MS Comic: Hiding My Reality Beneath a Mask

By Brooke Pelczynski

1 min read

Many people in the MS community talk about wearing a “mask” that hides how they are really feeling. On days when fatigue and pain plague them, they still go through the motions throughout the day, often with a smile on their faces. Brooke’s comic below shows some of the masks she wears – from the “I can do anything” mask to the “MS warrior" mask to, finally, the truth beneath the masks.

This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The MultipleSclerosis.net team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

Join the conversation

Please read our rules before commenting.

judyvarley Member
No doubt. Personally, I figured it was my problem, why expose anyone else to it. Then, at the same time, as it progresses, those same folks, relatives, children, and such don't understand and still don't notice.
1. judyvarley Member
 oops, I do know there difference between hear and here, but my fingers slip more times than not. Sorry.
2. Brooke Pelczynski Member
 Yes Judy!!! This is truly a special and safe space for us and all of our unique situations!! Haha and no worries at all I am the queen of typos 😀
Therry Neilsen Moderator & Contributor
Brooke, this comic is so true it is almost too much for me to deal with. I wear a lot of those masks along with the double masks we're asked to wear to keep other people safe from COVID. I wore a double mask in the MRI tube yesterday and it was kind of comforting. Thank you for telling the truths that can't be told any other way. You are a gift to this community.
ninjamomma77 Member
I too have worn a mask and the one I choose to wear usually depends on the situation or circumstances of the moment. I don’t like people worrying about me or feeling sorry for me. I have always been independent and sometimes feel like I can just “push through” the pain. I have trouble backing down and asking for help at times. My mom has to tell me to take it easy and remind me that my circumstances are not the same as everyone elses. 
1. Lisa Emrich Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="ninjamomma77" user-id="3957496"/>, You are definitely not alone; asking for help can be difficult for many of us. That strong, independent mask can be easy to put on but difficult to maintain. Thank you for sharing here. It's wonderful when we can know that our experiences are similar at times. Best, Lisa, MS Team Member
CommunityMember1823 Member
 I too know what it's like hiding since no one in your family wants to hear about MS. Being a disabled nurse practitioner I don't ask for help when I should. I've always been the care giver, not the taker. MS has been a constant companion for 30 years and I thought I'd had every symptom it throws at you.Not so. I discovered vertigo just recently. So I'm still on the rollercoaster ride that continues taking from you. One problem is that I'm on no DMTs at the moment, but have a new MS specialist and after a repeat of all the numerous tests maybe he will put me on one for SPMS. I have high hopes anyway. Thanks 
1. Erin Rush Community Admin
 <inline-mention username="CommunityMember1823" user-id="4822807"/>, your comment touched me. I feel like you really touched a nerve when describing how challenging living with MS can be. Just when you think you have a handle on it, it likes to throw you a curveball! And it's extra hard when your loved ones can't or won't try to understand what you are going through. I hope the new specialist is a good fit for you and you can get on a treatment plan that works! Keep us posted, if you feel comfortable doing so. Best, Erin, <a href='https://multiplesclerosis.net' target='_blank'>MultipleSclerosis.net</a> Team Member.