Meet the MS nurse, Rachel

Rachel Stenning is the MS CNS team lead at The Dudley group NHS Foundation Trust

Hi, I am the new team leader for multiple sclerosis (MS) in Dudley. We run clinics and we also see people at home. We work with the neuro rehabilitation department. As specialist nurse I coordinate care for patients, review patients that are on disease modifying therapies (DMTs) and education and initiation of DMTs including those who need to switch therapies.

 I feel the most important part of my job is advocating for my patients. I liaise with neurology consultants, GPs and other specialist services to ensure that they get the care they need. I feel that by being there for people when they need me most is very rewarding.

I have only been an MS nurse since May 2023. There are many exciting developments that I have come across. The stem cell research is very interesting. But I will have to say that the best thing for people with MS is the variety of the disease modifying therapies (DMTs) available. People can manage their MS themselves with as little or as much support from health professionals.

My advice for anyone preparing for an appointment with their MS nurse or neurologist is to bring any questions written down with you. Make a note of any symptoms you have been having so you can discuss them with the nurse.

 And day-to-day, try to pace yourself, you are not competing with anyone so do what you can manage.