First of all, don't feel you need to apologize for your feelings or
frustrations or for sharing them. That's part of what this list is here for.
Secondly, I think you struck a chord with many of us, as we have experienced
many of the same things.
One problem with spinal cord illnesses and injuries is that recovery is VERY
unpredictable. NO ONE can say how much recovery you'll experience -- it is a
very much wait-and-see while you work at it kind of thing. One of the most
frustrating things about TM is the seemingly two-steps-forward-one-back aspect
of recovery.I don't exactly know why it's like that, but it is. A particular
symptom that seems to have subsided may spring up on you unawares out of the
blue another day. A period of great days may be followed by a period of bad
days. Some of those not-so-great days can be predictable: illness, fatigue,
lack of rest contribute sometimes. Other times we just don't know why symptoms
flare up. We kind of have to learn to roll with the punches, so to speak.
It might help to sit down with your loved ones and let them know that, while a
positive, encouraging attitude on their part is helpful, too-high expectations
can be discouraging. They need to learn to roll with the punches with you.
Maybe you can print out some of the responses you've received to let them
read. Remember this is new territory for them, too -- just be honest with
them.
I think the dr. who said he expected a full recovery may have meant well, may
have thought he was planting positive thoughts, but he was not being
responsible to say that, especially without even knowing or having seen you --
maybe he was just misinformed, himself.
Best wishes, Jo! Let us know how it is going.
Barbara H.