Raised so far
$22
Our goal
$3,000
"I was diagnosed with primary progressive Multiple Sclerosis ten years ago at age 55. The symptoms that impact my life include fatigue, spasticity, limited mobility, and impaired dexterity. I am right-handed, but I do have problems in performing tasks using the left side. These symptoms mean I have trouble walking long distances, and I can’t enjoy running like I used to. Photography was one of my passions, but now I can’t hold a SLR camera or adjust the lens. Another activity I enjoyed was working on old cars, and other mechanical work.
I used to be a dairy farmer, but due to the physical nature of this work, I am now unable to work as I would like to. My MS has impacted my ability to earn and affected my job opportunities.
You may be surrounded by people, but when you have MS, you can still feel very isolated. For the first two years after my diagnosis, I did not know that MS Tranaki existed. Meeting the Field Worker made a big difference to me by educating and counselling me so I could see I was not the only one; there are others out there, and there are ways to cope. The society’s support and commitment was the inspiration for me having been a proud president of MS Taranaki for over six years. MS Taranaki is the primary source of support and information for people, like me, with Multiple Sclerosis. Your donation can assist me, and approximately 150 other people with MS, and our families in our local community, to cope with life with MS."
"I was fortunate to meet up with two neurological physiotherapists in the early days of my diagnosis, and they impressed on me how important exercise is to the condition I have. They suggested, “use it or lose it!” My primary sport in my youth was cycling so it was a no-brainer, neurological condition and all, to pursue this as my exercise. I clip my feet into pedals so I can ride. I live in rural North Taranaki and my goal is to ride my road bike 200 kilometres per week. With support from my wife Julie, we ride 20 kilometres for coffee in New Plymouth and then home again, three or four days a week. I certainly believe that “exercise is medicine”.
I get frustrated by things, like putting on boots or a nut on a bolt, but those closest to me notice more than I do. However, I have learned to think ahead and strategise to find ways around issues and to accept and move on. I soon learned that when one door closes another door opens."
About Us
As a registered charity that is run by volunteers, employing one Field Worker to support over 150 people and their families affected by MS in our region, we desperately need your support to ensure our services can continue.
MS Taranaki provides a free service with an experienced and qualified Field Worker to support people with Multiple Sclerosis in the Taranaki region.
We provide information and education to people with MS, their families, carers, friends, and employers along with providing support, advice or referrals for issues related to MS.
MS Taranaki aims to provide the highest levels of support that we can, improving the services available so comparable with levels in the main centres.
Our services
Community Advisor Services
Counselling
Educational Resources
Socialising Events
Support Groups
Contact
Phone: 021 985 285
Address: 34-136 Ngamotu Road, New Plymouth
Email: secretary@mstaranaki.co.nz
A big thank you to our Supporters
The real heroes who are kindly helping us achieve our goal
Anonymous
$21
Shawn Elworthy
$1
