Lesley Timmins – Wicklow | MS Journeys
For Lesley Timmins from Co. Wicklow, World MS Day is an opportunity to raise awareness not only of multiple sclerosis itself, but also of the everyday realities faced by people living with the condition, especially those using mobility aids.
“Most buildings are currently impossible for wheelchair users, and accessibility is often an afterthought or a box ticking exercise.”
For Lesley, living with MS means living with a condition that is deeply unpredictable and different for every person.
“Living with Multiple Sclerosis is different for everyone that has MS, it is unpredictable and symptoms like mobility issues, cognitive issues, fatigue and nerve pain can be extremely debilitating.”
She says MS has changed her life completely, but it has also changed her as a person, making her kinder, more patient and less likely to be stressed by small things.
“Having MS has made me a better, kinder and more patient person. I no longer get stressed over small things.”
For someone newly diagnosed, Lesley’s message is one of reassurance and support.
“I would say not to panic, you are not alone, there are many peer support groups around the country that can support the person while they get used to the diagnosis.”
Support from family, friends and the local MS community has been extremely important throughout her journey. Lesley says people with MS often need patience, understanding and practical accommodations, even when those needs may not be obvious to others.
MS Ireland has also played a central role in her life, helping her connect with other people with MS locally and laying the foundation for the support network she is part of today.
“I’m now the co-secretary of the East Wicklow Branch of MS Ireland.”
For Lesley, being part of the wider MS community means friendship, encouragement and understanding from people who truly know what a bad day can mean.
“It means the world to me.”
One of the things that has surprised her most about living with MS is how little the public understands about the condition, particularly the fact that someone can appear well on the outside while struggling enormously behind the scenes.
“Most people don’t understand that a person can appear to look well, and look like they are coping but the reality can be quite the opposite.”
Lesley is open about the challenges she faces, including mobility difficulties, fatigue and cognitive symptoms that affect everyday life.
She says the support of her husband, sons, family and friends, alongside her involvement with the East Wicklow Branch of MS Ireland, helps her manage both physically and emotionally.
“Being involved in the East Wicklow Branch of MS Ireland gives me purpose.”
Lesley is proud of many things she has achieved while living with MS, including continuing to work for many years after diagnosis and helping create local peer support coffee mornings in Arklow.
“I am proud that I managed to work for 16 years after diagnosis.”
She is also passionate about challenging the misconception that there is one single MS experience.
“Every person with MS is different and it takes a different course with every individual.”
Her message to others living with MS is simple and practical:
“Please reach out to your local branch of MS Ireland and see if there are any local groups you can join. In my opinion peer support is absolutely vital for people with MS.”
Lesley’s story is one of honesty, resilience and determination. It highlights the unseen realities of living with MS, the importance of accessibility and peer support, and the strength that can be found in community and purpose.
Lesley's MS Diagnosis Journey
