In early 2020, I started noticing strange things happening to my body. I couldn’t walk in a straight line, and then my tongue went numb. Concerned, I visited my doctor, who advised me to monitor my symptoms and check in. Just four days later, the left side of my face went numb. Alarmed and confused, I thought I might be having a stroke.
In May 2020, I presented to the emergency department when the numbness extended to my arm. Months later, I received my diagnosis: multiple sclerosis (MS).
While hearing the words “you have MS” was life-changing, I consider myself one of the lucky ones. Because the lesions were found in two distinct parts of my nervous system, I was able to receive a confirmed diagnosis straight away – and with that, immediate access to disease-modifying therapies. Not everyone gets that clarity or quick treatment.
When I was first diagnosed, my neurologist gave me advice that stuck with me: “Use it or lose it.” As a dance teacher, I knew exactly what that meant. Movement isn’t just a part of my identity – it’s my livelihood.
Living near Mt Kaukau, I used to find joy and peace in my daily walks to the top. But MS took that ability away for a while. Instead of giving in, I set myself a goal: to walk to the summit again. Reaching that goal reignited something in me. If I could walk it, could I run again too?
Fast-forward to May 2024, and I ran my first 10km in the Hawke’s Bay Marathon. That felt like a victory in itself. But I didn’t stop there! I signed up for the half marathon the following year.
This time, I wasn’t alone. My best friend ran beside me every step of the way. Around the 11km mark, pain shot through my hip and left side – a stark reminder of the unpredictability of MS. But I was determined to finish. Leaning on her shoulder, we ran and walked our way to the finish line in 2 hours and 40 minutes. I couldn’t have done it without her support and the encouragement of everyone who donated to my cause.
I raised over $1,500 running for MS.
This journey has taught me that while MS might take some things from you, it also gives you perspective. Life is short. Make the most of every day. Set goals, stay active, and never underestimate the power of determination – or friendship.
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Thank you Monique, for sharing your story.
Written by Monique Koorey and Louise Mckinlay