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For those of you who don’t already know, I am from Oregon. Jackie is from Michigan. So we’ve got a bit of distance between us. Thanks to the wonders of the internet, I felt like I knew her long before we got to meet, but as she mentioned my visit to Michigan was our first time getting to chill in like, real life. So my visit to Michigan was a blast. Having the opportunity to hang out with Jackie was amazing, and she was even more rad than I could have hoped. I feel so fortunate to have been able to actually spend time with someone else who is living with MS. I think there is so much to say about this sense of community that is out there in regards to MS or any other chronic illness, and being able to really connect with other people who have a much better handle on what you're going through not only physically but emotionally. Duh, like we haven't all said this before, but I guess I felt the need to re-state. I am closing in on one year since my diagnosis, and while I know I'd still be trucking along even without the MS community that I have found, I don't like to imagine that scenario. It was huge for me to spend some real time with Jackie, whose friendship has been life changing and irreplaceable. After five days of hanging out with this lady, I definitely came home with more of a "can do" attitude. Getting through the two solid days of travel made me feel like way more of a tough chick than I generally give myself credit for, and we did plenty of walking and hanging out in the elements...and I didn't die!! Anyway this trip was totally therapeutic...some good girl time, a chance to step out of my comfort zone, and a reevaluation of what I am physically capable (which is again, more than I give myself credit for). All around awesomeness. I am already making plans for Jackie's visit to Oregon this summer! She's totally gonna go home a tree-hugger. 

So speaking of therapy...it was a month or more ago that I made the appointment to start seeing a therapist, and tonight is my first appointment. Finally. I have definitely had some highs and lows over the last few months, but especially since my visit to see Jackie I have been thinking that I seriously don't need to the therapy after all. I am feeling pretty a-ok in the emotions department, but I know how quickly that can all go to shit. So, I'm trying to remember that even though I'm not in the depths of despair anymore, and I don't currently feel like punching everyone I know in the face...it's gonna be a good thing. Here’s to my therapist being as fucking awesome as Jackie’s.



 


Comments

punkrockfairy

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 14:31:44

I'm insanely jealous that you guys have each other. I'm not being a spoiled brat- I know I'm very lucky to have a rad husband and awesome friends. I do not, however, know anyone else with MS (or any thing comparable) that is even remotely similar to me or close to my age at least. And not to discount the e-friendship of other bloggers, but I don't think it's the same as what you two have. You guys are lucky... take good care of each other.

 



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