Ben Hardy

Support my challenge to leave MS behind!

In late November 2025 I was diagnosed with Balo’s disease, a rare variant of Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

Eight weeks before my diagnosis I had presented at the hospital with unusual symptoms that I was unable to describe, other than knowing something wasn’t right. At the time there were no answers and I was not admitted.

Eight weeks later, after developing stroke-like symptoms, I was taken by emergency ambulance to the Royal Adelaide Hospital.

I spent what felt like the longest week of my life there. On the day I was admitted, I was moved from the emergency department to the neurological ward after doctors discovered a lesion on my brain.  

The days that followed were filled with constant testing – CT scans, MRIs, blood tests, daily doctor visits, a lumbar puncture, and physical assessments – all to understand what was happening. Given MS presents differently for all individuals, and the rarity of Balo’s disease, it took two separate teams of neurologists and radiologists to reach an agreed diagnosis.

Before all of this I knew very little about MS and the idea of it was confronting. I’ve since learned that it’s most commonly diagnosed in people aged 20-40 and around 2.8 million people worldwide currently live with the condition.

Before discharge I underwent intensive treatment with three days of high-dose steroids via IV in hopes to reduce the lesion and prevent further growth. I received incredible care and support from the Specialists at the Royal Adelaide Hospital and continue to have regular MRIs and check-ups every three months. To date, the size of the lesion has not changed however we remain positive.

After leaving the hospital I spent months in physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy to regain strength, coordination and function on the left side of my body. I was unable to drive or work for an extended period of time which is something no one can truly prepare you for.

I’m incredibly grateful for the support of my family, friends and wider network during this time.

Now, I’m taking on the 50K in May to raise awareness and funds for much needed MS research – supporting better treatments, prevention and hopefully one day, a cure.

This cause is now deeply personal and I’m committed to doing what I can to make a difference. Any support, big or small, means more than I can put into words.

Ben