I started volunteering with the MS community at the MS Society, Aberdeen local group in May 2017 and recently came across notes I made for my introductory piece in the summer newsletter of that year. Reading it, I realised nothing much has changed on the face of it and I reproduce the comments I wrote then.
‘Your local group has gone through substantial change over the past few months. The Stuart Resource Centre has been sold and services now operate from Inchgarth Community Centre where our groups have been made very welcome.
The Local Network Officer covering Aberdeen, Ken Munro, has left the MS Society to take up a lecturing post at Robert Gordon University. We wish him well in that role. One of Ken’s last tasks was to recruit me as the Local Group Coordinator. My name is Ian Gourlay and I am a retired bank manager. Since taking early retirement in 2009 I have volunteered with a number of charitable groups across the city and remain involved with some of them. Ken also recruited Samuel Henry who has assumed the combined roles of administration and finance. As we settle into our new positions, we are relying heavily on the skills and knowledge of Brenda Reid and Chrissie Kennedy, to whom most of you are already known. Both Brenda and Chrissie have accepted additional responsibilities on the local management team as well as continuing with their current duties.
I look forward to working with the local group. In the future I hope we can expand the range of services we offer and the areas we operate from. To this
end, I would encourage you all to complete the questionnaire which follows later in this newsletter. We will use the responses to consider what can be offered, and where. Looking at the list of local members there are significant numbers of people based in Banchory and Stonehaven. It may be you want services at locations within these towns. Your opinion counts – please let the management team know what services you would like to see introduced. If there is sufficient interest shown and it is financially viable, we will be more than happy to introduce it.
Having attended Inchgarth Community Centre when our services are operational, I have noted the lack of young people involved. I appreciate you may be at work and we need to consider more suitable times to run services for you. By completing the questionnaire, the management team will get a better idea of your requirements.
The Aberdeen Local Group is your group. We can run services to meet the needs of all ages and all abilities but we need to know what you want to see happening in the future. I look forward to hearing from you.’
As I said, on the face of it, nothing much has changed or has it?
Sandra and John have joined Brenda, Chrissie and I on the management team as administrator and treasurer respectively after Sam left us when he moved to Glasgow.
In March 2020 Coronavirus hit worldwide and resulted in several lockdowns. Thankfully, we were able to recreate most of our sessions online and these continue to this day.
In June 2021 we had a fallout with the MS Society which resulted in us setting up our new charity, Aberdeen Independent Multiple Sclerosis. We lost the substantial level of cash balances held by its local group and had to start fundraising from scratch. Thankfully, with assistance from you, our community members and generous assistance from trusts and foundations, we are able to operate on a sound financial footing. Unfortunately, we remain unable to attract the younger element to our services and as the management team and community in general continues to grow older together, we wonder what lies ahed for the charity. We’d welcome your thoughts on how we attract young people. My contact details are on page 44 of this newsletter.
I wish you and yours a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, Ian
The 'MS Changes Things' Christmastime Reflections
by Dianne Scott
Christmas is my favourite holiday for a host of reasons. Spiritually, as a believer, I believe the true reason for the season commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and the beauty and importance it represents to mankind. Then there's the festive air the holidays bring. This season is bright and joyous and uplifting, from the carols to lively decorations to thoughtful gift-giving. I can't help but reflect on how Christmas has changed for me over the years. Christmas mornings before MS
Growing up, Christmas Day began with my sisters and I excitedly waking one another up early in the morning. Together, we’d rush down the stairs to the room where the tree was up and our gifts were grouped around with a sign with our name on it. We’d hurry to our respective names and begin going through our gifts. We’d enjoy a family breakfast and the day would ensue with intermittent visitors.
Once my sisters and I grew up and we had our own homes, I would start early Christmas morning with my children. Opening gifts and enjoying one another at the start of the day with just us. Then, mid-morning, we’d clean up our mess and prepare to head out to meet with the rest of the family at my parents' house where we’d exchange and open gifts before feasting on a delicious family potluck brunch then retire to our respective homes after a fun-filled day.
Then MS became part of my life
When MS became a part of my life, changes began. Slowly at first then those changes perpetuated the need for thought to manage my Christmas Day. At first it wasn’t too bad. I was a little slower, would tire more easily and much quicker. We’d get to my parents a little later than before. My visiting family
and friends slowed until eventually, I stayed at my parents and awaited the visitors due to my poorer mobility. The thought of flare ups was a concern due to the stressors the holiday can bring. With stress being a trigger for MS, I had to be careful.
The time came when I couldn’t decorate my own house, physically shop for and wrap gifts, nor place them under my tree for my children. I was unable to contribute personally prepared dishes to the potluck brunch. My thoughts centred around how to deal with the changes brought about by the decline of functionality MS had caused.
What I miss
Fast forward to the present, things really have changed. Completely sedentary now and wheelchair-bound, I miss things like:
• The times before MS took away my mobility. This left me unable to get to my parents’ house on Christmas Day. This leaves me having to go on a different day - and limiting my time there when I do go to avoid awkward bathroom incidents/accidents
• Partaking in the hustle and bustle of fighting the store's holiday frenzy
• When my hands weren’t contracted and I could decorate, cook and gift wrap
• The things I looked forward to doing with ease and pretty much without a second thought for the holidays
What I still enjoy
MS has changed much for me but I think, you know what? Christmas is still my favourite time of the year. I cannot forget I'm celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ and the beauty and importance it represents to mankind. There's festivity in the air along with the brightness, joy and uplifting atmosphere the season brings. The traditional carols I love so much as well as the lively decorations, thoughtful gift giving and receiving, holiday parties, games, programs and movies to good food, treats and fellowship. None of that can be overlooked or ignored. At this point, it’s been years of holidays with MS for me. Early on, I decided however I did it and whatever it took, I would not stop loving, celebrating and enjoying my favourite vibrant time of the year - and this year is no different!
Quiz: Name these people born in 1954
Answers on Page 34
The Transformative Benefits of Chair Yoga by Leonardo Borchi
Have you been curious about starting seated yoga but unsure what you need?
Seated yoga is one of the most accessible forms of exercise and it is aimed at people with a limited range of motion. It requires minimal equipment and preparation. Here’s a quick guide to get you started:
1. A sturdy chair: choose a chair that’s stable and comfortable, allowing you to sit with your feet flat on the floor and your knees at a 90-degree angle.
2. Comfortable clothing: wear clothes which allow you to move freely. There’s no need for special attire; just ensure you’re comfortable and your movement isn’t restricted.
