Grantown firm allows MS sufferers into the great outdoors
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Multiple sclerosis sufferers planning their first outdoor activity in the Highlands since the start of the pandemic are to be given some virtual help.
With Covid-19 restrictions being lifted in Scotland, and worldwide travel regulations also easing, many people are starting to travel again. But for people living with long-term health conditions like MS, getting away or even going out on a day trip isn’t always straight forward.
And for people who were diagnosed with MS during the pandemic, it is likely they will have no experience of taking a holiday while living with a disability.
MS affects more than 15,000 people in Scotland – one of the highest rates in the world. It's relentless, painful, and disabling, meaning people living with MS often feel they need a break but can find it difficult to plan and take a holiday.
MS Society Scotland is hoping to support those affected by MS to travel safely and enjoyably by hosting an online event as part of its Wellbeing Hub offer. This month’s Ask an Expert Webinar, simply titled ‘Travelling and MS’, is aimed at anyone affected by MS who is thinking about taking a break in the UK or abroad, or who would like to take part in some accessible outdoor activities.
A panel of experts will provide tips on a range of things people with MS may need to consider when booking a break, from making sure their accommodation is accessible to travelling with their medication.
Debora Peazold, our MS Society Helpline Information Officer specialising in short breaks and activities, has been assisting the MS community to travel home and away for a number of years and will share her knowledge at the Webinar: “Taking a break every now and then is important for everyone’s wellbeing, but it can be even more important if you’re living with the day-to-day demands of MS or you’re caring for someone who is.
“Going on holiday should be exciting, enjoyable and relaxing but for people living with a long-term health condition such as MS it can also be daunting as there are so many extra things to think about.
“The Short Breaks Service is here for anyone affected by MS who’s looking for information on accessible short breaks or holidays or wanting to finding respite care services.
"Some of the most common topics we are asked about include sourcing accessible accommodation and transport, accessing care and support in an unfamiliar area, navigating airport procedures, and locating equipment hire. However, every enquiry we receive is unique. We’re happy to discuss anything to do with breaks or holidays, and to talk through all available option, and we will signpost to other services and sources when appropriate.
“So, if you’ve got a trip coming up and you’d like a bit of additional information to help it go more smoothly, or you’d love to get away but have no idea where to start, come along to the Webinar, find out a bit more about the MS Society’s Short Breaks Service, and ask me about how we can help you plan the break you deserve.”
Gemma Hendry, organisational manager and lead instructor for Able2Adventure, will also speak at the Webinar. Able2Adventure is a Community Interest Company, based near Grantown, which aims to deliver outdoor activities for people of all abilities that are inspiring, engaging, compassionate and supportive of everyone’s needs.
Gemma said: “At Able2Adventure we passionately believe that adventurous, outdoor activities can be, and should be, available to everyone. Not only are the activities we offer a lot of fun, they can also have a positive impact on mental and physical health, help groups and individuals increase their levels of independence, and give participants a sense of achievement and improved self-worth.
“During the Webinar I will talk about the accessible activities we offer, including climbing, paddle boarding, and bushcraft, but will focus primarily on packrafting.
“Packrafting is possibly the most accessible paddle sport for people with limited lower limb mobility and it is exactly as its name suggests – a raft, or inflatable boat, that can be packed down really small, so small someone can carry it on their lap. The raft is easy to move on the water and comes with a number of inflatable supports that have proved highly effective for wheelchair users. Many people living with MS have taken part in our packrafting activities and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.
“If you’ve never tried an outdoor activity such as packrafting, or if you’ve felt less confident since your MS diagnosis but would love to rediscover your adventurous side, please come along to the Webinar. I’ll be more than happy to answer any questions you might have and we hope to see you at one of our events soon.”
· Register for the ‘Travelling and MS’ Ask an Expert Webinar, taking place from 6 to 7pm on Wednesday, April 20, here
Ask an Expert Webinars: email wellbeingscotland@mssociety.org.uk or call 0131 335 4050.
· Find out more about Able2Adventure here
