems. We still are the same people we were before we were diagnosed. We still go about our daily lives, we might even take awhile before we tell anyone what the doctors have told us. We still make our own decisions without question or having to consult with anyone accordingly.

Finally, we decide to let in those that are close to us and explain exactly what is going to happen. Well, they nod and agree, a few tears are shed and all the 'We'll be here's are said. At first, there is no change, things go as they always have. Then as if we've grown two heads and two extra legs overnight, things change. We begin to make small mistakes, just as we always have, but then no one paid attention. I guess they are paying attention now, and repeating it to others.

Then you begin to notice that people say things that you find a little odd, that you mildly wonder why this or that statement was said. Your day is busy and you don't have time to worry about it so you continue your day. The day comes that you notice it more and more...almost as if you are being treated like a child or a very elderly person not capable of making decisions. How long will I stand for this you ask yourself, how should I handle this?

I can't answer that for you...I can answer it for me. I had a large family dinner, waited until the kids all ate and were outside playing. The adults were all sitting down and I sat down as if nothing were wrong. I asked a financial question and waited until almost everyone had given me an answer. Then I calmly told them what I did,and how much money I made doing it, and just because I've lost some abilities doesn't mean I've lost my ability to make decisions for myself. If they want to know anything regarding me physically, mentally or otherwise...it would be in their best interest to ask ME...cause nobody else is going to know!

When people start to treat you as if you no longer have the ability to think for yourself, when you do have the ability...tell them that they can pay for the testing if they like. You never see so many people leave a room so fast, like lightning striking a tree! lol Just because our arms, legs, or other parts don't work doesn't mean our brain doesn't. People just never seem to learn, how many times does a rooster have to crow before you know its not a hen!!

Take Care
Love N Hugs
Patricia