
So now that I started my MS fight I had to open one door at a time and see where that led. First up was going across the road to a neighbor’s home for I knew the couple there both had MS. I had never really spoke to them much only a greeting or so at our mail boxes. I didn’t know what to expect but had to start somewhere.
Nothing like going to someone’s home and saying "Hi! I have MS and would like to talk to you about it", but that is exactly what I did. They were very nice and we talked for some time. Upon leaving the husband’s only advice to me 'be kind to yourself...you will know what I mean after a while." As time went on I did indeed figure out what he meant.
Shortly thereafter I had another MS appointment and I asked my intimating doctor if there was more information somewhere about living with MS. He then wrote down the phone number of the MS Society and said give them a call. When I got home I did and they were so nice and said they would send a big packet of information to me and to I would be added to their mailing list. A few days later the packet arrived and I must admit I was upset seeing my name with it and tears spilled down my cheeks. I really didn’t expect much help, however I was wrong.
There were all kinds of things inside geared to help me with this journey. It took me a few days to absorb it all and then I called them again with questions. I said I wanted to try the nearest MS support group and asked how I could join it. At that time the nearest group was in another town, but they arranged for a couple to pick me up and take me to the next meeting.
The next month arrived and the couple came for me and off we went. I learned the wife had MS so the husband would take her and then leave. We talked a bit then we arrived at this school for special children. This MS group had 300 members so they needed a big meeting place. We walked in and they showed me around and said OK we will see you later, just go around and mingle with others. I was left standing there thinking, here I am the shyest person on earth and I am to mingle?? They must be kidding!
So I just meandered around and saw everything MS can do to someone and I was quite shaken. Then the leader of group came over to welcome me and saw my distress. He said "Look around and you will see that most people are walking. I want to introduce you to those who cannot so you can learn something." I certainly did.
What I learned was that no matter what disability someone had they were a person first with feelings, emotions, and personalities and they were there to help others and themselves. I quickly saw a lot of abilities each person had and the absolute grit so many showed. They came from all walks of life. I was not alone with this anymore and my shyness dissipated. I was now learning good things that one can use anywhere in one’s life.
Next Blog: The Meeting and how it opened more doors to good things I had never imagined.
-Holly