"My diagnosis of MS came 2 1/2 years ago after having an adverse reaction to medication I was given whilst in Gisborne Hospital, leading me to fall from a first floor window ledge.

I sustained broken ankles and four fractures to my spine. I have no memory of the incident.

It was then that I was flown to Waikato for emergency surgery, and when I woke, the thing I had feared most since my first symptoms in 2018, was confirmed by a neurologist; Relapsing Remitting MS.

I couldn't be more grateful to the Gisborne MS Society as it was them who reached out to me, and they have been a huge support ever since. I love attending their programmes and get togethers when my work schedule allows.

The Gisborne MS Society also provide regular contact and visits by their Field Officer, which has been crucial to my wellbeing, and supported me fundamentally when my property was affected by Cyclone Gabrielle.

Living with MS has its many challenges, and although I now have permanent injuries from the fall to deal with, as well as MS, I am still alive, and can still live well independently, despite my limitations.

I try not to look too far ahead and take each day as it comes, because MS symptoms can change so fast.

I'd like people newly diagnosed with MS to know, that there is help and support out there for them within their local MS community, and it's important to get amongst like-minded people."

About Us

Multiple Sclerosis Gisborne and East Coast provides information, advice, and support to people with Multiple Sclerosis and their families, carers across a wide geographic area.

Our Field Officer provides clients with one on one peer support, ensuring they have access to other appropriate supports, alternative therapies, social interaction, and community engagement opportunities available in our region.

As a member of the Rehab Collective, we work collaboratively with other non-profit organisations for the betterment of our clients and for the delivery of high calibre awareness education.