May 30 is World MS Day. This year, the focus is on increasing awareness of the invisible symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
I could go into some long diatribe on invisible symptoms for chronic illnesses, including MS. Instead, I’m going to do a non-bloggy thing and just share some thoughts and try to dispel some rumors about MS.
1) You are not imagining things.
Chronic illnesses like MS have symptoms that you can’t see. You don’t have to see them to know they exist. If you’re wondering whether that strange thing you’re feeling is because of your illness, the answer is probably yes.
2) You have nothing to prove.
Some people will discount your symptoms because they can’t see them. Your symptoms are real. Their ignorance does not diminish what you are experiencing.
3) YOU ARE NOT ALONE.
Invisible symptoms contribute to isolation. You might feel like there’s no one in your life who understands what you feel. You might be dealing with a boatload of doubts, fears, concerns about letting people down, etc.
It’s not just you. Maybe you can find a support group in your area where you can meet face-to-face with other people who get it. Check in with organizations like the National MS Society to find out when and where.
Or head online. You can start with #chronicillness and search for hashtags related to your condition. If you’re on Facebook, look for online groups. I’m currently in 3 MS Facebook groups – one for women with MS, one for people taking the medicine I take, and one focused on movement and mindset.
And to quote Frankie Goes To Hollywood – Don’t you forget about me. I’m here.
As promised, here are some myths about Multiple Sclerosis…and the truth.