3. A quiet space: find a comfortable spot where you can practice without interruption and large enough to extend your arms out around you.
4. Water bottle: staying hydrated is important, especially when exercising. Keep a water bottle nearby to sip as needed.
5. Open mind: perhaps the most important thing. Approach each session with positivity and the willingness to try something new. Chair yoga is a fantastic way to improve flexibility, strength and mental clarity while sitting down. It’s perfect for those looking to maintain mobility and enhance well-being without strain on joints and muscles. It’s not about perfection; it’s about making positive steps for your health. It is a practice which adapts yoga's healing essence to fit the needs of less mobile adults, emphasizing accessibility and personal safety. It stands out as an excellent option for maintaining health and vitality. Here are some reasons to consider seated yoga:
1. Promotes heart health: engaging in low-impact activities like seated yoga can contribute to cardiovascular health, helping to manage blood pressure
and improve circulation. This gentle form of exercise is heart-friendly and offers a way to stay active without over-exerting.
2. Supports mental wellbeing: seated yoga incorporates mindfulness and meditative elements which have been shown to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. It encourages a state of relaxation and helps to sharpen focus, benefiting overall mental health.
3. Increases functional strength: through modified poses, seated yoga helps increase strength, particularly in the core, arms and legs. This functional strength is crucial for daily activities and enhancing independence.
4. Improves respiratory health: the breathing techniques practiced in seated yoga can enhance lung capacity and respiratory function. It can boost energy levels and promote better oxygen flow throughout the body.
5. Fosters a sense of community: joining chair yoga sessions creates opportunities for social engagement and building connections. This social aspect can combat loneliness and contribute to a sense of belonging and community well-being.
Seated yoga is a gentle approach to nurturing the body, mind and spirit. It offers a pathway to improved health respecting the limits and celebrates the capabilities of each individual.
Note from the Editor: Grab your chair and let’s embrace the journey to wellness together. Join us on a Wednesday morning at 11am [see page 22]
Ian’s chair-based exercise workshop at the Grampian Gathering on Saturday 12 October
Photo credit: Emma Dobson
How I Plan to Have a Cracking Christmas with MS
by Beth Ullah
Navigating the holidays with a chronic illness is tough but doable. As an adult, it hasn’t been easy for me to get into the Christmas spirit. Planning festivities and buying gifts don’t come naturally to me. Perhaps it’s because adult life never ends, whereas as a student, I had holiday breaks signifying the beginning of the holiday season, allowing me to switch off. My school held a beautiful carol service at the largest church in the county on the last day of term. Since my relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis diagnosis, I’ve felt a distinct lack of excitement in the lead-up to Christmas. It feels like a lifetime since I was thrown into MS headfirst. Within two years of my diagnosis, I was paralysed from the waist down. It’s only been four Christmases which isn’t a lot of time to perfect navigating the holidays with MS and severe fatigue. Every Christmas, I take a different approach to find the best way to accommodate my new reality. My husband and I wanted to host a family Christmas, especially after we bought our first house. However, the thought of making our home visitor-friendly, preparing a delicious Christmas lunch and organising other meals was overwhelming. Last Christmas, we compromised by having my husband’s parents stay at our house and then going to a nearby restaurant for our Christmas Day meal. I’ve had many a Christmas meal out and have found the quality tends to be at either end of the spectrum. In this case, the meal was unfortunately disappointing, especially because I had to leave shortly after the main course was served. The hustle and bustle of the season left me more fatigued than usual and I was overwhelmed by the noise of the surrounding guests and the stark
contrast of going from the bitter December frost into the restaurant’s heat. It all left me teetering on the edge of a sensory overload attack. Luckily, I had my mobility scooter and since the restaurant was within walking distance of our house, I was able to escape without ruining anyone else’s meal. As I unlocked my front door and entered my quiet, empty house, MS isolation prevailed once again. While quiet was exactly what I needed, it certainly wasn’t what I wanted. This year, I’ve pledged things will be different. While I employed all my fatigue management tactics leading up to Christmas last year, I’m adding one more this season: not worrying or stressing about things I can’t control. Will it snow, affecting my mobility outdoors? Who knows. Will I burn the food because I’m overheating and forget about the time? Well, that’s why my husband’s cooking!
It may only be the seventh of December but it’s officially the holiday season in our house. The tree goes up as I indulge in my advent calendar chocolates and binge-watch cheesy Netflix Christmas movies.
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Poem: THE TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS
On the first day of Christmas, my true love said to me, I’ve bought a big fresh turkey and a proper Christmas tree.
On the second day of Christmas, much laughter could be heard, As we tucked into our turkey, a most delicious bird.
On the third day of Christmas, came the people from next door, The turkey tasted just as good it did the day before.
On the fourth day of Christmas, some wine and cheese we had, We were bright and happy, the turkey a little sad.
On the fifth day of Christmas, outside the snowflakes scurried, But we were nice and warm inside, we had the turkey curried.
On the sixth day of Christmas, the Christmas spirit died, The children fought and bickered and we had the turkey fried.
On the seventh day of Christmas, my true love he did wince, When he sat down at the table and was offered turkey mince.
On the eight day of Christmas, the dog has run for shelter, He had seen our turkey pancakes and the glass of Alka-Seltzer.
On the ninth day of Christmas, by lunch time dad was blotto, He knew the bird was back, this time as rice risotto.
On the tenth day of Christmas, we were drinking home-made brew, As if that wasn’t bad enough, we were eating turkey stew.
On the eleventh day of Christmas, the Christmas tree was moulting, With chilli, soya and oyster sauce, the turkey was revolting.
On the twelfth day of Christmas, we had a smile upon our lips, The guests had gone, the turkey too and we dined on fish and chips.
