Welcome to a turning point in the MSMS podcast journey! While I'll continue sharing conversations with people living with or touched by Multiple Sclerosis, I'm adding a new dimension - solo episodes, exploring topics that matter to our community and will sprinkle in some possibly different perspective on life beyond diagnosis - beginning with the topic of Diet and MS explored a little in this episode. If you have a story around your MS to share, email [email protected] to arrange time for recording your story for the podcast! 

Support the show

You can join Colleen and other Australians living with MS in this podcast's Facebook group which was originally created to support those interested in HSCT and now exists to facilitate discussion on all issues relevant to MS.

Multiple Sclerosis and HSCT Australia - Facebook group

PS: I'd appreciate your donation to help in maintaining this podcast - if you could buy me a coffee or two please (donate $5, it's not real coffee! thank you!) - Colleen

Buy Colleen a Coffee - thank you!

Disclaimer:
This podcast is not intended to replace professional medical advice.
The views expressed in episodes of this podcast are those of the host or guest(s) and are not intended to replace professional medical advice.
No story told, view expressed or opinion voiced, written or otherwise shared in any episode of this podcast is to be taken as medical advice, including when related in an episode as a professional opinion or professional advice given.
Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions regarding your health or medical condition.
Content Warning:
Multiple Sclerosis is an unpredictable condition and the conversations and stories in all episodes of this podcast will contain reference to MS symptoms as well as situa...

Listen as Teresa shares her post-treatment challenges – beginning with a looming cyclone. Despite her husband's careful preparations for Teresa's  recovery, challenges came one after the other. Even with the setbacks, Teresa's journey from caregiver to patient has come full circle, creating deeper connections and understanding along the way. Teresa's story offers valuable insights for others considering HSCT treatment.

If this story has reached out to you, your story could reach out to touch, help or support someone else. Just email Colleen at [email protected]

Support the show

You can join Colleen and other Australians living with MS in this podcast's Facebook group which was originally created to support those interested in HSCT and now exists to facilitate discussion on all issues relevant to MS.

Multiple Sclerosis and HSCT Australia - Facebook group

PS: I'd appreciate your donation to help in maintaining this podcast - if you could buy me a coffee or two please (donate $5, it's not real coffee! thank you!) - Colleen

Buy Colleen a Coffee - thank you!

Disclaimer:
This podcast is not intended to replace professional medical advice.
The views expressed in episodes of this podcast are those of the host or guest(s) and are not intended to replace professional medical advice.
No story told, view expressed or opinion voiced, written or otherwise shared in any episode of this podcast is to be taken as medical advice, including when related in an episode as a professional opinion or professional advice given.
Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions regarding your health or medical condition.
Content Warning:
Multiple Sclerosis is an unpredictable condition and the conversations and stories in all episodes of this podcast will contain reference to MS symptoms as well as situa...

Overseas Stem Cell Treatments for MS 

In this episode, I speak from my personal experience of exploring stem cell treatments in the hope of slowing the progression of my MS.

I am not medically qualified, so I speak from the perspective of someone who has actively searched for options and tried to make sense of what I found was being claimed.

Ultimately I underwent HSCT (Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant) in 2017, at that time available in reputable hospitals in Mexico, Singapore, and Russia.

Treatments offered overseas today can vary greatly.

Some overseas stem cell 'packages' offer other wellness or support therapies eg physiotherapy or acupuncture, alongside the stem cell component.

Others combine stem cell injections with added procedures such as vein "unblocking"—I believe that procedure may be CCSVI (chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency)—which was trialled in relation to MS around 2013. MS Australia advise on their website that the results of that trial were disappointing:
 🔗 MS Australia – Disappointing Results from CCSVI Trial

To help those thinking about these treatments, I’ve created a simple infographic with five questions to consider. These questions are a starting point only. There is much to weigh up, and it’s essential to seek advice from qualified medical professionals before making any decision about your health treatments.

