How can I help a friend whose spouse has severe MS?

[Hopingtohelp]

Hi all, I've just signed up to this forum. I'm not using names or gender for privacy reasons out of respect for my friend...
A friend of mine, their spouse is suffering from severe MS. They are now bed bound, with depression and many other issues. My friend is really struggling, they are physically and emotionally exhausted. Close friends and family are very supportive to them, which is great.
I work with this friend, work is respite for them, from my knowledge of MS...I know they are going through a really tough time. But obviously I can't even begin to really know what it is like for my friend.
So, I wanted to ask advice of spouses of those suffering severe MS...

What kind support would you like from your friends?
How can I make my friend's day a little easier?

Many Thanks.

[ElliotB]

Everyone's needs are different. You should probably ask them directly.

[lyndacarol]

I've just signed up to this forum....
A friend of mine, their spouse is suffering from severe MS. They are now bed bound, with depression and many other issues. My friend is really struggling, they are physically and emotionally exhausted. Close friends and family are very supportive to them, which is great.
I work with this friend, work is respite for them, from my knowledge of MS...I know they are going through a really tough time. But obviously I can't even begin to really know what it is like for my friend.
So, I wanted to ask advice of spouses of those suffering severe MS...

What kind support would you like from your friends?
How can I make my friend's day a little easier?

Welcome to ThisIsMS, Hopingtohelp. As the banner says at the top of the page, we are here to support patients, caregivers, and affected loved ones – and you (as someone who obviously loves a friend in a difficult situation) certainly qualify, in my opinion. We are here for you, too.

Although your questions were directed to "spouses of those suffering MS" and, in my relationship, I am the one with MS, I think my suggestions are still valid:

Within the Life forum (http://www.thisisms.com/forum/life-f48/) we have many subforums, which might offer suggestions for ways to support your friends. (Or posting questions in the General Discussion also works.)

ElliotB is correct: asking directly is always a good idea.… To which I would add: be available – to listen, to offer thoughts and conversation about "normal" life, to show that you are a faithful friend (with maybe an occasional note, card,… plate of brownies – any little thing to show they are in your thoughts). Could you arrange an occasional lunch as a treat for your friend at work – bring an extra sacklunch, or go out for a sandwich?

Because you have made the effort to find us and ask, I suspect you are thoughtful and doing all these things already. Please visit us regularly, we welcome any questions you might have. You might even share your discovery of ThisIsMS with your friend. We wish you all the best.

[Hopingtohelp]

Hi,

Thanks everyone for your feedback, I really appreciate it. I will keep an eye out for useful info.
Again,
Thanks so much for taking to time to reply.