Managing
Prior to the year 2020, my life with MS was, for the most part, pretty stable and moving in a positive direction. I went for walks every day, exercised several times a week, included lots of stretching and had a decent diet. My mental health was the best it had ever been. If my life was a machine, it was operating smoothly because I worked hard to keep all the moving parts welloiled but it didn’t take long for the year 2020 to change everything. I subscribe to the idea we as people fear the unknown. An MS diagnosis (for example) tends to be a scary experience for most, because it brings with it an avalanche of questions with no concrete answers. 2020 marked the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic and with it came a planetary-sized avalanche of unknowns, especially for those living with health conditions. What little we did know was sometimes as terrifying as what we didn’t. This environment of uncertainty was without a doubt the worst-case scenario for my mental health. I was so distracted by the fear the coronavirus brought I didn’t notice I was neglecting my health. Fast-forward to the end of 2022. My previously well-managed depression was now worse than it had been in years and I had developed a crippling amount of daily anxiety. I’ve been living with depression since my late teens and over the years I’ve learned a lot about treating and managing it but I didn’t know anything about anxiety. I didn’t know what caused it, how to treat it or how to manage it but I knew it felt terrible and I wanted relief from whatever this was. I had been on Zoloft for years and had felt pretty good, stable. Maybe something about my body or my chemistry had changed, rendering Zoloft ineffective? I asked my neurologist about changing anti-depressants and
helping manage this anxiety. He told me he doesn’t deal with any of that… he told me to see my GP, so I did. Over the next few months, he had me try a few different anti-depressants, even mood stabilizers that were supposed to make certain antidepressants more effective.
I don’t usually have any issues with side effects and when I do, they are not bad enough to make me want to discontinue treatment. However, all the medication he had me try had terrible side effects which I just could not bear.
I was able to get put back on Zoloft to move back to square one. Well, square one with the addition of soul-crushing anxiety which the only thing I was given to manage was an antihistamine. It made me drowsy and anxious, making it difficult to function throughout the day.
At this point, I felt like I was on my own. I started trying to consume everything I could about managing anxiety. It took me a while as depression slows you down but at the start of January 2023, I realized a lot of the advice I was finding regarding the management of anxiety was the same as what I had learned helped me manage my depression. Exercise, diet, journaling, etc. Then it dawned on me – I wasn’t doing any of that anymore. When I sat down to think about where it all went wrong, I realized it started in 2020. The pandemic is what caused me to stray from the path I had been on. I had replaced my healthy habits with unhealthy coping mechanisms that became unhealthy habits.
It wasn’t easy at first - nothing is when you feel depressed and extra fatigued - but I’ve since started walking two miles every morning. I’m trying to eat better, I journal to reflect on what I’m feeling, and I’ve been working on shedding many of the habits I developed in the early days of the pandemic. Every day is still a struggle but I feel like I stopped the bleeding. I have an appointment with another psychiatric group coming up and I’m eager to get things under control but I don’t feel as desperate for help as I did a few months ago.
In my experience, managing depression effectively requires us to attack it from multiple sides at once. Medication on its own isn’t enough. Diet and exercise on their own aren’t enough. Neither are all the habits promoting better health. But all of them combined? That’s what I call a welloiled machine. A machine with many moving parts working together to
accomplish a task. I’m hoping my next appointment will bring me the last part I need to get me back up on my feet so I can continue rebuilding the healthy habits I once maintained and can successfully manage my depression and anxiety.
I always kind of felt managing my depression was like jumping onto a moving train. Trying to get on is difficult and will probably require multiple attempts. Once you do get on, you must focus on staying on, which is usually the easy part. However, it’s always possible you will fall back off this moving train but once you’ve brushed the dust off and collected yourself you try to jump back on the moving train.
I’ve been through this cycle many times in my life but this time around, it’s like I didn’t know I had fallen off. Like they say: identifying there is a problem is the first step in solving it.
Aberdeen Castlegate by Veli Bariskan
Shoeing away my MS by Dan Digmann - an essay by my left shoe
I know my time is limited and I will get replaced by another one just like me. That doesn’t matter. I’m grateful for this opportunity to serve. Of all the footwear lining the shelves at Dick’s Sporting Goods, Dan picked me along with my brother, Righty. I’m Lefty and together we are a pair of grey Asics Gel Venture 8 running shoes highlighted with black and orange accents. We take great pride in gloating we had Dan at hello. We quickly learned more about who he is and the specifics behind our humbling responsibility of helping Dan safely get from one place to another. You see, Dan has multiple sclerosis which partly explains why he was drawn to Righty and me with our orange-style stripes. Orange is the common colour associated with MS. Beyond the fashion statement, having the correct pair of shoes is important for all people. This is even more vital when they are living with a chronic condition such as MS. Shoes help with everything from providing proper support to maintaining balance and improving gait. I figured something was up when Dan opened our shoebox and instead of first trying on Righty to see how we’d feel, he first tried me on for size. Me! For whatever reason, people usually treat me as an afterthought when they try on shoes. But not with Dan. Because of his MS, he is weaker on his left side. That’s why I, Lefty, had the first and final say. He had to make sure I was the best fit first. Do you know how awesome I was? Dan laced me up, took seven steps around Dick’s shoe department, showed me off to his wife, threw me back in the shoebox and the deal was done. He didn’t need to try on Righty.
This was all well and good but I had no clue what I was in for being the weak-side shoe for a person with MS. I’ve heard stories of the workouts
other Asics running shoes have had with long distance runners but I would love to have any of them walk a mile in me and Righty. We aren’t putting in the miles like other shoes do but we’re definitely getting put through the paces. We’ve served Dan for more than a year and probably haven’t had to log more than 50 miles but I look like I should have put in at least 500 with the wear and tear on my first toe sole. When Dan gets tired, he starts dragging his left foot. Because of this, I bear the brunt of Dan’s fatigue. Righty gets it and feels for me so he does what he can to give me extra leverage and traction to help propel Dan’s weakened left leg forward. It’s not like Dan isn’t doing what he can to strengthen his legs and feet to fend off his left-side fatigue. He regularly stretches his hamstrings, calves, and feet and does squats and toe raises. I’m cheering for Dan because I know how relentless MS can be for even the most active of athletes. I learned Dan once was a runner but had to give it up because his weakened left foot had clipped too many bumps along the running route and he had fallen one too many times. It wasn’t safe anymore. After he stopped running, Dan’s podiatrist had recommended using a different brand. Dan followed the foot doctor’s orders the past couple years but I don’t think they were working for him so he returned to what was comfortable. Maybe, Dan was longing for the days before MS took away his ability to run. Either way, I’m just grateful for this current opportunity to serve a person who is living with MS.
My Exercise as Someone with Progressive MS
by Jenny Clarkson
Exercise has been on my brain recently. I have been reading articles and watching a lot of YouTube videos about the importance of exercise in MS as a way to maintain (and maybe even regain) function. I am conscious there can be a pressure to use it or lose it but I am also aware the way my body moves – with its wide, abnormal gait – needs help to move properly again. Professor Gavin Giovannoni from Lived Health says, ‘I personally think exercise is the most under prescribed disease modifying treatment we have. Full stop.’ He cites the positive impact it can have on our sleep and mental health as well as our general physical health. I know this is true but as someone with progressive MS, I have sometimes thought in the past that it is too late for me to see any real benefit.