Many are keen to hear the truth around the various MS stem cell procedures being offered - if you are in Australia and have had a stem cell treatment for MS, and would like to share your story on the podcast please email [email protected] - thank you, Colleen

Support the show

You can join Colleen and other Australians living with MS in this podcast's Facebook group which was originally created to support those interested in HSCT and now exists to facilitate discussion on all issues relevant to MS.

Multiple Sclerosis and HSCT Australia - Facebook group

PS: I'd appreciate your donation to help in maintaining this podcast - if you could buy me a coffee or two please (donate $5, it's not real coffee! thank you!) - Colleen

Buy Colleen a Coffee - thank you!

Disclaimer:
This podcast is not intended to replace professional medical advice.
The views expressed in episodes of this podcast are those of the host or guest(s) and are not intended to replace professional medical advice.
No story told, view expressed or opinion voiced, written or otherwise shared in any episode of this podcast is to be taken as medical advice, including when related in an episode as a professional opinion or professional advice given.
Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions regarding your health or medical condition.
Content Warning:
Multiple Sclerosis is an unpredictable condition and the conversations and stories in all episodes of this podcast will contain reference to MS symptoms as well as situa...

Amanda Campbell's journey from MS diagnosis to becoming a kinesiologist  demonstrates healing beyond the conventional.  The pivotal moment? An evening with friends and family that ignited possibility and revealed a new  path forward through her MS. 

In this episode we hear Amanda's story about her discovery of the relationship between mindset, the nervous system, and physical healing.

Now a sports kinesiologist and founder of Bend Like Bamboo, Amanda helps others transform their relationship with chronic illness.

Whether you're navigating a health challenge or simply interested in the mind-body connection, Amanda's story demonstrates the human capacity for resilience and transformation. As she puts it, "Flexibility in our mindset impacts everything that matters – our body's ability to repair, how happy and resilient we are, and how connected we feel."

Amanda's story might just change how you think about healing, recovery, and what's possible - further information and resources as mentioned by Amanda in this episode can be accessed by visiting bendlikebamboo.com 

Support the show

You can join Colleen and other Australians living with MS in this podcast's Facebook group which was originally created to support those interested in HSCT and now exists to facilitate discussion on all issues relevant to MS.

Multiple Sclerosis and HSCT Australia - Facebook group

PS: I'd appreciate your donation to help in maintaining this podcast - if you could buy me a coffee or two please (donate $5, it's not real coffee! thank you!) - Colleen

Buy Colleen a Coffee - thank you!

Disclaimer:
This podcast is not intended to replace professional medical advice.
The views expressed in episodes of this podcast are those of the host or guest(s) and are not intended to replace professional medical advice.
No story told, view expressed or opinion voiced, written or otherwise shared in any episode of this podcast is to be taken as medical advice, including when related in an episode as a professional opinion or professional advice given.
Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions regarding your health or medical condition.
Content Warning:
Multiple Sclerosis is an unpredictable condition and the conversations and stories in all episodes of this podcast will contain reference to MS symptoms as well as situa...

Ashlee and Sava's story is one of partners navigating MS together, bringing us what medical textbooks can't – how the disease mixes with parenting challenges, career changes, and future planning.

Listeners will hear of this young family's compounded 'complex needs' and learn that rather than dwelling on circumstances, Sava and Ashlee instead share a unique strength – sometimes through shared humour, sometimes through dividing responsibilities based on changing abilities.

What makes this conversation unique is hearing both voices – Sava describing his physical decline despite "stable" MRIs, and Ashlee ultimately speaking of her own neurological condition, and evolution into what she calls "a bit of a manager," juggling medical appointments and government supports.

Sava's decision to pursue HSCT treatment in Mexico adds another layer to this episode - and we wish him all the very best success!

If you can support Sava's journey to Mexico for HSCT please do so through his GoFundMe page 

Support the show

You can join Colleen and other Australians living with MS in this podcast's Facebook group which was originally created to support those interested in HSCT and now exists to facilitate discussion on all issues relevant to MS.

Multiple Sclerosis and HSCT Australia - Facebook group

PS: I'd appreciate your donation to help in maintaining this podcast - if you could buy me a coffee or two please (donate $5, it's not real coffee! thank you!) - Colleen

Buy Colleen a Coffee - thank you!

