Re: Sometimes we want to just be disabled!!!

[Guest guest]

You know, I manage at home fine the vast majority of the time. Stairs

are hard, but honestly in the house I'm okay.

I DO use the riding carts in stores. Reality is I can't walk *that*

far. I might be able to get through the store - emphasis on might -

but then I'd be copmletely, totally shot. Initially, my husband was

opposed - felt that I wasn't trying *hard enough*. (At that point I

was not on meds yet, was falling 6x daily - he finally gave in whne

someone pointed out the cost if I hit my HEAD in the store, TYVM.)

I understand feeling weird about walking in, and then getting in the

cart. Can't tell YOU what to do, but here, I just plain had to get

over myself. It's a pride thing, and I decided that worrying about

what other people think is a waste of my brain / energy / life.

Hugs,

Amy

>

> Now, I don't mean this to start another controversy. I am totally

> empathetic to those in a wheelchair.

>

> But for those of you that are not....do you ever wish sometimes you

> were just so you have an excuse? Maybe I'm just more vain then I

> realized. But today, I was doing my grocery shopping and I have a

> bad case of " concrete " legs and some heavy duty vibrating going on

in

> my spinal chord (the nasueating kind). I was trying to walk around

> the store and holding on to my cart tightly while trying to

maintain

> some sense of " there is nothing wrong with me " .

>

> To most, I look totally healthy. I was looking at the electric

carts

> and drooling but I wouldn't get into one because I don't " look "

sick

> and I know people will be thinking I'm just lazy. Isn't that

awful???

> At the same time, I get so confuddled in the stores anyways because

I

> can't piece together where something would be anymore and I ask for

> help a lot in finding things.

>

> Plus, the worse thing is that we are such a small area and everyone

> knows me from my business. I had to stop and talk to at least five

> people and their interruptions sent me in the wrong direction for

the

> next item. I was so flustered when I left and I'm sure I don't

have

> half the stuff I need.

>

> Speaking of small towns, Akyba, I think I saw your hubby today.

Was

> he in IM? Red van, right?

>

> Anyways, I'm going to take a nap...my body is telling me it's way

> over due.

>

[Guest guest]

As you've seen, I ride the carts. It took me some getting over and "pride swallowing" but now I'm used to it. Days that I do feel up to walking, or have a short shopping list, I do walk, but 85% of the time I ride now.No, that wasn't Rob, our van is blue and though he did go to town it was just to Florence to check the mail and get gas for the mower. SO when we gonna seeya 'round cheer? hugs Akiba -- Sometimes we want to just be disabled!!! Now, I don't mean this to start another controversy. I am totally empathetic to those in a wheelchair.But for those of you that are not....do you ever wish sometimes you were just so you have an excuse? Maybe I'm just more vain then I realized. But today, I was doing my grocery shopping and I have a bad case of "concrete" legs and some heavy duty vibrating going on in my spinal chord (the nasueating kind). I was trying to walk around the store and holding on to my cart tightly while trying to maintain some sense of "there is nothing wrong with me". To most, I look totally healthy. I was looking at the electric carts and drooling but I wouldn't get into one because I don't "look" sick and I know people will be thinking I'm just lazy. Isn't that awful???At the same time, I get so confuddled in the stores anyways because I can't piece together where something would be anymore and I ask for help a lot in finding things. Plus, the worse thing is that we are such a small area and everyone knows me from my business. I had to stop and talk to at least five people and their interruptions sent me in the wrong direction for the next item. I was so flustered when I left and I'm sure I don't have half the stuff I need.Speaking of small towns, Akyba, I think I saw your hubby today. Was he in IM? Red van, right? Anyways, I'm going to take a nap...my body is telling me it's way over due.

[Guest guest]

I really NEED the cart when I go to my pharmacy or to the grocery store--most any

where, actually! I feel utterly shameless about using the electric grocery cart. Many

who use it do not even HAVE blue handicapped placards nor license plates! I call

ahead, let them know when I am about to arrive, and RESERVE the dear cart! Saves

THEM the lawsuit! Leaves me free to concentrate on my pathetic little list! Onward

cart users! Love,

n Rojas5915@...

Re: Sometimes we want to just be disabled!!!

You know, I manage at home fine the vast majority of the time. Stairs are hard, but honestly in the house I'm okay.I DO use the riding carts in stores. Reality is I can't walk *that* far. I might be able to get through the store - emphasis on might - but then I'd be copmletely, totally shot. Initially, my husband was opposed - felt that I wasn't trying *hard enough*. (At that point I was not on meds yet, was falling 6x daily - he finally gave in whne someone pointed out the cost if I hit my HEAD in the store, TYVM.)I understand feeling weird about walking in, and then getting in the cart. Can't tell YOU what to do, but here, I just plain had to get over myself. It's a pride thing, and I decided that worrying about what other people think is a waste of my brain / energy / life.Hugs, Amy >> Now, I don't mean this to start another controversy. I am totally > empathetic to those in a wheelchair.> > But for those of you that are not....do you ever wish sometimes you > were just so you have an excuse? Maybe I'm just more vain then I > realized. But today, I was doing my grocery shopping and I have a > bad case of "concrete" legs and some heavy duty vibrating going on in > my spinal chord (the nasueating kind). I was trying to walk around > the store and holding on to my cart tightly while trying to maintain > some sense of "there is nothing wrong with me". > > To most, I look totally healthy. I was looking at the electric carts > and drooling but I wouldn't get into one because I don't "look" sick > and I know people will be thinking I'm just lazy. Isn't that awful???> At the same time, I get so confuddled in the stores anyways because I > can't piece together where something would be anymore and I ask for > help a lot in finding things. > > Plus, the worse thing is that we are such a small area and everyone > knows me from my business. I had to stop and talk to at least five > people and their interruptions sent me in the wrong direction for the > next item. I was so flustered when I left and I'm sure I don't have > half the stuff I need.> > Speaking of small towns, Akyba, I think I saw your hubby today. Was > he in IM? Red van, right? > > Anyways, I'm going to take a nap...my body is telling me it's way > over due.>

[Guest guest]

I have not used the scooters yet.When I go out I take

my cane then if they have a cart I use that.But yal

should see the way I walk! With the cart even,I get so

many stares,hey,id stare at me cuz I walk pretty

funky! Rofl.lol. The lil old ladies( dont have nuthn

against them,just refering) they always pat me and say

sumthn like hunny you ok?lol..always nice,starts a lil

conversation..I jus dont use the scooters cuz I dont

get out much and I wanna walk even if I look

funny.lol..but when I need to or dont have a choice I

could care less what people think.I know(we know) we

are sick or not feeln well and thats all that

matters.I get tired sitn up not walking and walking so

either way after a bit I gotta get home to lay

down.So,my visits out are short,but welllll worth it.

I say use a scooter especially if it will make things

easier and give you more time out and about. I use to

be an out and abouter now im a homebody. hugz,cassy

--- MSersLife

wrote:

> You know, I manage at home fine the vast majority of

the time. Stairs

> are hard, but honestly in the house I'm okay.

>

> I DO use the riding carts in stores. Reality is I

can't walk *that*

> far. I might be able to get through the store -

emphasis on might -

> but then I'd be copmletely, totally shot. Initially,

my husband was

> opposed - felt that I wasn't trying *hard enough*.

(At that point I

> was not on meds yet, was falling 6x daily - he

finally gave in whne

> someone pointed out the cost if I hit my HEAD in the

store, TYVM.)

>

> I understand feeling weird about walking in, and

then getting in the

> cart. Can't tell YOU what to do, but here, I just

plain had to get

> over myself. It's a pride thing, and I decided that

worrying about

> what other people think is a waste of my brain /

energy / life.

