Snow!

Just a quick blog post from me today, but one that I thought was important to write due to the snow troubles that we are having here in the UK right now.  As someone who spent her childhood in Canada, where they are super equipped to deal with the most adverse of weather conditions, it makes  me somewhat incredulous how much of a standstill the UK becomes whenever there is a little bit of snow.  The kids’ school has been closed for two days now, their extra-curricular activities have been cancelled, I wasn’t able to get into work 8 miles away yesterday and there are stories about cars being abandoned on local roads.

This is the first winter that I have really felt the limitations that my mobility difficulties as a result of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) has on me; if the environment isn’t prepared for cars to run, how do you think those that rely on crutches/scooters/walkers and wheelchairs fare?  Especially when their cars are out of action?  My scooter won’t get up the hill to our house due to the sheer amount of snow on the pavement.  This is the first time in a long while that we have had this level of snow; I have always been able to muddle through in previous years and of course my mobility has been worsening over that time.

Realising just how limited you are due to something as simple as the weather can bring up a myriad of emotions: frustration at the lack of access, grief for what once was, envy that others can do what you want to, guilt that it is stopping you being the parent you want to be…

But…What if there is a way at looking at this in a positive way?  Ok, the poor weather and lack of access may mean that you are unable to leave home easily, but isn’t that the best excuse for cosying up in the warm, making the most of the sofa, of blankets and hot chocolate?  This is the perfect time for warm soups and books and duvet days and movies.  For board games with the kids, reading with them, crochet or craft and for naps.  We can’t make ourselves feel bad for the limitations that our chronically ill bodies place on us; it is not our fault.

This is the time to look for support and solidarity – Facebook, Twitter and Instagram all offer the opportunity to connect with others going through the same, as do forums connected to your illness (try this one from the MS Society in the UK), which can help you feel not so alone or isolated.  Ask close friends who are able to walk to visit you at home if the weather and your energy levels allow.

These days will be short (hopefully!) I am already seeing snowdrops growing and the knowledge that it is now March makes me hopeful for warmer and longer days soon.  Spring is the perfect time for my MS – not too cold and not too hot – all I need to do is concentrate on that and it makes these difficult days easier to get through.

Wishing everyone a safe few days in this snow if you are in the UK.  For those of you who don’t have our weather problems, I hope that you have a lovely few days!

Cover Photo by Kacper Szczechla on Unsplash