In February, when a routine MRI scan to investigate an ongoing issue with migraines came back with some concerning results, I was informed that I may have Multiple Sclerosis (MS). MS is a neurological condition that is caused by your immune system attacking your nerves, which can cause damage to your brain and spinal cord and results in a wide variety of symptoms.

Whilst a number of further tests have thankfully come back clear, I am now under the monitoring of my neurologist and will be subject to annual MRI scans for the next few years to see if there is any negative change.

Naturally, the anxiety of this potential diagnosis has thrown me into a new world as I try to understand the condition and the potential implications. Whilst navigating this world, I have quickly learned that this is an extremely confusing, and therefore misunderstood, condition. Whilst c.3m people around the world are said to have MS, no two people with the condition will experience the same path or symptoms. Whilst some may end up with mobility issues later in life, others will continue to run marathons far beyond the age of a normal, healthy individual. MS is known as the 'invisible disease', because the vast majority of MS symptoms (e.g fatigue, migraines, cognitive issues, neuropathic pain, and mental health problems) are hidden to the naked eye. Whilst there are a number of highly-developed treatments and medications to slow down the course and progression of the disease, there is currently no cure.

Over 130,000 people (many of whom are also in their 20s, to my surprise) in the UK are currently diagnosed with MS, and due to the mental and physical toll of suffering from an unpredictable, life-long, chronic condition with no cure, these individuals deserve, and need, support.

As one of the charities leading the way in providing such crucial support, my dad and I will be running / jogging / plodding the Royal Parks Half Marathon to raise money for MS-UK, and raise awareness for this condition. We would really appreciate any donations to help us achieve this.

To find out more about what MS-UK do, please visit www.ms-uk.org