“To anyone considering fundraising for MS-UK, I would 100% recommend it”Published: 25 January 2024 Our fundraiser of the month Helen Brook-Smith surpassed her own fundraising expectations I have been involved in several fundraising events over the years for different charities that have usually had a connection to family or friends, however my recent fundraising for MS-UK was very personal. Last year I started experiencing a ‘pins and needles’ sensation in my forearm and hand, which I had dismissed as a trapped nerve. However, my GP, being cautious, sent me for an MRI and a phone call the following week confirmed her initial suspicions – demyelination of the spinal cord. Since this initial finding, I have had further investigative procedures. I have the support of an amazing MS nurse, and my neurologist is currently looking to place me on a trial for progressive MS. So much has happened in a relatively short period of time and it’s all still a bit of a ‘whirlwind’ if I’m honest. I take each day as it comes. Being a pro-active and somewhat optimistic individual, I immediately researched different charities and support available to the MS community and I was amazed by the wealth of information available. When the recent Knitting Challenge for MS-UK appeared on my Instagram feed I was instantly drawn to it as my partner and a few family members love to crochet and knit so this seemed like a nice way to ‘give-back’ and raise some money for a charity where I can see first-hand how donations are used to provide advice and guidance for the MS community. The plan was to hold a table top sale at my partner’s workplace, with the help of my mother-in-law. My initial goal was the suggested £100. Obviously we thought if we could make more it’d be great, however to reach nearly £600 was incredible considering we were making a few baubles, toys, and sweet-filled stockings! Setting up the JustGiving page was an easy process, and I was able to add updates with some photos of the items created. Once news of the upcoming sale spread, we had orders coming in from friends and family and I was so grateful and humbled. The table top sale was well attended, and I was so grateful for the time and effort from family and friends in supporting the event. I also very much appreciated the words of support and encouragement from Sadé at MS-UK, as I really felt like I was making a difference. It was that personal touch that you don’t often get with some organisations, so thank you! To anyone considering fundraising for MS-UK, I would 100% recommend it. My motivation was to raise a few funds for something that suddenly became a part of my life and I wanted to return the favour if you will. It turned out to be an enjoyable and humbling experience to see first-hand just how much support I have out there from family and friends. Other Stories You May Be Interested In... Blog Dairy and multiple sclerosis View article Blog Parenting with multiple sclerosis View article Blog Can physiotherapy help with your multiple sclerosis? View article