Sarah Mather – Kildare | MS Journeys
For Sarah Mather from Kildare, living with multiple sclerosis means constantly balancing the challenges of pain, fatigue and uncertainty, while still holding on to humour, determination and hope.
“Living with MS means constantly balancing pain, fatigue and uncertainty, while still trying to hold on to the humour and determination that keeps me moving forward.”
MS has changed the way Sarah thinks about her energy and her limits. She says it has made her more patient with herself and more aware that energy is something that has to be managed carefully.
It has also made her appreciate the small things more and value the kindness and support of others.
For someone newly diagnosed, Sarah’s advice is to remember that, while the early days can feel overwhelming, there is hope.
“Treatments are improving all the time and support is out there. Connecting with others who understand MS can make a huge difference — you don’t have to go through it alone.”
Family, friends and the wider MS community have been hugely important in Sarah’s journey. She says that while many people see the version of her that is smiling and getting on with things, her husband sees what living with MS is really like when the brave face comes off.
Her mam has also been a constant support, while her two children keep her going.
MS Ireland has played an important role in Sarah’s life. Through MS Ireland, she attended respite, connected with others living with MS and accessed supports including physiotherapy and community support services.
For Sarah, being part of the wider MS community means not feeling alone. Meeting others who understand symptoms such as fatigue, pain and brain fog creates a powerful sense of connection.
One of the things that has surprised Sarah most is how invisible many MS symptoms can be.
She says being told “you look well” highlights the hidden nature of MS, because pain, fatigue and cognitive issues can be real daily challenges even when they are not obvious to others.
Among Sarah’s biggest challenges are fatigue, pain and the cognitive impact of MS. She says her days off from work are often recovery days, and it can be frustrating to feel motivated and determined while living in a body that cannot work as hard as it used to.
Treatment has been a major part of managing her MS, and Sarah says Kesimpta has helped halt lesion progression.
Emotionally, keeping a sense of humour and connecting with others who have MS helps her cope with the ups and downs.
Sarah is proud that, despite the challenges of MS, she continues to work and keep moving forward while learning to manage her energy and maintain a positive outlook.
She is keen to challenge the misconception that MS only affects mobility. In reality, symptoms such as fatigue, pain and cognitive difficulties can have a major impact on daily life.
Her message to others living with MS is compassionate and practical:
“Be kind to yourself. MS can change your life in many ways, but connecting with others who understand and finding support can make the journey feel less lonely. Try to listen to your body and rest if you need to.”
For Sarah, World MS Day is important because it raises awareness of what living with MS is really like and reminds people that behind every diagnosis is a person doing their best to live a full life.
Sarah’s story is one of resilience, honesty and hope, highlighting the importance of support, understanding and connection while living with MS.
Sarah’s MS Diagnosis Journey
