Twelve year old Lacey hasn't been able to hug her dad for a year

Twelve year old Lacey’s dad was diagnosed with MS before she was born. He now lives full time in a nursing home. Before lockdown Lacey visited her dad every other weekend, but Covid restrictions have meant she’s not been able to visit her dad and give him a hug since March 2020. Here, Lacey tells us a little about how hard this year has been and why she decided to fundraise to help other families going through what her family is going through.

Hi Lacey, can you tell us a little bit about your Dad?
My dad was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2007, which was before I was born. When I was younger I wasn’t aware of the effects and the impact MS can have on a person. However, now that I am older, I have a better understanding of MS. I remember spending time with my dad at Wheelgate and Twinlakes before lockdown, they are family amusement parks near to where we live. Remembering fun times helps me to cope better with life in general now. I used to see my dad every other weekend, but now things have changed due to Covid-19. 

How have the last 12 months been for you?
There have been some big changes in the last 12 months. I joined secondary school in September 2020, I have settled in well and I am enjoying being at school. I have made good bonds with some staff and I feel comfortable talking to them and sharing my problems. I also went to Greece with my family in October which I enjoyed. The biggest challenge for me and my sister over the last year was not being able to see our dad. It’s also been hard not to see other family and friends and live a normal life. The pandemic has made me feel anxious leaving the house.

What made you decide to fundraise for the MS Trust?
I wanted to help other people, so they do not have to experience what my family and I have gone through. The MS Trust are so important to people with multiple sclerosis, as well as their friends and carers. I raised money by running around my local country park twice on the 14 March 2021. My family are very proud of me and very encouraging. 

What are you looking forward to most in a lockdown free future?  
Being able to see my dad to give him a kiss and a big hug.