Why don't you ask your husband to watch out for you. Say nothing, but if you do fall asleep he can step in and explain the situation. My relatives just don't get it, despite trying to explain some years ago.

andrew - i think that is possibly the plan. Fortunately for me MY relatives are great - but I have a particular friend who always says 'well I get tired in the afternoons' ...sigh


how are you doing anyway?

Well....you could print up a note briefly explaining what your attacks are like and what to do should you have one....ie...DONT PANIC! Most of my relatives and friends know about mine because I have them so often so there is no choice. I did print up an emergency card so that if for any reason I was out in public and I felt an attack coming on I could pull out the card. On it I put emergency numbers and instructions for what to do with me....and great big letters saying ....DO NOT CALL AND AMBULANCE!
This way they can read it or not and you dont have to repeat it 25 times....oy it gets old doesnt it.....
Just remember....at least for me...when I get anxous my attacks are worse plus your traveling so that is going to exhaust you even more and the attacks will probably come...
I think most people freak out because they think they should be doing something to help you, when in fact the best thing they could probably do is ignore you like its not happening and keep on talking and having a good time.
Its hard breaking in people to this stuff, just know that your with family and that they all love you. Go and have a good time! and if you need a nap take one, I am sure they wouldnt mind you snoozing for an hour or so. In fact they would all be secretly wishing they go take a break for a bit....hehe
I hope you have the most fun visiting!
hugs!

I had a cataplexy attack in front of all of my relatives today at a picnic we were having at my house. My hubby had to help me hit the floor without banging my head. The relatives were shocked. I have told them about this for years, but they evidently never saw me do it before. My hubby and kids acted like nothing was out of the ordinary, so everyone settled down quickly. I was on my feet in a few minutes and we went on with the meal.

It was a good thing for them to witness.

Thanks all for your relpies

I'm off to the party now (ugh) and am feeling very wobbly. You know that sort of shaky not quite with it feeling you get, and I know that it means that anything can (and will) set of a cataplexy attack...

well if the worse happens, at least it will give them something to talk about till the next time I see them all.

(When friends/family/collegues witness an attack I try very hard to see it as my opportunity to educate them, but its hard to get past the embarassment first!)

I'll let you all know how it goes, thanks again
x

Well when you have cataplexy embarrassment is something that is a permanent staple of life. All these years and I am still having issues with that. I am a redhead so when I get embarrassed my face turns beat red, but look at it this way....at least they know I am still alive! hehe
I guess I cope with this mess with humor....even if it is sick humor at times...oy!