It’s world MS Day – a disease for which there is no cure.
A woman actively trying to change that is Wendy Johnson of Purnong, who was diagnosed with a stable form of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) almost 30 years ago and had to give up her early educator role in Murray Bridge and volunteering at the Tailem Bend Community Centre as a result.
Despite that, Wendy has continued to be a vibrant part of the community and gets out and about, playing at the town’s friendly Indoor Bowls Competition with her husband Trevor, running a book exchange and craft day at the Purnong Town Hall and raising more than $3,400 for MS research, in a bid to find a cure.
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“I’m not going to let the bastard get me,” is Wendy’s mantra.
MS is an ailment that can affect the brain and spinal cord, triggering a wide range of probable symptoms, including difficulties with vision, arm or leg movement, sensation, or balance. It is a lifelong condition that can cause serious disability, although it can occasionally be mild.
As well as getting help from her husband, Wendy is supported by Murray Bridge based, Genuine Support Services Australia. (GSSA) with social support, home help and transport.
Over the past three years, Wendy has been walking and raising awareness for MS research, through the “May 50k Challenge”. Her goal this May was to raise over $300.00 and to walk 100km but she has so far surpassed 300km and $960 in funds.
Donate to Wendy’s campaign online via: themay50k.org/fundraisers/wendyjohnson73561/the-may-50k-2024
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Wendy caught up with ARN’s Adam Connelly and Jennie Lenman in studio to share her story. Hear the fullc hat via the audio play window below: