Friends. Family. Control

Hi , ughh, many of our members will say that when friends or family try to help, it can sometimes make things worse. If it would help, I am sending over these articles that you could share with them if you are comfortable: https://multiplesclerosis.net/living-with-ms/advice-for-family-and-friends, https://multiplesclerosis.net/living-with-ms/the-1-thing-you-can-do-for-someone-with-chronic-illness, and https://multiplesclerosis.net/living-with-ms/want-talk-about-me. I really hope this is helpful. Jill (Team Member)

Thank you so so so very much!

Hi, !

I think you must have done something right in your life to have people that love you so much and fight over who gets to have you live with them! That said, I fully understand that as an adult woman, you do not need to be treated like a child. MS is a challenge to live with, sure, but it doesn't immediately mean you will need a caregiver. I assume your family might be scared and worried about losing you and may be acting in ways that are not so helpful (though they probably think they are being helpful).

I think the information Jill shared could be a great way to start (or continue) a discussion about your independence and autonomy with your friends and family. Maybe share an article on your social media or send it directly to the people in your life.

The unknown about an MS diagnosis can be scary and I bet you know this better than anyone! And your family may be acting out of that fear. But that's no excuse to not listen to you and your needs and desires. After all, YOU are the one living with MS and you are the expert on your own body.

I do hope the people in your life do start listening to you and working with you to help you have a great quality of life while living with MS.

Best, Erin, Team Member.

From reading your comment, I can tell you are really loved, and that's a wonderful thing. It's also easy for people to get so caught up in trying to help that they forget to actually listen to what you’re telling them you need. You know your body and your limits, and wanting to maintain your independence doesn’t mean you don’t appreciate their concern. I truly hope you have the chance to share the articles Jill mentioned with them in hopes that you all can work together. The common goal here is to make sure you're okay and have everything you need throughout your journey. I'm confident that with a little more understanding and open communication, you can find a way for your family to support you that feels right for you, too. You deserve to feel heard and supported, not overwhelmed. 🧡 -All the best, Latoya (Team Member)