"Support staff encourage me to try new things"

My story is about my support care staff who have given me confidence to try things I would not think of doing since I found I was diagnosed with secondary progressive MS.

When I came here I was a bit withdrawn and low in self esteem. When I was asked if I would like to try an outing on a barge along the Firth and Forth canal I was very wary and a bit frightened thinking the boat would rock and I would be sick. Staff patiently sat with me and explained the barge went very slow and I would not even feel movement when on it and that it was heated inside the seating area. After lots of reassurance I decided to give it a go.

I am really pleased I went as I had a wonderful afternoon and did not feel queasy or cold.

I can't thank my support staff enough for giving me the confidence to try this and continuing to encourage me to give thought to getting out more and trying new things. The barge outing is an experience I will never forget.

I have more opportunities coming up soon for a dog show (I love dogs) and a stage show I have always wanted to see.

As I am of a certain age and have a lifetime of experience, I now feel I have the confidence to talk to others and hopefully pass on some of my wisdom and it is all thanks to the patience and understanding of option for independence support staff.