Fundraising for the MS Trust isn't just about skydiving or taking on a marathon, there are lots of different ways you can support our work making sure a life with MS isn't a life defined by MS. Take our fantastic supporter Beth, who will be holding a Be Bold in Blue quiz and charity raffle at her local pub. Here she writes about her MS diagnosis, dealing with the fear of the unknown, and why she wants to give something back to the MS Trust.
I am taking part in the MS Trust's Be Bold in Blue campaign this year by arranging a pub quiz and charity raffle in a local pub. This is my way of supporting the MS Trust after finding their support invaluable when I was diagnosed.
I was diagnosed six years ago and this came as a huge shock to me at the age of 29. I went to my doctors thinking I had a trapped nerve in my back as I was getting pins and needles in my legs and feet. The first doctor sent me away and told me it was because I was wearing flip-flops! As it carried on, I went back to see a different doctor and I was referred to a neurologist at my hospital. I underwent lots of daunting tests including a lumbar puncture, which all confirmed my MS diagnosis.
It was a lot to take in at the age of 29 and all I could think about was being stuck in a wheelchair for the rest of my life. It took me a long time to come to terms with my diagnosis and it has really affected my mental health. I struggle with anxiety due to the fear of the unknown, as a lot of people with MS will understand.
The MS Trust provided some fantastic literature including leaflets and booklets about treatments and what to expect from MS.
I automatically felt more at ease and started to understand the condition more and there was also lots of information on choosing a disease modifying drug.
I had an MRI scan four years ago which confirmed that my MS was extremely active and I was having lots of relapses. At the time, the neurologist said to me that the MS was attacking my spine and it could well be affecting my mobility if I didn’t do something about it, I was completely against drugs until that point but from then I realised something had to be done. I decided to start Lemtrada and had this in two courses over two years. This was a very tough time for me but my strength got me through.
Since my treatment I haven’t relapsed and my MRI is currently stable. So what better way to raise awareness of my story and also the amazing work charities like the MS Trust do than to hold a pub quiz and raffle? It will be fantastic fun for everyone and it is my chance to give back!
