Matt Shimeild

I’m taking part in an 80km cycle ride to raise funds and awareness for people living with multiple sclerosis (MS) — a cause that is deeply personal to me.

My father was diagnosed with MS from a young age. Over time, I saw first-hand how this disease can take more than physical movement. It affected his ability to work and provide, took away ambitions he once held, and had a profound impact on his mental health, independence and sense of self.

Living with MS does not only affect the person diagnosed. It reaches families, carers and loved ones in ways that are hard to fully explain unless you have lived through it. For my family, MS shaped daily life, opportunities, responsibilities and emotions. It is a disease that can change everything.

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic and often debilitating disease that attacks the central nervous system. It is the most common neurological disease in young adults and often affects people during the prime of their lives. Today, more than 37,700 Australians are living with MS, and the number of people affected continues to rise.

That is why I’m riding. Not just for the kilometres, but for the people behind the diagnosis — the people trying to stay independent, remain connected to work, continue being part of their community, and access the support, treatment and services they need to live well at home.

If you are able to, I would be incredibly grateful for your sponsorship. Every donation, no matter the size, helps provide vital support for people living with MS and their families. It helps ensure that no one has to face MS alone.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for considering supporting this cause. Your generosity means a great deal to me, and even more to the people and families who rely on these services every day.