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MS Ireland

MS Ireland's New Podcast series "Living with MS".


The Living with MS Podcast series aims to give a voice to the Irish MS community as our guests share their own personal multiple sclerosis story from diagnosis to today.


Every person with MS has different symptoms, different reactions to being diagnosed, different journeys and this series aims to share those stories every month to hopefully help you get a better understanding MS.


For more information on MS Ireland and multiple sclerosis go to our website here https://www.ms-society.ie

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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  • 13 episodes
  • monthly
  • Avg 36 min
  • English

Episodes 13

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  • S2 · E6
    Wednesday · 46 min

    Conor Kerley: From Teenage MS Diagnosis to Nutrition Expert

    In this episode of the Living with MS Podcast, we are joined by Dr Conor Kerley, nutritionist, researcher, founder of Phytaphix, and a person living with MS. Conor was diagnosed with MS shortly after his 16th birthday, following three relapses, including one major relapse where he had to relearn how to walk and talk. At the time, he was given little information about nutrition or lifestyle, but this gap sparked a lifelong interest in health, food and MS. Conor went on to study Human Nutrition and Dietetics at Trinity College Dublin, complete a clinical doctorate with the School of Medicine at UCD, work internationally, and build a career focused on nutrition, research and innovation. In this conversation, Conor shares his personal MS journey, how it shaped his professional path, and his work supporting parents of teenagers diagnosed with MS. He discusses nutrition, healthy living, fatigue, and the importance of practical, supportive advice for young people and their families. This episode also looks at MS Ireland’s developing work with children and teenagers with MS. It is a hopeful and practical conversation for teenagers, parents, families and anyone interested in the role of nutrition and lifestyle in living well with MS. The Living with MS Podcast series aims to give a voice to the Irish MS community as our guests share their own personal multiple sclerosis story from diagnosis to today. Every person with MS has different symptoms, different reactions to being diagnosed, different journeys and this series aims to share those stories every month to hopefully help you get a better understanding of MS. For more information on MS Ireland and multiple sclerosis go to our website here https://www.ms-society.ie We would ask you to follow or subscribe to this series wherever you get your podcasts and you will be the first to hear a new episode every month. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S2 · E5
    July 31 · 23 min

    Niall O'Brien - Cycling Mizen to Malin in Ireland

    In this episode of the Living with MS podcast, Niall O’Brien shares his experience of living with MS for 20 years and preparing to cycle from Mizen Head to Malin Head in support of MS Ireland. Niall speaks about his diagnosis, stepping away from running, finding a new sense of freedom through cycling and adapting to changes in his mobility. He also discusses the importance of friendship, family and determination as he takes on the challenge with a group of lifelong friends. For Niall, the cycle is an opportunity to celebrate what he can still do, create a lasting memory for his family and raise vital funds for people living with MS. You Can support Niall's fundraiser here https://multiplesclerosisofireland.enthuse.com/pf/niallandfriendsforms The Living with MS Podcast series aims to give a voice to the Irish MS community as our guests share their own personal multiple sclerosis story from diagnosis to today. Every person with MS has different symptoms, different reactions to being diagnosed, different journeys and this series aims to share those stories every month to hopefully help you get a better understanding of MS. For more information on MS Ireland and multiple sclerosis go to our website here https://www.ms-society.ie We would ask you to follow or subscribe to this series wherever you get your podcasts and you will be the first to hear a new episode every month. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S2 · E4
    July 3 · 34 min

