healthy1

I arrive at the MS Center. I am the only one in the waiting area. Is this a good sign or a bad sign? There are MS brochures and articles everywhere. The center is brand-spanking new and beautiful. My name is called and my husband and I walk into an exam room. We meet the PA (that’s physician’s assistant for those of you who don’t know). She is very welcoming and very bright - this girl knows her stuff. I tell her I am there for a second opinion; I had just recently been diagnosed with MS.

As in my first exam with my first neurologist, I am instructed to do several in-office, quickie tests. Walking in a straight line. Walking backwards. Resisting my leg being pushed up and down. Same with my feet. I watch her finger go back and forth in front of my eyes. This series of tests went on for some time. I felt a little foolish doing some of them, but I know it is necessary.

Then we talk history. I swear, I mention every little thing that has ever happened to me, stopping short of saying I once broke a fingernail. I am asked where I grew up. I am asked what my lifestyle choices are: what do I eat, drink, do I take meds or vitamins, do I exercise, etc.? Already, this second exam and questioning far exceeds my initial exam.

The PA takes my MRI images and medical records from my first neurologist and tells me she will be showing them to the doctor and will be back with him in a few minutes. Why are those minutes always the longest of your life?

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