This Awareness Week, 9th – 15th September we want to educate people about the possible early symptoms, so that more individuals can recognise the signs, take action and get a timely diagnosis.

Some of the early symptoms that people might experience are vision changes, muscle weakness, stiffness and spasms, numbness or pain, loss of balance, bladder and bowel issues and cognitive difficulties.

Click on the images below to learn a little bit more about them.

As the symptoms of MS can be complex and unseen, we recommend keeping a symptom diary. Note when symptoms occur, how long they last, and any factors that seem to trigger or alleviate them. If you are unsure on how to talk to your GP about possible MS symptoms, taking someone with you to appointments can help you articulate your concerns more clearly.

Read more about our Time Matters in MS Awareness Week Campaign here: https://www.msnz.org.nz/events/awareness-week-2024-time-matters-in-ms/

Progressive neurological illness characterised by episodic deterioration has been observed and documented since the late 1300s. In the mid-19th century, multiple sclerosis (MS) was described as an identifiable entity based on its pathology (Murray, 2009). Since then, the process of diagnosing MS has evolved with a greater understanding of the pathology and advances in diagnostic tests available. The internationally recognised criteria for diagnosing MS currently used in Aotearoa New Zealand, the 2017, McDonald Criteria were first established in 2001. It has since undergone three revisions driven by the advancement of MRI technology, leading to earlier diagnosis (McNicholas et al., 2018).

Read our full article in the latest edition of GP Voice below.

View online here. 

Download PDF here.

9th – 15th September is Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week and we are excited to launch our new 3 year campaign: Time Matters in MS.

Read more about the campaign here and learn the common early symptoms of MS and what to do if you or someone you love might be experiencing them. Contemplating a diagnosis of MS can be scary, but advances in research and treatments means MS is a manageable and treatable condition. Early diagnosis could be the key to maintaining a higher quality of life.

Multiple sclerosis impacts not only the person diagnosed but the lives of their friends, families and whanau. People diagnosed, and their loved ones receive vital support from their local Regional MS Society, but they need your help. Please consider donating TODAY to support Multiple Sclerosis New Zealand advocating for changes to improve the lives of people with MS nationally. Or consider donating to your local MS Society, so they can continue to provide on-going community-based support.

Or purchase one of our brand new T-shirts!

We are excited to announce the launch of our brand-new MSNZ T-shirts, featuring our latest design that you’ve seen on our literature, posters and banners! These T-shirts are a great way to show your support for the Multiple Sclerosis Society of New Zealand (MSNZ) while also spreading awareness about the vital work we do.

When you purchase an MSNZ T-shirt, you are not only adding a stylish piece to your wardrobe but also making a meaningful contribution to a cause that impacts thousands of families across New Zealand. Your support is crucial in helping us continue our mission of providing advocacy, information, and resources to those affected by multiple sclerosis.

Why Your Support Matters:

Every dollar raised helps us continue our valuable work. Did you know that MSNZ must raise over 90% of our income each year through donations, grants, bequests, and business support? Your contribution is essential, and we are incredibly grateful for every donation we receive.

By purchasing a T-shirt, you’re helping us raise awareness, increase knowledge and advocate to improve the lives of those affected by multiple sclerosis. It’s a small gesture that makes a big difference!

How to Get Your MSNZ T-Shirt:

Email us to order your T-shirt today at a cost of $25 plus shipping! Whether you’re wearing it to a community event, while out and about, or even just around the house, you’ll be helping to spread the word about the importance of brain health and support for those with MS.

T-shirts are available in the following sizes:
Small
Medium
Large
X-Large
XX-Large

Thank you for considering supporting MSNZ. Your contribution is absolutely vital and gratefully received. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of people with MS and their families.

Grab your T-shirt today and wear it with pride!

Please email us with your required size(s) and shipping details and we will provide payment details.

Welcome to the August edition of MS Voice, your go-to place for the latest news, updates, and real life stories from Multiple Sclerosis New Zealand.

Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week is approaching and we are eager to launch our new 3 year campaign which focusses on the early symptoms of MS and how ‘Time Matters in MS’. This September 9th – 15th, we will be publishing further information on social media, our website and in the next edition of MS Voice. In addition, many of our regional societies will be running events and street appeals, so please check in with them to see what they are doing and support them where you can. We have included a few examples of societies in need of your help in this edition of MS Voice 🧡

We introduce you to another item from our Information Resources, the Esme Tombleson Award, and discuss when we met with Louise Upston along with other members of the Carers Alliance.

Plus so much more….so dig in below.

View MS Voice August 2024 online here.

View MS Voice – August 2024 here.

If you would like to receive MS Voice direct to your inbox, please subscribe here.

If you would like to share your story in MS Voice, or if you have an article that would be useful to our MS Community, please get in touch: info@msnz.org.nz or Louise@msnz.org.nz.