    Margaret O'Leary - Arctic Challenge 2027 Ambassador

    In this episode of the Living with MS podcast, we are joined by Margaret O’Leary from Arklow, Co. Wicklow. Originally from Poland, Margaret has lived in Ireland for 20 years and now lives with her husband Thomas, their young son Sebastian, and their much-loved Jack Russell, Rudy. Margaret was diagnosed with Relapsing Remitting MS in 2017, after first experiencing symptoms several years earlier. In January 2027, Margaret will take on an Arctic Challenge, travelling 350km north of the Arctic Circle as part of an eight-day expedition involving snowshoes, nordic skis and extreme conditions. The trek will mark 10 years since her MS diagnosis. For Margaret, this challenge is about reclaiming the narrative, stepping outside her comfort zone, and showing that while MS can change your life, it does not have to define your limits. In this episode, Margaret speaks about diagnosis, family life, remote working, living with MS, and preparing for a challenge that is both deeply personal and physically demanding. You can support Margaret’s Arctic Challenge fundraiser for MS Ireland here: https://multiplesclerosisofireland.enthuse.com/pf/margaret-o-leary The Living with MS Podcast series aims to give a voice to the Irish MS community as our guests share their own personal multiple sclerosis story from diagnosis to today. Every person with MS has different symptoms, different reactions to being diagnosed, different journeys and this series aims to share those stories every month to hopefully help you get a better understanding of MS. For more information on MS Ireland and multiple sclerosis go to our website here https://www.ms-society.ie We would ask you to follow or subscribe to this series wherever you get your podcasts and you will be the first to hear a new episode every month. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S2 · E2
    April 30 · 22 min

    Katie O'Loughlin - Arctic Challenge 2027 Ambassador

    In this episode of the Living with MS Podcast, we speak with Katie O’Loughlin from Galway, a mum of two, dog groomer, and one of the inspiring women training for the MS Ireland Women’s Arctic Challenge in January 2027. Katie was diagnosed with MS in 2020. She talks about her diagnosis, how she has learned to live with MS, and how she manages the impact it has on her day-to-day life. She loves a challenge and is determined that MS will not stop her from taking on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Katie speaks honestly about the challenges of preparing for the Arctic, including working around fatigue and the thought of being away from her husband, children, and support network. Most of all, she wants to show her daughters that, with the right planning, preparation and determination, nothing has to stand in their way. Support Katie’s fundraising for the MS Ireland Women’s Arctic Challenge here: https://multiplesclerosisofireland.enthuse.com/pf/katie-o-loughlin-59847 For more information on the MS Ireland Arctic Challenge, go to: https://www.ms-society.ie/get-involved/fundraise-us/trek-ms The Living with MS Podcast series aims to give a voice to the Irish MS community as our guests share their own personal multiple sclerosis story from diagnosis to today. Every person with MS has different symptoms, different reactions to being diagnosed, different journeys and this series aims to share those stories every month to hopefully help you get a better understanding of MS. For more information on MS Ireland and multiple sclerosis go to our website here https://www.ms-society.ie We would ask you to follow or subscribe to this series wherever you get your podcasts and you will be the first to hear a new episode every month. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S2 · E1
    March 20 · 40 min

    Trevis L Gleason on advocacy and writing about MS

    Welcome to Living with MS Podcast, the podcast from MS Ireland where we share real experiences of life with multiple sclerosis. We’re starting season 2 with a very special guest — writer, speaker, the Unspeakable Bits webinar host and MS advocate Trevis L. Gleason. Trevis was diagnosed with MS in 2001, and over the past two decades he has become one of the most recognised voices documenting life with MS. This year, he’s also marking the 20th anniversary of his Everyday Health blog, where he has shared more than 2,500 pieces about living with MS. In fact, his publisher has described him as “one of the most prolific and long-standing chroniclers of life with chronic illness on the web”. In this episode, Trevis tells us about his journey from working in the hospitality sector to becoming a writer and advocate, how he navigated his diagnosis, and what it really means to live well with MS. Links to Trevis long running blog and book on MS https://www.everydayhealth.com/authors/trevis-gleason/ https://coffeetownpress.com/2023/12/08/living-well-with-multiple-sclerosis-by-trevis-l-gleason/ The Living with MS Podcast series aims to give a voice to the Irish MS community as our guests share their own personal multiple sclerosis story from diagnosis to today. Every person with MS has different symptoms, different reactions to being diagnosed, different journeys and this series aims to share those stories every month to hopefully help you get a better understanding of MS. For more information on MS Ireland and multiple sclerosis go to our website here https://www.ms-society.ie We would ask you to follow or subscribe to this series wherever you get your podcasts and you will be the first to hear a new episode every month. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S1 · E7
    Nov 28, 2025 · 36 min

