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Real members of MyMSTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Who Do You Tell?

A MyMSTeam Member asked a question šŸ’­
Lafayette, LA

I am curious, how do you decide who you tell that you have MS? I was diagnosed this week. I did let my siblings know and one friend. It feels so lonely....however, I don't want people to think I am using it as an "excuse". Wondering how all of you find that balance. I'm not going to let MS define me. I have decided that....at the same time I am terrified. Thank you all for the support.

February 19, 2015
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A MyMSTeam Member

I told EVERYBODY when I was dx. I don't bore them with details but they have a idea why I sometimes walk funny have short term memory loss and don't follow conversation well etc. MS is the reason why I'm the way I am so I say IT IS an "excuse". I stay socially active and don't crawl in a cave and hid out. I and the people around me have accepted the fact "it is what it is" and I will have MS the rest of my life. Life is short but can be very long and miserable if you let MS dictate you world.
I wish you well, my friend xoxo

February 19, 2015
A MyMSTeam Member

I'm 72 and use a cane; need-to-know basis worked for me. Employers are usually afraid to ask the nature of your disability. Walk or ride into a job interview, don't mention ms, and let them know what you can and will do for them. It worked for me.

February 20, 2015
A MyMSTeam Member

I tell people when they help me up after I've fallin down!!

February 21, 2015
A MyMSTeam Member

@A MyMSTeam Member It is a bit terrifying when the diagnosis is fresh. The last thing I thought I had was MS when I started to have synptoms of "something." I think you should do what feels comfortable right now as far as revealing anything.

February 21, 2015
A MyMSTeam Member

MS is not an excuse it is reality. If you are honest with people they will be more understanding of your limitations. It took me 6months before I told too many but when the sympons started to show I found it harder on me to keep it to myself without feeling guilty for not being able to do things. Now when people people ask 'ohh did you get hurt' when they see me with my cane I tell them no I have MS.

February 21, 2015

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