I know that part of your time on the forums has been a process of understanding who you are and learning to live 'without the mask' all the time.
Sounds to me that this was no light decision as you need answers on the matter whatever the results,
The diagnosis process can be an anxious process, especially waiting on the outcome, but it is worth it for closure and to provide you with answers. As Martian Tom has already stated, it won't change anything really, which is both good and bad, but it may help you and your partner to try and understand each other and what makes you tick. I have found that although my partner and I haven't sat down and had an official conversation on the matter, he has obviously done some background reading and has approached the subject in stages to help us both come to terms and work with each other. There is also some provoking and joking around the matter, but I give as much as I take, so if anything it has probably balanced the cutting humor we have a bit more. :)
I'm in a very similar position at 61, diagnosed privately 6 months ago. My current instinct, to get people to appreciate my position a bit more, is to relentlessly pursue my obsessions, so that people can no longer just rely on my usual survival demeanour. I retired from work with this in mind, but actually I want to get another career. My idea is that indulging my real interests may eventually lead to someone noting my skills and abilities. However, I can't really guarantee this approach will work. But I just have to plug away at it, as always. It does at least make me a lot happier.
You’re right, there are no guarantees but I admire your determination and even knowing that you are the one taking charge of things can affirm a lot to be positive about.
You’re right, there are no guarantees but I admire your determination and even knowing that you are the one taking charge of things can affirm a lot to be positive about.
