‘Just Show Up’: Accepting Support from the Huntington’s Community

Erin Paterson avatar

by Erin Paterson |

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For a time following my diagnosis as gene-positive for Huntington’s disease (HD), I avoided elderly people. The mere glimpse of a wrinkled hand was a reminder that I was going to develop Huntington’s someday, and that was something I was trying to forget.

Recently, my husband and I attended our first meeting for a local chapter of the Huntington Society of Canada, held in the community room of a retirement home — the sort of place that used to induce a panic attack.

Upon our arrival, we were greeted by the hosts with welcoming handshakes and hugs. We helped ourselves to coffee and cookies before sitting in the only vacant folding chairs next to the window at the back of the room.

That afternoon, we were graced with the presence of Yvonne Heath, a former nurse turned motivational speaker. She spoke about being there for our families and friends when they’re struggling. She told us that supporting a person through a crisis could mean shoveling their driveway, dropping off banana bread, or sitting down to listen.

“You don’t need to fix anyone’s problems. You need to just show up,” Yvonne said. She talked about the importance of making end-of-life decisions while we’re still healthy. She strode back and forth across the room, making jokes, putting on funny hats, and shaking a tambourine to lighten the mood. After her presentation, we watched a video detailing the latest scientific research aimed at finding a cure for Huntington’s. Then, we had a chance to socialize.

Erin and her husband, Daniel, with Yvonne Heath, center. (Courtesy of Erin Paterson)

My husband and I met a couple with a young family like ours. We chatted with a woman whose husband is affected by Huntington’s and who organizes nature walks to raise funds. We met a retired couple who had recently moved to the area. I stood in that room, unafraid to say, “I have the gene that causes Huntington’s.” It felt good to be around people who didn’t try to placate me.

My gene status was simply a fact. I was happy to see representations of families living with Huntington’s that were different than my own, which wasn’t always positive. I saw a daughter supporting her mother, a husband and wife who still loved each other, and a young man who fondly remembered his grandmother.

It was nice to be in a place where Huntington’s wasn’t a secret or a word whispered with a tone of disgust. To be in the same room as a young mom who had the bravery to say, “I feel like Huntington’s was a gift. This is the life we have been given, so we are trying to live it the best we can.” I had been living by a similar sentiment since I encountered it in a book written by actor Michael J. Fox.

I didn’t feel as if I wanted to cry during the meeting. I felt included and supported, and as if I belonged.

In the past, I couldn’t attend those types of meetings because I found it too difficult to be around people with Huntington’s. I worried that I would find out information I was unprepared for. But after putting a lot of emotional work into accepting my diagnosis, I am ready now.

I want to be around people who understand because they have been through similar experiences. I am ready to learn more about Huntington’s and seek hope for my future. Learning to be more accepting of my diagnosis has allowed me to let down my guard and receive the support of the Huntington’s community that has always been there waiting for me. I am now ready to just show up.

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Note: Huntington’s Disease News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Huntington’s Disease News or its parent company, BioNews Services, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Huntington’s disease.

Comments

Yvonne Heath avatar

Yvonne Heath

Thank you, beautiful Erin, for your poignant and honest article. I am honoured to be a part of the support circle for those affected by HD. Best part? Meeting people like you, your husband, the Beatty's and so many others who inspire me to Just Show Up and live my best life! Sending much love! xo

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Erin Paterson avatar

Erin Paterson

Thank you for your support of our community. It was so lovely meeting you and your husband and everyone else at the meeting.

Reply
Jeanne Laframboise avatar

Jeanne Laframboise

Erin,
I am so happy that you are addressing your diagnosis head on and helping others as well.
Love,
Aunty Jeanne

Reply
Erin Paterson avatar

Erin Paterson

Thank you so much for continuing to read my stories. It really means a lot to me to know that I have your support.

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