I definitely need some emotional support. Physically, I am doing pretty well. The disease has not really limited me in any way yet. I have had fasciculations for years and never thought anything of it. I have experienced weakness in my legs for a few years, but attributed it to getting older. The fasciculations are getting much worse and I notice my voice gets weak sometimes. I exercise regularly and feel well, even upbeat most of the time. For a while I saw very little progression and was beginning to hope I was misdiagnosed. But I seem to be noticing subtle changes almost daily. It really scares me. I don’t know how I can emotionally handle giving up control of my muscles and be unable to take care of myself. I know that I will have to deal with it, so will try my best to stay positive.
The problem is that it’s hard to talk to family and friends about it. I get the impression that some of them think that accepting my diagnosis is giving in and giving up. And perhaps I will want to give up at some point. I have been told that I need to have faith to expect a miracle. I believe in miracles and would love to have one, but I think I need to be realistic. I don’t want people preaching to me. I don’t want people telling me I have to remain positive all the time. I don’t want people pushing their herbal remedies and supplements on me.
I guess they are just in denial at this point.
I know many of you probably have it much worse. And guessing everyone goes through this.
T