I had no idea that this thread was bumped up a while after I started it. I regret I must not have been around when some of the later responses were posted. I'm sorry! Know that I have read the remaining posts just now.

KYWoman, I'm sorry you've been met with more negativity than support.

Less than one week ago I had a very significant talk with my brother and I was extremely touched by some sweet supportive things he said. I had earlier mentioned that he had been supportive in the past, but at some points I got the feeling that he didn't understand why my disability has lasted so long. Sometimes he and my dad spout out stuff like "Leaches on society". I'm not sure if they necessarily included me in those nasty statements, but really I know they did include more than plenty of people that should never be called that. We differ in our political beliefs. Those are subjects I try to avoid with them because they get so angry that it stresses me out, but at the same time I do want them to be more understanding of people who have legitimate struggles.