Meet Tim, a dedicated father, walker, and advocate who’s been living with MS since 2007. Diagnosed on Halloween at age 26, Tim faced the news with disbelief. Initially in denial, Tim tried to find mistakes in his neurologist's words but soon began to notice past symptoms like a lisp, unexpected fatigue, and numbness on one side of his face.
Tim faced the news with a mix of disbelief and determination, initially keeping the diagnosis private while working as a support worker for people with intellectual and physical disabilities. Over time, Tim found strength in family, refining his exercise and eating habits, and embracing the mantra "do what you can while you still can," a piece of wisdom shared by his friend Leanna, a fellow person living with MS.
Walking has become a vital part of Tim’s routine, and the MS Moonlight Walk holds a special place in his heart having discovered the walk while seeking activities he could enjoy with his family. He participated in his first walk in 2022 with his son, Rhys, raising funds and awareness in their Ormeau Hills community. This year, he’s gearing up to walk 3 kilometres with his entire family, including his two sons (ages 6 and 9), wife, and parents, making it a true family affair.
Despite challenges like impaired vision and temperature regulation, Tim remains unstoppable, taking on daily walks, ice baths, and gym sessions to stay connected with his body. Tim states his journey with MS has also been supported by MS Queensland, who’ve provided invaluable support, assisting him with his NDIS application and providing valuable resources and advice.
Always one to inspire others, Tim is rallying friends, family, and even his neighbours to join or sponsor his walk in his neighbourhood, all while embodying his mantra: "move it or lose it."