Being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis threw quite a spanner in my plan of life at the time. Finding OMS gave me hope and positivity that I could make changes to the lifestyle I was leading for a better health outcome. 

In simple terms, the 7-step Overcoming MS lifestyle approach can put people with MS back in the driver seat of their own destiny, considering that MS is often seen as a condition with a predicted decline in health. The OMS community provides positive support and many new friendships are formed whenever we meet.

Since following the OMS programme, I have been healthier than ever before and I am grateful that it led me to enjoy and appreciate being active outdoors in all (most) weather conditions a lot more!

Mental health is hugely important and a healthier body leads to a healthier and stronger mind to enable you to deal with this curveball that MS is. Any sport can offer great health benefits.

In August I will be taking part in RideLondon, which is a 100-mile closed road cycling event with 25,000 other riders where I will be proudly representing Overcoming MS and raising awareness.

I have never been riding 100 miles in one go and training hasn't been exactly going to plan, so wish me luck and please support this great cause if you can.

Thank you!

Claudia x

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity. 

They also make “Gift Aid” easy - you don’t have to do anything other than confirm you’re a UK tax payer and meet a couple of other criteria. The MS Society will then be able to claim an additional 25% back from the government. In other words £10 can turn into £12.50 with Gift Aid.