What would you do if your neurologist said ‘No’... but your gut said ‘Go’?

“What would you do if your neurologist said ‘No’… but your gut said ‘Go’?”

If you’ve ever felt trapped between dismissive doctors and dodgy Facebook advice, this one’s for you.

That’s why AIMS is here….. we break down what to do when your NHS options dry up — and how to take your next step with confidence, not chaos.

PATIENT STORY

“I Chose to Fight: My HSCT Journey to Take Back Control from MS”

Thirteen years. That’s how long I lived with Multiple Sclerosis — a constant shadow that tried to dictate my future. I did everything right. I followed the Overcoming MS (OMS) protocol religiously, stayed active, and clung to every bit of hope that lifestyle changes could hold the line.

For a while, they did.

But MS doesn’t play fair. When relapses came harder and faster, I knew hope alone wasn’t a strategy. I wasn’t willing to sit back and "wait and see" — a phrase too many MS patients hear far too often.

In September 2024, I took the biggest leap of my life: I traveled to Clínica Ruiz in Mexico for HSCT (Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation). It wasn’t an easy decision. There were doubts, fears, and the overwhelming weight of stepping outside traditional medical pathways.

Chemotherapy. Isolation. The unknown.

But here’s what they don’t tell you enough — HSCT isn’t just a treatment; it’s a reclaiming of your future.

Since my transplant, I’ve watched my life slowly shift back into my hands. My mobility has improved, my MRI shows no new lesions, and I’m walking 8,000 steps a day — a number that felt impossible not long ago. My EDSS score is holding at around 3, and every day, I’m pushing for more.

Of course, it’s not a miracle overnight. There were challenges — chemo side effects, bladder issues, doubts creeping in during recovery. But I’d choose this path again in a heartbeat.

Why am I sharing this?

Because if you’re reading this and feeling trapped by MS, overwhelmed by misinformation, or dismissed by gatekeeping neurologists — know that options exist. You don’t have to passively watch MS rewrite your story.

HSCT gave me a reset. And now, through AIMS, I want every MS warrior to know that fighting back is possible.

If my story resonates with you, or you’re wondering whether HSCT could be your path — reach out. You’re not alone in this.

— Paul (AIMS Trustee)

NEWS

📰 AIMS News: Your New Hub for Hope & Clarity Is Here

We’ve Launched Our New Website — Built for You

We’re excited to announce that the brand-new AIMS Charity website is officially live!

But this isn’t just a fresh coat of digital paint — it’s a mission in action.

For too long, MS patients seeking answers about HSCT (Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation) have been left navigating a maze of misinformation, medical gatekeeping, and dead ends. That’s why we rebuilt www.aimscharity.org from the ground up — to become the trusted home for anyone looking to take control of their MS journey.

🌟 What You’ll Find on the New Site:

• Clear, Honest HSCT Guidance: No jargon. No false promises. Just the facts you need about treatment options, eligibility, and next steps.

• Patient Stories & Community: Real voices from people who’ve walked this path — because no one should face MS alone.

• Support & Resources: Whether you're exploring NHS access, private clinics, or fundraising help — it’s all in one place.

• How AIMS Can Help: Learn how we advocate, guide, and stand beside MS warriors every step of the way.

This website reflects what AIMS is all about: empowering you with knowledge, support, and a clear path forward.

We know that when you're facing MS, time matters. Clarity matters. And community matters most of all.

🔗 Visit the New Site Today

Take a look around, explore the resources, and share it with someone who might need it:
👉 www.aimscharity.org

This is more than a website — it’s a lifeline. And we’re just getting started.

HSCT PREP

This week’s task: Ask your MS nurse for your latest MRI report and EDSS score.

You’ll need them for any HSCT application — NHS or private.

It’s a small step that unlocks big decisions.

_____________________________________________

Feeling supported by these weekly tasks? You can help AIMS keep them free for everyone.

Chip in the price of a coffee and pay it forward to the next person starting their HSCT journey. Thank you!

SIGNING OFF…… with strength 💪

You’re not alone in this. And you don’t have to figure it all out yourself.

We’ll be in your inbox next week — one step, one story, one answer at a time.

— The AIMS Weekly Team
www.aimscharity.org