Christine Nolan

"I will confront MS as best I can and continue to live life with great joy"

At forty something years Chris was feeling fit and healthy. She had four children, a loving husband and a terrific career - life was great - really great! Little did she know an uninvited guest was about to move into her life and would not leave!

For twelve months prior to her diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (the most common chronic neurological disease of the 20 to 50 age group), Chris visited her GP far too frequently for what seemed initially trivial issues like tingling, numbness, and problems with balance and mobility. What followed was an episode of double vision and a referral to a specialist. This resulted in an MRI (a 3D photograph of the brain) even though her vision problem had quickly resolved itself. Prior to obtaining the results of the MRI, Chris and her family left the country on an exciting trip to Sri Lanka. They gladly left all their troubles behind, including Chris's sense of taste. Fortunately this returned a week into their trip to the curry capitol of the world. On returning to Australia, Chris attended a consultation with the specialist regarding her MRI. While in the waiting room, she made many and varied pacts with God, fearing all manner of possible ailments. The diagnosis shocked her.

Chris will never forget hearing the words "you have multiple sclerosis". Her initial reaction was denial. However the gradual realisation that these words meant that she had contracted a degenerative disease of the central nervous system for the term of her natural life was almost overwhelming. With the support and care of her husband, family and friends, this incredibly positive high school teacher came to terms with her condition. She educated herself about MS, joined a group with similar MS people in Geelong and actively involved herself in the MS Society. Her efforts have helped to fundraise $28000 for MS research.

MS Australia - ACT/NSW/VIC highly recommends MS Ambassador Christine Nolan as an effervescent ambassador. Chris would give anything not to have MS but she has come to terms with her fear of this condition and is able to say to others "I have MS." It is one of the challenges of life that she will confront, overcome as best she can and continue to live her life with great joy.

For more information

If you would like to book an MS Ambassador call (03) 9845 - 2700 or email ambassadors-vic@msaustralia.org.au