Multiple Sclerosis Success Story
Posted on Wed, Feb 10, 2010 @ 01:14 PM
submitted by Cindy B. of Maryville, MO
I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) in October 2002. At that time, Dr. Rowe said it appeared that I have had MS for about 20 years. Some people like me are relieved when we are given the diagnosis of MS. I was shocked, but relieved at the same time. I finally found a doctor who "listened" and saw how I was feeling. For 20 plus years I was misdiagnosed. I felt like a guinea pig.
Various doctors told me I was just depressed. I felt like my symptoms were all in my head. I became angry and irritable. I had been diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome; Lyme disease; fibromyalgia; inner ear infection because of balance problems; arthritis, depression and the list goes on. Who wouldn't be depressed?!
I was so relieved to find out what and why I wasn't feeling well. I eventually had to stop working as an LPN because of my poor balance, severe weakness and fatigue. I had to give up driving because of optic neuritis and poor peripheral vision. I had severe headaches and my body hurt so much it would put me in tears. I began falling more frequently, had tremors and began dropping things. I also had to give up babysitting.
My ophthalmologist questioned me..."Has anyone mentioned you might have MS?" He referred me to my neurologist, Dr. Rowe.
After I was diagnosed, I was put on Avonex and physical therapy. I'm happy to say, I've been able to volunteer at a school for 20 years now and I love it. They are very supportive and understanding when I am sick with a relapse or just don't feel good. I have a hard time knowing when I've done enough, and over done,until my body tells me so.
I would like to suggest to those of us who have MS to try some type of volunteer work, if at all possible. We don't have to let MS stop us from being a useful and worthwhile person.
Even though my MS has been progressing, I still work at school. I am having to cut back. Some days, or weeks, I can't go at all. I feel that volunteering gives me a sense of purpose. What works for one person doesn't always work for other.
I owe a big Thank You to my neurologist, Dr. Rowe and his team for all they continue to do for me. Because of them and medications, I am able to keep going - just one day, one hour at a time. Don't give up!!
Cindy also provided helpful information about transportation for those on Medicaid. In Missouri, contact Logisticare at 1-866-269-5927 http://www.logisticare.com/home.asp Before you call, have the following information ready:
Your name
Your address
Your Medicaid number
Date & time of your appointment
Doctor's name & type of doctor
Doctor's address and phone number
There is a $2.00 copay. Driver's cannot ask you for the co-pay if you can't pay it. Call at least three business days in ahead. Logisticare will set you up with the transportation company closest to you. Driver will call you the day before your trip to let you know who is picking you up and what time they will pick you up.
If you have someone that can take you to your appointment, call Logisticare BEFORE the appointment to get gas reimbursement. They will send you a form to fill out so that you can reimburse your driver for gas.