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MEET RYAN

23 JANUARY 2025

After a long run on a warm night in February 2023 Ryan began experiencing some numbness in his abdomen. Over the next few days his symptoms seemed to progress, and he began feeling numbness though his legs and feet. In hospital, multiple tests led to an MRI which showed Ryan had a large lesion on his spine and several in his brain, Ryan had multiple sclerosis.

The diagnosis was initially a shock after researching MS on the internet. 

I was worried about my future as the diagnosis was only a few months before my wedding, and my wife and I had hoped to start a family shortly after.


It took a few months for Ryan's symptoms to subside while he was on a series of treatments. Upon diagnosis Ryan made contact with MS Plus and was able to get set up with a Plus Advisor and linked in with a Plus Peer Support group.

It has been beneficial to connect with other people who have MS, and I continue to learn more about the disease and management from the extensive resources made available by MS Plus.


Since starting medicines and treatments with his neurologist, Ryan has had no further relapses.

Ever the keen runner, Ryan keeps active and still manages to run 40-60kms each week as well as playing golf regularly. Ryan was also able to make sure his wedding went ahead, and in 2024 Ryan and his wife welcomed their first son Hugh to their family.



In 2024, supported by his wife and son Hugh, Ryan took on his first MS Walk Run + Roll.

Running has been a passion of mine since high school and I saw it as a great opportunity to raise awareness that it is still possible to live a normal, active life with MS.


Not taking on the event by halves, Ryan raised over $21,000 during his first Walk Run + Roll event, over doubling his original goal! These vital funds go straight back into MS Plus’s support and services, so no one has to face MS alone.

Motivated by the success of his first year, Ryan is back and ready to make 2025 his biggest year yet, determined to attend every single MS Walk Run + Roll event in 2025! Across 4 states, Ryan aims to run at Sydney, Launceston, Canberra and Melbourne.

Ryan’s love for the MS Walk Run + Roll is incredible, he encourages everyone to come to their local event and join in the epic day! 

It’s an event that gives people of all abilities an opportunity to get involved beyond just making a donation. The event also allows me to combine my love of running with a cause that means so much to me.