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Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39Relationships can be complicated, even at the best of times.  When one partner is living with MS, it can bring a whole host of new challenges as well as opportunities for deeper connection.In this podcast, we explore the emotional and practical realities of supporting a partner with MS, and how couples can support each other through changing dynamics.Psychologist Dr Ashley Brown joins us to share practical advice on how to open up conversations around intimacy, emotional support, and shifting roles in a relationship. She offers tips to help both partners feel heard, valued, and connected.We also hear from Sophie and Delvin, a couple living with MS. Sophie shares her experience of living with multiple sclerosis, while Delvin reflects on his role as the partner who supports her.Together, they speak honestly about how their relationship has evolved, the challenges they’ve faced, and the ways their bond has stren

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39Spasticity and spasms are common MS symptoms that vary from person to person and can be challenging to understand and manage.  In this episode, we explore how these symptoms can feel with the help of our MS community and what you can do about them.  We asked MS specialist physiotherapist Wendy Hendrie to share her near 40 years of experience with us.  We are very glad we did, because we learned such a huge amount. In fact, so much so that we can almost guarantee you will too in the next hour.  And this know-how could make a real difference to the way you understand and approach your spasticity and spasms.  She breaks these complex symptoms down in a way that’s easy to follow. She explores trigger factors, including pain – even pain you can’t feel due to loss of sensation – bladder and bowels, posture and positioning including pelvis alignment and head movement. Plus exercise, night spasms and the importance o

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39Talking about living with MS can be a tough thing to do, but open and honest conversations are vital in building understanding for the condition. In this special episode for MS Awareness Week 2025, we explore the power of MS conversations—why they matter and how they can make a difference. This MS Awareness Week, we're working with the MS Society, MS Together, MS-UK, Neuro Therapy Network, Overcoming MS, Shift.ms and Talks with M.S. to shine a light on conversations and why they're important. So in this episode Dr Claire Winchester, Head of Engagement at the MS Trust, joins us to discuss the essential resources available to help people navigate discussions about MS with friends, family, colleagues or health professionals.  Plus, Helena sits down with the CEO and founder of MS Together Amy Thompson to reflect on real-life MS conversations they have had and the lessons learned from them.Tune in and be

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39Have you been told "nothing can be done" to treat progressive MS? Then this is the episode for you. Join Nick and Helena as they debunk this myth with the expertise of neurologist Dr. Emma Tallantyre, exploring current medical and non-medical treatments, effective symptom management, and rehabilitation therapies. Plus, get the inside scoop on the MS Trust's new book, "Progression in MS," from its creators. Get informed, feel supported, and discover the resources available to help you make sense of progressive MS.Episode notesProgression in MS free book from MS Trustmstrust.org.uk/a-z/secondary-progressive-ms - secondary progressive MS info from the MS Trustmstrust.org.uk/a-z/primary-progressive-ms - primary progressive MS info from the MS Trustmstrust.org.uk/information-support/wellbeing-ms/ms-and-your-emotions  - MS and your emotions  info from the MS Trustwww.facebook.com/groups/adv

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39In this bonus episode, we share some people with MS journeys of coming to terms with a progressive MS diagnosis. Adam, who lives with secondary progressive MS, is joined by his wife and carer, Sharon. Together, they reflect on how they navigate the complexities of their shared experience, from the emotional challenges to the practical ways they've found balance and connection.  Yvonne, living with primary progressive MS, opens up about how she dealt with her diagnoses, the initial shock and anger, and how she gradually discovered ways to regain a sense of control.Episode notesmstrust.org.uk/a-z/secondary-progressive-ms - secondary progressive MS info from the MS Trustmstrust.org.uk/a-z/primary-progressive-ms - primary progressive MS info from the MS Trustmstrust.org.uk/information-support/wellbeing-ms/ms-and-your-emotions  - MS and your emotions  info from the MS Trustwww.facebook.com/groups/advancedmsca

