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

Although I really can't relate because my family isn't supportive, if I mention my MS they act as if I metioned I just had a bikini wax or something.

My family, God love 'em, are very supportive, but still in the "making excuses for Kris" stage.."Of course you're tired dear, you worked yesterday"..or "Everybody suffers in the heat, don't feel bad 'cause you're having trouble"..Along those lines. They haven't questioned my ability to think & take care of everyone in my immediate family, I think because they're afraid of what that might mean. LOL, I'm trying to imagine what that'll be like, the day they confront reality..Honestly, I'm not even sure what I'll be like the day I confront reality..But so far, it's all good.
Oh, and for common sense, I'm hoping MS might improve on it..Never had enough of that myself.

I have a friend who is blind from glaucoma. She says that some people think that glaucoma also affects her hearing and mental capacity. They either talk REALLY LOUD, or they ask whoever is her companion, "What would your friend like?" Makes her nuts.

My Aunt lost most of her sight. I talked loudly to her, she was old, but she snapped at me "I'm blind, not deaf."

My friends and family are glad I've lost some cognitive ability . . . it has humbled me tremendously. :-P

Cherie

Lady Express...it can be very humbling, especially when they ask you to put a computer back together they took apart. You tell them...not sure I remember how...they think you're joking. lol

I thought this was just a simple question, Patricia and was going to answer..."Nope I never had any"

I love your post and have noticed that a little, but not enough, for it to be a worry....Yet!!!!!

Well, some might would agree that I never did have any...but I won't release names...lol

The things I forget are not important things, its just small things family might ask me to do...like sew a pair of shorts or hem a skirt, etc. I take care of all the financial needs, so I can't be too far gone. lol

Me too. I'm a retired Accountant and still get many questions around Tax Time..LOL.