Kate McLean

In June 2024 I received the shock diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis. After decades of chronic migraines and headaches, a MRI found lesions on my brain, and MS was confirmed via a lumbar puncture. They think I’ve had it for 14 years. My only other symptom is fatigue, but I am a busy working mother of 3 teenagers and every Mum I know is exhausted. This diagnosis knocked the wind out of our sails, and the fear was very real. But the more educated we became, I realised that ending up in a wheelchair is not definite, in fact, it’s not even likely. My Neurologist told me that when he was in medical school in the 2010s, there were only 4 types of MS treatments available, now there are more than 10. I thank my lucky stars that we live in this wonderful country where my very expensive treatment is free. It’s been a tough ride so far, but made so much easier thanks to my beautiful family, gorgeous friends, amazing work colleagues and our health system. My outlook on so many things has changed. I’ve learnt to (finally) start putting myself first. I’m slowly learning to say no to things I wouldn’t have hesitated to do in the past - a night out can result in heavy fatigue for days as well as a guaranteed headache or migraine. At the same time, I’m appreciating the little things even more. If you are able to participate in the May 50k event to raise much needed funds for MS research, I will be eternally grateful. I doubt we will find a cure in my lifetime, but more treatment options would be ideal. If you can’t participate, please consider donating if you can: https://www.themay50k.org/fundraisers/katemclean Thank you. My GP gave me the best advice which I intend to follow: ‘Make friends with your MS - be kind to it and it will be kind to you’. And so it is x