Disclaimer:
This podcast is not intended to replace professional medical advice.
The views expressed in episodes of this podcast are those of the host or guest(s) and are not intended to replace professional medical advice.
No story told, view expressed or opinion voiced, written or otherwise shared in any episode of this podcast is to be taken as medical advice, including when related in an episode as a professional opinion or professional advice given.
Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions regarding your health or medical condition.
Content Warning:
Multiple Sclerosis is an unpredictable condition and the conversations and stories in all episodes of this podcast will contain reference to MS symptoms as well as situa...

A young mother of two, Amy's world turned upside down—literally—when in 2023 an unexpected attack of vertigo and vomiting signalled something wasn't right.

When her husband found her sitting on the shower floor in the middle of the night, they both knew something was very wrong.

Two years later, with appropriate treatment and unwavering determination, Amy has embraced a second chance at life—one where MS doesn’t define her, but empowers her.

Amy's powerful story is an evolution from fear to resilience which portrays hope and possibility for anyone newly diagnosed.

Support the show

You can join Colleen and other Australians living with MS in this podcast's Facebook group which was originally created to support those interested in HSCT and now exists to facilitate discussion on all issues relevant to MS.

Multiple Sclerosis and HSCT Australia - Facebook group

PS: I'd appreciate your donation to help in maintaining this podcast - if you could buy me a coffee or two please (donate $5, it's not real coffee! thank you!) - Colleen

Buy Colleen a Coffee - thank you!

Disclaimer:
This podcast is not intended to replace professional medical advice.
The views expressed in episodes of this podcast are those of the host or guest(s) and are not intended to replace professional medical advice.
No story told, view expressed or opinion voiced, written or otherwise shared in any episode of this podcast is to be taken as medical advice, including when related in an episode as a professional opinion or professional advice given.
Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions regarding your health or medical condition.
Content Warning:
Multiple Sclerosis is an unpredictable condition and the conversations and stories in all episodes of this podcast will contain reference to MS symptoms as well as situa...

What if you found hope without looking for it? 

Teresa’s journey begins with supporting her sister, Mary, who'd set her sights on groundbreaking treatment in Moscow.

That first chapter of Teresa's story sets the stage as her story unfolds. 

Teresa’s unique insight and heartfelt sharing of her experiences during and following her sister's journey is bound to leave listeners inspired, by the strength of family and support of community as Teresa has to make many decisions, and act on them.

Support the show

You can join Colleen and other Australians living with MS in this podcast's Facebook group which was originally created to support those interested in HSCT and now exists to facilitate discussion on all issues relevant to MS.

Multiple Sclerosis and HSCT Australia - Facebook group

PS: I'd appreciate your donation to help in maintaining this podcast - if you could buy me a coffee or two please (donate $5, it's not real coffee! thank you!) - Colleen

Buy Colleen a Coffee - thank you!

Disclaimer:
This podcast is not intended to replace professional medical advice.
The views expressed in episodes of this podcast are those of the host or guest(s) and are not intended to replace professional medical advice.
No story told, view expressed or opinion voiced, written or otherwise shared in any episode of this podcast is to be taken as medical advice, including when related in an episode as a professional opinion or professional advice given.
Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions regarding your health or medical condition.
Content Warning:
Multiple Sclerosis is an unpredictable condition and the conversations and stories in all episodes of this podcast will contain reference to MS symptoms as well as situa...

Diagnosed with one medical condition, Vicki would have had no idea it was just the beginning.

In this episode we hear how Vicki not only faced her challenges - including her determination and battle to undergo the untrialled treatment CCSVI for her MS - but has gone on to use the lessons she’s learned through her own experiences, combined with knowledge gained through her work and her studies, to help others. 

Colleen and Vicki discuss various issues as they chat about Vicki's surprising and inspirational journey.

Support the show

You can join Colleen and other Australians living with MS in this podcast's Facebook group which was originally created to support those interested in HSCT and now exists to facilitate discussion on all issues relevant to MS.

