It’s been lovely to have such a positive impact on others

I was diagnosed with relapsing remitting MS March 2022, at the age of 37. This was a shock and unexpected, as I was a fit and healthy mum to two little girls. I was a full-time teacher and lived a very busy lifestyle. 

After my diagnosis, I felt lost and alone. Connecting with others through the MS Society website and sharing my experiences online helped me find support. I began volunteering as a Communications Volunteer for the Heart of the Midlands Group, managing the group’s social media and promoting events from home. 

The Heart of the Midlands Group offers various support activities in Staffordshire, including coffee breaks, bingo nights, and charity events. I create materials and promote these events online.

From local to national 

As my online presence grew, I was approached by Asian MS to volunteer with them at a national level.

There are many cultural expectations that can add extra pressure on Asian people living with MS. And there’s sometimes an element of shame about living with a disability. At Asian MS, we break down the barriers, discuss taboo topics and create awareness. All to make everyday life a little more manageable, and accepting, within a South Asian family.

As a national group, Asian MS has its team of volunteers spread across the UK. This can cause challenges, but it suits me that our activities are entirely online. We run webinars and send newsletters, with more planned. My role has grown to include designing, running and promoting our social media pages. 

A space to offload

This year, I’ve also started hosting monthly ‘Chai and Chat’ sessions. I wanted to create a respectful, relaxed, supportive space where Asian people could meet with like-minded individuals, who could relate to not only the MS struggles but also the cultural pressures and expectations. No topic is off limits in our ‘Chai and Chat’ sessions. And being online creates a little anonymity for those who wish to offload but also keep their privacy.  

Many people living with MS feel lonely and isolated. Being online also means we can reach out to those of different ages, and with various needs. Creating an online platform for meeting with others seemed the perfect way to bring the community together, without the challenges of travel. And to let people know that Asian MS understands what they’re going through. 

A huge achievement

I love volunteering, even though at times it can get overwhelming and busy.  It’s so lovely to help others and create a supportive network for those who feel lonely and misunderstood. I’m committed to both the groups I volunteer with. But, due to health and family commitments, I often can’t attend meetings in person. The online-only nature of Asian MS meets many of my needs and I’m now offering more of my time there as my involvement has increased. 

Volunteering as a whole has been a huge achievement for me — alongside working, caring for my family and managing my own health needs. When someone messages you and says, “you’ve helped me accept my diagnosis,” that’s the ultimate accomplishment.

I’ve always enjoyed helping others and it’s been lovely to have such a positive impact on others going through their MS journey. It’s taught me there are many others out there who are facing challenges each day, and to keep treating everyone with kindness and compassion. 

If you’ve been thinking about volunteering, just do it! There’s nothing better than helping others who may be struggling in ways you once did.