The progression of my disability due to Multiple Sclerosis has been difficult. Yet over time I have learned to cope and live well in spite of it.
Each loss of functionality I experienced reminded me of a loss I had once helped a patient deal with. My years as a physical therapist helping patients came back to help me. I now understand far better the importance of living well with a disability, both emotionally and functionally. Life should go on, the needs are the same. Having friends, being involved, doing the things you care about.
This blog is my attempt to share my knowledge and experience as a physical therapist, my memories of my former patients and my own successes at living well with the disability from MS.
Cures?.. Total relief from MS Symptoms?.. Progression prevention? The answer is no to all of these. We with MS do get a shorter duration and decrease frequency of a relapse which is helpful. And there does appear to be a… more »
It's hard to stay up when MS is pulling you down. Whether it's pulling you down due to lack of energy including that terrible MS fatigue or because you haven't come out of an exacerbation speedily yet. Lets be honest you can be upbeat and positive… more »
RELUCTANCE To go with the drift of things. To yield with a grace to reason. And bow and accept the end. Of a love or of a season. Robert frost This is one of my favorite poems and many times I refer to it. I remember all… more »
I was taking my afternoon nap in the MRI machine the other day. With all the banging , bells and whistles that you endure from that machine scanning your brain and cervical spine it can be nerve wracking. But I had the technicians turn on ni… more »
When someone asks me "how are you?" I always say" I'm fine" even if I feel like an October wilted vine. Then if someone suggests that I'm looking tired I usually say "I'M FINE" even if I feel like a November cru… more »
Ellie’s Rules for Coping Well with MS and Disability
Get Knowledge
Admit What's Happening
Set a Functional Goal
Adapt Lifestyle
Attitude is Everything
Be an Advocate
Live Life to the Fullest
Laugh Often
Then All You Need is Love