>

> Hugs,

> Amy

>

>

> >

> > Now, I don't mean this to start another

controversy. I am totally

> > empathetic to those in a wheelchair.

> >

> > But for those of you that are not....do you ever

wish sometimes you

> > were just so you have an excuse? Maybe I'm just

more vain then I

> > realized. But today, I was doing my grocery

shopping and I have a

> > bad case of " concrete " legs and some heavy duty

vibrating going on

> in

> > my spinal chord (the nasueating kind). I was

trying to walk around

> > the store and holding on to my cart tightly while

trying to

> maintain

> > some sense of " there is nothing wrong with me " .

> >

> > To most, I look totally healthy. I was looking at

the electric

> carts

> > and drooling but I wouldn't get into one because I

don't " look "

> sick

> > and I know people will be thinking I'm just lazy.

Isn't that

> awful???

> > At the same time, I get so confuddled in the

stores anyways because

> I

> > can't piece together where something would be

anymore and I ask for

> > help a lot in finding things.

> >

> > Plus, the worse thing is that we are such a small

area and everyone

> > knows me from my business. I had to stop and talk

to at least five

> > people and their interruptions sent me in the

wrong direction for

> the

> > next item. I was so flustered when I left and I'm

sure I don't

> have

> > half the stuff I need.

> >

> > Speaking of small towns, Akyba, I think I saw your

hubby today.

> Was

> > he in IM? Red van, right?

> >

> > Anyways, I'm going to take a nap...my body is

telling me it's way

> > over due.

> >

>

>

________________________________________________________________________________\

____

Looking for earth-friendly autos?

Browse Top Cars by " Green Rating " at Yahoo! Autos' Green Center.

http://autos.yahoo.com/green_center/

[Guest guest]

> >

> > Now, I don't mean this to start another controversy. I am

totally

> > empathetic to those in a wheelchair.

> >

> > But for those of you that are not....do you ever wish sometimes

you

> > were just so you have an excuse? Maybe I'm just more vain then

I

> > realized. But today, I was doing my grocery shopping and I have

a

> > bad case of " concrete " legs and some heavy duty vibrating going

on

> in

> > my spinal chord (the nasueating kind). I was trying to walk

around

> > the store and holding on to my cart tightly while trying to

> maintain

> > some sense of " there is nothing wrong with me " .

> >

> > To most, I look totally healthy. I was looking at the electric

> carts

> > and drooling but I wouldn't get into one because I don't " look "

> sick

> > and I know people will be thinking I'm just lazy. Isn't that

> awful???

> > At the same time, I get so confuddled in the stores anyways

because

> I

> > can't piece together where something would be anymore and I ask

for

> > help a lot in finding things.

> >

> > Plus, the worse thing is that we are such a small area and

everyone

> > knows me from my business. I had to stop and talk to at least

five

> > people and their interruptions sent me in the wrong direction for

> the

> > next item. I was so flustered when I left and I'm sure I don't

> have

> > half the stuff I need.

> >

> > Speaking of small towns, Akyba, I think I saw your hubby today.

> Was

> > he in IM? Red van, right?

> >

> > Anyways, I'm going to take a nap...my body is telling me it's way

> > over due.

> >Mindy,

I wanted to reply to what you wrote about using the electric carts.

Who gives a shit what other people think! Use the cart and reserve

energy for other work and chores that needs to be done. If you are so

embarrassed about others seeing you that may know you, then go to a

store outside of your area. I have found that if I tell people that I

have MS they have more respect for me when they know how much I work

and that I am a single parent, and that I don't give up....I keep a

smile on my face and keep on going!

>

[Guest guest]

I know it's hard Mindy. When I was first having problems and needing to use the electric carts I wouldn't because I lived in a small community and a lot of people knew me from work. It was really hard. I was using a cane and would hang on to the cart but I would be done for by the time I finished shopping--let along getting the groceries into the house. I would just take the cold stuff in and anything I absolutely had to have for dinner. Finally I just couldn't do it anymore. I just had to give myself permission to use the cart and to take care of myself. People would stop and ask me "what happened to you?" I took that opportunity to explain that I had MS and while I could walk I couldn't walk through the entire store without having problems. You need to

give yourself permission to take care of YOU, too. hugs))Sharon "Happiness is not a destination. It is a method of life." -Burton Hills Sometimes we want to just be disabled!!! Now, I don't mean this to start another controversy. I am totally empathetic to those in a wheelchair. But for those of you that are not....do you ever wish sometimes you were just so you have an excuse? Maybe I'm just more vain then I realized. But today, I was doing my grocery shopping and I have a bad case of "concrete" legs and some heavy duty vibrating going on in my spinal chord (the nasueating kind). I was trying to walk around the store and holding on to my cart tightly while trying to maintain some sense of "there is nothing wrong with me". To most, I look totally healthy. I was looking at the electric carts and drooling but I wouldn't get into one because I don't

"look" sick and I know people will be thinking I'm just lazy. Isn't that awful??? At the same time, I get so confuddled in the stores anyways because I can't piece together where something would be anymore and I ask for help a lot in finding things. Plus, the worse thing is that we are such a small area and everyone knows me from my business. I had to stop and talk to at least five people and their interruptions sent me in the wrong direction for the next item. I was so flustered when I left and I'm sure I don't have half the stuff I need. Speaking of small towns, Akyba, I think I saw your hubby today. Was he in IM? Red van, right? Anyways, I'm going to take a nap...my body is telling me it's way over due.

Choose the right car based on your needs. Check out Yahoo! Autos new Car Finder tool.

[Guest guest]

Gee, Mindy...Thanks for being brave enough to bring this up. You really helped break the ice for me, and for some reason, I'm crying right now...I can so totally relate to what you say here. For me, also, with a younger sis with MS--who was dx'd 5 yrs before me--SHE who bikes, works FT, is fit and trim--doesn't tell anyone she has MS! Here I am using a cane most days. I keep saying to myself: use it or lose it. Keep moving. Keep walking. Push yourself. However, I have heard more about the notion of : PACE YOURSELF. and that spoon story too. Like, if we were to bite the bullet, and yes, get into that scooter to do our shopping--groceries or Walmart or wherever--would we not have more energy at home for our family and kids? I am confused also. One day...I don't know when...I might just make the move. Get into one of those scooters and do my shopping...And then what? See how it feels. AND, if anyone asks me--I might just say--I'm finally learning to pace myself....And you know what, Mindy? Some days I just take my cane--even if I don't really need it that day. I think cause I don't "look sick" or, like I have MS either--and unlike my sister, for some reason, I want people to know...AND...while I'm on a roll I'll tell ya this!--when I work down in Tarrytown, NY at my little nursery school job--if I don't have my cane--the cars don't stop as often to let me cross the pedestrian crossing--but gee whiz--have my cane? They stop on a dime for me! Go figure! So, there can be perks with a cane! Again, I'm very, very happy you brought this topic up. It is a real source of angst for me personally . bless you, kate> Now, I don't mean this to start another controversy. I am > totally > empathetic to those in a wheelchair.> > But for those of you that are not....do you ever wish sometimes > you > were just so you have an excuse? Maybe I'm just more vain > then I > realized. But today, I was doing my grocery shopping and I have > a > bad case of "concrete" legs and some heavy duty vibrating going > on in > my spinal chord (the nasueating kind). I was trying to walk > around > the store and holding on to my cart tightly while trying to > maintain > some sense of "there is nothing wrong with me". > > To most, I look totally healthy. I was looking at the electric > carts > and drooling but I wouldn't get into one because I don't "look" > sick > and I know people will be thinking I'm just lazy. Isn't that awful???> At the same time, I get so confuddled in the stores anyways > because I > can't piece together where something would be anymore and I ask > for > help a lot in finding things. > > Plus, the worse thing is that we are such a small area and > everyone > knows me from my business. I had to stop and talk to at least > five > people and their interruptions sent me in the wrong direction > for the > next item. I was so flustered when I left and I'm sure I don't > have > half the stuff I need.> > Speaking of small towns, Akyba, I think I saw your hubby today. > Was > he in IM? Red van, right? > > Anyways, I'm going to take a nap...my body is telling me it's > way > over due.> > > > Please visit: http://www.bicycleman.com

awesome guy, fantastic site. All types of bicyles, many recumbents; perfect for an MS Bike Tour!

