Sherry O

Health Interests

Cognitive issues with Multiple Sclerosis,  keeping physically healthy,  MS & depression

Drugs I am Taking

betaseron,  gabapenton,  lyrica,  Effexor,  Concerta,  Clonazapam

About Me

I am an Animal Health Tech. and a Social Service worker. I was a Case Mgr. working with the elderly and disabled persons. I often combined my animal health background and social service work because animals seem to work well for most persons. I can no longer work due to the Cognitive issues of MS. These are the most frustrating issues of the disease for me. My short-term memory is terrible, I find it very difficult to stay focused on a task and I can no longer read books because I either forget plot lines or cannot remember characters. My memory was one of my greatests gifts, reading books was a favourite past time and being task oriented is gone due to my inability to stay focused. Depression is a genetic issue but, the lesions on my brain have made it more of a challenge to manage. I do have some mobility problems but, walking aids and a scooter help with those. The fatigue is also difficult to get used to because I am the person that people came to in order to get things done. Of course, not being able to work also creates issues around self worth, changes in financial status and the companionship of those you worked with, for and any volunteer work. I am slowly learning to manage all of these issues. This is where my stubborness or as I like to think of it, persistance has helped. I also have a wonderful family, a husband of 26yrs. and two amazing teenaged boys ages 16yrs. and 14 yrs. who assist me in many ways. They also make me laugh at myself or something else. One can never have too much laughter in their life. I am also blessed with many friends who also add to my enjoyment. Gardening has always been the most favourite thing to do in the spring and summer but, with the heat of the recent summers, it has been virtually impossible. This summer so far, has been wonderful. I get one of the boys to do the heavier tasks and then I putter planting, weeding & watering. I am learning to let alot of what I thought defined me as a person, go. I am slowly learning my limitations but, continue to push the envelope. I had my "pitty party" years ago and finally realized what a waste of my time and energy it was becoming. Again, I think that we have to be allowed to grieve losses regardless of what they may be.