Can Multiple Sclerosis Patient, Parent a Child?

Can Multiple Sclerosis Patient, Parent a Child?

Formerly when a woman is diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, the doctor will counsel against setting up a family. But the advance of science and medications as well as greater understanding of multiple sclerosis let many in the medical profession to acknowledge that a person with the illness can bear children and are able to cope with the debilitating disease.

Multiple sclerosis can let you raise more than one child but for that, you need to take a inner look at yourself and how you handle multiple sclerosis. There is certainly a necessity to plan ahead and organize your life to take care of the growth and health of the children.

Do not attempt to take it all by yourself as raising a family can be trying even for parents without multiple sclerosis. Planning your time sensibly is important and as looking after children can be draining, tries to ration your energy so that you can experience the day without feeling exhausted. When you are energetic, put aside time to play with your children but at other times, when you need to rest more, have quiet activities with your child.

Children are very alert and perceptive, so when the time is right, explain to them your condition as they are young and very receptive. As multiple sclerosis set in, at times there is a need to explain to your children that you need time to deal with it and may affect whatever plans you have with them. Activities can be rescheduled but seek their understanding and perhaps set aside the time for other more sedate activities such as reading, etc. When you take the time to explain to your child, it can be helpful and not lead to misinterpretation.

Multiple sclerosis needs not be a life sentence as there are still many things you can do as long as you learn to plan ahead. Your time with your children is very precious and for other errands that can be put aside to a later date, learns to do it and spend your time sensibly. Put aside time to run errands and other important things but do not overdo it. When you are involved with energy exhausting task, do a simpler and less energy sapping one next so that you can conserve and not excessively fatigued.

Always inculcate in your child the need to be caring, considerate and accepting of those with disabilities. Children with multiple sclerosis parents tend to grow up to be more conscientious, affectionate and caring adults.

This touching mini documentary is about Dan Powell, an art professor at University of Oregon who is living with MS. We interviewed him and his wife about what they go though to try to keep a normal life.
Video Rating: 4 / 5