    MS Ireland CE Ava Battles

    We are delighted to say we close out Season 1 of Living with MS with a wonderful, informative conversation with Ava Battles, CE of MS Ireland. We’ll hear about Ava’s journey to leading MS Ireland and how MS Ireland has grown and evolved to meet the real-world needs of the MS community across Ireland. Ava opens up about her role; the impact MS Ireland is making and the people and stories that drive her work. We also discuss what the future might hold for the MS community in Ireland. If you or someone you know is affected by MS — or you’re simply curious about what it takes to lead a charity, then this episode is for you. The Living with MS Podcast series aims to give a voice to the Irish MS community as our guests share their own personal multiple sclerosis story from diagnosis to today. Every person with MS has different symptoms, different reactions to being diagnosed, different journeys and this series aims to share those stories every month to hopefully help you get a better understanding of MS. For more information on MS Ireland and multiple sclerosis go to our website here https://www.ms-society.ie We would ask you to follow or subscribe to this series wherever you get your podcasts and you will be the first to hear a new episode every month. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S1 · E6
    Oct 29, 2025 · 39 min

    Colette Brooks Cunningham - Having a Partner Living with MS

    Welcome back to Living with MS, the podcast from MS Ireland that shares the real stories, challenges, and triumphs of people across the MS community. Today, we are chatting with Colette Brooks Cunningham from Sligo, whose partner Liam lives with MS. We’ve spoken to many people living with MS, but this time we’re hearing from someone supporting a loved one — and that perspective is such an important part of our MS community. Collette shares her honest experiences, the challenges, and the moments of strength that come from walking this journey together. Colette also talks about her recent advocacy work with MS Ireland, helping to campaign for a community worker for the Sligo/Leitrim area, and how much she’s gained personally from getting involved. It’s an open, honest, and inspiring chat that reminds us how MS impacts not just one person, but families, relationships, and communities. The Living with MS Podcast series aims to give a voice to the Irish MS community as our guests share their own personal multiple sclerosis story from diagnosis to today. Every person with MS has different symptoms, different reactions to being diagnosed, different journeys and this series aims to share those stories every month to hopefully help you get a better understanding of MS. For more information on MS Ireland and multiple sclerosis go to our website here https://www.ms-society.ie We would ask you to follow or subscribe to this series wherever you get your podcasts and you will be the first to hear a new episode every month. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S1 · E5
    Sep 30, 2025 · 35 min

    Louise Power on advocating for the MS Community

    This month, we are joined by MS Readathon Ambassador Louise Power, a mum of two from Ballina, Co. Mayo, who was diagnosed with MS in 2015. Louise opens up about her journey, how activism and advocacy have shaped her life, and the incredible support she found through her local MS Ireland branch. She also shares the value of getting involved in community events—like the upcoming MS Ireland National Conference in Cork on 15th November 2025. Listen to Louise’s inspiring story and her message of connection, growth, and hope for the MS community. The Living with MS Podcast is a space where we share the real stories of people living with MS across Ireland. Each episode explores personal experiences, practical advice, and the power of community—helping us connect, learn, and support one another. Learn more about the MS Readathon: msreadathon.ie Discover details on the MS Ireland National Conference 2025: ms-society.ie/national-conference-2025 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S1 · E4
    Aug 29, 2025 · 37 min

    Hannah Morris-Bankole

    Our guest this month is the wonderful Hannah Morris-Bankole, who is a new member of the MS Ireland MS & Me Blog team. Hannah is a mum of 6 children living in Galway and currently doing her PhD in psychology. Hannah speaks eloquently about bring diagnosed with RRMS in 2013, her journey since then and how her diagnosis influenced her work researching the availability and needs for psychological supports for people with MS in Ireland. The Living with MS Podcast series aims to give a voice to the Irish MS community as our guests share their own personal multiple sclerosis story from diagnosis to today. Every person with MS has different symptoms, different reactions to being diagnosed, different journeys and this series aims to share those stories every month to hopefully help you get a better understanding of MS. For more information on MS Ireland and multiple sclerosis go to our website here https://www.ms-society.ie We would ask you to follow or subscribe to this series wherever you get your podcasts and you will be the first to hear a new episode every month. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S1 · E3
    Jul 29, 2025 · 32 min

