This year has challenged Brisbane mother, Lisa-Marie Parsons, more than most with the 29-year-old being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) in April. After waking up in pain and without vision in her right eye, Lisa-Marie went through several tests and treatments for weeks before receiving her diagnosis.
“When I was diagnosed with MS, I was in shock. My shock lead to denial, not because I was concerned about having the disease, but because I didn’t have time to worry about myself. I am a wife, employee, and mother to 5 children.”
Lisa-Marie’s sight didn’t return for six weeks, which meant she was unable to drive her kids to school or go to work. She was concerned she’d have to adjust her life, as she found the simplest of tasks (such as walking around, watching tv, or using her phone) a real struggle.
“It honestly hit me hard mentally and I felt rather depressed. I couldn’t control the situation and it really stopped me in my tracks.”
Lisa-Marie has registered for the MS Moonlight Walk, and in March next year she’s gathering her family and friends together to support services for MS and spread awareness for all Queenslanders living with the condition.
“I knew of MS but wasn’t well educated on it as I didn’t have a reason, until now. My walk with MS has only just begun, and I’m encouraging others to walk with me at MS Moonlight Walk next year to see more people understand the condition.”
Registrations for the annual fundraiser by MS Queensland are now open. The event is going ahead in 2021 with a COVID Safe Plan. MS Queensland’s Fundraising Events Manager, Claire Hughes, explained elements of the event have been changed to address safety.
“We’re excited to see the event return in 2021 with measures put in place to keep supporters safe. The event will see capped participants, staggered start times, additional cleaning of high use areas, and ample access to hand sanitiser throughout the course.” said Claire.
For the first time in the event’s 22-year history people will also be able to take part in their own neighbourhood.
“If people can’t or don’t feel comfortable attending the Brisbane event, they can light up their neighbourhood with MS lanterns to illuminate our belief that no one should face MS alone.”
MS Moonlight Walk takes place on 21 March 2021 at 6pm, starting at Davies Park West End the event offers three courses (3km, 5km or 10km walks) with all except the 10km being wheelchair accessible.
To Register head to www.msmoonlightwalk.com.au
When: Friday 26 March 2021 from 4:30pm.
Where: Davies Park Markets, Cnr Jane Street & Montegue Road, West End, Queensland
Tickets: Adult – $24, Child – $18, Family (2 Adults & 2 Children) – $70
The MS Moonlight Walk raises vital funds for those living with multiple sclerosis (MS). The average age of an MS diagnosis is 30 and 75% of those diagnosed are women. Today, more than 25,600+ Australians including 3,970 Queenslanders live with MS. With no known cause or cure and symptoms varying significantly between those diagnosed, MS can be an invisible disease. With limited funding for the extensive support services provided by MS Queensland, we rely heavily on dedicated individuals to get involved and help raise much- needed funding to provide vital services across Queensland.