Exercise allows me to maintain and even regain some function previously lost and I realised how much exercise may help me if I was to be consistent with it. As someone who has also had HSCT but is still experiencing progression of old damage, it has made me make a renewed effort to be as well as I can be with MS.
What does exercise look like for me? I lift weights to keep my arms strong, when sitting in a chair, try and do squats to strengthen my legs (holding on to a chair). I enjoy restful, restorative yoga as a way to not only stretch out my muscles but also focus on my breath, aiding my mental health. I don’t do these every day but try and do as much as I can. I feel stronger as a result. Knowing the more I move correctly, the greater the benefit really helps me feel more motivated. How often I exercise is very much dictated by my MS and what it is doing that day. I try and do a bit every day but, as anyone with MS knows,
sometimes finding the will to exercise feels like a huge undertaking. I know sometimes my body just says, ‘ha ha ha, as if you thought you could do that today’, so I try not to beat myself up if I don’t manage it. I tend to find it hard to do my part-time work and exercise on the same day but I have worked out if I prep for my speech therapy kiddies the night before I may be able to exercise before they arrive. I only make my children’s lunches for school now, they can usually be relied upon to get everything else sorted by themselves, so I try and exercise then. I have started to view exercise as a non-negotiable part of my quest to be as healthy as I can be with progressive MS. I am aware it is getting trickier sometimes to find the energy to work and exercise. Although work is an important part of maintaining my mental health, exercise also helps so I know which one I would prioritise if/when I have to make that choice. I used to enjoy running and really working up a sweat; it used to make me feel alive. I still get a tinge of sadness and jealousy when I see people running down the road past my mobility scooter or see friends celebrating their sporting triumphs on social media but I have to remind myself I am still moving, still making an effort. I have adapted my exercise to what I am able to do and I should feel just as triumphant when I achieve that. It would be easy for me to just not bother, to admit that my progressive MS has won but whilst I am still able to move in any way that I can, I will.
Right, I have been sitting down all day, time to get moving!
Understanding the Science of Balance Workouts
Balance is a complex physiological process involving multiple body systems, including the musculoskeletal, nervous and sensory systems. As we age, changes in these systems can impair balance, leading to an increased risk of falls and related injuries.
1. Musculoskeletal System: Muscle strength and flexibility play a vital role in maintaining balance. Aging can lead to muscle atrophy and reduced joint flexibility, affecting stability.
2. Nervous System: The nervous system coordinates movement and balance by processing sensory information and sending signals to muscles. Agerelated changes in nerve function can slow these processes.
3. Sensory Systems: Vision, proprioception (the sense of body position), and the vestibular system (inner ear balance) are crucial for balance. Age-related declines in these systems can make it harder to maintain equilibrium.
The Benefits of Balance Workouts
1. Fall Prevention: Falls are a leading cause of injury among seniors. Balance exercises improve stability and coordination, significantly reducing the risk of falls. This is crucial for maintaining independence and preventing injury.
2. Enhanced Mobility: Improved balance leads to better mobility and confidence in daily activities. Seniors can move more freely and safely, enhancing their overall quality of life.
3. Strengthened Muscles: Balance workouts often involve exercises that strengthen core and leg muscles. Stronger muscles provide better support for joints and improve overall stability.
4. Improved Posture: Regular balance training promotes better posture by strengthening the muscles that support the spine. Good posture reduces the risk of back pain and other musculoskeletal issues.
5. Cognitive Benefits: Balance exercises require focus and coordination, stimulating cognitive functions. This can help improve mental clarity and slow age-related cognitive decline.
6. Increased Confidence: With improved balance and reduced fear of falling, seniors gain confidence in their ability to perform daily tasks and engage in social activities, enhancing their mental and emotional well-being.
Effective Balance Workouts
1. Tai Chi: This ancient Chinese practice combines slow, deliberate movements with deep breathing and relaxation. Tai Chi improves balance, flexibility and mental focus.
2. Yoga: Yoga poses, particularly those focusing on balance and stability, enhance muscle strength, flexibility and concentration. Poses like the Tree Pose and Warrior III are especially beneficial.
3. Strength Training: Exercises targeting the lower body, such as leg lifts, squats and heel-to-toe walks, strengthen muscles and improve balance. Resistance training with weights or resistance bands is also effective.
4. Balance-Specific Exercises: Simple exercises like standing on one leg, heel-to-toe walking and using balance boards can significantly improve balance and stability.
5. Group Classes: Participating in group exercise classes can provide motivation, social interaction, and structured guidance. [See our programme on the following page]
Conclusion
Incorporating balance workouts into a regular fitness programme is essential for people aiming to maintain their independence and overall health. By understanding the science behind balance and embracing the numerous benefits of these exercises, they can enhance stability, prevent falls and enjoy a higher quality of life. Start your journey to better balance and a healthier life today!
Digital exercise, art/crafts and social sessions
MONDAY [10:30 – 11:30] CHAIR BASED EXERCISE 849 9861 7350
MONDAY [13:00 – 14:00] CRAFTS 874 2837 4955
TUESDAY [10:30 – 11:30] CHAIR BASED EXERCISE 879 1483 8365
WEDNESDAY [14:30 – 15:30] SOCIAL GROUP 523 586 175
THURSDAY [10:15 – 12:00] FACE TO FACE CHAIR BASED EXERCISE
THURSDAY [10:30 – 11:30] CHAIR BASED EXERCISE 874 2952 4677
FRIDAY [10:30 – 11:30] MINDFULNESS 867 002 729
Please note: FESTIVE HOLIDAYS – no sessions
YOGA – there will be no sessions on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
FACE TO FACE CHAIR BASED EXERCISE – there will be no class on at Westhill on 26 December. The digital session will operate as normal. The session planned for 2 January will take place on FRIDAY 3 January. A digital session will operate on 2 January.
MINDFULNESS – there will be no session on Friday 27 December.
ART and CRAFTS – there will be no session on Monday 30 December.
