Volunteering has shown me that I’m still me

I was diagnosed with MS in late 2019. It came as a massive shock as I didn’t really know anything about it. MS changed my life in ways I can’t begin to explain. Or sometimes even understand.

But it isn’t all bad. I’ve met some amazing people who I’m in awe of and I’ve learned to live life in a different way. Being a primary school teacher was always my dream job and my MS stopped me from doing that successfully. But over time, I’ve learnt that I can have success in other things now.

Removing barriers

After COVID, I’d plucked up the courage to go to some events held by my local MS Society group in a different part of Hampshire. Then I moved and found the Lymington and New Forest Group. I know other people with MS who can’t access help due to costs. And I don’t ever want that to be the case.

I can’t change the whole world. But I knew I could help the group ensure that lack of money isn’t a barrier to support at all levels. So becoming a Fundraising Volunteer seemed a logical step.

Embracing the challenges

The amazing volunteers at the Lymington and New Forest Group make it the success it is. We offer exercise groups, massage therapy, social activities, emotional support and more.

The group covers quite a large geographical area, which is a small price to pay for the beauty of living in the New Forest. But it can sometimes make it difficult to have events accessible to all across the forest. So we offer one of our exercise classes online. I really enjoy the freedom that gives.

Another challenge is reaching out to newly diagnosed people and involving them in the group. We recently started holding socials to offer a safe and supportive space for newly diagnosed people to talk about things. 

I know first-hand how daunting a new diagnosis can be. Local groups and a chance to meet people who understand is one of the best kinds of support for MS. 

But I also know that taking the first step to contact them is really tough.

Funding the support

Our approach to fundraising is that every penny counts, so we look for all opportunities. Fundraising and connecting with people is also a great way to raise awareness of our group and what we offer.

We already have some supermarket collections and would like to do more. Local people and organisations are very generous when we can engage them. We need to involve the whole community because we can’t rely on our members and their loved ones for the funds we need. Especially as we look to offer more.

I’m still learning about applying for grants. The first challenge is finding them, and the second is often the paperwork. However, in the last few weeks I’ve successfully applied for and been awarded my first grant, which was quite an achievement.

Learning and growing

I’m keen and enthusiastic to find out more and try new things. That works well because we know we have to reach out further afield. I’m always up for chatting with new people and asking how we can work with them to raise funds and awareness. Being a volunteer has given me a chance to put myself out there.

As a former primary school teacher, I’m also used to being organised and juggling multiple things at once. MS has certainly made that more challenging, though. So I’m very reliant on my notebook, rather than my brain, these days.

I’m very lucky to be volunteering with the Lymington and New Forest Group. They’re the most kind and appreciative group of people. They’ve welcomed me, valued my contributions and helped me so much. Every time I meet with the other volunteers I learn something new from them. About how the group works, what we can offer and what we need to be able to continue. I still have a lot to learn, but I’m really looking forward to it because of the people alongside me helping.

Regaining a purpose

My MS diagnosis changed so much for me. Being unable to do my job as a teacher was very hard mentally. I also need more help around the house and with daily tasks for my family than I’d imagined. I struggled a lot to accept this.

Volunteering with the group has given me back some of that purpose and sense of achievement. As well as the opportunities the group provides just by being a member. The best thing is that the volunteers understand MS and don’t have unrealistic expectations. They get that some days I just can’t do things because of my fatigue. And they’re very good at making sure I don’t take on too much and burn myself out.

A lot to offer

I may not do as much as I used to do in life. I may be a lot slower, more forgetful and less physically able. But volunteering has shown me that I’m still me and I still have a lot to offer.

I’d recommend volunteering with the MS Society to anyone. There are many roles, so take time to find the right one for what you can manage. Fundraising works for me as it doesn’t involve regular commitment. I can break down tasks to do as and when I’m able with no pressure. Being part of a team, learning from those already volunteering, and having back up and support will all help you to succeed.