World MS (multiple sclerosis) Day is observed on May 30 every year and aims to raise awareness of multiple sclerosis and bring together those who are living with the condition to share their stories.

MS is a neurological condition that affects the brain, optic nerves and spinal cord, causing a range of symptoms such as problems with balance, vision and muscle control.

It is one of the most common causes of disability in younger adults and while it can develop at any age it’s more commonly diagnosed in people in their 20s or 30s. It is about three times more common in women and slightly reduces life expectancy.

The cause of MS is currently unknown, and at the moment there is no cure. However, research is progressing quickly in the hope of finding one.

Anne Thompson-Lay, who is a volunteer at the Cumberland Infirmary in Carlisle, has lived with MS for 26 years. She urges people with the condition to try and stay positive. She said: “I was diagnosed with MS while running a coffee shop on the Isle of Arran.

“I spilt a few coffees while carrying trays to customers. Poor balance was to blame.

“There were no other symptoms, but a check-up at a Glasgow hospital ended up with the MS diagnosis.

“The first symptoms were the poor balance. Then stumbles and falls after long periods of walking without any breaks. I was finding it hard to pull my toes up properly at each step.

Then there was a break of around 10 years with hardly any symptoms, during which my daughter was born (no problems with the pregnancy or birth). It was only when she turned seven that symptoms began to emerge again.

“I am now 58. I exercise daily and I walk short distances using two sticks, and for anything longer I use my very cute, green mobility scooter. This is an absolute God-send. It is the smallest model and can be dismantled to be carried around in the car boot.”

Anne says medication for those affected by MS varies considerably.

She said: “No two people with MS are the same. I have always used the injections called Copaxone. To begin with this was self-administered daily, now it is just three times a week.

“After 26 years, my MS is now at the secondary progressive stage, which means that it will never be any easier, but the rate of worsening can be very varied.”

Anne has some advice for people living with MS.

She said: “As a person who used to be a ‘glass half empty’ person, thanks to the influence of my husband, I am now a ‘glass half full’ person, so I expect and trust that the rate of deterioration will be a slow one.

“My advice to others who are having to cope with this condition is to try to be positive, although I know how incredibly hard this can be.

“Just keep on trying to smile, and help others to smile too." It can be very catching, and infectious, when you do. Remember that you are ‘allowed’ to have ‘off’ hours or even days.

“Such things can help tremendously in day to day life, which can be a struggle.

“Remember, use any help which you can get. You are allowed to do this.

“Finally, be kind to yourself.”