MS Society Ayrshire & Arran

02/09/2026

Today, First Minister John Swinney announced the Scottish Government’s Programme for Government, setting out its plans and priorities for this Parliamentary session.

It involves plans to reform health and social care, including changes to the NHS and Health Boards.

We know these changes could have significant implications for people living with MS, and we will be watching closely for more details to be provided.

28/08/2026

Elizabeth Quigley, journalist and wife of Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney, has shared her experience of living with MS for 26 years.

In a new article for BBC Scotland, Elizabeth writes about the impact of trigeminal neuralgia, which causes nerve pain on the side of the face, and the difficult decision to leave her career at the BBC on health grounds.

She reflects on living with MS for more than two decades, the ways she adapted to continue doing the job she loved along the way, and how her symptoms have now led her to step away from her career.

Thank you, Elizabeth, for sharing your story and helping to shine a light on the realities of living with MS. 🧡

Everyone’s experience of MS is different. If you’re looking for information or support, our Help Hub is here for you:
☎️ 0808 800 8000
📧 [email protected]

Read Elizabeth’s article on the BBC’s website: https://buff.ly/RhHTFHj

26/08/2026

If you would like to donate towards Joan Walker and Laura Laura skydive in September, please follow the link 🧡🪂 What a crazy and amazing way to fundraise!

https://msgroups.enthuse.com/pf/joanandlaurajump

21/08/2026

MS looks different for everyone, and it can change from day to day. Some symptoms you can see. Many you can't.

However you manage your MS, you don't owe anyone an explanation for it. 🧡

What would you add to this list? Tell us in the comments.

Learn more about visible and invisible MS symptoms: https://mssoc.uk/4qqoPG8

19/08/2026

Say hello to Karine! She lives in Edinburgh and has primary progressive MS.

As MS has affected the use of her hands, Karine has had to find new ways of doing everyday things. Assistive technology has helped her adapt, from dictation software that supported her studies to accessible gaming equipment and smart glasses.

It even helped Karine achieve one of her goals: graduating with a degree at the end of last year.

On our blog, Karine shares how embracing technology has helped her adapt and keep doing the things that matter to her.

Read her story: https://buff.ly/lAUwvIC

12/08/2026

Any writers among us, check this out 🧡📝

Looking for a new way to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences?

Poems on My Mind is a free four-week online course for people living with MS. Using poetry as a starting point, you'll have the opportunity to reflect, write and connect with others in a welcoming and supportive space.

You don't need to have written poetry before. Find out more and sign up via the link below.

📅 Wednesdays, 12 August - 2 September
➡️ https://buff.ly/Feh4gST

02/08/2026

We are thrilled to announce that our Ayr Group Leader Joan Walker and the lovely Laura Lynch Laura Laura have decided to challenge themselves to a SKYDIVE to raise money for our group!

On Sunday 20 September 2026, Joan (71) and Laura (41) will take to the skies in St Andrews!

Click below to sponsor them:
https://msgroups.enthuse.com/pf/joanandlaurajump

These inspirational women are here to show us that there is life after MS and anything is possible!

31/07/2026

Darren Stevens is raising funds for both the MS Society and MS Revive. The best of luck to you Darren! You may feel a bit of a chill once you've done your challenge! 😂🧡

24/07/2026

Attention to all Irvine Coffee and Chat attendees! 📢🧡

20/07/2026

Do you know a young carer who lives within South Ayrshire? South Ayrshire Young Carers are running fun events throughout the summer. Scan the QR code to get involved! South Ayrshire Carers Centre