Attachment: vcard [not shown]

[Guest guest]

Hey a~Your posts and responses are so great and powerful--do NOT hide them down at the bottom of all our emails--let them stand out on top, ok? I had to scroll past all the emails to get to your response. You have a fantastic attitude--one I wish to adopt, and I can read from your posts that you are very passionate, and you are a blessing to me, and I am sure most if not all of us here! Thanks for being you, blessings, kate> I wanted to reply to what you wrote about using the electric > carts. > Who gives a shit what other people think! Use the cart and > reserve > energy for other work and chores that needs to be done. If you > are so > embarrassed about others seeing you that may know you, then go > to a > store outside of your area. I have found that if I tell people > that I > have MS they have more respect for me when they know how much I > work > and that I am a single parent, and that I don't give up....I > keep a > smile on my face and keep on going!> >> > > Please visit: http://www.bicycleman.com

awesome guy, fantastic site. All types of bicyles, many recumbents; perfect for an MS Bike Tour!

Attachment: vcard [not shown]

[Guest guest]

May I second what Kate has said re: a's posts? Love,

n Rojas5915@...

Re: Re: Sometimes we want to just be disabled!!!

Hey a~Your posts and responses are so great and powerful--do NOT hide them down at the bottom of all our emails--let them stand out on top, ok? I had to scroll past all the emails to get to your response. You have a fantastic attitude--one I wish to adopt, and I can read from your posts that you are very passionate, and you are a blessing to me, and I am sure most if not all of us here! Thanks for being you, blessings, kate> I wanted to reply to what you wrote about using the electric > carts. > Who gives a shit what other people think! Use the cart and > reserve > energy for other work and chores that needs to be done. If you > are so > embarrassed about others seeing you that may know you, then go > to a > store outside of your area. I have found that if I tell people > that I > have MS they have more respect for me when they know how much I > work > and that I am a single parent, and that I don't give up....I > keep a > smile on my face and keep on going!> >> > > Please visit: http://www.bicycleman.com awesome guy, fantastic site. All types of bicyles, many recumbents; perfect for an MS Bike Tour!

[Guest guest]

Thanks! I totally emphasis with what you are going through, too.

Everyone comes to terms with their illness differently, which is what I

think is great about this group because when can learn from each

other's mistakes and success's.

I know I shouldn't be embarrassed and pride is an evil evil thing but

part of me will always be that " type A " personality and fearlessly

independent. I guess I'm also a stubborn Polock and Norseman!

[Guest guest]

Mindy~

I know what you mean. It is hard sometimes to just let go and let God. I'm pretty strong-headed myself.

The fearless Viking....Val @};-

Re: Sometimes we want to just be disabled!!!

Thanks! I totally emphasis with what you are going through, too. Everyone comes to terms with their illness differently, which is what I think is great about this group because when can learn from each other's mistakes and success's. I know I shouldn't be embarrassed and pride is an evil evil thing but part of me will always be that "type A" personality and fearlessly independent. I guess I'm also a stubborn Polock and Norseman!

No virus found in this incoming message.Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.472 / Virus Database: 269.8.14/845 - Release Date: 6/12/07 6:39 AM

[Guest guest]

You know girls, I can totally relate. Here is how my thinking goes..............

1. Other people might need the cart more

2. Older people might need it more (I'm 36. This is crazy, because most days the elderly could walk circles around me.)

3. I have "no dx". (which isn't completely true, but if I say possible MS,,people might ask more questions that I don't feel like answering. If I say CFS/FM/MM.........still more questions.)

4. What if people wonder why I need a cart today, when just a few days ago I could walk ok?

5. If I use it due to fatigue........ am I going to get some annoying person trying to tell me they know how it feels to be tired? NOT tired......fatigued.

6. If I use it because of fatigue........ am I going to get some well meaning person that scolds me and says I need to be getting more sleep, or should see the Dr. or have I tried Melatonin? lol. Yes, it happened.

Some days I am too prideful to use my cane when I need it. (I know it's stupid) Yet, some days I use it when I don't need it, because I don't want people to assume I'm "up for anything", since I'm feeling better. I am still learning. In the time I have been on this group (a little over 2 years, maybe 2.5) I have learned so much from you all. This is the place I can come to tell what's going on....... and you "get it". I get angry that I can't do what I want, when I want. How dare my body not do what I want it to!? Yet, even through my anger, I am thankful. I am thankful for the lessons I am learning on this journey. No, I don't want to go through his, but I might as well make the best of it, and be thankful for the blessings that come with it. There are blessings.

~Trista~********************************When the world says, "give up,"Hope whispers, "try it one more time."

Re: Sometimes we want to just be disabled!!!

Gee, Mindy...Thanks for being brave enough to bring this up. You really helped break the ice for me, and for some reason, I'm crying right now...I can so totally relate to what you say here. For me, also, with a younger sis with MS--who was dx'd 5 yrs before me--SHE who bikes, works FT, is fit and trim--doesn't tell anyone she has MS! Here I am using a cane most days. I keep saying to myself: use it or lose it. Keep moving. Keep walking. Push yourself. However, I have heard more about the notion of : PACE YOURSELF. and that spoon story too. Like, if we were to bite the bullet, and yes, get into that scooter to do our shopping--groceries or Walmart or wherever--would we not have more energy at home for our family and kids? I am confused also. One day...I don't know when...I might just make the move. Get into one of those scooters and do my shopping...And then what? See how it feels. AND, if anyone asks me--I might just say--I'm finally learning to pace myself....And you know what, Mindy? Some days I just take my cane--even if I don't really need it that day. I think cause I don't "look sick" or, like I have MS either--and unlike my sister, for some reason, I want people to know...AND...while I'm on a roll I'll tell ya this!--when I work down in Tarrytown, NY at my little nursery school job--if I don't have my cane--the cars don't stop as often to let me cross the pedestrian crossing--but gee whiz--have my cane? They stop on a dime for me! Go figure! So, there can be perks with a cane! Again, I'm very, very happy you brought this topic up. It is a real source of angst for me personally . bless you, kate> Now, I don't mean this to start another controversy. I am > totally > empathetic to those in a wheelchair.> > But for those of you that are not....do you ever wish sometimes > you > were just so you have an excuse? Maybe I'm just more vain > then I > realized. But today, I was doing my grocery shopping and I have > a > bad case of "concrete" legs and some heavy duty vibrating going > on in > my spinal chord (the nasueating kind). I was trying to walk > around > the store and holding on to my cart tightly while trying to > maintain > some sense of "there is nothing wrong with me". > > To most, I look totally healthy. I was looking at the electric > carts > and drooling but I wouldn't get into one because I don't "look" > sick > and I know people will be thinking I'm just lazy. Isn't that awful???> At the same time, I get so confuddled in the stores anyways > because I > can't piece together where something would be anymore and I ask > for > help a lot in finding things. > > Plus, the worse thing is that we are such a small area and > everyone > knows me from my business. I had to stop and talk to at least > five > people and their interruptions sent me in the wrong direction > for the > next item. I was so flustered when I left and I'm sure I don't > have > half the stuff I need.> > Speaking of small towns, Akyba, I think I saw your hubby today. > Was > he in IM? Red van, right? > > Anyways, I'm going to take a nap...my body is telling me it's > way > over due.> > > > Please visit: http://www.bicycleman.com awesome guy, fantastic site. All types of bicyles, many recumbents; perfect for an MS Bike Tour!

