So here we are, it’s 3rd December 2021. A year ago today I had the MRI scan that essentially changed everything, yet changed nothing at all at the same time! After 2 episodes of optic neuritis and a few other symptoms that I had always just thought were nothing, I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. This year has been a bit of a rollercoaster of emotions and getting my head round scary treatments,  but as it nears it’s end I feel a lot more positive about things and am so thankful that so far I keep reasonably well and am able to run (sort of!)!. A lot of that is thanks to the help and guidance of the staff at the Anne Rowling Centre in Edinburgh. I have therefore decided to attempt the half marathon next year to raise some money for this marvellous place and the brilliant work and research they are doing there. I have not run for a couple of years, and I have this weird thing related to my ms in that my vision deteriorates when my body heats up so running outside can be a challenge with the uneven roads/paths etc. Because of this most of my training will be on the treadmill and then I’ll just hope for the best on the day!  I’d love to raise a bit of cash for the ARC who not only look after people affected by all the progressive neurological conditions such as MS, MND and Parkinson’s, but also are leading the way in research into these conditions and their treatments. 

If anyone fancies spurring me on with a wee sponsor, I’d be very grateful! Though does mean I have to do it! Eeeeek! 

Due to me getting covid 4 weeks before the run and MS meaning my bounce back ability of old has frustratingly disappeared, I am sadly postponing to the 2023 run. My consultant tells me I need to adapt to the new way as my immune system is constantly in overdrive so can take a few months to get over things that previously would have taken a week or so. Also that I perhaps need to plan at times that things like training, may take a wee bit longer than before. For those that know me well, this is hugely frustrating.  Anyway, on a positive my scans show no new lesions this year so that’s good news that I am very grateful for in this new world of chronic disease. Determined to get this done though. I may have MS, but MS doesn’t have me! 

Thanks for your support

Laura

The Anne Rowling Clinic is part of the University of Edinburghs College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine. It delivers clinical care and research to improve the lives of people with degenerative conditions affecting the brain.Its researchers and clinicians study the following neurological conditions:multiple sclerosis (MS)motor neurone disease (MND)Parkinson's disease (PD) and movement disordersHuntington's diseasestroke due to brain haemorrhagecognitive disorders (problems with memory, language, thinking and understanding)The Anne Rowling Clinic was founded by author J.K. Rowling and has charitable status through the University of Edinburgh Development Trust.