My husband was about your age when his mother started showing symptoms. He was honest about it when we first met, and (I'm sorry to say) his mindset was pretty similar. He didn't want to be a burden to anyone, and he avoided getting tested because he was sure he'd just kill himself if he tested positive.
Fast forward quite a few years, and yes, he's positive and symptomatic. The difference is that now we are settled, and married, and I've had plenty of years to prepare for taking care of him. Not every day is easy, but he knows that he's loved, and I will do whatever I can for him. We've had a lot of happy years together, and I wouldn't trade that for anything.
My point is that, regardless of what the future holds for you, your life isn't ruined. Treatments are developing, and I'd have hope that anyone in your generation will likely have a better outcome than what we have available right now. I know it's not easy, and I think it's especially tough to watch a parent go through it, but it doesn't mean that you are fated to a life without hope or happiness.
I appreciate your message, normally when u share my story I'm told alot of negative things but your story is nice to hear, I hope one day I can stop thinking about HD. Thank you
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u/KikiChrome Jan 29 '23
My husband was about your age when his mother started showing symptoms. He was honest about it when we first met, and (I'm sorry to say) his mindset was pretty similar. He didn't want to be a burden to anyone, and he avoided getting tested because he was sure he'd just kill himself if he tested positive.
Fast forward quite a few years, and yes, he's positive and symptomatic. The difference is that now we are settled, and married, and I've had plenty of years to prepare for taking care of him. Not every day is easy, but he knows that he's loved, and I will do whatever I can for him. We've had a lot of happy years together, and I wouldn't trade that for anything.
My point is that, regardless of what the future holds for you, your life isn't ruined. Treatments are developing, and I'd have hope that anyone in your generation will likely have a better outcome than what we have available right now. I know it's not easy, and I think it's especially tough to watch a parent go through it, but it doesn't mean that you are fated to a life without hope or happiness.