Teamwork and Multiple Sclerosis

All to often we find ourselves disappointed and sometimes angry at family members, caregivers and even providers. I always loved working or being on a team. I hold a particular place in my heart for my old high school team mates and sorority members. We could read each other's minds. We always forgave them when they messed up or missed the pass or sign of what was needed.  Nothing stopped us from supporting each other. It's so easy to get angry when someone doesn't meet our expectations or flat out hurts us. But, what we often forget is that we are all on the same team. When someone hurts us,the knee jerk reaction is to hurt back. Just like if they missed the shot in a game, it's tempting not to pass them the ball again...but that only makes things worse.  It's simple really. We can't read each other's minds, and caregivers are only as good as our communication skills.  Family members sometimes get on each other's nerves. Providers sometimes don't listen well. In life and sports, there is plenty of room for errors. Communication is key.  You may not want to pass the ball to someone who misses 80 percent of the shots, but still pass the ball.  Because they just might surprise you, and nail the game winning buzzer-beater. We all have needs and all make mistakes. Just remember we are a team. We are all Human.  
 
-Susan RN

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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