Jason's fundraising offers hope for the future
A marketing manager diagnosed with multiple sclerosis three years ago has pledged to raise £30,000 for research into the condition.
Jason Winter, 36, works for travel firm TTG Media, who have chosen the MS Society as their charity for the year.
More than £17,000 has already been raised, and Jason is hopeful of meeting the target.
He said: “I have really benefited from the support offered by the MS Society so this is a way to give something back, as well as solidifying my relationship with the charity.
“When I was diagnosed I wanted to learn as much as I could and they were really helpful. It also allowed me to meet other people with MS which has been another benefit.”
More than two million people worldwide are affected by MS, a neurological disease. Symptoms can be unpredictable and include vision problems, brain fog, and difficulty with physical activity. It is caused when the immune system attacks healthy tissues in the brain and spinal cord, and the disease can worsen over time.
Jason’s first symptom was his eyesight worsening, and then he noticed his foot turning inwards when he was walking. He now uses a rollator to help with his mobility, but refuses to let the condition hold him back.
He said: “I lead a good life, but it’s an adjusted life. I have learnt to not be stubborn and to accept help when I need it.
“But it doesn’t define me; I’m still me and I still enjoy the things I did before my diagnosis, I just have to do them in a different way now.
“I’ve been able to travel with an accessible travel company and I’m determined not to let the condition stop me from doing something I love.”
Jason, who lives in Maidstone, has monthly infusions at the Kent and Canterbury Hospital, and takes other medication to help with the symptoms. He also attends a disability swimming group each week.
He said: “The infusions feel a bit like getting a battery boost. The body seems to know when the next four-weekly infusion is due.
“It can feel like you may be functioning on low power battery mode the week leading up to the next infusion being required.
“The team are all brilliant, and look after me very well.
“I hold on to hope as much as I can that more treatments will be developed. The dream would be a cure, but if I could guarantee my condition wouldn’t get any worse that would also be fantastic.
“I hope the fundraising will offer some hope and I am determined to do all I can to meet our £30,000 target.”
Medical day unit nurse Amy Summers said Jason was an inspiration to the team.
She said: “Despite the challenges Jason faces, he is always positive with a can-do attitude and a smile on his face. He continues to work and travel and is a fantastic advocate for accessibility.”
You can donate to the fundraiser at https://www.justgiving.com/page/ttg-media-ms-society