I seem to react substantially differently from other people to finding I have MS. Serious, debilitating MS. I told my doctor I had it, but she did not think so. After much testing, the results said I had it, which we read together. She was nearly crying because she would have to tell her first patient he had MS; I was pumping my fist and saying, "Yes! I told you so!" I kinda like being right.
Well, I was in nursing school. Knew I could not make my living with my back all my life, and nursing paid well. It would finance learning about astronomy. When MS hit, it knocked me out of nursing, but oddly, also gave me the opportunity to learn astronomy. Now I have been bedridden for almost two years, but in that time have also written 700 astronomy articles.
Do I wish I could still walk? Sure. But I spend most of my time doing what I really wanted to do before I got MS.
Oh David, I do enjoy your comments. Many of us kinda like being right.
If I may borrow Lisa's phrase from her comment above, your path seems to be an aggressive, particularly cruel version of MS, but your shining light is your astronomy. How exciting - 700+ articles. I knew there was an interesting story in there.
Another lesson from your story of course is the doctor. I know they must tire of patients who think they are able to self-diagnose because of all the information provided on the Internet, but you had more intimate experience of MS with your mother. There should be a course in medical school about when it might be a good idea to pay attention to the patient's instincts. Her tearful response to her diagnosis, though, reminds us how human doctors can be. Maybe she just did not want to believe it could be MS.
Sorry. I tend to go on a bit sometimes. Please visit again.
Well...what to say?
I always learn something new from your posts...I hadn't realized about the different sized pupils. I saw this in myself from a photo...I didn't realize this was connected to MS. that is something.
I like how you point out the realities but also give ways to cope and...I love all the resources you provide to other folk in the MS community.
I am looking forward to reading your next posts...keep 'em coming!
Featuring Content From:
By using this service, you accept our Terms of Use. Please read them. The consumer health information on is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions. You should promptly seek professional medical care if you have any concern about your health, and you should always consult your physician before starting a fitness regimen. Copyright © 2013 Remedy Health Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Test Your MS Knowledge 
10 Symptoms That Could Be MS 
10 Foods That Fight Inflammation 
Unusual Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms 
Our beings are so much more than our physical, mental, and emotional bodies. The story in The Diving Bell and the Butterfly shows us how much power there is in a mind and an eye. Amazing.
I like the use of my legs, but "I" am more than my legs. The ability to adapt to a changing landscape is powerful. As abilities change, tools and therapies become more important. Thank you for shining a light on the path, making it less dark and scary.
Hi, Lisa,
The Diving Bell and the Butterfly actually gave me hope, because when MS becomes too much of a prison for my body, I will still have my butterflies. We have always known it, but the movie articulates it for us.
As science and technology develop more assistive devices, our minds develop assistive devices on a personal level, contributing to a continued positive quality of life for those of us with little physical movement. I like your "shining a light on the path."
Thanks for visiting, Lisa.