[Guest guest]

Mindy,

The " concrete " legs... WOW... Now I got to wonder if it's not some sort of

cycle or the weather or something... For some reason yesterday ALL day (and

I worked too) I had the most awful concrete legs. I thought it was the from

mac & cheese, with real cheddar cheese not the box kind, or the Turkey

Keilbasa that we had the night before for dinner... And I know that I can't

do things like Summer Sausage or the spray can cheese or my tingles

(numbness) gets much worse. Night before last, my feet felt like they were

round on the bottom and I had NO toes.. then all day yesterday, the numbness

wasn't quite as bad, but still worse than normal, and the concrete legs.. I

wasn't sure I was going to get through the day.. AND the last thing I want

to do right now is to have to leave work early or not go in at all.. I need

to be dependable in getting there even if I can only SIT in a chair and

answer the telephones..

Now to your topic.. I always use a scooter or wheelchair when shopping. I

learned a long long time ago that IF I want to do anything else that day

other than go shopping that the wheelchair IS a necessity. What I really

really really hate, and one of these days I'm going to follow through on my

threat to reach out and smack some idiot with my cane, right square in the

head, is the person who gives me dirty looks when we're parked in a

handicapped spot (and is loading the groceries in the car, or we

haven't gotten out of the car yet).. Had that happen again this past Sunday,

when some perfectly healthy looking man gave me filthy looks as he passed by

my side of the car..

Maybe I should just say.. " I have MS and THAT's my reason for parking here..

What's your reason for being stupid???? " ...... Maybe it would wake some

people up.. but then again, as would tell me.. Anyone who is crude

enough to give you dirty looks, isn't someone who would feel chagrined when

chastised for being rude. But it does make me boil...

I recently, while shopping for flowers, had one lady walk up to me, lay

hands on my shoulder and begin to pray for healing.... Which is great, and I

don't mind, not at all... If she felt the conviction to do that, then more

power to her... But after she had finished praying, she told me she hopes

that I'll get out of the chair soon.. and then asked what happened that put

me in the chair.. I think she wanted to slide into a hole somewhere when I

told her that I had MS...

Well the alarm is going off..... in another room.. and I hope that one of

these days, the new doggie gets the idea that he's SUPPOSED to wake me up

BEFORE he poops on the floor.. not after... LOL

|}onna

Sometimes we want to just be disabled!!!

> Now, I don't mean this to start another controversy. I am totally

> empathetic to those in a wheelchair.

>

> But for those of you that are not....do you ever wish sometimes you

> were just so you have an excuse? Maybe I'm just more vain then I

> realized. But today, I was doing my grocery shopping and I have a

> bad case of " concrete " legs and some heavy duty vibrating going on in

> my spinal chord (the nasueating kind). I was trying to walk around

> the store and holding on to my cart tightly while trying to maintain

> some sense of " there is nothing wrong with me " .

>

> To most, I look totally healthy. I was looking at the electric carts

> and drooling but I wouldn't get into one because I don't " look " sick

> and I know people will be thinking I'm just lazy. Isn't that awful???

> At the same time, I get so confuddled in the stores anyways because I

> can't piece together where something would be anymore and I ask for

> help a lot in finding things.

>

> Plus, the worse thing is that we are such a small area and everyone

> knows me from my business. I had to stop and talk to at least five

> people and their interruptions sent me in the wrong direction for the

> next item. I was so flustered when I left and I'm sure I don't have

> half the stuff I need.

>

> Speaking of small towns, Akyba, I think I saw your hubby today. Was

> he in IM? Red van, right?

>

> Anyways, I'm going to take a nap...my body is telling me it's way

> over due.

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Hey l>onna~how's that one? I like your post...I think when I get dirty looks for any reason, I tend to try and 'humbly' smile back. I at times get the 'look' when I pull into a handicapped spot, even though I do have the hangy-tag. When I get out with my cane, the 'look' softens. Funny thing is, despite being younger than most around here that park in disabled pkg--many of them do NOT have wheelchairs or canes. Yes, I'm fairly sure they have some disability--however--there are a goodly amount of folk around here that use the blue hangers--where it is their parent that is disabled--and most often THAT person isn't even IN the car. For those folks, I don't know what to say. I know the 'caregivers' of disabled/handicapped or 'higher' needs folks do alot--sometimes they really 'empty' themselves in order to take care of an aging parent or a handicapped spouse--I just feel that perhaps they should be mindful of someone pulling into the parking lot that does have a cane or wheelchair and a real need to park closer. My husband most of the time, refuses to park in a handicapped spot for me; he is in denial most of the time about my MS. If he is going to park in a 'blue' spot, it is usually because it may be one of the few spots available. He could care less if I have to struggle to walk further. If I point it out; I get yelled at--so I gave up pointing it out...Oops, sorry, didn't know I was going to 'go there' with this post!

Anyways...I know the 'scoop' on the pup that tells ya after the stinky fact! I know for cats, you're supposed to put their food down in the same spot they messed in; according to pet experts, they won't 'mess' there again--ha! They'll pick another place! lol! I'm not sure if it works the same for dogs. It is a hassle doing the paper training...once you're past it, you can really enjoy your pup! best to you always, love, kate> Mindy,> > The "concrete" legs... WOW... Now I got to wonder if it's not > some sort of > cycle or the weather or something... For some reason yesterday > ALL day (and > I worked too) I had the most awful concrete legs. I thought it > was the from > mac & cheese, with real cheddar cheese not the box kind, or the > Turkey > Keilbasa that we had the night before for dinner... And I know > that I can't > do things like Summer Sausage or the spray can cheese or my > tingles > (numbness) gets much worse. Night before last, my feet felt > like they were > round on the bottom and I had NO toes.. then all day yesterday, > the numbness > wasn't quite as bad, but still worse than normal, and the > concrete legs.. I > wasn't sure I was going to get through the day.. AND the last > thing I want > to do right now is to have to leave work early or not go in at > all.. I need > to be dependable in getting there even if I can only SIT in a > chair and > answer the telephones..> > Now to your topic.. I always use a scooter or wheelchair when > shopping. I > learned a long long time ago that IF I want to do anything else > that day > other than go shopping that the wheelchair IS a necessity. What > I really > really really hate, and one of these days I'm going to follow > through on my > threat to reach out and smack some idiot with my cane, right > square in the > head, is the person who gives me dirty looks when we're parked > in a > handicapped spot (and is loading the groceries in the car, > or we > haven't gotten out of the car yet).. Had that happen again this > past Sunday, > when some perfectly healthy looking man gave me filthy looks as > he passed by > my side of the car..> > Maybe I should just say.. "I have MS and THAT's my reason for > parking here.. > What's your reason for being stupid????" ...... Maybe it would > wake some > people up.. but then again, as would tell me.. Anyone who > is crude > enough to give you dirty looks, isn't someone who would feel > chagrined when > chastised for being rude. But it does make me boil...> > I recently, while shopping for flowers, had one lady walk up to > me, lay > hands on my shoulder and begin to pray for healing.... Which is > great, and I > don't mind, not at all... If she felt the conviction to do that, > then more > power to her... But after she had finished praying, she told me > she hopes > that I'll get out of the chair soon.. and then asked what > happened that put > me in the chair.. I think she wanted to slide into a hole > somewhere when I > told her that I had MS...> > Well the alarm is going off..... in another room.. and I hope > that one of > these days, the new doggie gets the idea that he's SUPPOSED to > wake me up > BEFORE he poops on the floor.. not after... LOL> > |}onna> > > Sometimes we want to just be disabled!!!> > > > Now, I don't mean this to start another controversy. I am totally> > empathetic to those in a wheelchair.> >> > But for those of you that are not....do you ever wish > sometimes you> > were just so you have an excuse? Maybe I'm just more vain > then I> > realized. But today, I was doing my grocery shopping and I > have a> > bad case of "concrete" legs and some heavy duty vibrating > going on in> > my spinal chord (the nasueating kind). I was trying to walk around> > the store and holding on to my cart tightly while trying to maintain> > some sense of "there is nothing wrong with me".> >> > To most, I look totally healthy. I was looking at the > electric carts> > and drooling but I wouldn't get into one because I don't > "look" sick> > and I know people will be thinking I'm just lazy. Isn't that > awful???> At the same time, I get so confuddled in the stores > anyways because I> > can't piece together where something would be anymore and I > ask for> > help a lot in finding things.> >> > Plus, the worse thing is that we are such a small area and everyone> > knows me from my business. I had to stop and talk to at least five> > people and their interruptions sent me in the wrong direction > for the> > next item. I was so flustered when I left and I'm sure I > don't have> > half the stuff I need.> >> > Speaking of small towns, Akyba, I think I saw your hubby > today. Was> > he in IM? Red van, right?> >> > Anyways, I'm going to take a nap...my body is telling me it's way> > over due.> >> >> >> >> >> >

