The MS Walk + Run: the gift of hope
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It’s hard to begin to imagine what it would feel like for your body to suddenly change and never recover.
But this is a reality for 23,000 Australians—each day, four Australians are diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). The cruelty of this disease means that symptoms and affects vary from person to person so it’s a difficult beast to both detect and predict. MS is a disease of the nervous system, mostly affecting young adults and even children and mostly affects the way that the body’s nerves communicate with each other.
While medical researchers are racing to find a cure and discovering more advanced treatments for people suffering from MS, there is still work to be done to help those currently suffering from the disease live comfortable lives. One such organisation that supports these people and their carers is MS Australia.
Lauren Kish, a shift worker with a domestic airline had been experiencing unusual symptoms for over 12 months. She would not have thought that the diagnosis she would receive would turn her world upside down. Luckily, having the right support network has made her journey bearable.
“I am fortunate to be surrounded by a fantastic group of family and friends who support me in all facets of my life,” Lauren says, explaining that her journey had not only made her live in the moment, but also made her realise that there was something to be gained in sharing her story with MS Australia and the world.
“If people can gain something for themselves from my experience with multiple sclerosis even if it’s in the smallest sense, then it has all been worth it. A diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis is not a death sentence but it is a life sentence because now I do make every minute count.”
Bethany Lamont
Lawyer Bethany Lamont did not surrender to negativity when she was diagnosed with MS in 2010. As a responsible parent for a foster child, Bethany had to find new ways to fight for her own wellbeing. As she puts it, the disease only made her more determined to achieve her goals in life.
“As a lawyer, I hope to contribute to reforms [that] support vulnerable people in the community who need a champion in their corner”.
Anyone can become a valued supporter of MS Australia and help contribute to a better future for people like Lauren and Bethany. One way to do this is to attend the upcoming MS Walk +Fun Run on Sunday 30 April around Lake Burley Griffin.
Participants can choose whether to take part by walking or running and in the process raise funds to donate to MS Australia. A worthy cause it will be, but a fun day out for the family as well.
The event will be accessible to wheelchairs, prams and mobility scooters too and supporters of participants are welcome to purchase food and drinks at the event.
the essentials
What: Canberra MS Walk + Run
When: Sunday 30 April from 9am
Where: Rond Terrace, Commonwealth Park, Parkes Way
Register: Online at mswalk.org.au or on the day
Images: Supplied
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