On the 31st December 2015, my Dad’s right foot felt numb. 2 weeks later, he had lost all sensation and movement from the waist down and was unable to walk: he was diagnosed with idiopathic transverse myelitis. He returned home 6 months later after intensive rehabilitation but his sensation never returned. Through sheer determination, he was able to walk short distances with a stick and using a wheelchair. He adapted to the changes with such courage, with the support of my mum by his side!

Over the years, Dad noticed the distance he could walk gradually reduced. In 2023, he mentioned at a hospital appointment his right arm felt weaker and in 2024, 8 ½ years later, he was diagnosed with Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (SPMS).

Unfortunately, due to the severity of his initial symptoms, MS was ruled out therefore he did not receive any treatment that may have prevented SPMS (or at least slowed the process down).

As a family we are still processing this information, and Dad, along with mum, is adapting to another “new life” and no doubt will continue having to adapt as time goes on. He will as he always does take it in his stride, with my mum as his rock. We are a very close family and so proud of him.

Having seen the impact of MS on us as a family, I am raising this money to help others affected by this life changing diagnosis, whether they are going through the illness themselves or supporting a loved one.

MS-UK was established in 1993, and is a national charity dedicated to empowering people with multiple sclerosis to make the most of today, and live life to the full.

MS-UK put people affected by MS at the heart of the work that they do. They provide high quality, professional services to support people living with multiple sclerosis, and they listen to people affected by MS.