Hey RLR,

Sorry for this post being off topic, but I wanted to know a few things about what I am about to post.  

I found out today that my stepfather may have Multiple Sclerosis. The doctors did an MRI on him because he has had nagging back issues for a few years - job related injury - and they found signs of MS. All I know about MS comes from the few people I used to see around when I worked in a rehabilitation center, and to be honest I'm worried for my stepfather. I don't want to see him deteriorate, and become wheel-chair bound, like the people I've encountered.

I realize that you can't diagnose this over the internet, and I'm not looking for anything like that. I am only looking for advice as to what my family may, or may not, be getting into.

On a personal note; I'm pretty enraged over this. I don't know how MS will affect him, but I am told by my mother what he has isn't that bad. How? I've seen people who have MS and they can't do anything on their own anymore - They end up in crappy homes because their family won't take on the responsibility that comes with it. I can't see my stepfather ending up like that. I realize sh*t happens in life, but what the hell?

I hope he can cope with this. I see him now and he seems fine and active. He's still young at 47. MS can be dealt with right? Drugs, rehab, anything?

I'm being over dramatic. I just hope he can get through this and live a good life.

Thanks RLR. I'll keep you posted.