Comments on: THANKFUL For That Which Makes Me Strong – How MS Made Me Stronger

By: Independence and Asking for “Help” | Matt's Multiple Sclerosis

Independence and Asking for “Help” | Matt's Multiple Sclerosis — Tue, 23 Aug 2016 02:06:34 +0000

[…] THANKFUL For That Which Makes Me Strong – How MS Made Me Stronger […]

By: Meg

Meg — Sat, 30 Nov 2013 16:24:08 +0000

In reply to Matt Alleng. Thanks Matt! Have a great day and remember to ask for help...damn it :)

By: Matt Alleng

Matt Alleng — Sat, 30 Nov 2013 16:21:42 +0000

I am the same way with the “help thing”, I think most of us are. First I thought it was just my stubborn personality but then I thought about it… well… I was not wrong, but I also figured out something else after a while. IT IS the fact that we have lost some of our independence, at least for me. I was always very independent and then to have to start relying on others for HELP with simple tasks? That was hard… It still is sometimes ESPECIALLY when you are stubborn like me. Example; On Thanksgiving I was sitting at the table and everyone got up to make their plates. I just sat there and was waiting for the crowd to clear. I was about to ask my mother to help me make a plate so I wouldn’t drop it but before I could ask, my father asked if I wanted help. THEN my stubbornness kicked in and I said “no, I’m fine, I’m just waiting for the crowd to clear” and I got up and made my plate on my own EVEN THOUGH I was just about to ask for help. I guess I am still sensitive about *admitting* I may need help and even though I know that is a bad thing, it’s hard to give up that bit of independence. I liked this post, it brings up an important issue for those with MS and even to those who know someone with MS who are trying to understand why their loved one with MS won’t ask for help. I think I will share it on my blog today, I’ll post a link later as I will keep the conversation going there as well, thanks!

By: Meg

Meg — Sat, 30 Nov 2013 04:36:44 +0000

In reply to Sherri. Hugs to you Sherri. And rest assured I wouldn't offer to hold your plate or open a d door for u:)

By: Sherri

Sherri — Sat, 30 Nov 2013 04:34:33 +0000

I hate asking for help and I won’t do it unless I really have no other choice available. I lived most of my adult life alone and was fiercely independent. I still am. At least in my mind ha!

I think what irks me though, are those times when people assume I need help. A hand reaching out for me to balance with, “can i make your plate for you?”, or people rushing to get something for me or opening doors, and on and on and on.

I want to keep doing for myself. I have to keep doing for myself.

I hope you are doing well today 🙂