Living with MS

About Living with MS

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 (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

Publisher

MS Ireland

Category

education · health & fitness · science

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

27 May 2025

Latest episode

13 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

16 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   13 Oct 2026

   Deborah Cuddihy - From MS Diagnosis to Children’s Author

   In this episode of the Living with MS Podcast, we are joined by Deborah Cuddihy, an Irish primary school teacher, children’s author and MS Readathon 2026 Ambassador, who has been living in Dubai since 2016. Originally from Mullinahone, County Tipperary, Deborah was diagnosed with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis in 2011. She shares her experience of diagnosis, the challenges of living with an often invisible condition and how she balances managing MS with her career as a teacher. Deborah is also the author of Willow’s Mum Has MS, a children’s book inspired by her own experiences of living with the condition. The book helps children understand MS in an age-appropriate and reassuring way, exploring symptoms such as fatigue, changes in energy levels and the emotions children may experience when a parent or family member has MS. As one of MS Ireland’s 2026 MS Readathon Ambassadors, Deborah also discusses her love of reading, the importance of encouraging children to pick up a book and how the MS Readathon helps raise awareness and vital funds to support people living with MS across Ireland. Join us for a conversation about living with MS, the power of storytelling, education and helping the next generation better understand multiple sclerosis. Find out more about the MS Readathon and register at: https://www.msreadathon.ie/ (https://www.msreadathon.ie/) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

2. 

   23 Sept 2026

   Sarah Mather - Life as a Mum, Teacher and MS Readathon Ambassador

   In this episode, we are joined by Sarah Mather from Kildare, a primary school teacher, mum of two and the 2026 MS Readathon Ambassador. Sarah was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2022, following a period of unexplained symptoms including numbness, severe fatigue and temporary loss of sight in one eye. Since her diagnosis, Sarah has learned to navigate the often invisible challenges of MS, including fatigue, pain and brain fog, while continuing to balance family life and her career as a teacher. Sarah has also experienced first-hand the support provided by MS Ireland, from physiotherapy and community support to respite, and she speaks openly about the importance of connecting with other people who understand what living with MS can really be like. Reading has always been an important part of Sarah’s life, both at home and in the classroom. Now, as the 2026 MS Readathon Ambassador, she is encouraging schools, families and readers across Ireland to get involved this November. We talk to Sarah about her diagnosis, living and working with MS, the importance of support, her love of reading, and why the MS Readathon is a campaign that means so much to her. For more information on the MS Readathon go to https://www.msreadathon.ie/ 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 (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

3. 

   26 Aug 2026

   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 (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

4. 

   31 Jul 2026

   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 (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

5. 

   3 Jul 2026

   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 (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 (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

6. 

   20 May 2026

   Ann Van Hemelendonck and Chris Conroy

   In this special episode, marking World MS Day, we hear the inspiring story of Ann Van Hemelendonck, a resident of Tramore Nursing Home in County Waterford, and Chris Conroy, Activities Coordinator at the nursing home. Ann is living with multiple sclerosis and has become the heart of Team Ann, a May 50K campaign that has captured the imagination of the Tramore community. What began as Ann’s own personal challenge has grown into something much bigger, bringing together fellow residents, staff, local schools, businesses, neighbours and supporters, all walking and fundraising for MS Ireland. In this episode, Ann speaks about her MS journey, why she took on The May 50K, and what it means to support others living with MS. Chris also shares how Ann’s strength, positivity and determination have inspired everyone around her. For more information on World MS Day, visit: https://www.ms-society.ie/world-ms-day-2026 (https://www.ms-society.ie/world-ms-day-2026) We would encourage listeners to support Team Ann and donate if they can at: https://www.themay50k.ie/fundraisers/teamann3048 (https://www.themay50k.ie/fundraisers/teamann3048) 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 (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

7. 

   30 Apr 2026

   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 (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 (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 (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

8. 

   20 Mar 2026

   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://www.everydayhealth.com/authors/trevis-gleason/) https://coffeetownpress.com/2023/12/08/living-well-with-multiple-sclerosis-by-trevis-l-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 (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

9. 

   28 Nov 2025

   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 (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

10. 

    29 Oct 2025

    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 (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

11. 

    30 Sept 2025

    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 (https://www.msreadathon.ie) Discover details on the MS Ireland National Conference 2025: ms-society.ie/national-conference-2025 (https://www.ms-society.ie/national-conference-2025) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

12. 

    29 Aug 2025

    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. he 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 (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

13. 

    29 Jul 2025

    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 (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

14. 

    25 Jun 2025

    Paul Batman O'Brien

    Paul Batman O'Brien shares his experience as a health professional and martial artist living with MS, discussing his journey to empowerment through education and physical activity in this interview.

15. 

    30 May 2025

    Shirley Keane O'Brien - My MS Diagnosis

    Shirley Keane O'Brien shares her personal multiple sclerosis diagnosis story and journey as part of the "Living with MS" podcast series, offering listeners a better understanding of the varied experiences within the Irish MS community in this interview.

16. 

    27 May 2025

    The new MS Ireland Podcast "Living with MS"

    Shirley Keane O'Brien shares her personal multiple sclerosis story, from diagnosis to today, providing a voice for the Irish MS community in this interview.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Spotify

5.0 / 5

3 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 2 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

4

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

0