I'm feeling guilty that I'm not working - Muscular Dystrophy Message Board

michigani · 06-16-2008, 10:43 AM

A lot of people on this site are still working despite the fact that they've been diagnosed with MD. I worked full time since I was 17. But in 2005 I finally had to leave my job as an engineer at the age of 44. I'd been with the company for 21 years. It was hard to leave but it came down to 2 reasons:

First, my building was not accessible at all. There were 6 outdoor steps getting up into the first floor. There were no HC restroom stalls. I used the truck ramp in the back the last 3 years just to get in the bldg. Plus my job required many meetings, running from floor to floor and walking construction sites. It became virtually impossible.

Second, I had a fantastic disability policy that brings in about 95% of my take home pay. And my company was laying people off monthly. I would have lost it all had I been laid off. I'll get this income until I'm 65. I was looking out for my family's financial well being.

Still I feel guilty while so many MD patients are still braving the world to go to work each day. Just expressing some thoughts.....

Mark

Madalot · 06-20-2008, 07:30 AM

Hey Mark --

I wanted to reply to this sooner, but I've been down with pneumonia the last 10 days. Not fun.

I know exactly what you mean about feeling guilty. I, like you, read where so many people are still working despite having MD. The only thing I can say is that each person's level of disability varies and I know for me, I DID continue working for many years, even beyond when I should have stopped. I know that for me, working just isn't an option anymore and I try not to let it bother me.

I'm sure your situation is similar -- you would still work if you physically could.

michigani · 06-21-2008, 12:01 PM

Thanks Kathy,

First...i hope you're feeling better!

I do know all that, I guess I just need some reassurance once in awhile that I made the right decision. Actually I do a lot more at home now. I pick up and clean the house during the day plus I do almost 100% of the cooking since I've always been a bit of a chef. I did a lot before the MD but now my wife does the yard work and all that. (I think she enjoys mowing WAY more than cooking and dusting anyway!)

Mark

bdhairdy123 · 06-25-2008, 06:27 PM

Mark,
I was diagnosed with CMT at age 26, as of Feb 2008 my MD doctor made me quit. It has been such a stuggle for me emotionally. I have worked full-time since I was 15, and quit at age 44! However, I looked at the sales position I was in, and the physical & mental stress I was under, and also made the decision based on my own, and families well being it would be best for me to take the long term disability provided by my work, and begin to do the things I really enjoy doing now, instead of what I had to do!
Best of Luck to you as well!