New to MS – friends and family Peer Pod

New to MS Peer Pod button

First Monday of every month at 6pm

Welcome to our New to MS – friends and family Peer Pod, a compassionate space created for those whose loved ones have recently been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Whether you’re a partner, sibling, parent, adult child, or close friend, the early days of an MS diagnosis can bring a variety of emotions. You may be wondering what it means for them, as well as you.

It’s natural to feel overwhelmed as the dynamics of your relationship begin to shift. Roles may change, new responsibilities may emerge, and the future might seem uncertain. It’s important to acknowledge that this is not just your loved one’s journey – it’s yours too.

While your care, support, and presence can make a powerful difference, it’s equally vital to care for your own emotional and physical wellbeing.

This Peer Pod is a space to connect with others navigating similar transitions. Here, you can share your experiences, find useful information, and learn tools for coping and communication. Most importantly, you’ll be reminded that supporting someone with MS does not mean losing yourself.

Together, we can build resilience, maintain healthy boundaries, and grow into this new chapter with strength and compassion.

You don’t have to do this alone. At MS-UK you’ll find the understanding and support to move forward, one step at a time.

Picture of Peer Pod host Chrissie Peacock

Meet the host

Hi, my name is Chrissie, and I host the New to MS – friends and family Peer Pod.

I am a carer for my husband, Jason who was diagnosed with relapsing and remitting MS in 2015. I also work in healthcare as a pharmacy technician and have an additional advantage that I have experience both personally and professionally regarding multiple sclerosis.

I currently live with my husband and our bearded dragon who is called Toothless and our corn snake, Nagini.

I am an avid reader and enjoy spending time with my family and building lasting memories with my husband.

Being able to help and support people is something I have been working towards for a number of years and has been a large motivation in my professional career.

I’m really looking forward to meeting others and being able to provide empathy and support to the loved ones of those living with MS.