10 December 2025
Managing nerve pain in MS
In this special bonus episode of the MS Trust Podcast, mindfulness teacher Justin Standfield shares two guided meditations designed to help ease the challenges of living with MS pain.
Ashley Thomas started her new role as an MS Trust funded MS Nurse in September. We caught up with her a few weeks in, to find out how she’s settling in and what she’s looking forward to about her new position.
Ashley brings a wealth of experience and a passion for providing compassionate care to her new role. With a diverse nursing background that includes working with Parkinson's patients and even in a prison setting, she is uniquely qualified to address the complex needs of people living with multiple sclerosis. Ashley Will work alongside specialist nurse Carmel Wilkinson, MS co-ordinator Vickie Jones, lead MS Consultant Kate Petheram and Consultant Neurologist Gemma Maxwell.
My goal is to provide people with MS the information, resources, and support they need to navigate their condition and live fulfilling lives.
Ashley's arrival marks a milestone for MS care in Sunderland. As a dedicated member of the MS team, she will significantly increase the capacity of the service. Ashley will work to expand the range of treatments and services available to people living with MS in the area and will look to improve overall outcomes. By collaborating with healthcare professionals across the region, Ashley aims to develop individualised care plans and wants to ensure that people with MS have access to the latest therapies and support.
I'm excited to be part of a team that is dedicated to transforming MS care in Sunderland. I want to be a friendly face, and I want to be contactable for all the people who need my help and support. I’m part of this community and I want to be able to give back to it.
Beyond providing clinical care, Ashley is committed to empowering patients to take an active role in managing their MS. Living with MS is a journey and understanding the condition can help you manage it more effectively in the long term. She’ll help the people she cares for understand their diagnosis, manage their symptoms, and make informed decisions about their care.
As Ashley's role continues to evolve, she is confident that her efforts will have a lasting impact on the lives of people with MS in Sunderland. With her dedication, expertise, and passion, she’s ready to bring hope and support to the MS Community in Sunderland.