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39Receiving the news that your MS is progressing can be a life-altering moment. In this podcast episode, we explore the emotional impact of this change and the journey towards acceptance and adjustment.Helena and Nick are joined by Dr Angeliki Bogosian, a health psychologist specialising in MS, who shares insights on coping strategies, the importance of psychological support, and how mindfulness can help with emotional adjustment.We also hear real-life stories from Adam and Sharon, as well as Yvonne, who open up about their experiences of living with progressive MS. From the initial shock and frustration to finding ways to regain control and maintain a fulfilling life, their stories are brimming with honesty and useful tips.Whether you're newly diagnosed, supporting a loved one, or navigating changes in your MS, this episode is here to remind you that you’re not aloneListen now for expert information, real

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39From challenges to special moments: advanced MS comes with a whole heap of them both. Listen now to hear three different perspectives: a person living with advanced MS, a carer and a health professional.We’re tackling advanced MS in this podcast episode of ‘Breaking it down’.Disclaimer: we discuss some sensitive topics in our interviews, including difficult MS symptoms and death.We hear from Advanced MS Champion, Michelle Black, about how she supports people living with MS and what she sees, day in, day out.Plus, Mark Webb talks us through his life with advanced MS, from indoor skydiving to daily challenges. We also catch up with Jen, who cared for her husband Dave until he sadly passed away. She takes us through their routine, community and those special moments together.Ready to learn alongside us and hear the stories from our guests? Listen now.Episode notesmstrust.org.uk/a-z/advanced-ms - info from the MS

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39Join us for a jargon busting, myth smashing podcast where we explore baffling multiple sclerosis terms and common misconceptions.Ever heard terms like PIRA, RAW, or smouldering MS that’ve left you scratching your head and asking for a translation to plain English?Better yet, have you been on the receiving end of a baffling tale involving one of the many MS myths out there? “My friend Gary told me that exercise is bad for MS, so don’t bother.”Yep, we’ve heard them all too. That’s why we’re here with a jargon busting, myth smashing podcast where we separate the wheat from the chaff, the fact from fiction and get to the honest truth. We interview consultant neurologist, Dr Kate Petheram who cuts through multiple sclerosis jargon to give us easily accessible information. Plus, we catch up with Stephen, who lives with MS, and Simon from the MS Trust team to dispel some common MS myths. Ready to learn more? Then li

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39What questions have the MS community been asking in 2024? We took to social media and analysed our helpline enquiries to find out.Dr Claire Winchester and Corinne from our helpline team take us through the topics and explore the available information, support and self-management strategies.Plus, we cover some of the more unusual things that you’ve been asking about, like tattoos, Botox and lip fillers. Ready to find out more?Listen now for trusted information, tips and more.Show NotesMS Trust HelplineMS Trust Shop - Here you can download all MS Trust publications for freeSupporting the MS Trust - information from the MS TrustMS Trust Facebook Groupmstrust.org.uk/a-z/fatigue - MS Trust information about fatiguemstrust.org.uk/information-support/newly-diagnosed - MS Trust information for the newly diagnosedmstrust.org.uk/information-support/work-money-legal/working-life  - MS Trust information about work and MS

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39Is public transport derailing your life? We caught up with Meg Barnett (Transport For All), Flora (MS Trust helpline), Richard Sprenger and Antoinette Mohamed on public transport tips, helpful information and all the latest resources. “It’s just really complicated. I hate having medical appointments because it’s so difficult to get to them.” - Antoinette Does this sound familiar? If public transport is derailing your life, you’re not alone.Between all of the planning, symptom management, inaccessible stations and social interactions, public transport can feel like you’ve got a one-way ticket to exhaustion on the fatigue express. In fact, 77% of people in our study reported feelings of isolation due to barriers in transport and travel. That’s why we caught up with Meg Barnett from the charity Transport For All, Flora from the MS Trust helpline team, MS Trust Ambassador Richard Sprenger and regular MS Trust blo

