I wrote this poem a number of years ago (maybe 5 years ago) and I sometimes post it as a status update. My daughter is no longer a toddler but the rest holds true. ~ Tami Grosset
I look normal.
I sit in my chair and chat.
I giggle and gossip just like I’ve always done.
I look normal.
I hold my daughter’s hand as we walk down the street.
I wave to my neighbours brightly saying hello.
I look normal.
I push the cart around the grocery store.
I pick out my family’s favourite goodies and pay at the cash, just like anyone else.
I look normal.
But look a little closer and
You will see that
As I chitter chat I keep my head straight
And stop it from inclining towards you which would send my mind in a
Spinning spitter spatter.
As I giggle and gossip I grip the arms of my chair tightly
Because I’m afraid I might tip off.
You will see that
As I walk down the street I hold my daughter away from me so her tiny toddler legs don’t trip me up
And I hold out my spare hand as if I am walking along a trampoline
Rather than the solid cement surface of the sidewalk.
You will see that
As I reach each aisle in the store I stop
And breathe
And check my list again
As I try to reach through the fog to find the memory of what I’m cooking this week and which cereal my kids like the best.
And as I find my purse to pay I fumble and drop my card on the floor.
Every single time.
I look normal
But I’m not.
Look a little closer
And you’ll see.
Tami Grosset, MdDS Warrior
Age at onset: 31
I was living in England at the time (2002?) but now live in Canada.
Thank you for sharing your poem.
Thank you for your wonderful poem. I know how you feel. My age at onset was 65 and how I am 71. It has been a long six yrs.
Hi Linda Sue Burge! I just read your comment& responding! I came down with MdDS at 63 & I am now 70. 7 years living with MdDS . Was using medication to help but had to get off of it cause now on opiad for severe arthritis & a neck that has fused on its own. Not whatI envisioned living like at 70. I drink alot of Ginger ale for nausea & take Ginger root also for nausea related to dizziness. Have gone to several Drs with no luck in treating it except for the Clonazapam that was prescribed for it. I just keep on rocking on! Prey for a cure!
Yes, I know how you feel!