In February 2003 I had been suffering from numbness throughout the left side of my body for two years. The muscles in my face drooped which really effected my confidence. I had been to the doctor several times over a two year period complaining about constant colds, viruses and numbness and this was put down to stress and displayed no concern. The fact that no answers were given to me or possible causes investigated caused me so much stress that my illness accelerated to a point where I collapsed in agony at 2AM one very cold and dark morning. I was contracting away from home and was sure I was dying as I lay on the floor waiting for family to come and rescue me...
Within 2 weeks of my initial collapse I was diagnosed with MS. Yes, a mere 2 weeks as I was willing to throw any amount of money in to find a possible cause and solution. It breaks my heart to think that others have been waiting for diagnosis for up to 2 years and can imagine their frustration. I had used Cannabis recreationally for 20 years and had no idea it had such powerful medicinal properties. At first it was just a way of relieving stress but when I ran out it became clear that it was essential to a happy existence.
MS is very effected by strsses of any kind from a loud noise to stubbing a toe. It's hard to explain to a healthy person how difficult even the simplest task can be. I tried to carry on working but only lasted a couple of months. I am no longer reliable enough to be classed as employable as many mornings I can't get out of bed. It's as simlple as that. I am trying though and hope to work part time from home soon. I hate relying on benifits.
These days I support every medi user that expresses a need and even those who don't. My illness has turned me into a generous and empathetic person thay I much prefer from the old money grabbing me. It may seem odd to some but I would not change my illness for anything. I'd just be selfish and unhappy as I now realise I truly was.
And yes, I am willing to fight this prohibition to the very end. There are too manty people suffering for me not to.
