Carol says -
In her past jobs, she didn't openly talk about her Multiple Sclerosis (MS) because she wasn't sure if she should admit she had a disability. She was worried about how people might treat her if they knew.
Sometimes, when you look perfectly healthy, people might still judge you. Before her physical limitations were obvious, Carol had an "invisible illness," and she wondered if she had to act sicker than she was just to prove she had MS. This was especially tough at work. So, she acted like everything was okay, and she put all her energy into her job, leaving her recovery for the weekends. But she realized it wasn't fair that her job got all her best energy.
Carol had to go to therapy and talk to her bosses a lot. In every new job, she eventually told her boss about her MS, but not right away. It took a few months in each job for her to open up.
When she talks about MS with others, Carol likes to call it a "dynamic disability." She lets people know when she's feeling good and when her mobility is not so great. In her current job, her bosses are very understanding. They even let her decide if she wants to come to in-person meetings, which she really appreciates.
But in her past jobs, Carol had some problems, like not getting proper parking for disabled people. There are ways to get help for people with MS, but the process can be a bit complicated and not always easy to understand. However, there are steps you can take.
Carol's advice is, "If you don't ask, you don't get." She believes that the worst thing that can happen if you ask for something is that someone might say no. But even if they do, you can still feel good about standing up for yourself. This means you have a choice when it comes to your energy, your boundaries, your work-life balance, your health, your doctor, and the people in your life.
Some people naturally know how to help without being told, but most people appreciate some guidance. The support you get at work might be different from the support you get from your family or friends, but most people are willing to offer some help if they know what you need.
Carol believes that there are some truly remarkable people in the world who instinctively know how to be supportive, but most folks simply need a bit of direction. The kind of support you receive at work might not be the same as the support from your family or friends, but many people have the ability to offer something helpful if they understand your needs.
It's important to be proactive when it comes to managing a dynamic disability like MS. Don't be afraid to speak up and ask for the accommodations or support you require. You have a say in how you manage your energy, set your boundaries, balance your work and personal life, take care of your health, choose your doctors, and surround yourself with the right people.
In summary, Carol's experience with MS has taught her the importance of being open about her condition, advocating for her needs, and seeking the support she requires. By communicating openly with her employers and colleagues, she has been able to create a work environment that respects her needs and allows her to balance her health and professional life effectively. Her motto, "If you don't ask, you don't get," is a reminder that advocating for yourself is a crucial step in managing a dynamic disability like MS and ensuring you get the help and accommodations you need.
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