Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Support Group

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Help plz! How to discuss relapse with boss

malinaC505
malinaC505
I'm an intern for a benefits and wellness company, and just switched from Aubagio back to Copaxone, and am having a horrible cognitive relapse. I can't recall specific words, I keep performing simple tasks on the computer wrong, and basically I need to tell my boss what's going on or she's going to think I'm being stupid or lazy.

I don't really know what to do or say, is this something you talk about in person or over email? I really don't know how to proceed. My boss will definitely be understanding, but she needs to know really soon.
Anne8
Anne8
See what advice you can find on the Internet from other cases. . .She prob won't know what MSis, other than 'something scary', so try to explain what it is FOR YOU. Maybe she can give you less verbal tasks?
dragonfly16
dragonfly16
Be very careful. I lost my job due to a relapse when I had my doctor write a note stating I was having temporary issues. It was very wrong of my employer and I was going to sue, and even started the process due to discrimination, but then I received a letter in the mail telling me I had to go to court in person to fight it. The additional stress made me worse and my words turned into stuttering because of it. I gave up knowing if I showed up doing that I would look crazy trying to keep my job when I couldn't think of a word I wanted to say, nevermind have it come out right. Do not send it by email if you choose to tell her. Whatever you do say will go in your record though and the human resource manager told me that I should not have told them of my MS.
alitax86
alitax86
Be careful of your verbiage. Often people do not understand MS and jump to the conclusion you will soon be in a wheelchair. Be especially careful when speaking of cognitive issues. I have had cognitive problems, yet none were severe enough that reasonable accmmodations could not solve. Mostly short term memory. Some days were better than others. Those not well versed in how MS works may misinterpret what you say.
moklettke
moklettke
Definitely tell her in person. Explain to her that you have MS and a little bit about it and what is going on with you right now. Once you have said what you need to say. Ask her if she has any questions for you about it and answer them. Also, let her know if she has any suggestions on ways that can help you perform your job, you are willing to hear them and try them out.
lorrieonline
lorrieonline
Have you spoken to your doctor about this? Perhaps its a side effect of the medicine? Best of luck working out a solution with your boss. :)
ezone
ezone
If they know that you have MS, they have to make accommodations for you. If not, they may not understand. I would definitely talk to her in person alone. She won't think that you are stupid or lazy. Everyone should understand the fatigue with MS and the cognitive problems.

This post was entered in February. What happened since then? What happened with her and the internship? Best of luck to you. Glad that you can work even if there are hassles.
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