- - Family To the families: if someone in your home has MS, the whole household is living with MS (Harmon). People with MS often worry about the burden that their disease places on their families (Miller). Even though many families coping with MS are alike in some ways, each are unique to its own stresses and methods to deal with that stress. Even in the best of marriages, the healthy spouse has to pull more weight than the other with MS. The strains placed on the relationship must not be underestimated. As with many chronic diseases, MS can effect the sexual function of the person. This situation often results in tension and sometimes resentment between couples. Some find themselves unable to give up wants or change expectations, and may choose to separate or divorce (Minden). An important point to remember is that trying to be perfect is an impossible task. It is not hard to understand that a person with MS finds it difficult to feel secure, attractive or desirable when they often get tired, tend to stumble, or donŐt see very well. A person with MS may try to cover up their shortcomings.

December 9, 1998