BEING diagnosed with an incurable neurological condition at 22 can be devastating, but Sarah Deluca has taken her multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnosis in her stride.
The Redland Bay mother of two is not only taking on the challenge of walking the 5km course in this month's MS Moonlight Walk a scenic sunset stroll around the Brisbane River by moonlight but is also currently the highest fundraiser.
This will be Sarah's fifth year getting involved in the charity event which supports a cause very close to her heart, and she's already well into this year's fundraising efforts for MS Queensland.
Sarah was diagnosed with MS nine years ago, after experiencing pins and needles down her arms and into her hands for many years.
"When I was told I had relapsing remitting MS, I was in shock at first, as I didn't really have any prior knowledge of MS," Sarah said.
"I still try and do everything I want to do within reason and I definitely try to not let my symptoms stop me in any way."
MS is the most common neurological condition affecting young Australian adults, with four more people being diagnosed every working day. Alarmingly, three out of four people diagnosed are women.
"My main reason for participating in the MS Moonlight Walk is to raise awareness and knowledge of MS throughout the community," Sarah said.
"I have an amazing network of friends and family around me. Thanks to their willingness to help I've been able to raise over $5000 to support MS Queensland, who have supported me throughout my MS journey and some pretty tough times."
All money raised from the charity walk will help MS Queensland achieve their target of $550,000 to continue to offer vital MS services such as physiotherapy, counselling, information and education, immunotherapy nursing support, housing and emergency respite.
The MS Moonlight Walk is on October 17. The walk, 5km or 10km, leaves from South Bank's cultural forecourt along the Brisbane River. Every walker receives a free lantern. Register at www.Moonlight Walk.com.au
