A life on the progressive side episode 1

Primary progressive MS and adjustments after diagnosis, with Fiona McMillan.

In the first episode of our new podcast series, Ashleigh speaks with Fiona McMillan who, like Ashleigh, is living with primary progressive MS.

In this episode Ashleigh and Fiona discuss:

diagnosis
workplace challenges
workplace advocacy
changes to mobility
staying active
their hopes for the future both personally and in MS research

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About Fiona and Ashleigh

Fiona

Fiona McMillan was diagnosed with primary progressive MS just after her 19th birthday.

She lives in Edinburgh and is training to become a chartered accountant. In her spare time she does a lot of baking and cooking.

Ashleigh

Ashleigh Talbot is a musician from Manchester. She started reporting on the LGBTQIA+ community back in 2015 when she produced and presented “That’s Pride” on local Manchester television.

She was diagnosed with primary progressive MS in 2022.

Ashleigh also runs her own podcast for the trans community called ‘What the Trans?!’.

Information and support for progressive MS

Read more about the topics discussed in this episode and find support.

Primary progressive MS (PPMS)

Primary progressive MS affects about 10-15% of people diagnosed with MS. It has this name because from the first (primary) symptoms it is progressive. Symptoms gradually get worse over time, rather than appearing as sudden attacks (relapses).

Working and MS

This section will help you understand what a diagnosis of MS can mean for your working life. There's information for employers, and some practical tools to help you manage your MS at work.

Staying active

However MS affects you, exercise can help you stay as healthy as possible. All kinds of movement can be good for you. You might enjoy sports, while someone else may prefer tai chi or yoga. Gentler activities like gardening and cleaning use your muscles too.