What I found hardest about developing NCS was the sudden loss of dignity, and the lack of explanations. Without a warning, I'd black out, and end up helpless on the floor. I found myself passed from pillar to post by the doctors at my local hospital. I found myself scared to lock the bathroom door, in case I should find myself unable to get out.

     I was formerly an assertive young girl, now growing into a shy and scared adult. I couldn't go out on my own, and even if I did, I ended up like a tired toddler, fearful and desperate for the safety of home. No one knew what was wrong with me - my body was becoming a test laboratory, where nothing was left alone.

     Things were bleak - and there were no answers. Luckily for me, I had a period of 'remission', where I could function normally. I started learning to drive. I moved away from my parents, and I began my law degree. I felt blessed that I was so fortunate, and I could leave the grim illness behind.

     When it began again, I felt like I had lost everything dear to me. I was finally given a real diagnosis, NCS, but not one that meant anything to me. I was alone, and isolated. I couldn't understand the things that were happening in my body. I turned to the internet for answers, searching and reading everything I could. In the course of that search - I found DYNA.

     The first time I logged onto the forum I cried. I couldn't believe there were so many other people who had the same experiences as me. I hadn't thought I was the only one - but seeing the conversations and stories that were told was overwhelming for me. Not only that, but I saw intelligent, confident and pro-active young women and men who were forging ahead with their lives despite all the setbacks they had experienced.

     It was the DYNA members who taught me that dignity is something you keep inside for yourself, and no matter what anyone says or does to you, whatever twists and turns your illness takes - once you have that self-belief, no one can take it away from you, however hard they try. Also, when they do try, and you feel like you can't go on - it's the people who understand that are there for you, to set you back on your feet.

     I never had that support until I was in DYNA. Thank you, my friends.