totally off topic...but

[nuthatch]

A need for privacy can hide depression - she may not be able to respond to all your help the way she'd like to right now but don't be discouraged - keep up with your efforts to make contact with her on a regular basis. Sometimes the normal social rules don't apply in cases like this. Your visits will be something she can grow to accept, appreciate and need over time. I'm speaking as a private person who has been glad that friends were relentless in their loving attention when I was also feeling down. So cookies, offers to ferry the kids around, girlfriend stuff sounds good!

[Biking Chick]

I can't imagine the path your friend has to travel down but I am sure having good friends that she can count on will make the burden that much lighter. My advice would be to sharpen up those listening skills - having someone that she can sound off to without worrying *what you will think* will be a tremendous help.

It is always difficult to accept help from friends knowing that you will never be able to repay in kind - fixing dinner, taking the kids to the library giving your friend a chance to spend some time alone will be very welcome. If you find a card that brings you a good belly laugh - send it off to your friend just to let her know you're thinking of her.

Does she like to bike? If not, maybe you can find a bike she can use for a few low key rides.

Having a family member and two good friends with MS I know how difficult the first few months after a diagnosis can be. I hope you'll keep us posted on how she is doing.