"Multiple Sclerosis: A Guide for the Newly Diagnosed" by Nancy J. Holland, T. Jock Murray, and Stephen C. Reingold

Second Edition, Published 2002 by Demos Medical Publishing; 133 pages including resources.

$14.93 at Amazon

Reviewed by LizOP
MSWorld Book Reviewer

Anyone who has received the diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis remembers the day well. Some remember the actual date, time, place, and extensive details - even if the date was many years ago. Most of us remember our reaction to the news. Some are relieved to know they are not "crazy," while others react with fear.

This book is an important read for several reasons. People diagnosed even as recently as the mid-80s began their journey with MS with no treatment, no medicine available.

This book acknowledges this fact:

"There is not yet a "cure" for MS, but there are many treatments and approaches that will help you to understand and cope with the challenges, as well as many treatments and procedures to reduce its symptoms. Additionally, we are now in an era in which there are agents that lessen the number and severity of attacks, the progression of the disease, and the development of disability."

As a chat host, when a newly diagnosed person enters and begins chatting, one of the most common reactions is "I am so scared." We understand and so do the writers of this book.

This book has a chapter on feelings - coping with MS. As I read this chapter, I realized this book is for anyone with MS and for those who know someone with MS and want to understand the journey better.

The authors write about the crisis of diagnosis, Feelings of panic, denial, anger and resentment. They talk about how it may be a relief as many thought a life-threatening disease was to be diagnosed. (For me, the neurologist thought it could be a series of strokes - I was only 36 - so MS sounded better than strokes to me.)

Grieving is discussed as a necessary procedure for a person to move forward.

"Unlike the grieving we associate with death, the grieving process in chronic illness tends to ebb and flow with the symptoms and physical changes that occur over time. Grief may be postponed, but it can never be totally avoided."

I agree with their comments that flexibility is key to coping with the unpredictability of MS.

It has been said that "Knowledge is power," and I agree. But each of us is different in how we cope and learn. Some have supportive family and friends, others do not. That is where MSWorld can be of extra benefit - by being there for people and ending isolated feelings.

"The disease is not in control of you -- you are in control of your life, your attitudes, your relationships, your approach to problems, your interests, and your activities. The best way to take control is to obtain more information and learn more about MS."

Contents of this book includes:

What is Multiple Sclerosis and How is it Diagnosed?

What is the Cause of MS

What Treatment is Available? (Which has grown since this publishing)

Practical Guidelines

Coping with MS

Employment Issues and MS
Research in MS: The Search for Answers

Searching for Treatments: The "Ins" and "Outs" of Clinical Trials

How your MS Society Can Help

Glossary

Additional Readings

Resources

Even though I was diagnosed 18 years ago and symptomatic for more than 30 years, I found this book worthy as I was able to see how far I have come in my acceptance and knowledge of MS.

This is an excellent guide as you and yours learn to cope with diagnosis of MS.

Never stop learning. I recommend this book for anyone with MS and their families and friends.

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