Debra's Story About MS and Alcohol
My biggest give to date was hanging up my car keys for the last time. I am an independent spirit, and I love driving. I’ve driven a stick shift all my life and owned a nice little Ninja 250 motorcycle.
I savored the times I spent riding alongside the ocean or across the state where the star-filled night sky was uninterrupted by city lights.
A year or so back, I started to make poor choices in judgment while driving. I was scaring myself with close calls and hesitations. I found myself to be in a state of confusion at the wheel.
I tried to ignore the realization that highway speed now scared the heck out of me. Admittedly, I was becoming a danger not only to myself but others around me. My neurologist agreed — I no longer had the cognitive ability to judge space and navigate at high speeds.
I voluntarily gave up driving. I became depressed over having this part of life taken away from me. I sought out some consolation — few drinks at night seemed to do the trick.
It dulled the self-absorbed pain I was in. With a drink or two, I could forget, at least for a while, that MS was not going away.
The Reality
My doctor informed me that one medication I was prescribed was interacting horribly with my increased alcohol intake. The cravings and increased side effects I experienced were attributed to this bad combination.
I had been diagnosed with a spastic bladder months ago. Alcohol is a diuretic. I didn’t need to be a rocket scientist to put two and two together once I pulled my head out of the sand.
MSers are susceptible to depression. Alcohol is a depressant. It is no wonder I was spiraling down into an unhealthy place.
The Fix
I can certainly say drinking became a very unhealthy habit. I look back at my choices now, and I am floored at how I just ignored the obvious.
I was causing harm because I never checked with a doctor and I never considered the consequences of my actions. I decided to stop drinking altogether to re-evaluate my situation.
I sought out quieter, simpler environments for a while. I began to stretch and exercise more. I made time to watch movies and treated myself to a few minor indulgences like a great cup of coffee or time spent tending my garden.
I would no longer fly off haphazardly to avoid my situation. I gave myself a break — I was good to myself.
Libation, Celebration — or Medication
With MS, we need to remain keenly aware of our choices and what their consequences might be. I no longer drink for any reason other than for life’s celebrations.
When offered a glass of spirits, I think before I drink. I draw the line and limit sensibly. I drink plenty of water. I stay in control of my faculties.
Checking in with myself whenever I consider having a drink has kept me on a very healthy, happy path. Reflect and think for yourself how you feel once the party is over.
With the right information and a clear head, I eventually took control. Luckily, I stopped before I damaged my health or compromised the well-being of others. Just like I put the car keys away, I stopped excessive drinking.
Silver Lining
My car keys remain hung on the hook by the front door. They are no longer a sad reminder of lost independence and enjoyment — they have become a symbol for choosing right action.
We all steer our ships when it comes to MS. We will hit some storms and choppy weather along the way. If we remain vigilant and balanced and take care of ourselves both physically and spiritually, we can get through just about anything.
