"Maintaining sanity" is something probably easier said than done, more so when you have MS. I've had it now for years and even though most days are ok there are days when you do all you can do and still don't seem to be able to maintain your sanity.

It happens right from the start. You go through all the tests for it. To get to the "final" diagnosis they have to rule out a whole bunch of other things it could be. Like Lupus or West Nile or any of a hundred other things. The bad part through all of it is that you get test results that come back "normal" or "negative." To so many people that would be considered good news but when there is something wrong with you and you know it down to the core of your being there is something wrong those words can cut like a knife. So then you finally get your diagnosis and then comes dealing with the hand you've just been dealt. Here is where "maintaining sanity" kicks in.

You can handle the hand you just got dealt in a couple of different ways. You can accept it and do your best to put your best foot forward and keep on going or you can choose to curl up and cry. The choice is up to you. Either you can go around with a positive attitude or you can sit and wallow in self-pity. The choice is entirely up to you.

I myself chose to take the positive approach to it. Sitting around crying about it doesn't change a thing. Getting involved and getting out like always and doing the same things you did before the fatal phone call or you can sit and cry. Here is where I issue my word of warning....sitting there crying about it isn't going to change a thing so you might as well put on your big girl/boy pants and deal with it,

The other thing you have to remember is YOU are your own best advocate. Stand up for yourself with the doctors. Don't let them run over you. Stay up to date on everything and do the research for yourself and don't rely on others to get it to you. Plant your feet firmly on the ground and stick with your convictions. No one not even the doctor can tell you exactly how it feels. You have to make the decision to maintain your level of sanity and don't take no for an answer!