"Transparency is key to allowing us as a family to talk openly about MS"

Dan is a father of daughters, owner of two sheep, one goat and a dog called Margot. Here, he talks about life with MS and how transparency has been key when talking to his children about the condition.

I was diagnosed with relapsing remitting MS in 2016. However, my symptoms first started in 2010, when I was diagnosed with clinically isolated syndrome. In the time between experiencing the first symptoms and receiving my MS diagnosis, I struggled to engage with my neurologist. I pretended everything was fine, but in reality, it wasn't. I was experiencing further symptoms which I ignored. Life moved so fast in those five years - I got married, moved house and we had two wonderful daughters. Life was meeting all my expectations and I wasn't willing to consider one with MS.

In 2016, with much deliberation and reflection, I reengaged with my neurologist and after a new MRI, he confirmed my diagnosis of MS. I've been on Tecfidera since and apart from the unwelcome side effects (flushing, itching and a runny nose), I'm in a good place. I have a successful career and I continue to push myself physically and mentally. My family are my rock and I couldn't do it without them. I carry an overwhelming sense of guilt in having MS, hoping that my mobility remains so I can enjoy standing side by side with my children through their childhood.

Initially, I was left pondering when the right time was to talk our children about MS. It was important they understood the disease and how my body works a little different compared to some. We've created a very nurturing environment, one with transparency and this is key to allow us as a family to talk openly. From time to time, my children will refer to my MS, asking for a little clarity on such a complex disease. There are a number of great resources available on the internet, including an extremely helpful one from the MS Trust called 'Talking with your kids about MS'.

I am thankful compared to others and I think about that frequently. The Dorset Wobblers, a support group for people who have MS, has provided a great opportunity in meeting likeminded people who share the same condition. We might all be at different points of our lives but we are there for each other, with the same golden thread running through us all.

MS is an anxiety provoking disease, the future is unknown and the past can hold unsettling memories of what you've had to endure. Getting the balance is important and I try to stay in the here and now. I recently completed a mindfulness management course and this supports me staying present and not letting my mind take me away to unwelcome places.

It's not about what might be, it's about where I am today.