About MS

Multiple Sclerosis is the most common disease of the central nervous system for young adults, affecting 18,000 Australians.

People are typically diagnosed in their twenties and thirties, with an average age of diagnosis at 30. Interestingly three times more women are affected by MS than men. Common symptoms include muscle weakness, extreme tiredness, blurred vision, speech difficulty, loss of balance and coordination, and in some cases, tremors and paralysis. MS is a lifelong disease for which a cure is yet to be found.

We don't know what causes MS but we're researching to find out. In the meantime, the MS Society strives to make the lives of people with MS better through the provision of specialist advice, equipment and programs such as MS Connect, our information and assistance hotline for people with MS, their families and friends.

Find out more about multiple sclerosis and the MS Society at www.mssociety.org.au

Meet Glen

For 38 year-old Glen McMahon, who was diagnosed with MS 13 years ago, MS means something completely different. "To me, M stands for Mind and S stands for Strength", Glen says.

With support from his family, employer, doctors, nurses and the MS Society, Glen has been able to understand his MS and 'accept it as a challenge' rather than an obstacle, which further drives his commitment and determination towards achieving his goals.

Prior to Glen's diagnosis he was heavily involved in a number of sports, including representative rugby league. He also ran his own plumbing business until his condition deteriorated to a point where he had to use a wheelchair. Although admitting there are good and bad days, Glen has been able to rekindle his passion for sport and is currently a top competitor in the sport of hand-cycling. When he's not training, Glen is busy helping in the education and understanding of the disease through his role as an MS Ambassador.

A regular visitor to the Studdy MS Centre at Lidcombe in NSW, Glen says that his visits keep his mind active and staff are very helpful with hints and advice. He is a testament to the power of an optimistic outlook and believes that research into MS is progressing. "I live for a day when I can walk hand in hand with my daughter," Glen says.

Need to motivate your workmates, sporting team or friends into participating and fundraising for the MS Walk & Fun Run? MS Ambassadors are inspirational speakers who share with their audiences an intimate knowledge of MS and the impact it has had on their lives. To book an MS Ambassador to speak to your organisation please phone (02) 9646 0600 or email ambassadors@mssociety.com.au.