It gets smaller. Not easy, smaller. That distinction kept me going.

Small wins count. Walking to the mailbox is a data point.

File early. The window is shorter than people think and it starts at the transaction.

Ask for the longer appointment slot. Ten minutes is not enough for a complex history and pretending otherwise wastes both your time.

An inconclusive account is useful if it stops the next person mistaking a story for a controlled comparison.

Bring a list. Embarrassment makes everyone forget things, including you.