My Weird and Downright Bizarre Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis

I begin to realize that my behavior is a bit strange but I can't seem to stop the urge to repeat numbers during these "spells".  At these times I have great empathy for my son who has autism.  Early on, before he could even speak words, he recited numbers.  This fascination has not died over the years and now he connects numbers with certain things.  "Fives" remind him of churches. And the numbers, seven and nine are reserved for trains.  I sometimes wonder if God has given me Multiple Sclerosis so that I have more understanding for my son's way of thinking. 

Along with the numbers game, I also have had episodes of echolalia.  Echolalia is a term used primarily to describe how some people with autism will repeat words and phrases said to them in order to process language. 

There are times when I can make no sense of conversations or things said to me.  During these times I will hyperfocus on certain words or phrases.  For example, if someone were to say to me, "I am so sorry you are having these MS symptoms" I may focus on the word, "sorry" All of a sudden I cannot put the words of the sentence together to mean anything at all so like grasping for the proverbial needle in a haystack, I search for meaning with one word. 

I will then repeat the word, "SORRY."

But then the real fun begins as my brain attempts to shuffle through my internal card catalog looking for all references to the word "sorry."

"SORRY is a game I played as a child!" I might shout out.

"Sorry seems to be the hardest word...an Elton John lyric."

And then I might also pick out words which sound alike.

"A sari is a type of Indian dress."

As you can imagine, this all leads me to no more comprehension of what was said than putting the words through a meat grinder.  This symptom seems to me, a way for my brain to make a feeble attempt at processing language in the midst of mental chaos.  Or it can be made into a fun drinking game.

One thing I can honestly say about having MS, it is never boring.  Everyday leads me on a unique trip along my special neurological highway.  As Betty Davis once warned, "Buckle your seat belt, it is going to be a very bumpy ride." 

Tag!  Now you're it!  Please do tell us about your odd and bizarre MS symptoms.  Nothing is too out of this world.  Do tell all.  Inquiring minds want to know!