Yeah, this is something that Canada is really doing right. I know it's only been something really getting any air time over the last five years or so, but that's still a lot better than a lot of other progressive nations (Like Norway, Sweden, etc.) that are usually ahead of us in health matters and prejudicial matters. We are just starting, and there is a long way to go, but we are on the right track, and socially ahead of the curve when looking at how other countries deal with it. So there's reason for optimism.
It's hell for the people going through it, and knowing that you don't have to feel embarrassed for it really helps a lot. As well, it's tough on the families, they often don't know how to help and die inside watching their loved ones going through pain not knowing exactly what it is.
Of course, even those closest to the person suffering can be critical, but 9 times out of 10 it's not because they don't care, or are sick of the persons behaviour, but just because they are at a loss in how to help. Talking about it helps the family too in both understanding the problem and that they aren't alone, and in educating them on reactions they might be having, that are making the situation worse.
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