Wednesday 11 November 2009
Our guest speaker was Erin Hodder who is a Multiple Sclerosis Ambassador
Erin is twenty and has been caring for her mother for the past twelve years since her mum was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Erin has been the sole carer all this time. Erin’s talk involved telling us about MS, about her story and how MS Australia has helped Erin and her mother.Erin is a full-time university student and she is nearly finished her Batchelor degree. Erin says that she has a wonderful fiancée. She also runs a household for four people.
MS is the most common neurological condition amongst young Australians. It is a chronic disease which attacks the nerves in the central nervous system. MS affects people in the prime of their lives, usually aged between twenty and forty, the average age being thirty. MS affects three times more women that men. Currently there are eighteen hundred Australians living with MS and eighty seven percent of those are working age people. There is no known cause and no known cure. Erin gave the audience a comprehensive explanation of the symptoms of MS.
Erin said that her family life changed radically in September, 1997 when her mother was diagnosed with MS. Erin was eight at the time. She took on the role of housewife, caregiver, counsellor, best friend, cleaner and active researcher of MS.
Erin’s mum is still very much involved in her community even though she is confined to a wheelchair. She works with and provides advice to the local council is assisting to provide better access to services and facilities for elderly and those with disabilities. Erin said her mum is still extremely involved with local history projects.
Erin said that her mum is currently in respite as the MS Studdy Centre at Lidcombe. This happens twice a year when Erin is studying for and undertaking her university exams.
Erin said that MS Australia was a shining beacon of hope for both her and her mother. MS Australia has provided valuable service and specialised programs for people living with MS, for their families, carers, friends which helps to take the pressure off and give that much needed support. MS Australia helps people with MS achieve a full and healthier lifestyle than otherwise possible. This support covers from diagnosis through every stage of the disease.
In conclusion Erin said that it is important that people do not feel sorry for her and her mum. That they have both become very strong people given the past twelve years. They are both extremely thankful for the support of that has been available to them, particularly via MS Australia and Rotary. Erin and her mum are good friends of Niall and Carol King and very much appreciate the efforts of Niall and his fellow Strathfield Rotarians for every support given.
Erin was introduced by Niall King and thanked by Ray Wilson.
