ATLANTA...

So, Remus and I moved to Atlanta in 1999…and there I was sick and in denial…or as I like to call it in “survival mode.” I was in this mode for so long that I didn’t even realize I was in it anymore at some point. It is just what I had to do to survive. I was constantly looking for new jobs, relationships, and educational opportunities. I spent the first five years working at the psychiatric hospital and the next five working at the MS center of Atlanta, where I was constantly seeking other employment. Other jobs I didn’t find but educational opportunities and relationships came my way.

My relationships are not really worth mentioning but I did get my heart broken again, much worse than before. Now, I can't blame my MS for the demise of my relationships...but I feel certain it played a part. In my experience, people just don't take you seriously when they know you are as sick as I am. I'm ok with that though...I am now, at least. I took classes at Georgia Tech and did begin a new Masters degree at Emory University but it is most important that I share the immensely positive experiences I had at this time.

First of all, I had the pleasure of volunteering at Youth Pride, beginning in 2005. I lead a support group for 2 and a half hours per night, once or twice a week for 2 and a half years. YP is an amazing place. It is a community center that exists solely for the purpose of providing emotional support to LGBT kids aged 13 to 24. I began my time there working with the adult kids exactly one year after I came out of the closet, which I did at the relatively old age of 34. So, it goes without saying that my time at YP was incredibly therapeutic and uplifting for me.


My next life changing experience was the time I spent working for and with Susan...but she is important enough to deserve her own chapter...