    Suzanne Ryder

    Our third guest on the new Living with MS Podcast is Suzanne Ryder, who currently lives in Tuam, Co. Galway, and hails originally from Ballinrobe, Co. Mayo. Suzanne’s journey is one of deep purpose and resilience. Suzanne is a new member of the MS & Me Blog team and you can read all the MS Ireland blogs here https://www.ms-society.ie/ms-and-me In 1977, Suzanne joined the Mercy Sisters, dedicating her life to service. She later pursued a degree and Higher Diploma in Education in Maynooth, and after answering the call to serve as a missionary in Peru. It was during her time in Peru that Suzanne first began to experience symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS), which eventually led her to return to Ireland to seek a diagnosis. Remarkably, Suzanne was already familiar with MS—five members of her extended family also live with the condition. Today, Suzanne shares with us her extraordinary and inspiring story: her mission work, her diagnosis, and how she continues to live a meaningful life with MS. Listen to Suzanne’s heartfelt reflections and powerful message of courage and hope. The Living with MS Podcast series aims to give a voice to the Irish MS community as our guests share their own personal multiple sclerosis story from diagnosis to today. Every person with MS has different symptoms, different reactions to being diagnosed, different journeys and this series aims to share those stories every month to hopefully help you get a better understanding of MS. For more information on MS Ireland and multiple sclerosis go to our website here https://www.ms-society.ie We would ask you to follow or subscribe to this series wherever you get your podcasts and you will be the first to hear a new episode every month. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S1 · E2
    Jun 25, 2025 · 39 min

    Paul Batman O'Brien

    Our second guest is the new MS & Me Blogger Paul Batman O'Brien. Paul Batman O'Brien is a health professional and martial artist who has a passion for supporting people's wellbeing. He has a special interest in supporting people with MS, including his wife, whom he met in 2009. In 2020, after 14 years of working with MS patients, Paul took on another important case - himself. Using a variety of the mental and physical tools he had used for over a decade with others, he applied them to himself. He got off his walking stick, qualified for the Irish National Team in 2 martial arts disciplines and represented Ireland at the highest level of International competition. Today, he runs an award-winning private health practice, teaches regular martial arts classes, hosts a 5-Star reviewed Podcast, is a noted author on a wide ranging topics from A(cupuncture) to Z(en) philosophy, has lectured on a variety of topics at Dublin City University, University College Dublin, Rehab Care etc and provided martial arts demonstrations for His Excellency the Ambassador of Japan, Former Taoiseachs, Ministers of State, Health, etc. Paul fundamentally believes that Empowerment begins with Education and is on a personal mission to change the negative narrative surrounding MS and promote curiosity, creativity and discovery to enable those with MS to lead full, exciting and downright awesome lives. The Living with MS Podcast series aims to give a voice to the Irish MS community as our guests share their own personal multiple sclerosis story from diagnosis to today. Every person with MS has different symptoms, different reactions to being diagnosed, different journeys and this series aims to share those stories every month to hopefully help you get a better understanding MS. For more information on MS Ireland and multiple sclerosis go to our website here https://www.ms-society.ie We would ask you to follow or subscribe to this series wherever you get your podcasts and you will be the first to hear a new episode every month. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S1 · E1
    May 30, 2025 · 47 min

    Shirley Keane O'Brien - My MS Diagnosis

    Check out episode one of the brand new MS Ireland Podcast monthly series "Living with MS" with our first guest Shirley Keane O'Brien who is a new member of MS Ireland's MS & Me Blog team and previously was an ambassador for the MS Readathon. The Living with MS Podcast series aims to give a voice to the Irish MS community as our guests share their own personal multiple sclerosis story from diagnosis to today. Every person with MS has different symptoms, different reactions to being diagnosed, different journeys and this series aims to share those stories every month to hopefully help you get a better understanding MS. For more information on MS Ireland and multiple sclerosis go to our website here https://www.ms-society.ie We would ask you to follow or subscribe to this series wherever you get your podcasts and you will be the first to hear a new episode every month. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Showing 1–13 of 13 episodes