Raising awareness about multiple sclerosis
Graeme recently met with the MS Society Angus to discuss how they support the local community.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a condition that affects your brain and spinal cord. With MS, the coating that protects your nerves (myelin) is damaged. This causes a range of symptoms like blurred vision and problems with how you move, think and feel. More than 130,000 people in the UK have MS. In the UK people are most likely to find out they have MS in their thirties, forties and fifties. But the first signs of MS often start years earlier. Many people notice their first symptoms years before they get their diagnosis.
The UK-wide network of local MS Society groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS. They provide a sense of belonging, unity and friendship – and they deliver services and support for local MS communities. The Angus group organises a range of activities from coffee mornings to bigger events. Whether you have MS, or care about someone who does, the groups help you to connect with other people from the community and share experiences. From information on local services to opportunities to meet others in the area and more, the group is part of a large network of MS Society groups across the UK.
For many people with MS, their local group meetings are a lifeline, an opportunity to meet up, have a coffee with people who know MS, find out the latest research news, or even do some yoga. There are six volunteers for the Angus Group at the moment who keep the group going by organising monthly events for MS sufferers and their families.
MS Awareness Week 2023 will run from 24 – 30th April. It’s a chance to raise awareness of multiple sclerosis and spread the word. MS can be tough, and for many people talking about it can be challenging. This year’s UK MS Awareness Week is focused on how MS makes us feel, think or act.
Graeme visited the MS Society Angus, where he spoke with Angus Group Coordinator Liz Robb and volunteers Alyson and Janice about the local support available for those with MS.
I was pleased to meet with Liz and some of the volunteers at the MS Society Angus. It was great to hear about their upcoming events including afternoon tea at Friockheim Hub on 13th May.
GRAEME
Living with a long-term condition isn’t always easy and the emotional effects of MS often go undiagnosed. It’s not unusual to experience depression, stress and anxiety when you have MS. It is important to know that help and support is out there if and when you need it.
