This Is MS Multiple Sclerosis Community: Knowledge & Support

[apolline]

Hello everyone,

I don't have MS myself, but my sister does. She's having a very hard time with it and no one else in my family seems to be supportive or giving her what she needs. I'm her younger sister and I actually had been needing HER help (For example, I can't drive, and my father has my car that is 2 hours away and won't bring it to me), and now I've been doing my best to make it so I don't, so that it's less stess on her.

I decided to join this forum so that I can read about how others are dealing with MS, and hopefully find some tips or some encouraging things to say or do for my sister, because it's tearing me up that I feel so helpless.

[lyndacarol]

Welcome, apolline; we are glad you found us and have joined us. I admire your willingness to be supportive of your sister.

As a person with MS, I encourage your sister (through you) to find compassionate doctors, establish a baseline with a thorough physical exam and MANY blood tests (including cortisol test, tests for all thyroid hormones, fasting blood INSULIN test, test for vitamin D level – get to know jimmylegs here; she has good suggestions for other tests), and keep copies of all these test results in her own file. I urge you and your sister to eat a healthy diet and exercise as possible – a healthy lifestyle is important.

Try to remain optimistic – most of us here think the answers to MS will be found soon. Ask any questions; most of us are not scientists, but we are willing to share our ideas. All the best to you and your sister.

[koopico]

Hi Apolline--welcome!
Sorry to hear that your family's not being supportive of your sister, but I'm so glad she has YOU!

Lyndacarol gave some great advice--and like she said, feel free to post any questions you have.

There are a couple of books that might be helpful for your sister to read, that are written with a positive tone, and aren't "clinical":

"MS & Your Feelings" --by Allison Shadday
http://www.amazon.com/MS-Your-Feelings- ... 470&sr=8-1


The Multiple Sclerosis Manifesto--by Julie Stachowiak
http://www.amazon.com/Multiple-Sclerosi ... 817&sr=8-1


Stay as positive as you can--I wish you and your sis the best!