Ms Trust

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

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39Are MS bladder problems bursting the seams of your day-to-day life? You’re not alone. Around 75% of people living with MS experience bladder issues and we know how frustrating and isolating they can be.That’s why we’re talking to MS specialist nurse, Grace Hazlett, about treatment options, preventative strategies and practical advice. She gives us the low down on pelvic floor exercises, fluid retention, catheters and more!Whether you’re constantly fighting the urge to go, or looking for ways to prevent future bladder problems, this might just be the podcast for you.Listen now to find out tips, tricks, and practical advice to support MS bladder issues.Show notesBladder problems in MS - information from MS Trust - mstrust.org.uk/a-z/bladder-problems Manging your Bladder - Free book from MS Trustshop.mstrust.org.uk/publications/managing-your-bladder/Ask the expert  bladder and bowel problems in MS - information

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39Living with MS means you might hit some unexpected mental health turbulence at times. Throw in the cost of living crisis, shocking world events and the gloomy news cycle and things around you can easily start to feel pressurised.Well, we may not have the answers to all of the world’s problems, but what we do have is a rather brilliant podcast guest: Professor Derek Willis. He tells us how being kind to yourself can unlock new perspectives in life. Plus, he outlines some practical strategies for managing the expectations of others and taking healthy breaks. Listen now for tips, tricks and more! And … breathe. Episode notesMS and mindfulness with Justin Standfield - video on YouTubeMindfulness and MS - Information from MS TrustWellbeing and MS - Information from MS TrustCan mindfulness really help my MS? - podcast from MS TrustMS: your emotions and feelings - podcast from MS Trust

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39Ok, you’ve heard all about mindfulness and maybe you’re even considering giving it a go. But can it actually help you manage life with MS? Is it just one of those trendy well-being fads like eating charcoal or moss smoothies (yep, they’re both actually real)? Mindfulness teacher, Justin Standfield, lives with MS and he joins us to dispel a couple of mindful myths. Plus, he shares some practical ways that he manages his own MS symptoms using mindfulness. Join us to learn tips, tricks and approaches to mindful matters and MS.Episode NotesMS and mindfulness with Justin Standfield - video on YouTube Mindfulness and MS - Information from MS TrustWellbeing and MS - Information from MS TrustHow to meditate for beginners - information from the NHScomeonbabylightmyfire.com - Justin's BlogJustin on X  A selection mindfulness apps (not reviewed or endorsed by the MS Trust)HeadspaceCalmInsight TimerSimple HabitBuddh

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39What have the MS community been asking about this year? We interview Corinne from our helpline team who tackles the burning MS questions and trends that our service has encountered in 2023.  In our busiest helpline year yet, the range of questions has been vast! We cover symptoms, equipment and a whole lot more. Plus, Dr Claire Winchester joins us for a fun experiment! We put forward your questions to an AI chatbot to see if it could be a useful source of MS information. Dive in to see if it has same level of expertise as our helpline service. Listen now for tips, helpful information and more.Episode NotesMS Trust HelplineSupporting the MS Trust - information from the MS TrustMS Trust Facebook Groupmstrust.org.uk/a-z/fatigue - MS Trust information about fatiguemstrust.org.uk/a-z/pain - MS Trust information about painmstrust.org.uk/information-support/newly-diagnosed - MS Trust information for the newly diagno

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39If you’re not sure how to best prepare for your next MS Nurse appointment, this could be the podcast for you.No matter where you are on your MS journey, talking about your condition can bring on a wave of emotions. Your mind is likely to be brimming with questions and points to raise.Add in long NHS waiting lists and squeezed appointment times, and it might feel as though you’re facing a steep challenge.When your appointment does come around, how can you make the most of your time with an MS Nurse and avoid information overload?Our podcast guest, MS Trust Lead Nurse Specialist, Dr Lou Jarrett explores some helpful tips on how to best prepare for your appointment. Learn how to build long-lasting relationships with your MS Nurse, what questions to ask and what to do whilst you’re waiting to be seen.Finally, we'll touch on why the MS Trust is on a mission to train MS Nurses in the UK.Episode notesMaking the

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39Feeling overwhelmed and anxious at the thought of discussing your MS with a neurologist? Wondering what questions to ask and what you should bring? You’re not alone. Whether you’re preparing for your first appointment or your tenth, emotions can be heightened. Add in the limited time that you get to talk to them and lengthy NHS waiting lists, and it can make you feel as though you’re fighting an uphill battle.We caught up with MS Trust Ambassador, Dr Agne Straukiene, to set out some strategies for making the most of your neurology appointments. Find out how to bring up sensitive topics, what you can do when you’re waiting to be seen and who you should bring with you.  Listen now to hear our helpful tips and get yourself prepared for your next neurologist appointment.  Show notes:Making the most of your appointments - info from the MS Trust mstrust.org.uk/information-support/newly-diagnosed/making-most-appoint

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39Ever wondered if smoking affects your MS? Sure, we all know the health risks linked to smoking. But, does smoking cause multiple sclerosis progression? And will your MS symptoms improve if you quit smoking?  We dive deep into these questions with consultant neurologist, Professor Richard Nicholas. Plus, Caroline Smith, who lives with MS, talks us through the steps she took to quit smoking. Listen now!Show NotesSmoking and MS - info from the MS Trust:  mstrust.org.uk/a-z/smokingQuitting smoking slows down MS progression  - info from MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/news/research/230411-quitting-smoking-slows-down-ms-progressionFive top tips for improving your lung health – blog from Jodi Barber - -mstrust.org.uk/news/expert/five-top-tips-improving-your-lung-health Stoptober - Stop smoking campaign from NHS  www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smokingThe MS Register: ukmsregister.org Set up a fundraising challenge: mstrust.o

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39Multiple sclerosis can affect breathing in advanced MS. But breathing problems can begin at any stage with MS. To explain more in this podcast we talk to Racheal Moses who is a Consultant Respiratory Physiotherapist and Neuro Physiotherapist Jody Barber. They explain how you can spot breathing problems early, what you can do if you have breathing difficulties and what you can do to try to prevent them occurring in the future. Show NotesBreathing problems - info from the MS Trust:  mstrust.org.uk/a-z/breathing-problems Breathing exercises - info from MS Trust: /mstrust.org.uk/information-support/exercise-ms/build-your-own-exercise-routine/breathing-exercises Five top tips for improving your lung health – blog from Jodi Barber - -mstrust.org.uk/news/expert/five-top-tips-improving-your-lung-healthSpeech and language therapy – info from MS Trust - mstrust.org.uk/a-z/speech-and-language-therapy Mindfulness and MS

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39This is a recording from a live stream we did earlier with the Head of Information and Engagement at the MS Trust Claire Winchester, we chat to her about a report called “Life changing: mental health and MS". In this report we find out about what the MS community in the UK has to say about mental with and Multiple Sclerosis. Episode notesRead the full report, Life changing: mental health and MS: shop.mstrust.org.uk/publications/life-changing-mental-health-and-ms/Depression and MS - info from the MS Trust:  mstrust.org.uk/a-z/depression Anxiety and MS - info from the MS Trust:  mstrust.org.uk/a-z/anxiety Life changing: mental health and MS - news from MS Trust mstrust.org.uk/news/life-changing-mental-health-and-ms Ask the expert: Mental health and MS - info from MS Trust mstrust.org.uk/news/expert/ask-expert-mental-health-and-msFive top tips to help health professionals look after their mental health - bl