Receipts and Payments for the period 1 January – 30 September 2024
Photo
Gallery
Thanks to Chrissie for organising the Coffee and Chat sessions
Coffee and Chat, Kirkton Garden Centre, August 2024
Sandra and Ian at Doors Open Day, Midstocket Church, September 2024
Coffee and Chat, Atholl Hotel September 2024
Enjoying Christmas with MS by Abigail Budd
Does anyone else start to feel the panic about Christmas in the middle of November? We don’t have Thanksgiving in the United Kingdom so there’s nothing to take the edge off the rising anxiety kicking in mid-month and steadily builds until I’m a frantic mess at the end of December. There’s so much to do but the endless tasks are much harder for people with multiple sclerosis who have symptoms sabotaging everything. From shopping and wrapping gifts to planning and preparing a Christmas dinner party, there's just too much to do with so little time. However, this year doesn't have to be like that. To avoid overexerting, stressing and panicking, I have some tips which may help you enjoy your Christmas with MS.
Christmas Cards and Wrapping Gifts: I usually have a ton of these to write but can only manage around ten before ‘MS hands’ conspire against me. My writing gets more and more erratic and I drop the pen so frequently the cards are barely legible. I have a glass of wine on the go as I write the cards and one year my son knocked the wine all over my stack of completed cards. You can imagine my fury at the thought of having to start again so I sent them anyway, wine stains and all. As with writing endless cards, MS hands make wrapping presents a challenge.
Buying Presents and Food Shopping: Luckily, shopping centres are usually modern buildings designed with disabled people in mind so getting around one is fairly easy on a normal shopping day. They turn into obstacle courses around Christmas, though, and you take your life into your own hands if you use a mobility scooter or wheelchair. There are always displays of extra merchandise everywhere, making the shop floors smaller and harder to
navigate. Add a million extra people who are all charging around above you, not looking down for obstacles like you. It can be a scary and dangerous place and I tend to avoid shopping. With grocery shopping, factor in shopping trolleys bulging with food as an extra obstacle to negotiate.
Cooking: I don’t know where to start writing about cooking on Christmas Day. I couldn’t lift the bird into the oven, let alone anything else and I often sit there in an alcohol-fuelled, guilt-ridden mood on Christmas Day. I watch my husband and other family members running around getting all the food ready and wish I could do something to help but it’s just too hard. It doesn’t help when tactless, drunk relatives make hilarious comments either. My brother-in-law delights in pointing out how little I do to help on Christmas Day and I was reduced to tears last year at his remarks. We can reduce these feeling of guilt by planning, preparing and writing lists. We have eleven coming for lunch this year so I must get my act together. Here are some of my solutions to the Christmas problem: Pace Yourself Don’t try and write all your cards at once. Do ten a night - or however many your MS hands will allow - and you may even find it enjoyable. This goes for wrapping presents too; take your time and do a small pile at a time, rather than leaving the whole lot to do on Christmas Eve.
Shop Online: I don’t do any shopping anymore as it’s far too stressful. I honestly don’t know how disabled people used to buy stuff before the internet was invented. Be organized so retailers have enough time to get the goods to you though you can’t be a last-minute online shopper.
Delegate: I wouldn’t know where I’d be without my husband. He charges off to the supermarket with his list and has been known to go to more than one shop to get what we need. He does all the physical running around at Christmas but he needs direction so we make a good team. Although it looks like I haven’t done anything, I’m the one orchestrating it all behind the scenes and it wouldn’t happen smoothly without me. Another great job to delegate is decorating the tree. I supervise while my children decorate it and although it would never win prizes, what it lacks in style we make up for in enthusiasm and the children are always so proud of their creation. When people ask if they can bring anything, take them up on itit can reduce how much you need to do. I asked my sister to bring cheese, for example, and my mum is bringing dessert.
Rethinking New Year's Resolutions: A Practical Approach to Lasting Change
by Christine Cernera
Do you know more than 25% of those who make New Year's resolutions abandon them within the first two weeks of January? Many of us are drawn to the idea of making resolutions. It's a tradition rooted in the allure of a fresh start but how often do these resolutions lead to real, lasting change? Let's explore why most New Year's resolutions fall flat and how we can genuinely transform our habits for the better.
Why New Year's Resolutions Fail:
• BasedonImpulse,NotDiscipline:The initial motivation for setting New Year's resolutions is often an emotional response to the New Year, rather than a disciplined plan for change. Studies show only a small percentage of resolutions are maintained for a year, suggesting a lack of long-term planning and discipline in their execution.
• UnrealisticGoals: Many resolutions are set with high ambitions but without a realistic or achievable plan. This often leads to early burnout and a sense of failure, contributing to the high dropout rate of these resolutions.
• LackofConsistentDiscipline: Resolutions are typically a once-a-year event, lacking the consistent discipline required for true habit formation. Those who practice self-control and discipline throughout the year are less likely to feel the need for dramatic New Year pledges.
• Approachvs.AvoidanceOrientation: Research indicates approachoriented goals (focusing on positive actions) are more successful than avoidance-oriented ones (focusing on avoiding negatives). For
example, setting a goal to eat more fruits and vegetables is more effective than a goal to stop eating junk food.
Transforming Resolutions into Sustainable Habits:
• Set Specific, Measurable, and Realistic Goals: Instead of vague resolutions like 'get fit', set specific goals such as 'walk 30 minutes a day'. This makes tracking progress easier and goals more attainable.
• DevelopaStep-by-StepPlan : Break down your goals into smaller, manageable steps. If you aim to eat healthier, start by including one portion of vegetables in every meal. Planning helps turn lofty goals into daily actions.
• FocusonBuildingOneHabitataTime: Trying to change everything at once can be overwhelming. If your goal is to exercise more, start with establishing a routine for that before moving on to another habit like improving your diet.
• CelebrateSmallVictories:Recognizing small achievements is crucial for maintaining motivation. If you managed to avoid sugary snacks for a week, reward yourself with a healthy treat or a relaxing activity. This positive reinforcement makes the journey enjoyable and sustainable.
Instead of falling into the trap of unrealistic New Year's resolutions, let's focus on developing sustainable habits leading to lasting change. By understanding the pitfalls of traditional resolutions and adopting a more disciplined approach, we can set ourselves up for success.
Thought of the Day
One day a man saw an old lady, stranded on the side of the road. In the dim light of day, he could see she needed help so he pulled up and got out. Even with the smile on his face, she was worried as no one had stopped to help for the last hour. Was he going to hurt her? He could see she was frightened, standing in the cold. He knew how she felt. It was those chills which only fear can put in you. He said, ‘I’m here to help you, ma’am. Why don’t you wait in the car where it’s warm? By the way, my name is Bryan Anderson.’ All she had was a flat tyre but for an old lady, that was bad enough. Bryan crawled under the car looking for a place to put the jack and soon he was able to change the tyre. As he was tightening the lug nuts, she rolled down the window and began to talk to him. She told him she was only passing through and couldn’t thank him enough for coming to her aid. Bryan smiled as he closed her boot. The lady asked how much she owed him - any amount would have been all right with her. Bryan never thought twice about being paid. This was helping someone in need and there were plenty who had given him a hand in the past. He had lived his life that way. He told her if she wanted to pay him back, the next time she saw someone who needed help, she could give that person the assistance they needed. Bryan added and think of me. It had been a cold and depressing day but he felt good as he headed home.
