Liz's MS and T1Diabetes Fund
Don protégé
My fiancee Liz has lived with Type 1 Diabetes since the age of 4. As if fighting tirelessly her whole life to manage her blood sugars and consequent symptoms of fluctuating levels was not enough, Liz was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis just over a year ago. Her first relapse was massive, leaving her hospitalised for two weeks and being pumped with a months' worth of steroids in just 2 days. Hearing that her MS was aggressive and another relapse did not deter her from pursuing her dreams, so she continued to study (following suspending her studies during the pre-diagnosis stage) towards her MSc in Health Psychology.
Liz achieved a First in her BSc in Psychology prior to her MS diagnosis and she has done charity work for the Samaritans and JDRF. She has so much to give to the world, so much to offer. Obstacles are constantly thrown in her way, but she continues to amaze me and everyone who knows her by continuing and growing stronger. This is one resilient woman!
Liz has an intravenous infusion of the medication Tysabri monthly. Whilst we endeavour to make this as stress-free as possible (her mum sends treat bags of sweet treats in the post a few days before - nom!), there is no denying that it is a challenging concept. These infusions will take place for as long as the medication continues to work.
Regarding her MS, Liz is affected from top-to-toe. She is plagued daily by symptoms, including visual disturbances (Nystagmus and Optic Neuritis), fatigue, chronic pain, balance problems, mental health difficulties.
At the end of 2014, Liz's estranged father passed away, leaving her financially insecure. Despite this, Liz kept going. She is now accessing the benefits she is entitled to, however these do not leave any disposable income outside of the cost of general living.
Liz uses a wheelchair to help manage her symptoms. One of the most common symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis is fatigue, which makes self-propelling a massive task as it involves so much strength and endurance Liz is reluctant to move into a mobility scooter, wanting to keep as active as possible. This fund will help Liz access more equipment. The Alber E-Motion wheels were recommended by a mobility expert. They are designed to give the user more freedom and control over their mobility.
A short video explaining the wheels can be found here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oxXKNl3ANIw
A slightly longer video can be seen here, demonstrating the use of the wheels up and down hills:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SGPMELUicG4
If we could raise more than the amount to cover the cost of the mobility equipment, it could go towards funding the use of a Continuous Glucose Monitor. Liz's MS symptoms combined with her T1 Diabetes symptoms make for a hefty cocktail of uncertainty and confusion. It is consequently harder to manage her blood sugar levels, which would most definitely be aided by the use of a CGM. However, these are costly, averaging around £40-60 a week for the sensors needed.
It would also be amazing to take a trip to see a specialist Neurologist and get some up-to-date relevant guidance regarding Liz's MS. Although we are lucky enough to have access to a neurologist, we haven't had the best treatment from him.
Thank you for taking the time to read this :)
Emily x
Liz achieved a First in her BSc in Psychology prior to her MS diagnosis and she has done charity work for the Samaritans and JDRF. She has so much to give to the world, so much to offer. Obstacles are constantly thrown in her way, but she continues to amaze me and everyone who knows her by continuing and growing stronger. This is one resilient woman!
Liz has an intravenous infusion of the medication Tysabri monthly. Whilst we endeavour to make this as stress-free as possible (her mum sends treat bags of sweet treats in the post a few days before - nom!), there is no denying that it is a challenging concept. These infusions will take place for as long as the medication continues to work.
Regarding her MS, Liz is affected from top-to-toe. She is plagued daily by symptoms, including visual disturbances (Nystagmus and Optic Neuritis), fatigue, chronic pain, balance problems, mental health difficulties.
At the end of 2014, Liz's estranged father passed away, leaving her financially insecure. Despite this, Liz kept going. She is now accessing the benefits she is entitled to, however these do not leave any disposable income outside of the cost of general living.
Liz uses a wheelchair to help manage her symptoms. One of the most common symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis is fatigue, which makes self-propelling a massive task as it involves so much strength and endurance Liz is reluctant to move into a mobility scooter, wanting to keep as active as possible. This fund will help Liz access more equipment. The Alber E-Motion wheels were recommended by a mobility expert. They are designed to give the user more freedom and control over their mobility.
A short video explaining the wheels can be found here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oxXKNl3ANIw
A slightly longer video can be seen here, demonstrating the use of the wheels up and down hills:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SGPMELUicG4
If we could raise more than the amount to cover the cost of the mobility equipment, it could go towards funding the use of a Continuous Glucose Monitor. Liz's MS symptoms combined with her T1 Diabetes symptoms make for a hefty cocktail of uncertainty and confusion. It is consequently harder to manage her blood sugar levels, which would most definitely be aided by the use of a CGM. However, these are costly, averaging around £40-60 a week for the sensors needed.
It would also be amazing to take a trip to see a specialist Neurologist and get some up-to-date relevant guidance regarding Liz's MS. Although we are lucky enough to have access to a neurologist, we haven't had the best treatment from him.
Thank you for taking the time to read this :)
Emily x
Organisateur
Liz Sheils
Organisateur
