In June 2017, our lives changed forever when my husband Ben was diagnosed with Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis. According to the MS Society, PPMS is an auto-immune disease whereby "symptoms gradually worsen from the outset (progression)". To us and our family, the diagnosis means so much more.
Prior to the diagnosis, Ben was a normal, out-going individual who loved doing things outdoors. He enjoyed cycling, playing airsoft and exploring nature. In fact, when he proposed to me in 2015, we were standing at the top of a mountain! In the months leading up to our wedding in July 2017, Ben noticed his legs felt more tired after doing exercise, and after a very difficult few months of hospitals visits, we were given the heart-breaking diagnosis of PPMS. This was just two weeks before our wedding day, where I am so proud to say Ben was still able to walk down the aisle. It was such an emotional day as we said our vows, especially 'in sickness and in health'.
Since then, sadly Ben's mobility has deteriorated rapidly and he now has to use a wheelchair or mobility scooter to get around. Watching such an active and adventurous person struggle with everyday life has been heart-breaking, and as a young couple, we have had to give up doing so many things we once enjoyed. Being a wheel-chair user, even in today's society, is extremely difficult and we have had to alter our lives to suit. We have self-funded his current wheelchair and a mobility scooter, as well as having to plan every aspect of a day out or holiday, to ensure it is safe and accessible for Ben.
Things that others may take for granted are now near impossible. One of the many difficulties Ben now faces is going on the beach. On holiday this year, Ben was devastated to find he could no longer walk across the sand to get down to the sea, and neither could his wheelchair work on sand. After much research online, we found there are wheelchairs available which can help those with disabilities enjoy a much better quality of life. The wheelchair we would love to get for Ben means he will be able to explore the beach, walk our dog in the woods and be more independent in his every day life again. However, the cost of the chair is money we simply do not have and we are desperately wanting to give Ben the opportunity to explore the world whilst he is still able.
Ben is such a positive and warm person, who brings so much happiness to everybody he meets, Since his diagnosis, he has refused to give up, and has continued to work hard and try his best to enjoy life. Nobody should have to go through this, and especially not somebody as wonderful as my husband. Having this wheelchair would provide so many more opportunities for Ben, as well as meaning myself and our family could relax and not be worried when he goes out by himself. The wheelchair is self-propelled and is specifically designed to be used even on rougher terrain. It is designed for everyday life and gives the user access to environments they would normally not be able to experience. It would mean the world to us to do more things as a couple, because his PPMS has sadly taken so much from our future. We want to enjoy the time Ben has together, doing what he loves.
Thank for you for taking the time to read this. We are so very grateful for anything people can give.
Prior to the diagnosis, Ben was a normal, out-going individual who loved doing things outdoors. He enjoyed cycling, playing airsoft and exploring nature. In fact, when he proposed to me in 2015, we were standing at the top of a mountain! In the months leading up to our wedding in July 2017, Ben noticed his legs felt more tired after doing exercise, and after a very difficult few months of hospitals visits, we were given the heart-breaking diagnosis of PPMS. This was just two weeks before our wedding day, where I am so proud to say Ben was still able to walk down the aisle. It was such an emotional day as we said our vows, especially 'in sickness and in health'.
Since then, sadly Ben's mobility has deteriorated rapidly and he now has to use a wheelchair or mobility scooter to get around. Watching such an active and adventurous person struggle with everyday life has been heart-breaking, and as a young couple, we have had to give up doing so many things we once enjoyed. Being a wheel-chair user, even in today's society, is extremely difficult and we have had to alter our lives to suit. We have self-funded his current wheelchair and a mobility scooter, as well as having to plan every aspect of a day out or holiday, to ensure it is safe and accessible for Ben.
Things that others may take for granted are now near impossible. One of the many difficulties Ben now faces is going on the beach. On holiday this year, Ben was devastated to find he could no longer walk across the sand to get down to the sea, and neither could his wheelchair work on sand. After much research online, we found there are wheelchairs available which can help those with disabilities enjoy a much better quality of life. The wheelchair we would love to get for Ben means he will be able to explore the beach, walk our dog in the woods and be more independent in his every day life again. However, the cost of the chair is money we simply do not have and we are desperately wanting to give Ben the opportunity to explore the world whilst he is still able.
Ben is such a positive and warm person, who brings so much happiness to everybody he meets, Since his diagnosis, he has refused to give up, and has continued to work hard and try his best to enjoy life. Nobody should have to go through this, and especially not somebody as wonderful as my husband. Having this wheelchair would provide so many more opportunities for Ben, as well as meaning myself and our family could relax and not be worried when he goes out by himself. The wheelchair is self-propelled and is specifically designed to be used even on rougher terrain. It is designed for everyday life and gives the user access to environments they would normally not be able to experience. It would mean the world to us to do more things as a couple, because his PPMS has sadly taken so much from our future. We want to enjoy the time Ben has together, doing what he loves.
Thank for you for taking the time to read this. We are so very grateful for anything people can give.