Sarah Farrow
“Think positive, be positive”
My first multiple sclerosis symptoms date back to 2004 when I was 19 years old. I suddenly experienced loss of vision and I was frightened. I visited many doctors but never received a diagnosis. I later consulted an eye specialist and was told my symptoms were possibly linked to multiple sclerosis but advised it was too early for a definite diagnosis.
Ten years passed in which I experienced fatigue, tingling and altered sensations, all of which was put down to anxiety. In the spring of 2014, while feeling generally unwell, I consulted a neurologist and was immediately provided with a definite MS diagnosis. I cried. Not because I was upset, but with relief. Finally, I did not need to feel like a hypochondriac anymore. I thought I was going crazy and imagining things.
I’d done a lot of research and felt that I knew I had MS prior to my diagnosis. Once I had my diagnosis, I had to research treatment options that would delay disease progression and allow options to start a family. My husband and I were soon blessed with twins.
With the support of my family, I am now juggling full-time work in the banking industry with marriage and motherhood. I find I need to constantly and carefully budget my energy as MS fatigue is a constant in my life. I’m lucky to have great family and friends who provide help and support me in many different ways.
I try to keep up with regular exercise as being active always makes me feel better. It’s a constant juggling act with work, family, maintaining relationships and prioritising self-care, which is vital to keeping me feeling balanced and happy.
I’m looking forward to my role as an MS Ambassador as I love being active in the community, supporting MS events and having my family and friends join me to show their support for MS.
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