In 2005, Ken and his wife Marilyn embarked on a journey across China. Little did they know that this adventure would lead to a profound realisation. Ken began to feel a persistent fatigue, struggling to keep pace with his fellow travellers, some much older than him. He knew something was amiss but had no inkling of the storm that was brewing inside him.
Ken and Marilyn
Back in their hometown of Dubbo, Ken’s general practitioner swiftly arranged a consultation with a neurologist. After a battery of tests, the diagnosis arrived like an unwelcome guest: multiple sclerosis (MS), a condition that disrupts the central nervous system, affecting the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. A condition without a cure, although there exist treatments to alleviate its symptoms.
Ken, now 79, looks back and speculates that MS might have silently entered his life in the 1970s. His history included intermittent vision troubles and bouts of fatigue – telltale signs of the condition. Yet, like many of his time, he chose not to delve into the unknown, fearing the potential repercussions, including the risk of losing his job.
But Ken’s story doesn’t stop at a diagnosis; it’s about resilience and determination. He continued working as an engineer for three decades and later as an office manager until his retirement in 1997. Ken’s MS, a slow-progressing variant, allows him to cherish good days, even though he now navigates the world from a wheelchair. Gardening, woodworking, computing, and DIY tasks are still very much a part of his life, and he’s even managed to explore Australia.
For over a decade, Ken and Marilyn actively contributed to their local MS Plus support branch in Dubbo. They organised fundraising events, raised awareness about the disease, and witnessed the profound impact of community support.
Ken gardening
Through their journey, Ken realised that he was not alone in his fight against MS. Grateful for the support of MS Plus, he decided to leave a lasting legacy.
“I hope my gift will contribute to a future where no one with MS feels alone,” Ken shared.
Ken and Marilyn’s legacy has found a permanent place among the members of the MS Callistemon League, a group of dedicated benefactors. Together, they are united by a shared vision – to fast-track a cure for MS and provide care along the way. Their collective commitment paves the path to a brighter future for all those affected by this challenging condition.
Join us in creating a legacy of love where every gift in a Will becomes a beacon of hope for generations to come. Please contact Laura or Rebecca for more information.
https://www.msplus.org.au/how-you-can-help/gifts-in-wills 1800 443 867 or email futureplanning@msplus.org.au
