We received comments ranging from angst for making fun of RLS to praise for bringing RLS into the limelight. We hope sharing these letters will help raise awareness.
Here is a link to the RLS web site which we received from both Daru and Robert.
Please check it out!
Here are the letters:
Restless Legs Syndrome is not a joke. Uncontrolled RLS [is] absolute misery. Right now mine is under control with medication. Use BC to inform the public, you might even provide an incentive for more research that will identify the cause of RLS. RLS is not funny. Millions of people’s lives are adversely affected by it.
Daru
Oakhurst, California
[The] BC strips on April 16, 17 [and 18] really pulled my chain. After having RLS for 50 or so years, I tried something I remembered reading many years ago. I walked on a cold tile floor in my bare feet for a few minutes before bed. Worked like a charm.
Love your stuff!!
Don
Houston, Texas
For the past three days, our local newspaper has run BC comic strips about Restless Legs Syndrome.
I have had RLS for most of my life and am an advocate for RLS education. After reading and thinking about these strips, I can’t decide whether you think RLS is a valid disorder or are making fun of it. Maybe that was the intention. I am a fervent BC [fan] so I am not a disgruntled reader. I [am] curious to understand the reason behind these three [strips]. Restless Legs Syndrome takes some very hard raps with critics from all over. I would just like to be able to talk rationally with some of these people about what it is like to live with RLS. In any case, if you could enlighten me I would be grateful.
(By the way, I did find the comics to be funny!)
Kathy
Smithton, Missouri
Hi, Just curious about the restless legs syndrome strips you had this past week. I have RLS and in my house we have somewhat of a debate going on. I think you have restless leg or you know someone with it and the strip reflects how the doctor’s deal with it. On the other hand it could be that you don’t think this is an actual syndrome that affects people or as the comic says “do you think it’s all in your head?”
Jim
Phoenix, Arizona
I am offended by the comics of RLS. This does exist and RLS can effect every day of your life. How do I know? I have had RLS for 30 years and it is no joke.
Patricia
Harker Heights, Texas
Thank you! I have suffered RLS symptoms since I was hospitalized for dioxin poisoning (Agent Orange) in Vietnam in 1967. As an RLS Support Group Leader, I’ve heard the “In your head” comment from hundreds of members. We can’t thank you enough for what you’ve done for us – yes, we have a sense of humor and as a fan of your strips, I’m grateful to you for helping us inform the public about “The most common disorder you’ve never heard of” – the cause of much suffering and ruined lives.
You are our HERO!! Thank you !!!!
Wishing you the best,
Robert
Tavares, Florida