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Dear Annie:
As a person living with MS, I'm amazed how many friends no longer stay in
touch because they don't understand the disease. I hope you will print this
essay so people will realize how we feel.
Don't Assume:
Don't assume that because I look well that I feel well. Looks can be very
deceiving. Many days I look great but feel terrible.
Don't say, "I know how you feel." No one knows how anyone else feels.
Don't tell me, "It could be worse." I don't need to be reminded.
Don't decide what I am capable of doing. Allow me to make those decisions.
There may be times I'm wrong, but I'll know soon enough.
Don't be upset that you cannot ease my problems. It won't do any good for
both of us to be miserable.
Don't ask me how I feel unless you really want to know. You may hear a lot
more than you are prepared to listen to.
Don't assume because I did a certain activity yesterday that I can do it
today.
Do:
Do realize I am angry and frustrated with the disease, not with you.
Do let me know when you are available to help me when I ask.
Do understand why I cancel plans at the last minute.
Do continue to invite me to activities. Just because I am not able to bike
ride along with the gang does not mean I can't meet you for the picnic at
the end of the trail. Please let me decide. Thanks.
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