MS is officially listed as one the of “vulnerable” conditions for the coronavirus (COVID-19)- regardless of whether we’re on a DMD or not - which means we should follow the advice for social distancing, and which the government link below says “is likely to be in place for some weeks” or which they said on TV would be 12 weeks...
Guidance on social distancing for everyone in the UK and protecting older people and vulnerable adults - GOV.UK
WWW.GOV.UK
Stay safe everybody!
Advice for people with MS and the use of DMDs:
COVID-19 and DMTs – Multiple Sclerosis Research Blog
MULTIPLE-SCLEROSIS-RESEARCH.ORG
The coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic is getting people with MS (pwMS) who are on a DMT to rightly question whether or not their immune systems are competent to deal with a COVID-19...
There are also other articles about COVID-19 on the MS Research Blog.
This is a map that tracks the virus around the world, and has plenty of stats:
Operations Dashboard for ArcGIS
GISANDDATA.MAPS.ARCGIS.COM
General advice from the NHS:
Coronavirus (COVID-19) - NHS
WWW.NHS.UK
NHS advice about coronavirus (COVID-19), including what the risk in the UK is, what the symptoms are and how to reduce your chances of getting it.
Some of the best information about MS and the coronavirus, especially if you’re on a DMD, comes straight from the horse’s mouth by Professor Gavin Giovannoni and his team at the Barts MS Research Blog. Comments in articles can also be informative. Please check it regularly as advice may alter from day to day.
Multiple Sclerosis Research Blog – A blog for people affected by Multiple Sclerosis. Interpreting good, bad and other research news
MULTIPLE-SCLEROSIS-RESEARCH.ORG
A blog for people affected by Multiple Sclerosis. Interpreting good, bad and other research news
The Barts MS Research Blog has also started what they call a “micro site”, which specifically deals with COVID-19 and has a Question and Answers section:
MS-Selfie - COVID-19 & MS
SITES.GOOGLE.COM
I don't know what to do for the best and wondered if anyone would like to offer some much needed advice! I used to work from home as a travel agent but gave it up over a year ago as I was making no money. I am a single mum so switched to income support which kept me going while I was being tested and awaiting a diagnosis for all these awful symptoms. I believed my walking and arm difficulties were due to a trapped nerve or similar and I'd be fine soon and then concentrate on going back out to work. However, I've recently switched to JSA as my youngest child turned 7 at a similar time to me being diagnosed with MS. I am keeping my eyes open for a part time job that doesn't involve any walking, and on a good day I could do this fine. However, I can have 3 good days and 4 bad days a week. On a bad day I haven't got any energy, can't walk, struggle with my vision and can't even speak perfectly. Is it sensible to commit to a job? If not, I feel more depressed as I'm only 32 and I feel like I'm wasting my life and of no use. But then again if I work and find I can't do it I may be more depressed. Do MS suffereres qualify for any other benefits?
Sorry lots of questions there but I'm confused!
Thanks so much in advance
Kath x
Hi everyone,
(no pun intended in the title)
Remember me at all? I am currently writing a book (onto chapter 20) wherein one of the main characters happens to be a youngish mum who suffers from MS. I have looked around for support groups, charities and organisations so that I could get involved and meet people to have a chat and get a real feel of how things really affect those affected, but haven't had any luck. Does anyone know how I could get involved with such a group? I am in Leicester (city centre), strong and willing, without a car.
Anyway, until I can get that sorted out, I have a question for you. I hope you can help. My character, Karen, has of course MS. I have written it as a RRMS that no longer relapses or remits so much (perhaps time to alter diagnosis). As such, she has some daily difficulties with her leg, which is generally a bit naughty and unreliable. Following her WCA assessment, I have her put into the WRAG group (incorrectly) based on a belief that one day, it will all go away...
I can't speak from experience, and I absolutely would like to get this right, so could anyone who knows please help me.
What I'd like to know is: what sort of benefit would she get, realistically?
Based on what I could find out, here is what I think is correct (PLEASE tell me if this is outdated/wrong)
disability living allowance - 3month qualifying period- on no pay, then:
Assessed by two criteria:
per week:
Mobility low:
Founded in 2004, MS People UK is a community website and discussion forum by and for people with Multiple Sclerosis as well as for friends, families, supporters and those interested in this disabling condition.
If you’re newly diagnosed or want to ask about possible first symptoms, or if you’ve had Relapse Remit, Secondary or Primary Progressive MS for some time, a welcoming group of fellow MS sufferers is here to chat with you about MS symptoms, diagnosis and treatments.
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