Today over 21,000 Aussies are battling a debilitating and unpredictable disease which attacks their central nervous system. The culprit, multiple sclerosis (MS), is a progressive disease that can cause a range of physical and neurological problems and most often strikes when people are in their prime.
One courageous young woman bucking the statistics is Jacqui Tracey. Five years ago, Jacqui was like any other 24 year old – career‐focussed with a thriving social life. Jacqui also shared a close bond with her older sister Lisa.
In 2007, Jacqui began experiencing difficulty with her left leg and visited her GP. After a referral to a neurologist, Jacqui received earth‐shattering news, she had MS.
Although Jacqui’s leg returned to full strength her MS progressed. She had difficulty with her balance and battled fatigue. Everyday tasks became troublesome–walking up and down stairs, unable to run or even wear high‐heels (a disaster for a 24 year old)!
Particularly worrying was the potential threat MS could have on her prospering career in event management. For many, a MS diagnosis can be a barrier, be it physical or mental, especially in terms of reaching career goals. In fact, within 10 years of diagnosis, 80 percent of people with MS are unemployed, with the total annual cost of MS to society estimated at about $1,034 million.
Although developments in the management and treatment of MS have recently improved, including the availability of oral therapies, there is still no cure in sight.
Jacqui refused to fall victim to her condition and now works with M&a, a renowned international marketing agency. Although Jacqui still struggles with her MS symptoms, she has managed to establish a solid career and successfully manages her condition.
Top Comments
Dear Jaqui,
I could not agree more about how far the treatment of MS has come, my Dad was diagnosed in 1944, Mum spent the family savings to try and find someone who could help, all was wasted and Dad passed away in 1952 aged 33.
In 2001 my second eldest daughter was diagnosed with MS, followed by daughter no 3 who was diagnosed in 2003 then in 2006 my youngest son was diagnosed. Even though my children have had there battles the treatment available in comparison to what was available and the cost when Dad was fighting his battles there is NO comparisons . Good Luck and keep your battle going.
Dear Jacqui,
Hi. My name is Scott and I'm thirty one. I was diagnosed with MS about six years ago but think I've lived with it for a bit longer than that. I also sam very lucky to have amazing support in my family and wouldn't be able to get through my days without their support.
Keep up the fight and a very
Merry Christmas to you and your family.
Regards
Scott