[Guest guest]

You know, it could be diet related. I did have red meat twice in the

last 10 days, which is really weird for me. Didn't really make the

connection. Then again, it could be the heat as it's been very warm

lately.

My Dad used to say as long as God gave him two legs to walk, he was

going to take the furthest parking spot from the doors. And whenever

I complained about having to bring the shopping cart back as a kid,

wow, did I hear about the whole healthy legs thing. Now, I'm not

that bad but I have to tell you that when he finally did give in to

the handicap parking, etc, he felt no guilt and never got any stares.

I think I am more like him somedays then I care to admitt.

Stay cool today everyone...it's already hot at 7:30am!!

>

> Mindy,

>

> The " concrete " legs... WOW... Now I got to wonder if it's not some

sort of

> cycle or the weather or something... For some reason yesterday ALL

day (and

> I worked too) I had the most awful concrete legs. I thought it was

the from

> mac & cheese, with real cheddar cheese not the box kind, or the

Turkey

> Keilbasa that we had the night before for dinner... And I know that

I can't

> do things like Summer Sausage or the spray can cheese or my tingles

> (numbness) gets much worse. Night before last, my feet felt like

they were

> round on the bottom and I had NO toes.. then all day yesterday, the

numbness

> wasn't quite as bad, but still worse than normal, and the concrete

legs.. I

> wasn't sure I was going to get through the day.. AND the last thing

I want

> to do right now is to have to leave work early or not go in at

all.. I need

> to be dependable in getting there even if I can only SIT in a chair

and

> answer the telephones..

>

> Now to your topic.. I always use a scooter or wheelchair when

shopping. I

> learned a long long time ago that IF I want to do anything else

that day

> other than go shopping that the wheelchair IS a necessity. What I

really

> really really hate, and one of these days I'm going to follow

through on my

> threat to reach out and smack some idiot with my cane, right square

in the

> head, is the person who gives me dirty looks when we're parked in a

> handicapped spot (and is loading the groceries in the car, or

we

> haven't gotten out of the car yet).. Had that happen again this

past Sunday,

> when some perfectly healthy looking man gave me filthy looks as he

passed by

> my side of the car..

>

> Maybe I should just say.. " I have MS and THAT's my reason for

parking here..

> What's your reason for being stupid???? " ...... Maybe it would wake

some

> people up.. but then again, as would tell me.. Anyone who is

crude

> enough to give you dirty looks, isn't someone who would feel

chagrined when

> chastised for being rude. But it does make me boil...

>

> I recently, while shopping for flowers, had one lady walk up to me,

lay

> hands on my shoulder and begin to pray for healing.... Which is

great, and I

> don't mind, not at all... If she felt the conviction to do that,

then more

> power to her... But after she had finished praying, she told me she

hopes

> that I'll get out of the chair soon.. and then asked what happened

that put

> me in the chair.. I think she wanted to slide into a hole somewhere

when I

> told her that I had MS...

>

> Well the alarm is going off..... in another room.. and I hope that

one of

> these days, the new doggie gets the idea that he's SUPPOSED to wake

me up

> BEFORE he poops on the floor.. not after... LOL

>

> |}onna

>

>

> Sometimes we want to just be disabled!!!

>

>

> > Now, I don't mean this to start another controversy. I am totally

> > empathetic to those in a wheelchair.

> >

> > But for those of you that are not....do you ever wish sometimes

you

> > were just so you have an excuse? Maybe I'm just more vain then

I

> > realized. But today, I was doing my grocery shopping and I have a

> > bad case of " concrete " legs and some heavy duty vibrating going

on in

> > my spinal chord (the nasueating kind). I was trying to walk

around

> > the store and holding on to my cart tightly while trying to

maintain

> > some sense of " there is nothing wrong with me " .

> >

> > To most, I look totally healthy. I was looking at the electric

carts

> > and drooling but I wouldn't get into one because I don't " look "

sick

> > and I know people will be thinking I'm just lazy. Isn't that

awful???

> > At the same time, I get so confuddled in the stores anyways

because I

> > can't piece together where something would be anymore and I ask

for

> > help a lot in finding things.

> >

> > Plus, the worse thing is that we are such a small area and

everyone

> > knows me from my business. I had to stop and talk to at least

five

> > people and their interruptions sent me in the wrong direction for

the

> > next item. I was so flustered when I left and I'm sure I don't

have

> > half the stuff I need.

> >

> > Speaking of small towns, Akyba, I think I saw your hubby today.

Was

> > he in IM? Red van, right?

> >

> > Anyways, I'm going to take a nap...my body is telling me it's way

> > over due.

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

Trista,

Henry Ford II said it best......."Never Complain-Never Explain".

You know your body and feelings best. It is quite natural to feel self-conscious when first using any assistance device..........However, most people either do not notice or do not care. That nervousness is mostly just ourselves and our feelings. So forget about it and just do what is best for you.

Regards,

Tom

Re: Sometimes we want to just be disabled!!!

