Set up to host ‘Our Big MS Adventure’ a 47 minute film, MS:OK aims to provide information and hope for all those whose lives are affected by multiple sclerosis.

“About 25 years ago we had very little in the way of treatment. Now there’s a lot of different treatments. There are new ones coming up all the time. It’s a very hopeful place to be.”

 Professor Anna Williams

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a degenerative disease of the nervous system. It occurs when the immune system recognises the protective coating around the nerves as foreign and attacks it. This can cause damage to the nerves and symptoms relate to where this damage occurs in the brain and or spinal cord.

MY Diagnosis

Hi, my name’s Elizabeth Kinder and in May 2007 after an MRI scan and a lumbar puncture, I was diagnosed with MS.  I had very little idea of what this was beyond the symptoms of dizziness, pins and needles and fatigue that I’d been experiencing for months. At the hospital I was given a bunch of leaflets outlining the possibility of ongoing degeneration plus loads more potential symptoms that included incontinence, immobility, cognitive decline and an inability to speak. I was anxious – and frightened by this new and grim vision of my future. My daughter was just 8 at the time: I didn’t want my condition to impact on her life and I certainly didn’t want my husband to become my carer. So I determined to do everything and anything I could to keep as mobile and healthy as possible. This led to making a film about my discoveries – and a life-affirming, positively life-changing adventure.

‘Our Big MS Adventure’

Back in 2007 there were far fewer treatment options than there are now and my consultant told me my best hope of effective therapy might be to get on to a clinical trial. Luckily I was accepted onto one in September of that year. Would this be a miracle drug? Or at least a breakthrough in treatment?  Caroline Napier, a former TV producer suggested I make a film about my experiences. “Show what MS means” she said. “What’s the latest science, the groundbreaking medical treatments?…Are there ‘alternative therapies’ or simple lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise that can help?!” I was going to find out, and began filming in September 2007. Shot over 12 years with a journey from West London to the Scottish Western Isles at its heart “Our Big MS Adventure”…