MS Doesn't Stop Whiskers
I love to go outside on a sunny day as long as it isn't too hot. My husband always comments on how nice I look, because he knows he’d better. But he says he can see more "things" in the sunlight, which isn't necessarily a good thing – especially in public.
He sometimes chooses to look me over when we're in the middle of a bunch of people, and he never hesitates to point out something I didn't have when I was young. For example, my whiskers.
I am postmenopausal. Ladies, you know what that means. If you're not there yet, you will be in time. And my husband points out these unavoidable whiskers.
It wouldn't be so bad if it weren't for the fact that he whips out his trusty pocketknife and pulls out the little tweezers. He then manually moves my head around in every direction possible in order to catch just the right light, so my whiskers show very obviously. Keep in mind that he does this in public, usually surrounded by a fairly large crowd people.
In all honesty, I have to admit – not only do I have whiskers on my face but on my upper lip and neck as well. What a sight I must be sitting in my wheelchair and having my head twisted, turned and manipulated while my husband stares at me intently, looking for things that don’t belong. Unfortunately, MS doesn't stop aging or whiskers!
Choose to Be a Survivor
Regardless of your age, you must determine to be a survivor. Take one day at a time, conquer it, and move on to the next. Don't let your situation get the best of you. There is more than likely someone who is in worse shape than you are.
I found all of this to be true during my experiences while undergoing chemotherapy following my mastectomy. Doctors, nurses and patients that I met during treatment couldn't quite figure me out.
My husband and I often found ourselves giggling during treatment over one thing or another. We look at it this way – why allow yourself to bring others down with your attitude and demeanor? It doesn't accomplish anything.
If you ask me, the keys to happily living with MS are:
- Surrounding yourself with upbeat people.
- Making a list of blessings you experience daily.
- Allowing yourself and others to make mistakes.
- Keeping a journal of your experiences, both good and bad.
- Making a conscious effort to find humor in things. It helps you keep a smile on your face and a twinkle in your eyes. People won't be able to help but wonder what you're up to.
