Bulletin Spring 2018

EMPLOYMENT
AND MS
SUE SHAPLAND, GENERAL MANAGER MEMBER AND SERVICES
Being employed has benefits beyond just purely financial – it
can improve quality of life, provide social interaction and give
us a sense of purpose.
Over the years MS studies showed that people with multiple
sclerosis (MS) were much more likely to fall out of employment
than people with other chronic conditions and the general
population. The financial impact of reduced employment for
people with MS places a substantial burden on individuals,
families and the wider community.
A paper published from the Australian MS Longitudinal Study in
2013 provided insight into the causes for loss of employment;
it wasn’t just about accessibility or unsupportive employers,
but poor symptom management was shown to have a real
impact of staying in the workplace. Hidden symptoms such
as fatigue and urinary problems were likely to have a negative
impact on staying in the workplace.
Recent Australian research has shown that more effective
disease-modifying therapies are associated with increases in
the amount of work, work attendance and work productivity.
At MSWA we provide information and individual support for our
Members regarding many aspects that can impact on them
remaining in the workplace, reducing hours or re-entering
the workforce after a break. Our Health Education Officer
arranges evening information sessions with guest speakers
from Maurice and Blackburn, speaking about disclosure
of your MS, your workplace rights and how to access your
superannuation insurance policies if you need to exit the
workplace due to your MS. Other issues regarding income
and benefits can be discussed with our social welfare team.
Depending on what funding you have available for services,
our OTs can refer you to Job Access for a workplace
assessment to improve your workspace and provide advice
on any adjustments, aids or equipment that may be of
benefit, or direct you to services that can look at these issues
for you. Job Access are also able to advise on and organise
Government funding to support workplace modifications and
the purchase of equipment that may be required. Funded
OT services can also provide advice on accessing disability
employment support agencies, who are funded to assist
people to return to the workplace and /or re-train.
Our MS nursing team can support you with effective symptom
management strategies and information and advice about
your MS. We can also link you with expert providers.
There are so many supports available and the MSWA
team is here – we are just a phone call away – 9365 4840
or email us at Get-in-touch@mswa.org.au
YOUNG DAD’S JOURNEY WITH MS
Life was carefree and easy for Matt Nichols, a healthy young
man who worked in a glass factory with the world at his feet.
But in 2007, after telling his doctor he had been experiencing
fatigue and dizziness at work, Matt was stunned to learn he
had multiple sclerosis (MS).
“When my doctor confirmed my diagnosis, I didn’t know
what to think. I found it very confusing. Someone suggested
I call MSWA and they were fantastic. Their nurses helped
me understand the condition and since then, I’ve felt very
supported.” Matt said.
Now 44 years of age, life is starting to look up for Matt. He
currently works as a cleaner four nights a week and cares for
his six-year-old daughter, Willow.
Willow is his continuous source of inspiration. “She’s full of
positive energy and always there to give me a hug when I
need it. I’m hoping that one day, I won’t need my crutches, so
I can hold her hand while walking down the street.”
Over the last 11 years, Matt has
faced other symptoms such as
fatigue, memory lapses and heat
intolerance. It was his struggle
with heat that prompted his move
to Busselton in 2014.
“Moving has had a really positive effect.
You wouldn’t think that between Perth and Busselton there
would be much of a difference climate wise, but just those
few degrees make a big difference for me.”
MSWA’s presence in the South West region has had a huge
impact on his life and has supported him throughout his
MS journey. Matt accesses physiotherapy, massage and
counselling at MSWA’s local facility.
“MSWA have been there for me every step of the way. I’m
currently using crutches to get around, so having one
facility catering to all my needs, means it will be easier
to access my vital services under the one roof.”
MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2018 | 25