Because most people who are diagnosed with MS are between the ages of 15-55 years, the disease has a significant impact, not only on the individual with the disease, but also on the family members and loved ones whose lives are interwoven with them. Families experiencing multiple sclerosis often find themselves in uncharted territory. Prior patterns of interacting with each other may no longer work; roles often shift with dramatic emotional impact; guilt, anger, sadness, and a sense of burden may create a barrier to intimacy, joy, growth, and family unity. There are ways out of this debilitati