Changing Routine

By Lauren Kovacs

I was employed outside the home years ago, but I chose to stay home when I started my family.  Just when I was ready to go back, after 12 years, the MS had other plans.  Routines and MS are a must, for me now.  I love routine!  I can’t do “last minute Lucy” or be spontaneous.

I have the same foods for breakfast and lunch.  This helps me keep my bowel routine.  If I have not gone potty that morning, I rarely leave the house. Staying close to my diet is tough, when away from home.  I love junk food.  Gosh, I love it.  I really love gluten too.

I nap at the same time everyday. Even my dog knows when naptime is.  I schedule everything before noon.  Even Provigil let’s me sleep.  Routines are essential.

You do have to bend the routine at times, however.  Just make sure you have a plan, if your routine takes an unexpected turn.  Knowing ahead of time what to do, if your routine is pushed off a cliff or thrown into a muddy ditch.

A recent two-day beach trip left me for dead. I knew the MS sharks would circle the chum, but I did not have a plan.  I ate out and while it was tasty, the gluten boat threw me in with the chum.  More MS sharks circled.

It took days of fatigue, tears, stomach issues and fights with other germs to come out on top.  I conquered the mountain.  When I only needed one nap a day, I knew the current was changing.

Two weeks later I was still in bed by 8pm but, my three boys had a blast so, it was worth it.  I still was face down in the bed trying to get a nap.  Alas, I was finally able get into the bed and didn’t need to sleep on the floor.

MS is not glamorous.  Have plan B and C.  Routines are wonderful, but have a back up plan or two or three.  Being thrown off a cliff might seem ok, if you can climb up.  Once you make it to the edge safely, then what?  Don’t think that because you feel ok that you are.

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The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA) is a national nonprofit organization and leading resource for the entire MS community, improving lives today through vital services and support. MSAA provides free programs and services, such as: a Helpline with trained specialists; award-winning publications, including, The Motivator; MSAA’s nationally recognized website, featuring educational videos, webinars, and research updates; a mobile phone app, My MS Manager™; safety and mobility equipment products; cooling accessories for heat-sensitive individuals; MRI funding; My MSAA Community, a peer-to-peer online support forum; MS Conversations blog; a clinical trial search tool; podcasts; and more. For additional information, please visit www.mymsaa.org or call (800) 532-7667.

Comments

  • Mark Anderson says:

    I have had this disease for about 2 years now. I was very depressed
    at first. Now have taken Copaxone daily for about 1+1/2 years and recently started Copaxone 3x week routine and enjoy it much better.
    Most of all though, I don’t know what future this disease holds for me
    but I know my Lord will hold me thru it and help me thru whatever
    obstacles I encounter most of all.

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