To Be Loved - An MS Story

“Yes, good morning. My name is Trebor King. This is my first time contacting your office hoping someone in your agency might be able to possibly help me.” Trying not to show any sign of anxiety, he tried controlling his emotions and continued talking. “If you would allow me just a little of your time I’d like to explain as best I can the purpose of my call.” Although Ms. Rose was not familiar with Trebor or his reason for calling, it was not hard for her to recognize the depth of his feelings and his attempt to express himself. As she listened attentively, his urgency was easily detected and his need to communicate with someone. “Yes, Mr. King, please continue,” Ms. Rose responded. “Thank you, Ms. Rose. I've just started being a care provider for my daughter under conditions I really was not prepared for. My daughter has been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis and I really do not know what I can do to help her. There is no one other than me that she can depend on. I am at a loss at knowing her very needs to a point that I have absolutely no idea what to do to help my child. I have no knowledge of the symptoms, affects, or medication needed to combat any problems associated with her disability.” Trebor choked with a clear sign of despair. “Please help me. I need to know if there is anyone that can tell me what I can do or point me in the right direction.” To his own surprise tears ran down his face linked to his ever-troubling thoughts. Knowing the person on the other end of the telephone line certainly could hear him trying to speak as he wept, did not bother him at all because his desperate need for help was all that mattered. Explaining the frustrations that came with questions, paperwork, and rescheduling of appointments that led to unsuccessful endings, Trebor ’s statements rested within a special place in Ms. Rose’s mind. His emotional strain had begun to grieve her heart. Due to the familiarity Ms. Rose had with the system, she wanted to interrupt but decided to wait as he explained his needs with continual words. Then promptly, she interrupted, “Mr. King, maybe I can help you.” Hopeful relief soothed the excitement welling up within him hearing her certified knowledge and concern for his dilemma. Ms. Rose asked, “Can you tell me what is it you are trying to find out sir? Take your time. I can hear you are terribly upset so please try to explain what you would like me to do for you as clearly as you possibly can.” Referencing the notes, he scribbled on his notepad the night before, he gathered his thoughts and began explaining details of his situation. His voice trembled as he spoke into the phone, “Ma’am, my daughter was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis a few years ago and it appears she is now going through so much, and I simply don’t know what to do.” A small sigh escaped before he continued to speak, “She and her child were told they had to leave where they were living. After hearing of their dilemma from a third-party family member, the very day they were asked to leave I at once picked them up. I arrived only to find my children sitting on the curb with luggage waiting for me. This terrified me beyond any understanding especially having no idea where I would take them or what I would do.” Stumbling with his words, he forced himself to press on through the conversation. He told Ms. Rose his daughter’s condition was worsening and he could only try to help her get through each day. Out of deep concern it just dawned on him that there was an agency dedicated to aiding people who suffer with her very disability. Pleading from his heart Trebor further inferred, “If the MS Society would tell me what to do for my child it would mean the world to her and me as well.” Ms. Rose asked to be excused for just a moment from the telephone. She returned soon after, her voice clear and sincere. “Sir, I have someone in our office I want you to speak to. Can you come in as early as tomorrow to speak with her?” “Oh yes, yes,” Trebor responded quickly. Ms. Rose went on to say that Ms. Johnson would be expecting him.