Gee, Mindy...Thanks for being brave enough to bring this up. You really helped break the ice for me, and for some reason, I'm crying right now...I can so totally relate to what you say here. For me, also, with a younger sis with MS--who was dx'd 5 yrs before me--SHE who bikes, works FT, is fit and trim--doesn't tell anyone she has MS! Here I am using a cane most days. I keep saying to myself: use it or lose it. Keep moving. Keep walking. Push yourself. However, I have heard more about the notion of : PACE YOURSELF. and that spoon story too. Like, if we were to bite the bullet, and yes, get into that scooter to do our shopping--groceries or Walmart or wherever--would we not have more energy at home for our family and kids? I am confused also. One day...I don't know when...I might just make the move. Get into one of those scooters and do my shopping...And then what? See how it feels. AND, if anyone asks me--I might just say--I'm finally learning to pace myself....And you know what, Mindy? Some days I just take my cane--even if I don't really need it that day. I think cause I don't "look sick" or, like I have MS either--and unlike my sister, for some reason, I want people to know...AND...while I'm on a roll I'll tell ya this!--when I work down in Tarrytown, NY at my little nursery school job--if I don't have my cane--the cars don't stop as often to let me cross the pedestrian crossing--but gee whiz--have my cane? They stop on a dime for me! Go figure! So, there can be perks with a cane! Again, I'm very, very happy you brought this topic up. It is a real source of angst for me personally . bless you, kate> Now, I don't mean this to start another controversy. I am > totally > empathetic to those in a wheelchair.> > But for those of you that are not....do you ever wish sometimes > you > were just so you have an excuse? Maybe I'm just more vain > then I > realized. But today, I was doing my grocery shopping and I have > a > bad case of "concrete" legs and some heavy duty vibrating going > on in > my spinal chord (the nasueating kind). I was trying to walk > around > the store and holding on to my cart tightly while trying to > maintain > some sense of "there is nothing wrong with me". > > To most, I look totally healthy. I was looking at the electric > carts > and drooling but I wouldn't get into one because I don't "look" > sick > and I know people will be thinking I'm just lazy. Isn't that awful???> At the same time, I get so confuddled in the stores anyways > because I > can't piece together where something would be anymore and I ask > for > help a lot in finding things. > > Plus, the worse thing is that we are such a small area and > everyone > knows me from my business. I had to stop and talk to at least > five > people and their interruptions sent me in the wrong direction > for the > next item. I was so flustered when I left and I'm sure I don't > have > half the stuff I need.> > Speaking of small towns, Akyba, I think I saw your hubby today. > Was > he in IM? Red van, right? > > Anyways, I'm going to take a nap...my body is telling me it's > way > over due.> > > > Please visit: http://www.bicycleman.com awesome guy, fantastic site. All types of bicyles, many recumbents; perfect for an MS Bike Tour!

[Guest guest]

Trista - in 2 years, no one has ever asked me *why* I was in the

riding cart. You must live in a nosy town!

It helps, I suppose, that by the time we get to town (an hour) I

wobble ... but people who see me sitting later in the store have no

clue that I wobbled in. Yet they don't ask.

And for the record? I have no lesions, so my dx is

officially " clinically probable MS " . that's what I'm hanging my SSI

application on. I don't bother clarifying the details for people who

don't understand them, I just say I have MS. My doctor & I both

beleive that, and there's no point in discussing my medical details

with random strangers (present company excepted!)

Amy

>

> You know girls, I can totally relate. Here is how my thinking

goes..............

> 1. Other people might need the cart more

> 2. Older people might need it more (I'm 36. This is crazy, because

most days the elderly could walk circles around me.)

> 3. I have " no dx " . (which isn't completely true, but if I say

possible MS,,people might ask more questions that I don't feel like

answering. If I say CFS/FM/MM.........still more questions.)

> 4. What if people wonder why I need a cart today, when just a few

days ago I could walk ok?

> 5. If I use it due to fatigue........ am I going to get some

annoying person trying to tell me they know how it feels to be

tired? NOT tired......fatigued.

> 6. If I use it because of fatigue........ am I going to get some

well meaning person that scolds me and says I need to be getting more

sleep, or should see the Dr. or have I tried Melatonin? lol. Yes,

it happened.

>

> Some days I am too prideful to use my cane when I need it. (I know

it's stupid) Yet, some days I use it when I don't need it, because I

don't want people to assume I'm " up for anything " , since I'm feeling

better. I am still learning. In the time I have been on this group

(a little over 2 years, maybe 2.5) I have learned so much from you

all. This is the place I can come to tell what's going on....... and

you " get it " . I get angry that I can't do what I want, when I want.

How dare my body not do what I want it to!? Yet, even through my

anger, I am thankful. I am thankful for the lessons I am learning on

this journey. No, I don't want to go through his, but I might as

well make the best of it, and be thankful for the blessings that come

with it. There are blessings.

>

> ~Trista~

> ********************************

> When the world says, " give up, "

> Hope whispers, " try it one more time. "

> Re: Sometimes we want to just be disabled!!!

>

>

>

> Gee, Mindy...Thanks for being brave enough to bring this up. You

really helped break the ice for me, and for some reason, I'm crying

right now...I can so totally relate to what you say here. For me,

also, with a younger sis with MS--who was dx'd 5 yrs before me--SHE

who bikes, works FT, is fit and trim--doesn't tell anyone she has MS!

Here I am using a cane most days. I keep saying to myself: use it or

lose it. Keep moving. Keep walking. Push yourself. However, I have

heard more about the notion of : PACE YOURSELF. and that spoon story

too. Like, if we were to bite the bullet, and yes, get into that

scooter to do our shopping--groceries or Walmart or wherever--would

we not have more energy at home for our family and kids? I am

confused also. One day...I don't know when...I might just make the

move. Get into one of those scooters and do my shopping...And then

what? See how it feels. AND, if anyone asks me--I might just say--I'm

finally learning to pace myself....And you know what, Mindy? Some

days I just take my cane--even if I don't really need it that day. I

think cause I don't " look sick " or, like I have MS either--and unlike

my sister, for some reason, I want people to know...AND...while I'm

on a roll I'll tell ya this!--when I work down in Tarrytown, NY at my

little nursery school job--if I don't have my cane--the cars don't

stop as often to let me cross the pedestrian crossing--but gee whiz--

have my cane? They stop on a dime for me! Go figure! So, there can be

perks with a cane! Again, I'm very, very happy you brought this topic

up. It is a real source of angst for me personally . bless you, kate

>

>

> > Now, I don't mean this to start another controversy. I am

> > totally

> > empathetic to those in a wheelchair.

> >

> > But for those of you that are not....do you ever wish sometimes

> > you

> > were just so you have an excuse? Maybe I'm just more vain

> > then I

> > realized. But today, I was doing my grocery shopping and I have

> > a

> > bad case of " concrete " legs and some heavy duty vibrating going

> > on in

> > my spinal chord (the nasueating kind). I was trying to walk

> > around

> > the store and holding on to my cart tightly while trying to

> > maintain

> > some sense of " there is nothing wrong with me " .

> >

> > To most, I look totally healthy. I was looking at the electric

> > carts

> > and drooling but I wouldn't get into one because I don't " look "

> > sick

> > and I know people will be thinking I'm just lazy. Isn't that

awful???

> > At the same time, I get so confuddled in the stores anyways

> > because I

> > can't piece together where something would be anymore and I ask

> > for

> > help a lot in finding things.

> >

> > Plus, the worse thing is that we are such a small area and

> > everyone

> > knows me from my business. I had to stop and talk to at least

> > five

> > people and their interruptions sent me in the wrong direction

> > for the

> > next item. I was so flustered when I left and I'm sure I don't

> > have

> > half the stuff I need.

> >

> > Speaking of small towns, Akyba, I think I saw your hubby today.

> > Was

> > he in IM? Red van, right?

> >

> > Anyways, I'm going to take a nap...my body is telling me it's

> > way

> > over due.

> >

> >

> >

> >

>

>

> Please visit: http://www.bicycleman.com

> awesome guy, fantastic site. All types of bicyles, many

recumbents; perfect for an MS Bike Tour!

>

[Guest guest]

What excellent advice, Tom! If only I could follow the advice of Henry Ford II and 'never complain'. It's so hard not to. hugs))Sharon "Happiness is not a destination. It is a method of life." -Burton Hills Re: Sometimes we want to just be disabled!!!

