I’m walking the length of England for MS! 🥾

MS is a condition where the body’s own immune system attacks the myelin sheath around nerves, causing a kind of short-circuit, resulting in a host of possible debilitating symptoms. 130,000 people in the UK have MS, with 130 new diagnoses each week: ~70% have difficulty walking (with many in wheelchairs), 2/3 experience brain/cognitive fog, ~90% have fatigue. Other symptoms include muscle pain, spasticity, pins & needles, and bladder issues ☹️

I was diagnosed with MS 13 years ago. Since then, I’ve had four different types of treatment - a stem cell transplant in Mexico and 3 types of drug via the NHS (which has been fantastic). I’m currently on monthly injections of Kesimpta, a type of chemo that moderates the immune system.

BUT…I am lucky that I have responded well to the treatment and that my MS has followed milder path. Whilst my experience shows the efficacy of the drugs, it is the exception. I was starting to have walking difficulty before Kesimpta, and certainly wouldn’t be doing what I am now without it 😁

The MS Society supports people with MS and the Stop MS Appeal funds research that develops new drugs👩‍🔬 They are focusing on progressive MS now, a more advanced form of MS, and for which there are less effective drugs. They are making big strides and a real difference!! 💪

If you’re able to support MS research I’d be very grateful 🙏

Best wishes, Tom

Ps: if you know someone with MS who would like to chat please do put them in touch 

PPS: if you’d like to follow, I’m keeping a walk diary on instagram @mrtommercer

https://www.mssociety.org.uk/get-involved/fundraise/my-ms-fundraising