MS doesn't stop for coronavirus
Ian lives with primary progressive multiple sclerosis (MS), which impacts his life every day. Ian’s MS means he regularly experiences difficulties walking and extreme pain.
Ian says, “I frequently wake up feeling like my torso has been beaten with a baseball bat. My ribs feel bruised and breathing is difficult as the pain forces me to take shallow breaths.”
Other symptoms include cognitive difficulties, tinnitus and fatigue. Ian says, “My own experience involves waves of sheer undiluted exhaustion coming over me. I sometimes compare my MS to an insidious valet. A malevolent little so and so, seldom seen but always there.”
Living with these symptoms can be exhausting to manage and those with MS are normally helped by specialist care teams, such as MS nurses and physiotherapists.
While there are still lots of unanswered questions about the coronavirus pandemic, for the 130,000 people in the UK with MS, the uncertainty and fear is even more significant.
A trusted source of information for people with MS
Currently classed as one of the most vulnerable groups in society, people with MS have to make incredibly difficult decisions about their lives and health on a daily basis. The current situation makes it even harder to manage pre-existing symptoms and many are worried about receiving the treatment they need.
At this difficult time, more people than ever are turning to the MS Trust looking for information and support. The MS Trust enquiry service offers reliable and evidence-based information, providing a vital lifeline for those with MS and their support networks.
Supporting people with MS through Covid-19
When asked how the MS Trust is helping Ian through the coronavirus outbreak, he says: “In these times of social distancing, isolation, worry and confusion about the spread of the virus, it’s good to have an accurate source of information that focuses on people with MS.”
The MS Trust is doing everything it can to provide all the information that people need about MS and coronavirus. They are talking to experts and arming themselves with the latest scientific knowledge. They are listening to people living with MS to understand what they need. They are also a key source of information for frontline NHS staff and healthcare workers.
Approaching life with optimism
Despite the impact of MS on his daily life, Ian approaches life with optimism, and so do the MS Trust. Whatever happens in coming months, the MS Trust will continue supporting people so they can make informed decisions and manage their condition.
MS doesn’t stop for a global pandemic, and neither will the MS Trust.
Find out more
You can read more of Ian’s story on the MS Trust website.
If you're interested in supporting MS Trust to continue delivering their vital enquiry service during the Covid-19 outbreak, please visit mstrust.org.uk/ms-doesnt-stop.