Gee, Mindy...Thanks for being brave enough to bring this up. You really helped break the ice for me, and for some reason, I'm crying right now...I can so totally relate to what you say here. For me, also, with a younger sis with MS--who was dx'd 5 yrs before me--SHE who bikes, works FT, is fit and trim--doesn' t tell anyone she has MS! Here I am using a cane most days. I keep saying to myself: use it or lose it. Keep moving. Keep walking. Push yourself. However, I have heard more about the notion of : PACE YOURSELF. and that spoon story too. Like, if we were to bite the bullet, and yes, get into that scooter to do our shopping--groceries or Walmart or wherever--would we not have more energy at home for our family and kids? I am confused also. One day...I don't know when...I might just make the move. Get into one of those scooters and do my shopping...And then what? See how it feels. AND, if anyone asks me--I might just say--I'm finally learning to pace myself....And you know what, Mindy? Some days I just take my cane--even if I don't really need it that day. I think cause I don't "look sick" or, like I have MS either--and unlike my sister, for some reason, I want people to know...AND.. .while I'm on a roll I'll tell ya this!--when I work down in Tarrytown, NY at my little nursery school job--if I don't have my cane--the cars don't stop as often to let me cross the pedestrian crossing--but gee whiz--have my cane? They stop on a dime for me! Go figure! So, there can be perks with a cane! Again, I'm very, very happy you brought this topic up. It is a real source of angst for me personally . bless you, kate> Now, I don't mean this to start another controversy. I am > totally > empathetic to those in a wheelchair.> > But for those of you that are not....do you ever wish sometimes > you > were just so you have an excuse? Maybe I'm just more vain > then I > realized. But today, I was doing my grocery shopping and I have > a > bad case of "concrete" legs and some heavy duty vibrating going > on in > my spinal chord (the nasueating kind). I was trying to walk > around > the store and holding on to my cart tightly while trying to > maintain > some sense of "there is nothing wrong with me". > > To most, I look totally healthy. I was looking at the electric > carts > and drooling but I wouldn't get into one because I don't "look" > sick > and I know people will be thinking I'm just lazy. Isn't that awful???> At the same time, I get so confuddled in the stores anyways > because I > can't piece together where something would be anymore and I ask > for > help a lot in finding things. > > Plus, the worse thing is that we are such a small area and > everyone > knows me from my business. I had to stop and talk to at least > five > people and their interruptions sent me in the wrong direction > for the > next item. I was so flustered when I left and I'm sure I don't > have > half the stuff I need.> > Speaking of small towns, Akyba, I think I saw your hubby today. > Was > he in IM? Red van, right? > > Anyways, I'm going to take a nap...my body is telling me it's > way > over due.> > > > Please visit: http://www.bicyclem an.com awesome guy, fantastic site. All types of bicyles, many recumbents; perfect for an MS Bike Tour!

Shape Yahoo! in your own image. Join our Network Research Panel today!

[Guest guest]

Mindy,

I so agree with you. I have been getting worse when I go to the store

like Walmart for example. It's a huge store and naturally you HAVE to

go to both sides of the store, not just the food side. Even with my

cane it's hard. I just lean on the shopping cart mostly until it gets

too heavy to push and then hubby takes over. Then I use my cane but

then my arm gets to hurting from the motion of constantly lifting my

cane!!!! Just can't win!!!!

It's worse now for some reason. If i sit too long my legs go numb. If

I stand too long, they go numb. I can't squat or kneel. If I do

anything with my hands for too long they go numb. It's a new sx. My

legs have been heavier lately. I don't know if it's from the heat or

what.

What's worse is I still haven't heard from my dr!!!!!! Getting very

frustrated. I called again just a while ago. Got a different person

for the 3rd time, told her the same thing and got the same

explanation from her. Still waiting. The dr. was excellent but this

is ridiculous. They faxed the results on Friday for cripes sake, how

long does it take to pull my file, put it on her desk and for her to

call me? GGGRRRRR!!!!

Oh well.

Hugs,

Peggy

>

> Now, I don't mean this to start another controversy. I am totally

> empathetic to those in a wheelchair.

>

> But for those of you that are not....do you ever wish sometimes you

> were just so you have an excuse? Maybe I'm just more vain then I

> realized. But today, I was doing my grocery shopping and I have a

> bad case of " concrete " legs and some heavy duty vibrating going on

in

> my spinal chord (the nasueating kind). I was trying to walk around

> the store and holding on to my cart tightly while trying to

maintain

> some sense of " there is nothing wrong with me " .

>

> To most, I look totally healthy. I was looking at the electric

carts

> and drooling but I wouldn't get into one because I don't " look "

sick

> and I know people will be thinking I'm just lazy. Isn't that

awful???

> At the same time, I get so confuddled in the stores anyways because

I

> can't piece together where something would be anymore and I ask for

> help a lot in finding things.

>

> Plus, the worse thing is that we are such a small area and everyone

> knows me from my business. I had to stop and talk to at least five

> people and their interruptions sent me in the wrong direction for

the

> next item. I was so flustered when I left and I'm sure I don't

have

> half the stuff I need.

>

> Speaking of small towns, Akyba, I think I saw your hubby today.

Was

> he in IM? Red van, right?

>

> Anyways, I'm going to take a nap...my body is telling me it's way

> over due.

>

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You're welcome to visit the coast of New England. I'm not far from Cape Cod, it's almost noon, and only 54 degrees. I wore a jacket when I left the house today and put the heat on in my car. It's also drizzling. Well, it technically still is spring. I will enjoy it while it lasts... Suemindythores wrote: Stay cool today everyone...it's already hot at 7:30am!!

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Mindy~

My husband is one of those types that parks as far away from the doors as possible. I usually don't mind, because I feel the walk will do me good. Even when I have to use a cane or something.

I'm still working on his priority process thinking. When it rains, he'll still park as far away from the doors as possible, and completely forgets that on those days it's a little harder for me to get around. Once, no maybe twice, he's actually let me off at the doors and I wait untill he parks the car.

God bless...Val

Sometimes we want to just be disabled!!!> > > > Now, I don't mean this to start another controversy. I am totally> > empathetic to those in a wheelchair.> >> > But for those of you that are not....do you ever wish sometimes you> > were just so you have an excuse? Maybe I'm just more vain then I> > realized. But today, I was doing my grocery shopping and I have a> > bad case of "concrete" legs and some heavy duty vibrating going on in> > my spinal chord (the nasueating kind). I was trying to walk around> > the store and holding on to my cart tightly while trying to maintain> > some sense of "there is nothing wrong with me".> >> > To most, I look totally healthy. I was looking at the electric carts> > and drooling but I wouldn't get into one because I don't "look" sick> > and I know people will be thinking I'm just lazy. Isn't that awful???> > At the same time, I get so confuddled in the stores anyways because I> > can't piece together where something would be anymore and I ask for> > help a lot in finding things.> >> > Plus, the worse thing is that we are such a small area and everyone> > knows me from my business. I had to stop and talk to at least five> > people and their interruptions sent me in the wrong direction for the> > next item. I was so flustered when I left and I'm sure I don't have> > half the stuff I need.> >> > Speaking of small towns, Akyba, I think I saw your hubby today. Was> > he in IM? Red van, right?> >> > Anyways, I'm going to take a nap...my body is telling me it's way> > over due.> >> >> >> >> >> >

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Peggy, I'm sorry to tell you this, but chances are, the disease, MS, is just getting worse. When I was walking, my legs just got heavier and heavier.......the feeling, not physically....I was not gaining weight. The heat, of course, make your condition worse, but the MS, most likely, make your legs worse and worse. It is not fun! Kathi

