By Amanda Hemmings

A LOCAL sufferer of MS is backing calls on new research showing exercise can help reduce fatigue for people with the condition

It comes after the MS Trust are launching a campaign to dispel the myth that people who suffer from MS (Multiple Sclerosis) shouldn’t exercise.

The announcement of the campaign comes ahead of MS Awareness week, which is to take place from 22-28 April.

Multiple Sclerosis is a life-long condition affecting the central nervous system, and around 110,000 people in the UK currently have it.

Darren Collins, from Weymouth, was diagnosed in December 2015 after having symptoms since 2006.

He said that after the initial shock of the diagnosis, he struggled mentally and was ‘horrible to be around.’

However, he decided to raise money for MS Trust in June 2017 by doing a 50-mile bike ride.

He says that he raised around £1500, and since then he hasn’t stopped riding.

He also joined a local cycle group, Ridgeway Riders, and says that he goes on 100-mile rides at the weekend.

Throughout the Awareness Week, MS Trust will be promoting the benefits of staying active for people with the neurological condition, to combat the current attitude that people with MS should steer clear from vigorous exercise.

They say that ‘there is evidence that it can help shape a better quality of life.’

A survey they conducted highlighted the positive impact exercise can have on people with the disease.

Respondents in the study listed improvements in their mental health, increased strength and reduction in fatigue after daily activity.

David Martin, CEO of the MS Trust, added: “Research shows us that regular and moderate exercise has many benefits for people living with MS, both physically and mentally.

‘We hope that by shining a spotlight on exercise during MS Awareness Week, we can encourage people with MS all over the UK to introduce a little activity into their daily routine.

The MS Trust is encouraging the MS community to introduce any activity – big or small, which includes walking, swimming, dance or even gardening.

David said: “Our campaign is all about making exercise as accessible as possible.”

Darren offered some words of advice for sufferers of MS who may want to start exercising to improve their mental and physical health.

‘I’ve done a half marathon in Weymouth and in April 2018 I did a Triathlon in Portland.

‘I feel like a different person. I haven’t felt this good since school.

‘As hard as it may seem, try to do whatever you can. Because I can’t explain how it’s affected my wellbeing – I feel phenomenal.’