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39Are you wondering how to stay productive while managing MS? Perhaps you are looking for ways to disclose your diagnosis without derailing your career?  Then join us as we delve into the topic of MS at work.Hosts Nick and Helena explore the impact of Multiple Sclerosis in the workplace and share strategies for Bringing Your MS to Work.We have a jam-packed show with four fantastic guests:Dr. Blanca de Dios Pérez, a postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Nottingham, who shares her research aimed at helping people with MS stay in the workforce for as long as they choose with the help of vocational rehab.Amy and Sam from the charity “MS Together” discuss their personal journeys with MS in the workplace and the supportive conversations they have been having within their community.Jane, recently diagnosed with MS, shares  her experience of revealing her diagnosis at work,Tune in to hear these stories and

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39What is a driving assessment? Does your mind conjure up memories of your driving test? Do you see a 17-year-old version of yourself panicking and sweating?Well, the second part of our podcast series on driving and multiple sclerosis covers everything that you need to know.Occupational therapist, Wendy Valentine and driving assessor, James Hinkins take us through the roadmap on driving assessments, car adaptions, the DVLA and more!We find out how the assessors are there to promote your independence and keep you on the road for as long as they can.Oh, and don’t forget to check out part one where we heard all about the Motability Scheme and MS.If you’ve ever felt worried about driving and MS, this is the podcast for you. Start your engines and join us as we motor through all the latest tips and information on driving and MS.Episode NotesDriving and Transport - info from MS Trustmstrust.org.uk/information-support

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39Driving when you live with MS might make you feel like you’re stuck at a red light.You might start to ask questions. Who do I need to tell about my diagnosis? Can I still drive to see my family and friends? What adaptions do I need?Well, our two-part podcast special should give you some answers and dispel a few myths.In part one, we’re joined by Claire Winchester, MS Trust Head of Info and Engagement. She shares insights from a recent survey exploring how MS affects travel and transportation.Plus, we hear from Motability's Ross Smith to learn more about their scheme and how it can help people with MS stay independent.Listen now to learn helpful driving tips, information and more!Episode NotesDriving and Transport - info from MS Trustmstrust.org.uk/information-support/home-and-travel/driving-and-public-transportDriving with MS - News item from MS Trust what you need to know mstrust.org.uk/news/driving-ms-

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39What should you eat when you live with MS? We come across this question a lot from the MS community. It’s not surprising considering how much conflicting information there is out there.That’s why we’re demystifying MS diets in our two-part podcast special. Episode one saw us catch up with Dr. Terry Wahls and Samantha Josephs (Overcoming MS) about their respective diets and lifestyle approaches.This time around, we’re chewing the fat with registered dietician Claire Fenlon (Chilterns Neuro Centre), who also lives with MS herself. She helps us to understand the importance of healthy eating with MS and outlines some helpful tips.Also, MS Trust Head of Information and Engagement, Dr Claire Winchester, gives us food for thought on the research behind nutrition and diet.Join us for all the latest tips, information and more!Episode notesDemystifying MS diets pt 1: the Wahls Protocol and Overcoming MS: mstrust.org.uk

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39Have you thought about making changes to your diet to help manage your MS? Maybe you’ve experimented with a few fad diets, but never quite found what works.Well, we know the feeling. The world of nutrition can be tricky – you’re not sure if you should be keto, vegan, paleo, carnivore or just straight up confuddled.Throw MS into the mix and all of a sudden, things can get even more confusing. That’s why we’re sinking our teeth into the world of MS and diet and digesting the facts in a two-part podcast series.First up, we tuck in to two of the most popular MS diets: The Wahls Protocol and the Overcoming MS diet and lifestyle.Our guests, Dr. Terry Wahls (The Wahls Protocol) and Samantha Josephs (Overcoming MS), discuss their diets, the research behind them and how healthy eating patterns can support your overall health.Listen now for all the latest tips, information and more!Episode notesDiet and MS - info from

