Ooh it's here again #MSAwarenessWeek 2023.
This week has been full of reminders that a) I have Multiple Sclerosis and b) there are lots of other people in the world who experience some of the same crazy symptoms that I do.
It's not that I actually forget that I have it or that I forget that there are loads of us, it's simply that over the years I have adapted to my strengths and limitations, and aside from not being able to wander limitlessly around the south downs (sad face), and having to lie down in the afternoon to gather energy for the post school madness (I can already hear the groans of envy from my hairy hubby about that one!), I am in the very fortunate position of being able to live a full and happy life.
Living with a long term condition can understandably make you focus on what isn’t possible, which can bring with it worry that you might not be able to keep up with so-called normal activities and the people you are with. In my case, I really worry that I may not be able to keep up with, and therefore save from danger, my speedy kids. And of course, I also feel that annoying pang of guilt that I’m holding people back when exercising with others (this particular emotion I know I need to ditch. I’m working on it).
I love the idea of this year's campaign. The fact that I sometimes look drunk when I walk, or that I can’t really run anymore is only a small part of me and what I am capable of. Living with MS has taught me so much over the years.
So here are my #MSMakesMe’s…
#MSMakesMe so grateful for all the amazing people in my life
#MSMakesMe feel limitless when I do something that requires more physical strength than I thought I had
#MSMakesMe determined to stay healthy, fit and strong
#MSMakesMe read and learn and try and read and learn and try and so on…
#MSMakesMe delay the boring stuff and prioritise the brilliant stuff
#MSMakesMe clear with people about what I can comfortably manage
#MSMakesMe great at helping others prioritise their health and happiness
#MSMakesMe understand deeply the impact of a long term disease which gives me the tools to help others feel empowered to live their lives as fully as possible
#MSMakesMe teach my kids that the most important thing in life is health and happiness (and that my Dad has told me this for as long as I can remember)
You can find lots of people with MS sharing their experiences and thoughts about how it affects them on @MSSocietyuk. Thanks for raising awareness and offering support as always.
Happy Bank Holiday Weekend
Lynne x