At Blanchardstown Centre for Independent Living (BCIL), we continue our commitment to amplifying voices and sharing resources that support people with disabilities in Ireland. This month, we spoke with Sorcha Barlow, MS Support and Education Nurse at Multiple Sclerosis Ireland, about the realities of living with MS and the services available to support people across the country.
Understanding MS: A Complex Neurological Condition
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a long-term neurological condition that affects the brain and spinal cord. As Sorcha explains, “In MS, the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering around nerve cells, called myelin. This causes a wide range of symptoms, depending on which part of the nervous system is affected.”
Symptoms of MS vary widely and can include:
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Numbness
- Mobility issues
- Cognitive changes
- Bladder and bowel dysfunction
Perhaps most challenging is that MS often comes with invisible symptoms, such as pain, depression, or mood changes — making it harder for others to understand or recognise what a person is going through.
Types of MS and the Diagnostic Journey
There are four recognised types of MS:
- Relapsing Remitting MS (RRMS) – the most common form, initially diagnosed in 85% of cases
- Secondary Progressive MS (SPMS)
- Primary Progressive MS (PPMS)
- Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS) – often a precursor to diagnosis
Getting diagnosed can be an emotional and difficult process. Sorcha advises, “Be kind to yourself. It’s an overwhelming time, full of uncertainty. Support systems — whether family, friends or professional — are essential.”
MS in Ireland: The Numbers and the Need
There are currently around 10,000 people in Ireland living with MS, though that number is likely higher due to undiagnosed cases. MS is significantly more common in women, with a ratio of 3:1 compared to men. Notably, when men are diagnosed, they are more likely to experience the more severe primary progressive form.
MS Ireland: National Support Since 1961
Founded in 1961, MS Ireland is the national organisation supporting individuals with MS. They provide services, education, and advocacy to help people live as well as possible with their condition.
Key services include:
- Casework & Community Support in every county
- Physiotherapy programmes and fatigue management workshops
- Peer support groups and wellness programmes
- A dedicated respite centre in Dublin for people with MS and other neurological conditions
“We want people to know that life doesn’t end with a diagnosis,” Sorcha says. “There is help, support, and a community out there.”
Fundraising and Volunteering: Community in Action
MS Ireland relies on fundraising initiatives to maintain its wide range of services. Popular events include:
- The May 50K Challenge
- Dip a Day in May
- The MS Readathon.
Local fundraising also includes backpacking and supermarket collections. Community branches, often run by people living with MS, play a key role in raising funds and awareness.
“We also welcome volunteers in our care centre, where people offer music, art, and social support to residents,” Sorcha shared. “There are so many ways to get involved and make a difference.”
Advocating for Better Services
Advocacy is central to MS Ireland’s mission. Their team, including Advocacy Officer Alison Cotter, works directly with individuals and government representatives to improve policies and access to services. Recent campaigns have focused on:
- Increasing access to physiotherapy
- Expanding community worker coverage in rural counties
- Representing the lived experience of people with MS in national health policy
Research and Hope for the Future
MS Ireland also contributes to ongoing clinical research, supporting efforts to better understand the condition and one day, discover a cure.
A Final Word from Sorcha
“If you or someone close to you is newly diagnosed, please don’t panic. Take your time. Our information line is here — someone is always on the other end, ready to listen and guide you through the first steps.”
For more information about Multiple Sclerosis Ireland, including services, volunteering, and fundraising:
🔗 Visit: www.ms-society.ie
📞 MS Ireland Information Line: 0818 233 233.
Disability Matters airs every Thursday at 4PM on Phoenix 92.5FM, with repeats on Monday at 3PM and Tuesday at 7AM & 3PM. Podcast available after each show on Mixcloud and on bcil.ie/radio.