Mindy,I so agree with you. I have been getting worse when I go to the store like Walmart for example. It's a huge store and naturally you HAVE to go to both sides of the store, not just the food side. Even with my cane it's hard. I just lean on the shopping cart mostly until it gets too heavy to push and then hubby takes over. Then I use my cane but then my arm gets to hurting from the motion of constantly lifting my cane!!!! Just can't win!!!!It's worse now for some reason. If i sit too long my legs go numb. If I stand too long, they go numb. I can't squat or kneel. If I do anything with my hands for too long they go numb. It's a new sx. My legs have been heavier lately. I don't know if it's from the heat or what.What's worse is I still haven't heard from my dr!!!!!! Getting very frustrated. I called again just a while ago. Got a different person for the 3rd time, told her the same thing and got the same explanation from her. Still waiting. The dr. was excellent but this is ridiculous. They faxed the results on Friday for cripes sake, how long does it take to pull my file, put it on her desk and for her to call me? GGGRRRRR!!!!Oh well.Hugs,Peggy>> Now, I don't mean this to start another controversy. I am totally > empathetic to those in a wheelchair.> > But for those of you that are not....do you ever wish sometimes you > were just so you have an excuse? Maybe I'm just more vain then I > realized. But today, I was doing my grocery shopping and I have a > bad case of "concrete" legs and some heavy duty vibrating going on in > my spinal chord (the nasueating kind). I was trying to walk around > the store and holding on to my cart tightly while trying to maintain > some sense of "there is nothing wrong with me". > > To most, I look totally healthy. I was looking at the electric carts > and drooling but I wouldn't get into one because I don't "look" sick > and I know people will be thinking I'm just lazy. Isn't that awful???> At the same time, I get so confuddled in the stores anyways because I > can't piece together where something would be anymore and I ask for > help a lot in finding things. > > Plus, the worse thing is that we are such a small area and everyone > knows me from my business. I had to stop and talk to at least five > people and their interruptions sent me in the wrong direction for the > next item. I was so flustered when I left and I'm sure I don't have > half the stuff I need.> > Speaking of small towns, Akyba, I think I saw your hubby today. Was > he in IM? Red van, right? > > Anyways, I'm going to take a nap...my body is telling me it's way > over due.>

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That is so true, Tom, about the nervousness. Kathi

Trista,

Henry Ford II said it best......."Never Complain-Never Explain".

You know your body and feelings best. It is quite natural to feel self-conscious when first using any assistance device..........However, most people either do not notice or do not care. That nervousness is mostly just ourselves and our feelings. So forget about it and just do what is best for you.

Regards,

Tom

Re: Sometimes we want to just be disabled!!!

Gee, Mindy...Thanks for being brave enough to bring this up. You really helped break the ice for me, and for some reason, I'm crying right now...I can so totally relate to what you say here. For me, also, with a younger sis with MS--who was dx'd 5 yrs before me--SHE who bikes, works FT, is fit and trim--doesn't tell anyone she has MS! Here I am using a cane most days. I keep saying to myself: use it or lose it. Keep moving. Keep walking. Push yourself. However, I have heard more about the notion of : PACE YOURSELF. and that spoon story too. Like, if we were to bite the bullet, and yes, get into that scooter to do our shopping--groceries or Walmart or wherever--would we not have more energy at home for our family and kids? I am confused also. One day...I don't know when...I might just make the move. Get into one of those scooters and do my shopping...And then what? See how it feels. AND, if anyone asks me--I might just say--I'm finally learning to pace myself....And you know what, Mindy? Some days I just take my cane--even if I don't really need it that day. I think cause I don't "look sick" or, like I have MS either--and unlike my sister, for some reason, I want people to know...AND...while I'm on a roll I'll tell ya this!--when I work down in Tarrytown, NY at my little nursery school job--if I don't have my cane--the cars don't stop as often to let me cross the pedestrian crossing--but gee whiz--have my cane? They stop on a dime for me! Go figure! So, there can be perks with a cane! Again, I'm very, very happy you brought this topic up. It is a real source of angst for me personally . bless you, kate> Now, I don't mean this to start another controversy. I am > totally > empathetic to those in a wheelchair.> > But for those of you that are not....do you ever wish sometimes > you > were just so you have an excuse? Maybe I'm just more vain > then I > realized. But today, I was doing my grocery shopping and I have > a > bad case of "concrete" legs and some heavy duty vibrating going > on in > my spinal chord (the nasueating kind). I was trying to walk > around > the store and holding on to my cart tightly while trying to > maintain > some sense of "there is nothing wrong with me". > > To most, I look totally healthy. I was looking at the electric > carts > and drooling but I wouldn't get into one because I don't "look" > sick > and I know people will be thinking I'm just lazy. Isn't that awful???> At the same time, I get so confuddled in the stores anyways > because I > can't piece together where something would be anymore and I ask > for > help a lot in finding things. > > Plus, the worse thing is that we are such a small area and > everyone > knows me from my business. I had to stop and talk to at least > five > people and their interruptions sent me in the wrong direction > for the > next item. I was so flustered when I left and I'm sure I don't > have > half the stuff I need.> > Speaking of small towns, Akyba, I think I saw your hubby today. > Was > he in IM? Red van, right? > > Anyways, I'm going to take a nap...my body is telling me it's > way > over due.> > > > Please visit: http://www.bicycleman.com awesome guy, fantastic site. All types of bicyles, many recumbents; perfect for an MS Bike Tour!

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We have a chilly 64 here in NY ...And to think it was 91 and sticky humid just last wk! What part of the Cape are you? We adore N. Truro. Might just plan a long wk end there with the kids, but the prices are soaring there since we've been last there in the 80's...Love the bike path in the dunes too--just lovely! blessings, kate> You're welcome to visit the coast of New England. I'm not far > from Cape Cod, it's almost noon, and only 54 degrees. I wore a > jacket when I left the house today and put the heat on in my > car. It's also drizzling. Well, it technically still is > spring. I will enjoy it while it lasts...> > Sue> > mindythores wrote:> > Stay cool today everyone...it's already hot at 7:30am!!> > > > > > > ---------------------------------> Take the Internet to Go: Yahoo!Go puts the Internet in your > pocket: mail, news, photos & more. > Please visit: http://www.bicycleman.com

awesome guy, fantastic site. All types of bicyles, many recumbents; perfect for an MS Bike Tour!

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I'm not on the Cape - about 20 minutes west in a town called Fairhaven. I'm less than a mile from the water. Now that "Deadliest Catch" on the Discovery channel about the king crab fishing is over, they were doing a show on catching lobsters this weekend, and one of the boats was from my town. We're famous now.Suekatelloydkidz@... wrote: We have a chilly 64 here in NY ...And to think it was 91 and sticky humid just last wk! What part of the Cape are you? We adore N. Truro. Might just plan a long wk end there with the kids, but the prices are soaring there since we've been last there in the 80's...Love the bike path in the dunes too--just lovely! blessings, kate> You're welcome to visit the coast of New England. I'm not far > from Cape

Cod, it's almost noon, and only 54 degrees. I wore a > jacket when I left the house today and put the heat on in my > car. It's also drizzling. Well, it technically still is > spring. I will enjoy it while it lasts...> > Sue> > mindythores wrote:> > Stay cool today everyone...it's already hot at 7:30am!!> > > > > > > ---------------------------------> Take the Internet to Go: Yahoo!Go puts the Internet in your > pocket: mail, news, photos & more. > Please visit: http://www.bicycleman.com awesome guy, fantastic site. All types of bicyles, many recumbents; perfect for an MS Bike Tour! begin:vcardn:Rothschild;katefn:Kate Rothschildtel;cell:tel;home:914 762-8734tel;work:914 332-1943url:http://www.phil413.isagenix.com/org:http://www.allinonebusiness.net;Recharge Your Chiurl:http://www.phil413.isagenix.com/adr:;;;Ossining;NY;10562;USAemail;internet:katelloydkidz@...email;home;internet:katelloydkidz@...title:Associate and moving UP!version:2.1end:vcard

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