When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I chose not to share things with other people because I didn't think they wanted to hear or I didn't think they would understand. I would answer questions simply are rarely offer extra information.
My conversations with people about MS were more frustrating. Most people aren't educated about what MS does. I wouldn't have known anything if I hadn't done research when my dad was diagnosed.
I was becoming less gracious with people's statements to me. I know they cared and didn't know what to say. I think I was frustrated because they didn't listen, not because they didn't know what to say.
I would explain that I would begin medication soon. I explained that the medication's purpose was to keep away new episodes like the one I had. It doesn't make me better. The most common response was, "You'll feel better when you get your medication." I had to stop talking. They didn't hear me. They didn't listen to what I was sharing. They asked, but didn't listen.
My heart would sink every time. I had to stop talking. I just wanted them to hear my answer to their question. I wanted to have the conversation they started.
I've accepted these things, but I hope that we can stop and hear those around us. If we don't understand, ask a few more questions and listen to the answer. Let that person know that you value their story enough to hear it.
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