MS patients, many, go through something similar. I get what you mean. And it stinks that when you need compassion, it isn't there.

What happens with MSers, is that it can be a struggle for some going places and doing things and keeping up. Struggles with fatigue from heat can set in, leaving amusement parks, outdoor activities, etc, something that just isn't in the cards, on those very days. And healthier people, just cannot relate to nor understand what it means that they aren't able to keep up the pace, etc. ((MS patients, sometimes get a lot of 'it's all in your head' rhetoric in life))

A friend of 20 years, why can't they be more understanding of your situation?

Something else, I have learned about people. The mere mention of applying for SSI/SSDI triggers a not so tender spot inside themselves. Could that, also, be part of your 'friends' issue?