‘I Connect, We Connect’
Today is the annual celebration of World MS Day (30th May). This day aims to raise awareness about Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and the impact it has on individuals affected by this condition. The first World MS Day was observed in 2009, and since then, it has become an annual event that brings together people from all over the world to advocate for better care and support for those living with MS.
One of the most significant aspects of this day is its ability to bring people together. People from different backgrounds come together to share their stories and experiences with MS. There are many events organised globally where people can participate in charity walks or fun runs to help raise funds for research into finding a cure for multiple sclerosis. These events also provide opportunities for people living with MS to connect with others who understand what they're going through.
What is MS?
Approximately 2.8 million people have been diagnosed with MS globally. It is an auto immune disease that effects the central nervous system. There are four main types:
- Relapsing Remittent (RRMS)
- Secondary Progressive (SPMS)
- Primary Progressive (PPMS)
- Progressive Relapsing (PRMS)
MS affects everyone differently, but the common symptoms include fatigue, numbness and tingling sensations, vision problems and walking difficulties. It can also leave people feeling isolated and lonely. A number of our clients are affected by MS, this is why it is incredibly important for us to show our support and raise awareness to show people they are not alone.
Terry Waller Story
Terry is seventy years old and was diagnosed with MS over 20 years ago. Before the diagnosis, he had a very active lifestyle as he was a headteacher who always enjoyed PE and in his spare time enjoyed swimming, playing golf and coaching rugby. Terry knew something was wrong when he began to feel weak and temporarily lost his sight in his right eye and then his left eye. Both eyes have recovered, albeit one better than the other. After a few tests he was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Since having MS, Terry felt that his mobility had declined significantly in a short space of time and found it a struggle to adapt to the change as he enjoyed being active.
Terry started attending sessions at PhysioFunction six months ago and has expressed how he enjoys being active and feeling like he has worked hard when attending each session. His favourite sessions at PhysioFunction are Hydrotherapy and using the Alter-G, as he is able to be active but within a safe environment.
We asked Terry if he had any advice for someone that has MS, he advised people to try to stay positive and be open to accepting help from others especially when needed as its out of love and kindness.
A huge thank you to Terry for discussing his story and we are so glad we can be a part of your journey.
International MS Day plays an essential role in creating awareness about multiple sclerosis and advocating for better care, support, and understanding of those affected by it. It's a day to bring people together from all over the world, to educate the public about MS. This yearly event is crucial in promoting awareness of this neurological condition and providing support to millions of people living with MS that they are not alone in their journey.
It is important that we continue to recognize and support International MS Day, not just on May 30th but throughout the year. By doing so, we can help create a better world for those affected by MS.
