McArthur supports MS Awareness Week

Orkney’s MSP Liam McArthur has pledged his support for this year’s MS Awareness Week.

Orkney has the highest rate of MS (multiple sclerosis) in the world, with research estimating that the condition affects around one in 250 Orcadians. A recent report found that the 2021 incidence rate of MS in Orkney was more than 250% of the Scottish average.

MS Awareness Week 2023 is taking place from 22 to 28 April 2023. This theme this year is ‘MS Unfiltered’. Campaigners are hoping to sensitively shine a light on the MS topics that can feel taboo or difficult to talk about.

Commenting on the campaign, Mr McArthur said:

“Most Orcadians will know somebody who lives with MS and will be familiar with the impact it can have on a person’s life.

“However, there are symptoms of MS that people can find more difficult to talk about. I strongly support the MS Society’s goal this year to enable people to talk honestly and openly about the aspects of living with MS that might be considered sensitive or embarrassing.

“I also want to pay tribute to the local MS Society group for the work they do all year round supporting those in our islands affected by MS. We may have the highest incidence of MS, but Orkney is fortunate in having one of the most active community support networks in the country as well.

“Of course, that work depends on a huge amount of volunteering and fundraising. In that context, I offer my heartfelt thanks to those at Sheila Fleet Jewellery whose Daisies collection has raised over £33,000 for the Orkney MS Society over the last two years. This remarkable fundraising effort will go a long way to supporting the local MS group’s vital work.”