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Not many of you know, but in 2014, I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. It all started in 2009 when I lost the sight in my left eye for around 4 weeks. Thankfully it returned and I have full vision now, but I was warned it may be MS. I didn’t think much of it as I thought, “what’s the point in stressing about something I may or may not have?”, so I didn’t. That was until 2014 when I thought I was having a stroke as the whole left side of my body just wasn’t right. It was numb, tingly, my neck was very stiff and I thought my speech was slurring. I eventually went back to the doctors, when pushed by James. By this point I thought there was something wrong as he wouldn’t urge me to go unless it was important.. I had an appointment through fairly quickly with a Professor and James came with me. He did a few tests and verbally confirmed it was MS. (By now I was pregnant with Phoebe so I couldn’t have an MRI to confirm his diagnosis). In 2015, I did have the MRI and it did confirm it. 

I had a whole mixture of emotions; what exactly is it, how will it affect me and my family? Relief to finally have an answer to some of the things I’ve been experiencing over the last 10 years, amongst many.  Fast forward to now and I’ve recently had two relapses in the last 6 months. To look at me, you couldn’t tell, plus I’ve become accustomed to hiding it, sorry Mum and Dad. Anyway, I’m fine now and who knows if or when the next relapse will be. I have made changes to my life to help keep it at bay: I’ve joined a gym, I work part time and I enjoy a good ole spa every now and then!! 

So, if you can spare any change to sponsor me, I’ll be throwing myself out of a plane (attached to someone thankfully!) hoping and praying I don’t poo my pants!! I need to raise £395 to do this exciting challenge. Thank you for taking the time to read my story. 

Lots of love, Ruth xx