Radio Talk: Living With MS During the Festive Season

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Originally aired on Radio Rosestad (South Africa) – Afrikaans.
Below is the English translation of my interview so others can share in the reflections and guidance.

1. End-of-year impact on people with MS

  • The end of the year is especially exhausting for people with MS.

  • This fatigue is neurological — it cannot be fixed with rest or a nap.

  • Many experience more cognitive lapses, concentration problems, heat intolerance, and muscle weakness in December.

  • Festive noise, heat, crowds, and fast schedules overload the body and mind.

  • It might sound like excuses, but it is the reality of how MS reacts to these triggers.

2. How families and friends can support

  • Let the person decide which events they can handle, without pressure.

  • Make things easier without them needing to ask — asking is extremely difficult.

  • Drop them at the door or park close.

  • Choose a quiet corner, away from heat if possible, with airflow.

  • Don’t take last-minute cancellations personally; it is the MS, not the person.

  • Ask: “What can make this easier for you today?”

  • For the person with MS: plan your day, choose where to spend or save energy, and say “thank you, I would love to, but I can’t today.”

  • Remember: being present doesn’t always have to be physical.

3. What the public should know about MS fatigue

  • MS fatigue is NOT normal tiredness.

  • Life moves too fast for someone with MS in social situations.

  • They are not lazy, dramatic, or antisocial.

  • Every activity has a price.

  • They want to be included — just with understanding for the limitations the disease creates.

  • They don’t want to look, feel, or smell different; they want to feel normal.

4. Reflection on the MS community’s resilience

  • People with MS are incredibly strong — not because they want to be, but because they must be.

  • I see people every day who never chose this invisible illness.

  • Yet they live with courage, humour, dignity, and quiet acceptance.

  • They are Champions.

  • My wish: progress in preventing MS, fair access to treatment in our unequal system, and more understanding in families, workplaces, and society.

  • Many people look “healthy” but cannot keep up with life’s pace. Understanding can change everything.

5. Where to connect with MSSA