Nicola Molloy – Dublin | MS Journeys
For Nicola Molloy from Kinsealy, Co. Dublin, living with MS means managing fatigue, uncertainty and invisible symptoms while continuing to build a full and meaningful life.
“It’s waking up every day feeling like you’ve run a marathon the day before — when you probably spent the day on the sofa.”
Nicola says MS has changed how she thinks about her energy and priorities.
“When your energy is limited, you need to think carefully about where and who you spend it on. I prioritise the people I love and don’t stress about what anyone else thinks.”
For someone newly diagnosed, her message is honest and reassuring.
“It’s ok to feel angry for a while. It is a difficult diagnosis… but a good support system and time make a huge difference.”
Family support has been hugely important in Nicola’s journey. She recalls her family taking part in an MS bus experience, helping them better understand what she lives with every day.
MS Ireland has also played an important role, particularly in the early stages after diagnosis. From meeting with a case worker to attending coffee mornings, these supports helped her feel heard and less alone.
For Nicola, being part of the MS community means hope.
“Hearing other people’s stories gave me hope. I want to return the favour.”
One of the things that has surprised her most is how her life has evolved.
“I have a wonderful life… it is not how I imagined when I was first diagnosed — it is much better.”
Now, her work allows her to balance rest and activity more effectively.
To manage her MS, Nicola focuses on rest, hydration, gentle exercise and listening to her body.
She is proud of becoming a mammy and building a business that combines her love of Irish and art.
Nicola is also keen to challenge misconceptions about MS.
“Just because I don’t look disabled doesn’t mean my body isn’t really struggling.”
Her message to others living with MS is grounded and real:
“It sucks, but if you can make simple choices that bring you joy daily and surround yourself with support, life can be great.”
For Nicola, World MS Day is important because it raises awareness of MS as an often invisible condition and encourages compassion and understanding.
Nicola’s story is one of honesty, resilience and perspective, showing how people can adapt and continue to build fulfilling lives with MS.
Nicola’s MS Diagnosis Journey
