Living with MS: Perspective of a Sister
Where do I begin? My sister was diagnosed last year with MS, and this disease has turned both our worlds upside down. However, I think it has brought our family together. I have had to endure many changes in my life. From doing things for myself to completely giving up my life to care for her. I try to think of how she feels too. She used to work at a bank as a teller and is a college graduate. She's only 29 years old. Now she can't walk or feed herself. It's been a rough few months. Her disease started with some weakness in her right hand and occasional falls. Then she broke up with her boyfriend and moved in with me. I gave up my bedroom so she could be comfortable. We all thought she was just going through a lot and would be better soon. We watched as she went from being independent to being totally dependent on me for her every need. I'm also a single mother to an amazing nine year old. He is a great motivator to my sister, but obviously we don't want to put any pressure on him. It is stressful to me but I try and think of my sister more than I do of myself. People are always questioning me about why I don't work anymore. Sometimes it upsets me but I understand that they could never understand. It's a job caring for someone. Feeding them. Bathing them. Giving them their medicine. On top of all that, I have a child to raise by myself. At times, I have wanted to just burst into tears but I know what I have to do. I'm thinking of moving back in with my parents so my sister can have more support. I'm going back to work so I can save up for a home better suited for my sister's needs. It's a struggle everyday but It's worth it. I know she will get better in time. I just have to be here for her everyday.
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