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39JLS founding member and critically acclaimed solo artist Oritsé Williams has been in the limelight since 2008. But long before the dazzling, bright lights of fame, Oritsé began his journey as a young carer for his mum, who was diagnosed with MS when he was 12 years old.Find out about the challenges that he and his siblings faced, his mother’s MS journey and why he’s passionate about supporting other young carers out there.Listen now to hear his take on caring for someone with dignity and love, the family bond they developed and how finding a creative outlet supported him emotionally.Episode notesInformation for carers - information from the MS Trust - mstrust.org.uk/information-support/care-and-carers/information-for-carers Caring for someone with MS - Podcast from MS Trust - mstrust.org.uk/information-support/podcasts/caring-someone-ms Advance care planning - information from the MS Trust - mstrust.org.uk/a-

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39Waiting for a potential multiple sclerosis diagnosis can be daunting. In this episode, we explore the "limbo land" time during your first appointments and a possible MS diagnosis.Neurologist, Dr Emma Tallantyre, joins us to talk about the importance of reaching out to your healthcare professionals, managing stress and more!We discuss the roles of neurologists and the tests you might go through. Plus, we cover some top tips for preparing for each appointment and what to do next.Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the diagnostic journey, treatments, and the value of support from healthcare professionals, family, and friends.Listen now for expert advice, personal stories, and community support.Show notes- Worried you have MS?: mstrust.org.uk//information-support/ms-symptoms-diagnosis/worried-you-have-ms- MS Trust what is MS?: mstrust.org.uk/about-ms/what-ms- MS trust how is MS diagnosed?: mst

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39Do you have feel embarrassed about your MS symptoms? Do you find some topics difficult to talk about? You’re not the only one. 85% of people we surveyed felt embarrassed by at least one of their symptoms and many of the community were hiding their symptoms from their partners. A third of people living with MS also avoided seeking medical help due to embarrassment. It’s time to shatter the stigma. MS Trust ambassadors, Trishna Bharadia, Dr Agne Straukiene and Richard Sprenger tackle taboo subjects like sexual dysfunction, bladder and bowel issues, drugs and opening up to your employer.Listen now for honest experiences, tips and more.Show NotesMS Awareness Week 2024mstrust.org.uk/get-involved/ms-awareness-weekWorking life and MS mstrust.org.uk/information-support/work-money-legal/working-lifeEquality actmstrust.org.uk/a-z/equality-actSexual problems for men with MSmstrust.org.uk/a-z/sexual-problems-men-msSexual

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39Have you ever wondered how your hormones might affect your MS? We're joined by podcast guests Olivia Mason, a woman diagnosed with multiple sclerosis not long after giving birth, and Professor Ruth Dobson, a consultant neurologist specialising in MS.Together, we explore how periods, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and menopause can influence MS. Here's what we cover•      Can periods make MS symptoms worse?•      Is pregnancy protective for women with MS?•      Can you use disease modifying drugs (DMDs) whilst pregnant?•      Can women with MS safely breastfeed?•      How does menopause affect MS symptoms?•      Plus, Olivia shares her personal experience and insights on navigating an MS diagnosis as a new mother. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to understand more about how periods, pregnancy, breastfeeding and the menopause can affect multiple sclerosis.Listen now for all of the latest

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39Bowel problems and MS. The underdiscussed topic that can leave many feeling anxious about leaving home. Have you experienced constipation or incontinence and wondered what part multiple sclerosis plays in them?Our podcast guests, Noreen Barker (MS Nurse Consultant) and Concetta Brugaletta (Clinical Nurse Specialist), are on a mission to shatter the stigma around bowel issues and MS. We talk treatments, strategies, tips and more!Join us as we discuss the loo taboo. Plus, find out what options are available for people living with MS bowel issues. Listen now.Show notesBowel problems in MS - information from MS Trust - mstrust.org.uk/a-z/bowel-problemsManging your Bowel - Free book from MS Trustshop.mstrust.org.uk/publications/managing-your-bowelsAsk the expert  bladder and bowel problems in MS - information from the MS Trust mstrust.org.uk/news/expert/ask-expert-bowel-and-bladder-problems-msFinding a toilet when