Almost 5 years ago I joined the MS-UK team as a member of staff. Since then, the charity has supported me in so many ways and I wanted to take on a challenge to give something back. 

In 2017, MS-UK Counselling was launched - it is the only telephone counselling service for people diagnosed with MS in the UK. And it is amazing. As somebody who lives with a long-term, serious mental health condition, I cannot say enough how valuable it is to be able to talk to someone who really 'gets it' and is there just to listen. 

MS-UK also has a helpline and the team are always on the end of the phone, New Pathways magazine is packed full of balanced information and is a lifeline for the MS community across the world and the wellness centre in Essex is buzzing with a sense of achievement and family. 

Every day I meet and speak to people affected by multiple sclerosis in my job and every day I realise that MS-UK makes a real difference. I have the honour of meeting lots of #TeamPurple members over the course of a year as part of my role at MS-UK (I'm the Comms Manager) but last September I attended the Swim Serpentine and I was so inspired I couldn't resist signing up myself. 

So my motto for 2019 is 'Just keep swimming' - I will be keeping this page up to date with my progress, as I am by no means a 'natural' water baby, but I am determined to do #TeamPurple proud this September!