“I’d recommend everyone to go if they can” – Jacqueline on last year’s carol concert

Why did you become a Stop MS Pioneer?

I was invited to visit the Tissue Bank at Imperial College London. I’d already heard about the ambitious aims of researchers and scientists to identify treatments to stop MS progression. And I wanted to keep close to the latest developments and help in whatever way I could.

Read more about the Tissue Bank on Imperial College London’s website

I also wanted to give a patient perspective on both the scientific research and fundraising needed to support the work.

Do you have a personal connection to MS?

Yes, my sister, my only sibling, has primary progressive MS and I have secondary progressive MS. I was diagnosed in the summer of 2013 and my sister was diagnosed a year or so later.

Who did you go to the concert with?

I went with my family and close friends. For me, Christmas isn’t Christmas without the annual MS Society Carol Service. One way or another, we'll be there this year, even with the challenges in our way! It’s not just the progression of my MS this year. We have an added test to contend with – the National Rail strike! 

What was the atmosphere like in the church?

The church looked beautiful. It had a historic and intimate feel, and the subtle decorations and candlelight made it suitably festive. The atmosphere was such that we didn’t need to be reminded as to why we were there. We were surrounded by our friends, family and loved ones, and that was truly uplifting.

Did you see any famous faces?

Yes, I did! And my adult children certainly did, too. We saw Rose Leslie, Kit Harington, Scott Mills. And my mother was particularly pleased to see Dave Myers from the Hairy Bikers!

This year I’m looking forward to seeing Nicola Walker. I’m reminded of her Marriage drama with Sean Bean. And Sue Perkins, perhaps more widely recognised for her presence on Bake Off. But for me it’s her travel programmes including most recently the Big American Road Trip. I’m touched by and grateful for their support of the MS Society.

Did you have any standout moments from the concert?

The cosy candlelight, the readings, and the personal stories from people affected by MS made it even more special.

How did you feel afterwards?

Ready for Christmas! And I felt like I was part of a community, which is something I'm eternally grateful for. Seeing people supporting the MS Society was very touching. I left feeling joyous and, frankly, quite emotional. I’d recommend everyone goes if they can.

What would you like to see happen with the money raised by the concert?

So many amazing things have already been done with the funds raised from past concerts. I’d like the funds raised this year to support research into treatments which can slow down and halt the progression of MS. And supporting the Stop MS Appeal is a great way to do this.