My name is Graham, and for most of my life, I worked the land as a dairy farmer. Twelve years ago, I was diagnosed with Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (MS). It all started with a limp and issues with my left arm. My GP sent me to a neurologist, who then sent me for an MRI and a lumbar puncture. The results confirmed the diagnosis, and gradually, my life changed.
MS has impacted my daily life in many ways, and there have been challenges – a lot of them. But I’ve always believed in focusing on what I can do, not what I can’t. Exercise has been a lifeline for me. I used to be an avid runner and a competitive cyclist, and while running is no longer an option, I still manage to cycle around 100 kilometres each week on a conventional road bike. It’s my way of staying active while giving my body the opportunity to adapt to my diagnosis. It also allows me to maintain some normalcy.
Allied Medical proudly supports events like the Bangers to Bluff Car Rally, an annual MS NZ fundraiser that encourages staying active, just like cycling has for me. The rally is a reminder that movement, whether by car, bike, or foot, keeps us engaged and connected. For me, cycling has been essential to adapting to MS, giving me both a sense of normalcy and accomplishment, and I find inspiration in knowing there are always ways to keep moving forward.
Fatigue is a big part of my life now, so learning how to manage it has been crucial. That fatigue is not as most others know it, but is in fact neural fatigue. My youngest daughter is a yoga teacher, and she introduced me to mindfulness through guided meditation. I had never thought much of it before, but now, just closing my eyes and letting go for a few minutes several times a day, makes a world of difference.
My journey with MS has been an interesting one, filled with both closed doors and surprising new opportunities. I’ve always found joy in helping others and now work as a volunteer with seven different charitable organisations. The most significant of those to my prognosis is certainly my regional MS Society. The rewards of giving back are huge. I’ve come to realise that when I help others, I’m actually helping myself – it keeps my spirit alive.
Sharing my story is something I believe in deeply. Every time we talk about our experiences, we increase awareness and learn from each other. My condition has progressed slowly over time, and I like to think I’ve managed to control it somewhat by staying active and keeping a positive outlook. I feel as independent now as I ever was, but I do worry about the future and what might come next. It’s not just me who’s affected by this condition – it impacts my family too, and that’s what concerns me most. My immediate family comprises my wife, three adult children and 3 grandchildren and they are an amazing support to help me live my best life.
If I could offer any advice to others, it would be to focus on the positives and regard exercise as medicine. Surround yourself with people who lift you up, practice mindfulness, eat well, sleep enough, seek social engagement and prioritise your health. Remember that no matter what, you’re still you. I’ve learned to look at life through a different lens, and that shift in perspective has helped me find new ways to keep going and enjoy life.
Life with MS is a journey – one with unexpected twists and turns – but it’s a long and full journey. It has become apparent that I have many friends who seek opportunities to be helpful - the world really is full of good people! I’m still here, still me, and still finding reasons to smile every day.