MSTV is our YouTube channel which is dedicated to young people affected by multiple sclerosis. We produce films and interviews to help other young people understand MS, we cover everything from symptoms to how MS can make you feel. We are looking for young people who have a connection with MS to join our MSTV team. Maybe a friend or family member has the condition or maybe you have been diagnosed yourself. Could you be an MSTV reporter?
Eden was diagnosed with MS when she was aged 14 and is one of our reporters. Recently we chatted to her about how having multiple sclerosis has affected her friendships.
Hi Eden. Thanks for talking to us today. Can you tell us when were you diagnosed with MS? Did you feel happy revealing your MS to friends straightaway?
I was diagnosed with MS in 2015, aged 14. I felt happy to reveal my MS to my friends straightaway as they were all concerned as to why I was having various symptoms. So it was good to be able to explain to them what had been going on.
Do you feel that MS has affected your relationships with your friends?
No not at all, if so, only positively as they are all a lot more understanding and I feel it has brought us much closer. Also, I really appreciate that they haven’t treated me any differently. My friends have also joined me in multiple charity events to raise money and awareness for multiple sclerosis.
Do you feel comfortable talking to them about MS?
Yes, I do feel comfortable talking with them. I’ve learned many people are not aware of MS and I really appreciate their questions as it shows that they care and it helps to raise awareness.
What advice would you give to other young people when it comes to talking about MS to their friends?
My advice would be to take all the time you need and that it is okay to feel anxious. However, from my experience the majority of people, especially young people are very understanding and supportive. You can reassure them that you are still able to do things by yourself and that there is no need for them to treat you differently.
Do you feel like you miss out at all because of your MS?
No, I feel like the majority of things are very accessible, I’m still able to hang out with friends and do mostly everything I want to do. I also make adaptations if I need to, for example getting an Uber instead of walking long distances. Also being in school and now university, I feel the staff are very inclusive and do their best to make provisions to make your life as easy and as normal as possible.
Do you have many friends within the MS community?
Yes, I have met a few young people with MS at various events and during infusions. It’s very helpful to speak to others to discuss your experiences and to not feel so alone.
Eden has also appeared in several MSTV videos, How is MS diagnosed in young people? and An update from our MSTV YouTubers.
We are looking for young people with a connection to MS to join our team of MSTV reporters. Could you tell other young people how it feels to be diagnosed with MS? Or maybe offer advice on living with a parent who has MS? Could you help us explain some of MS's strange and unusual symptoms?
Talk to us if you'd like to get involved with MSTV or would like some more information about what's involved.