A few miles down the road the lady saw a small cafe. She went in to grab a bite to eat and take the chill off. It was a dingy looking restaurant. The waitress came over and brought a clean towel to wipe her wet hair. She had a sweet smile, one even being on her feet all day couldn’t erase. The lady noticed the waitress was nearly eight months pregnant but she didn’t let the strain change her attitude. The old lady wondered how someone who had so little could be so giving to a stranger - then she remembered Bryan. After the lady finished her meal, she paid with a £50 note. The waitress went to get her change but the old lady slipped out the door and was gone when the waitress returned. She noticed something written on the napkin. There were tears in her eyes when she read what the lady wrote: ‘You don’t owe me anything. I have been there too. Somebody once helped me out, the
way I’m helping you. If you really want to pay me back, here is what you do: Do not let this chain of love end with you.’
Under the napkin were four more £50 notes. There were tables to clear and people to serve but the waitress made it through the day. That night when she got home from work and climbed into bed, she was thinking about the money and what the lady had written. How could the lady have known how much she and her husband needed it? With the baby due next month, it was going to be hard. She knew how worried her husband was and as he lay sleeping next to her, she gave him a soft kiss and whispered soft and low, ‘Everything’s going to be all right. I love you, Bryan Anderson.’ There is an old saying: what goes around comes around.
How MS and Alcohol Interact by Trevis Gleason
For many with MS, even a single drink seems to worsen balance and coordination. Both of my grandfathers had, as they’d say here in Ireland, a problem with the drink. I myself very much enjoy most aspects of a bit of alcohol on many occasions. As the Irish essayist and playwright John B. Keane has said it, ‘I have a liking for a drink.’ With my liking and the family history in mind, from my early twenties, I have always taken one month each year off drinking. Well before the trend of Drynuary took off, I took not a drop for the month of February. After meeting my wife, Caryn (with a February birthday), we shifted my dry month to November. As the month of All Souls - when Catholics traditionally remember the dead - many Irish people of a certain age take November off, so I fit in nicely. This year, as we were in America for various meetings and visits in November, a drop or two was taken. We decided to shift our dry month to January and felt quite hip and modern for doing so. The first Friday in
February saw me on my unofficially reserved high stool in my local to enjoy the company and a couple of pints. They really were quite lovely but it must be said that I noticed a difference in how my body reacted.
After just a pint or two (and the porter I drink is only 4.2 percent alcohol, where most beers are around 5 percent), I noticed my balance issues had moved into the realm of balance challenges.
I know I’m not alone in my perception that C2H6Os (the chemical formula for ethanol, or ethyl alcohol, which is found in beer, wine and spirits) effect on my body is more pronounced than on those who don’t have MS. I was lucky, I guess, to avoid the increased consequences up until now, given my moderate consumption.
The MS Society states on the subject of alcohol and MS, ‘there are no studies linking alcohol consumption to an increased risk of developing MS. … Alcohol could affect you differently than someone who does not have MS. Symptoms like imbalance and lack of coordination can temporarily worsen after even just one drink.’
For me the balance issues can be compounded by limb weakness. If, for example, my equilibrium is more compromised by a drink or two because of MS, that can unexpectedly ask more of my affected left leg - the side of me has always been more damaged by MS. When that left pin is called upon to hold more of my weight because alcohol and MS have conspired to interrupt my stability, it can lead to falls.
I don’t believe this is an issue of losing a bit of tolerance over my month off the drink. I was beginning to notice it (as was Caryn) for a few months leading up to that. The question now is, what to do with this knowledge. I liken it to people who like to (or need to) continue driving even though their legs can no longer work the pedals. What I’m talking about is there are workarounds. In the case of those drivers, hand controls can be fitted to accommodate driving.
I might have to bring a sturdier walking aid with me. Maybe matching my pints of the black stuff one-for-one with water to dilute the effects and extend the time between pints would do the trick. Or perhaps I’ll only have one.
Wishing you and your family the best of health. Cheers, Trevis
Should MS put the brakes on your driving? by
Ed Tobias
I read a study which concerns me. The study, by German researchers and published in February 2024 in FrontiersinNeurology , concludes people with MS react slower, have more driving errors and have a higher accident rate than control subjects, starting soon after diagnosis. In the study, 97 people with early MS (6.4 years on average post-diagnosis) drove in a simulator over urban and rural roads during the daytime in good weather. Several hazards were simulated requiring hitting the brakes quickly, such as a car pulling out unexpectedly and a person running onto the road. Driving errors, such as ignoring a red light, driving on the wrong side of the road or driving too fast or too slowly were also assessed. Most of the accidents occurred when the drivers were going too fast or faced an emergency challenge such as a child running into the road but the accident rate also increased when people with MS were in monotonous driving situations.
Taking a driving test
A couple of years ago I was surprised by an unexpected driving test. It happened when I wanted to transfer my Maryland driver’s license to Florida and a licensing clerk named Brenda, seeing my little mobility scooter, asked ‘why do you use that?’ I answered, ‘I have trouble walking.’ ‘Just a minute,’ said Brenda and she went to speak with her supervisor. A few minutes later, although I’d been licensed for over 50 years … although I’ve never had an accident and I’ve received only one ticket over more than five decades …
Brenda told me I needed to take a driving test before I could drive in Florida or anywhere else. She’d already cancelled my Maryland license. Very nervously, I took one later that day. I made a few turns, making sure to signal and a U-turn. I backed up quickly and stopped without skidding. Surprisingly, I didn’t have to parallel park but I guess they don’t do that much in Florida - and I passed the test. Was this necessary just because I rode in on a scooter and said I had trouble walking? I had never said anything about my MS. Does MS make us dangerous drivers?
The German study concludes ‘People with MS have more problems in driving compared to controls but it remains unclear which areas of MSspecific impairment impact driving ability in people with MS exactly and how great this impact is. It should be noted, while we found differences between people with MS and controls in driving, this does not automatically translate to people with MS not being able to drive safely. There should be further research, especially research with on-road driving tests, as the data we have as of now would not justify recommending driving cessation for all people with MS. However, it shows this is an important issue which should be discussed with people with MS early on.’
