I wanted to prove to myself I could do it

My MS diagnosis

I was diagnosed with MS in 2018, after having years of on-and-off facial numbness.

I was told I was eligible for copaxone and it took me a while to decide if I wanted to take this up. The thought of injecting myself 3 times a week for potentially the rest of my life was a scary prospect, but after much deliberation I started.

Injecting is not pleasant, but I’ve improved my technique and confidence with it. I still have bad site reactions which can be extremely painful, but my tolerance level has grown.

Fundraising for the MS Society

Last year I saw My MS Walk advertised on Facebook and thought straight away: this is something I’m going to do. Luckily I have some great family and friends who agreed to support me and do the challenge at the same time.

I wanted to do my bit to raise awareness of MS, and spread the good work the MS Society does, especially having being diagnosed with MS myself.

Taking part in the walk was a challenge, but I wanted to prove to myself I could do it. Having that time with my friends and family, creating those memories and spurring each other on was amazing.

The kindness of a stranger

All of the fundraising had been done through word of mouth and on social media. But on the walk we were met with a lovely gentleman who wanted to speak to us about what we were walking for and very kindly gave us a £20 donation. A complete stranger!

We were all so shocked and so incredibly grateful of this kind gesture that each of us after completing the walk said this was our favourite part.

Because we were in such shock we didn’t even think to get his name or any of details. It would have been great to show him what he has contributed too and how much it meant to us all.

To everyone who’s thinking of taking part in My MS Walk – you can do it! At your own pace, in your own time and in your own way

If MS can be stopped, it would mean absolutely everything to myself and so many people, to enable us to live healthier lives.