As an alternative to those "stages of HD" that are based on scales that suggest its progression, here's a set of stages that I've observed talking with many people with HD.
They're stated in positive terms and are from the point of view of the person with HD. They are in order of their observation as HD progresses.
DEFIANCE
"I'm not denying the diagnosis, I'm defying the verdict!”* I'm not refusing to accept it, I'm just boldly resisting the inevitable!"
PERSEVERANCE
"I'm continuing on...in spite of all the difficulties this damn disease puts in front of me."
COMPASSION
"I'm sorry for the trouble I'm causing my family and everyone else who cares for me. I wish I could do something to help them."
STAMINA
"I'm not sure just what it is but something keeps me going! It keeps me going through all my fatigue and all the problems and hardship this damn disease presents me."
GRACE
"I've quietly resigned myself to needing others to care for me, to sustain me. I can't show them, but I'm more concerned for the welfare of those around me than I am for myself. We know we're there for each other."
*phrase adapted from Norman Cousins.