I agree. I don’t think the clerk Brenda should have decided I needed testing because I was riding a scooter. After all, my driving record is excellent. I do think healthcare professionals should discuss driving with all their patients with a disability. Look for, and talk about, signs of impairment during routine exams. We’d probably all be a little safer if more of those chats were held.
Answers to Quiz on Page 7
Top row: Annie Lennox, David Wilkie, Adam Ant [Stuart Goddard]
Second row: Anne Kirkbride
Third row: Ken Stott, Alex Salmond, John Travolta
Fourth row: Chris Evert, Oprah Winfrey
Fifth row: Anthony Head, Jimmy Nail, Angela Merkel
Managing Christmas stress with MS by the MS Trust
The Christmas season is fast approaching; a season which presents us with its fair share of challenges. Cooking for large numbers of people, sourcing gifts, travelling long distances the ever-rising costs of living - it’s completely normal to experience stress when there’s a lot going on. Feeling this way for long periods can have an impact on your health and MS symptoms with some research suggesting it can increase the risk of having a relapse.
Try presents only for close family and a couple of good friends. Christmas cards the same. Lunch is just a roast dinner with pigs in blankets and bread sauce. And.....relax
Learning to manage your stress levels is an important part of taking control of your condition, all year round. Here are some techniques which might help:
Put things into perspective. Maybe the meal didn’t turn out as planned but do your loved ones want to see you or a perfectly cooked dinner? Egg and chips for dinner..... perfect!
Get to know yourself. Learn what your stress signals are so you can take charge or a step back before things get too much.
Try to keep an open mind. If your local supermarket has sold out of festive puddings, why not start a new tradition with a different dessert? Plan ahead. The more organised you are, the less pressure you will feel as the big day approaches. The best way not to get stressed is plan ahead and enjoy Christmas.
Ask for help. The winter holiday season is a time for giving and a time for sharing. If you need someone to lend a hand, make sure you ask. Be pragmatic. The perfect festive day doesn’t exist so don’t heap pressure on
yourself to provide your loved ones with perfection. Enjoy your time with others and try to have a good laugh at any mishaps that arise. Be kind to yourself. Above all, remember you are only one person and you’re doing your best.
As one of the most common symptoms of multiple sclerosis, fatigue can sometimes feel like a barrier, affecting things like your short-term memory, concentration or the ability to find words. With so many potential stressors over the festive period it can be easy to overdo it. Help manage your fatigue by thinking about ways to build up your energy levels, such as getting enough sleep, eating healthily and taking time for yourself when you need to. You could try some relaxing exercises, perhaps yoga or mindfulness. [See page 22 for the times of our sessions] Yoga and sherry! (Maybe not at the same time but hey...) It’s also worth checking you’re using what energy you have as efficiently as possible. Planning and prioritising key jobs, delegating things to others and pacing yourself can all be useful options.
Loneliness and depression
The festive season can also be a lonely time of year and it may not be possible to be with your loved ones. If you’re spending Christmas alone, it’s important to try and focus on the positives where possible. Doing an activity you enjoy or getting outside for some fresh air, if you can, are great ways to lift your spirits. It’s also good to remember there are no obligations to celebrate the festive season. Instead, you could try thinking about it as a self-care day and a chance to take some much-deserved time out.
However, if you do struggle with persistent low mood, during any time of year, then you should speak to your GP, MS nurse or neurologist.
A Just for Fun Quiz: 64 Christmas quiz questions set by Lisa Joyner in the 13/20th December 2023 edition of Country Life Magazine
