You're right Bob.
The two threads could be combined into one.
Check out the Musical Compromises thread for reference.

Thanks for sharing Art.
As you well know,this damn disease can effect the same person in so many different ways at any given time. Seems the only sure bet about it is that it's a progressive disease,even if it doesn't start out that way.
I guess I was lucky in that after only a few months of milegrams,spinal taps & assorted tests,I was given the diagnosis of M.S. back in 84.& You're right,it was a relief finally knowing. I remember thinking I had a brain tumor.
In the 20 years since,I've relapsed & gone into remission a number of times. I guess the hardest relapse was the time it took the use of my hands from me for almost a year.
That's when I tried to take up playing the hammer dulcimer by strapping the hammers on with rubber bands.
Luckily,I eventually got my hands back enough to form chords again. Good thing because I really sucked at that dulcimer thing!

But you're right about dealing with other peoples expectations.
Sometimes I feel like I just want to grab some folks & say "I've got no choice but to accept my fate,why can't you".
I see it not as "abdication" but as "conservation",or Making the most of what you've got left.

Now,how'd I get up on this soapbox,& how the hell am I gonna get down?

Ron.