Multiple Sclerosis and HSCT Australia - Facebook group

PS: I'd appreciate your donation to help in maintaining this podcast - if you could buy me a coffee or two please (donate $5, it's not real coffee! thank you!) - Colleen

Buy Colleen a Coffee - thank you!

Disclaimer:
This podcast is not intended to replace professional medical advice.
The views expressed in episodes of this podcast are those of the host or guest(s) and are not intended to replace professional medical advice.
No story told, view expressed or opinion voiced, written or otherwise shared in any episode of this podcast is to be taken as medical advice, including when related in an episode as a professional opinion or professional advice given.
Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions regarding your health or medical condition.
Content Warning:
Multiple Sclerosis is an unpredictable condition and the conversations and stories in all episodes of this podcast will contain reference to MS symptoms as well as situa...

There are so many living with Multiple Sclerosis, and connecting with each other in whatever way we can, can  comfort and support no matter what stage of our MS journey we find ourself.

Colleen was recently contacted by the Modern Buddhism Podcast who wished to share one of their episodes, the story of Buddhist nun Gen Kelsang Demo who lives with Multiple Sclerosis.

Colleen tells of the history provided, and can recommend watching or listening to Gen Demo’s story, which can be viewed in video format on YouTube via this link.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2GuSh80YXM

and in Audio format on all main podcast platforms, this is Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/2hjhZVSGNxGPSMOnfIcRIM?si=RSYDyRW_QL6FhZFdH22N0Q

Colleen thanks the Modern Buddhism Podcast for sharing this story.

Support the show

You can join Colleen and other Australians living with MS in this podcast's Facebook group which was originally created to support those interested in HSCT and now exists to facilitate discussion on all issues relevant to MS.

Multiple Sclerosis and HSCT Australia - Facebook group

PS: I'd appreciate your donation to help in maintaining this podcast - if you could buy me a coffee or two please (donate $5, it's not real coffee! thank you!) - Colleen

Buy Colleen a Coffee - thank you!

Disclaimer:
This podcast is not intended to replace professional medical advice.
The views expressed in episodes of this podcast are those of the host or guest(s) and are not intended to replace professional medical advice.
No story told, view expressed or opinion voiced, written or otherwise shared in any episode of this podcast is to be taken as medical advice, including when related in an episode as a professional opinion or professional advice given.
Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions regarding your health or medical condition.
Content Warning:
Multiple Sclerosis is an unpredictable condition and the conversations and stories in all episodes of this podcast will contain reference to MS symptoms as well as situa...

Brigitte had moved to Australia with her young family.
Back home an aunt became  concerned when Brigitte hadn't found the answer to some familiar health issues that continued happening, so when opportunity arose  took steps to help get that answer. Why had it taken so long? 
In this episode Brigitte shares her experience of Multiple Sclerosis and discusses various issues encountered along her way from diagnosis.

Explanation for listeners - 
The 'NDIS' refers to the National Disability Insurance Scheme.
The NDIS is a scheme run by the Australian government which supports Australians with disability to access the services and supports they need to live more independently and access their community.

Support the show

You can join Colleen and other Australians living with MS in this podcast's Facebook group which was originally created to support those interested in HSCT and now exists to facilitate discussion on all issues relevant to MS.

Multiple Sclerosis and HSCT Australia - Facebook group

PS: I'd appreciate your donation to help in maintaining this podcast - if you could buy me a coffee or two please (donate $5, it's not real coffee! thank you!) - Colleen

Buy Colleen a Coffee - thank you!

Disclaimer:
This podcast is not intended to replace professional medical advice.
The views expressed in episodes of this podcast are those of the host or guest(s) and are not intended to replace professional medical advice.
No story told, view expressed or opinion voiced, written or otherwise shared in any episode of this podcast is to be taken as medical advice, including when related in an episode as a professional opinion or professional advice given.
Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions regarding your health or medical condition.
Content Warning:
Multiple Sclerosis is an unpredictable condition and the conversations and stories in all episodes of this podcast will contain reference to MS symptoms as well as situa...