This site is for US residents only. Not a US resident?
Brett’s Blog: A Peer’s Perspective on MS
Meet Brett, husband, father, and PGA professional golfer living with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) since 1995. Brett knows firsthand what it takes to live with a chronic illness.
Blog Posts
When you sign up below, you’ll be notified by e-mail when Brett updates his blog with tips, advice, and his thoughts on living with MS. You’ll get to know Brett and how he takes control of living with MS to make MS a part of his life, rather than be his life.
Brett has walked in your shoes; his goal is to share what inspires him to get out of bed every day and do what he loves—spend time with his wife and son, work at and enjoy a rewarding, gratifying profession, and meeting and talking with people like you who are living with MS.
Words of Wisdom For Newly Diagnosed Patients
As I mentioned in an earlier piece, I experienced an almost-paralyzing shock followed by a wave of pure terror upon learning the results of the numerous tests I had endured. A future with a large question mark hanging over it was a hard thing to stomach as I felt the rules had been changed in the middle of the game. I did not know what was in store for me, either now, next year or in ten years. Keep in mind, when I was diagnosed it was a few years before the Internet became a common part of everyday life, so there were no 'instant answers.'
Doing your homework is only one piece of the puzzle. Keep a pad and pen handy to jot down any thoughts, questions and concerns you may have. And bringing it with you to your medical appointments is another. It's important to feel comfortable with your healthcare team so you can be frank when discussing treatment options. They will play a major role in your life. Speaking with others who have MS or joining a support group can be another great comfort shortly after diagnosis.
I'll be honest—there is no 'one size fits all' formula that works for everybody. This is the time where your support network—namely friends and family—will be there for you. But there are some things that are universal. These include maintaining a positive attitude and outlook, following the advice of your doctor and not allowing MS to define who you are. It's worked for me and it should work for you as well. I'm living proof.
Sign up to be notified by e-mail when a new post has been added to A Peer's Perspective.
Posted: March 2013
