Strategies To Beat The Isolation

Seems like forever since I've had the time to sit down and write a blog.  Now that the holidays are over and the snow has settled in, it reminds me of how MS patients sometimes feel isolated at this time of year.  Whether you are too tired to navigate the snow or like me; just not sure of myself on the ice and snow, there are ways to navigate these things.  With three artificial joints and counting, I know I am very reluctant to venture out.  However, sometimes bread and milk do need to be replaced. 

If friends and family can't help, here are my strategies.  

• Go out when you are most rested. 
• If you nap as some of us do, go out immediately after.  I wait until the sun is out, and temperatures are at there highest. Noon is a great time. There is less ice, and chances of falling hopefully decrease.  
• Use carriages even in parking lots. They are more stable than a single cane. Even if you don't have balance or walking issues, a carriage can lessen fatigue and let's face it, even individuals without MS can slip and fall.  Accidents happen to everyone.  Sometimes just a short trip to the grocery store or mall can brighten your mood and make you feel less isolated. 
• I also invite friends in for coffee or lunch. Yes, sometimes I have them bring lunch.  They feel needed believe it or not, and feel like they have done you a favor.  Most of all you are able to catch up.  We sometimes feel we don't want to be a burden, but sometimes we are helping our friends in the long run.  Friends and family want to help.  They at times don't know how.  By asking for company, or by just saying can you run and get me a loaf of bread, you have solved their dilemma of how they can help.   It's really quite simple.  You have so many resources out there. Each town also has so many resources if you just make an effort to use them.  A simple phone call and reaching out can make all the difference. 

Reach out, don't be alone.  Email me if you just want to chat.  I'm here trying to stay warm and keep enough bread and milk in the house.  Stay cozy and safe.

Susan

A BIT ABOUT SUSAN...Susan is a registered nurse who worked in high risk obstetrics at Brigham and Women's for twenty years. She is also a certified nurse paralegal. She is currently not practicing as she is disabled because of MS.  She was diagnosed 8 years ago with RRMS and has a daughter who also has MS.

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