1. Which country first started the tradition of putting up a Christmas tree?
2. Which popular Christmas beverage is also called 'milk punch'?
3. How many ghosts show up in Charles Dickens AChristmasCarol?
4. What do people traditionally put on top of their Christmas tree?
5. Where was baby Jesus born?
6. What Hollywood actor played six different roles in ThePolarExpress?
7. What colour are mistletoe berries?
8. Which fairytale was the first gingerbread house inspired by?
9. Who invented the Christmas wreath?
10. Where did the tradition of Christmas stockings come from?
11. What are the traditional 12 days of Christmas?
12. How do you say Merry Christmas in Spanish?
13. What was the coldest ever temperature recorded during a UK winter?
14. What are the chances of a white Christmas in the UK?
15. How many Christmas trees are grown annually in Europe?
16. Where does the royal family traditionally celebrate Christmas?
17. On average how many years do Christmas trees grow before they are sold?
18. When do the royal family exchange their presents?
19. In the film HomeAlone , where is the family going on holiday?
20. How many Christmas trees are in Buckingham Palace?
21. Where does the word 'winter' come from?
22. How many mince pies are eaten in the UK every year?
23. What king was crowned on Christmas Day?
24. How many turkeys are eaten in the UK every year?
25. Traditionally, how long before Christmas should you start making Christmas cake?
26. How many gifts are there in the 12DaysofChristmassong?
27. What is the best-selling Christmas song [recorded on vinyl]?
28. What country has the most reindeer?
29. How many Christmas cards are sold in the UK every year?
30. Which country first decorated Christmas trees?
31. What is the most fragrant real Christmas tree?
32. Which animal carried Mary before she gave birth to Jesus?
33. What's the name of the period leading up to Christmas?
34. What is the name of the shortest day of the year?
35. What is traditionally hidden inside a Christmas pudding?
36. What is the name of a male turkey?
37. Stollen is a famous cake from which country?
38. In what year was the Queen's speech first televised?
39. According to the song, what do you deck the halls with?
40. What sauce is traditionally served with Christmas pudding?
41. Which film features the song 'WalkingintheAir'?
42. In which US state would you find the town Santa Claus?
43. What is the name of the carrot in Aldi's Christmas advert?
44. How many times does the number 1 appear on an advent calendar with 24 doors?
45. What is the most recorded Christmas song or carol in history?
46. When should Christmas decorations typically be taken down?
47. What words follow 'Silent Night' in the song?
48. What gift did the Little Drummer Boy give to the newborn Christ?
49. What was Frosty the Snowman's nose made from?
50. What were Victorian mince pies made from?
51. In what month does the Country Living Christmas Fair traditionally take place?
52. What is the traditional Christmas meal eaten in Japan?
53. What is the name of the Grinch's dog?
54. Name a tree mistletoe grows on?
55. What Christmas decoration was originally made from strands of silver?
56. In folklore, which horned figure punishes badly behaved children at Christmas?
57. Which festive sweet resembles a shepherd's staff?
58. Which real-life department store was Miracleon34thStreetfilmed in?
59. Who sings the first line on the 1984 Band-Aid single, DoTheyKnowIt’s Christmas?
60. What was Scrooge's first name in Charles Dickens' AChristmasCarol?
61. Who plays the British Prime Minister in the film LoveActually?
62. What well-known Christmas carol became the first song ever broadcast from space in 1965?
63. True or false: Christmas crackers were invented by a London sweet maker called Tom Smith?
64. What colour was Elvis' Christmas in the famous song?
Answers on pages 42 and 43
Twelve Days of Christmas MS Style by
Yvonne DeSousa
A multiple sclerosis Christmas carol
I love Christmas and Christmas songs but I don’t love the Twelve Days of Christmas carol. Recently I learned it was actually an important and secret song. Folklore has it this carol was written in the late 1700’s in England as a code to help children study their catechism as Christianity was forbidden at the time. A partridge in a pear tree represents Jesus Christ, two calling birds represent the apostles Peter and Paul, three French hens represent the Holy Trinity etc.
As a devout Catholic who totally gets the reason for the season I feel bad calling the song obnoxious when it seems like it should be something to be appreciated, even just slightly. Kind of like how there was a brief time when I actually appreciated multiple sclerosis. This was when I received my diagnosis after I had diagnosed myself via the internet as having either early onset Alzheimer’s disease or acute and untreatable insanity. MS was a relief at that moment. Now it is just absolutely obnoxious and that is on one of its very rare good days.
Since I am in the Christmas spirit all year long (but now it IS Christmas, it is ok to be in the Christmas spirit) I thought I would combine the two. So here friends, is a multiple sclerosis Christmas carol.
On the first day of Christmas MS brought to me: one ach-y bod-y
On the second day of Christmas MS brought to me: fingers all tingly
On the third day of Christmas MS brought to me: three MS hugs
On the fourth day of Christmas MS brought to me: lots of blurry vision
On the fifth day of Christmas MS brought to me: brain completely spacey
On the sixth day of Christmas MS brought to me: every day so sleepy
On the seventh day of Christmas MS brought to me: feeling kind of dizzy
On the eighth day of Christmas MS brought to me: bladder very leaky
On the ninth day of Christmas MS brought to me: four shots so nasty
On the tenth day of Christmas MS brought to me: head feeling crappy
On the eleventh day of Christmas MS brought to me: legs acting lazy
On the twelfth day of Christmas MS brought to me: balance not so steadylegs acting lazy, head feeling crappy, four shots so nasty, bladder very leaky, feeling kind of dizzy, every day so sleepy, brain completely spacey, lots of blurry vision, three MS hugs, fingers all tingly, and one ach-y bod-y.
Let’s sing it together, shall we? NOT!
A very healthy and Merry Christmas to you all. And for my non-Christian friends, may you have a healthy and happy season of all things good and not MS related.
Christmas Memories
1. Germany
2. Eggnog
64 Christmas quiz answers
3. Four – Christmas Past, Present, Future and Jacob Marley
4. Angel, star or fairy
5. Bethlehem
6. Tom Hanks
7. White
8. Hansel and Gretel
9. Johann Hinrich Wichern, a German Lutheran pastor
10. St Nicholas
11. December 26 – 31 / January 1 - 6
12. Feliz Navidad
13. Minus 27.2 degrees centigrade
14. 1 in 10 in England and Wales
15. Almost 60 million
16. Sandringham
17. 15 years
18. Christmas Eve
19. France
20. Three
21. Germanic word wintar, derived from the root wed meaning wet or water
22. 800 million [according to Good Housekeeping magazine]
23. King William 1 in 1066
24. 10 million
25. 2-3 months before
26. 364
27. White Christmas by Bing Crosby
28. Sweden
29. One billion
30. Riga, Latvia in 1510
31. Balsam Fir
32. Donkey
33. Advent
34. Winter Solstice
35. Silver coins
36. Gobblers
37. Germany
38. 1957
39. Boughs of holly
40. Brandy sauce
41. The Snowman
42. Indiana
43. Kevin
44. 13
45. Silent Night / Still the Night
46. Twelfth Night – 6 January
47. Holy night
48. He played a tune on his drum
49. A button
50. Minced beef
51. November
52. KFC - Since it is hard to get turkey in Japan, chicken is eaten on Christmas day.
KFC started selling Christmas chicken deals in the 70s
53. Max
54. Hawthorn, poplar and lime
55. Tinsel.
56. Krampus
57. Candy cane
58. Macy’s
59. Paul Young
60. Ebenezer
61. Hugh Grant
62. Jingle Bells
63. True
64. Blue
Our charity contact details
Should you wish to get in touch please e-mail us at info@youraims.org. Ian Gourlay is our chairman and newsletter editor. You can telephone Ian on 01224 820453, write to him at 43 Gordon Place, Bridge of Don, Aberdeen AB23 8RB or e-mail ian.gourlay@youraims.org
M S Nurses
Anyone living in the NHS Grampian catchment area has access to the M S nurses. The Aberdeen team is based in the Department of Neurosciences, Ward 205 [Pink zone], Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. Contacts at ARI are: Mairi Maguire, Pauline Wilson and Julie Robertson. They are available Monday to Friday 08:30 – 16:30. An answering machine may take a message and a nurse will call you back as quickly as possible. Telephone: 01224 551263 E-mail address: gram.msnurses@nhs.scot
M S Helplines
The MS Society offers free advice on any matter relating to multiple sclerosis to anyone affected by the condition.
Telephone: 0808 800 8000 open 9am – 7pm Monday – Friday for an immediate response. There is an answering machine to leave messages over a weekend and someone will get back to you as quickly as possible. E-mail: helpline@mssociety.org.uk
The MS Trust believes nobody should have to manage multiple sclerosis alone. Its enquiry service is available 9am - 5pm Monday - Friday. Telephone: 0800 032 3839.
Email: ask@mstrust.org.uk or visit the website https://mstrust.org.uk/what-we-do/aboutus/information-team
Disclaimer
The content of this publication is for information purposes only and does not constitute advice or a recommendation. Where we provide information about external organisations or service providers, we are not able to offer any guarantee on the quality or safety of their services or products or whether they are suitable for an individual’s needs. We take no responsibility for any errors or omissions in this information.
Aberdeen Independent Multiple Sclerosis is a SCIO regulated by OSCR Scottish charity number SC051225
