Electric wheelchair gives Musselburgh dad the gift of freedom – East Lothian Courier

A MUSSELBURGH dad-of-three who has multiple sclerosis (MS) is looking forward to having more independence and freedom thanks to the gift of an electric wheelchair.

Robert Moffat, 42, took delivery of the wheelchair from Davie Martin, of Radio Saltire, and said it would enable him to accompany his wife Claire, 44, on walks with the family dogs and make shopping trips easier.

Mr Martin was delighted to make the presentation, saying it was a real pleasure meeting the family at their Ashgrove home.

Mr Moffat and his wife Claire have also set up a Facebook page called East Lothian MS Warriors.

The group is for MS patients throughout the Lothians and Edinburgh, and their friends and families who have been affected by the condition, which can affect the brain and spinal cord, causing a wide range of potential symptoms, including problems with vision, arm or leg movement, sensation or balance.

Mr Martin praised the initiative, saying: The group has been made to support and help each other, and to advise or inform each other of any advances, news or general information on MS.

He said people would be able to share experiences and struggles that MS brings to everyone, adding that hopefully friendships would be built by group members.

Claire said the electric wheelchair would give Robert more independence and freedom to go out and about, and he would continue to use his manual wheelchair around the house.

She explained that she contacted Mr Martin as she knew of his charitable work and thought he might know of people who would benefit from the new Facebook group.

She said he was only too keen to support the group and also offered Robert the gift of an electric wheelchair, agreeing it would be life-changing for them.

Claire said: The wheelchair will be an absolute benefit going out to places we can go to the shops together and enjoy walking our Jack Russell terriers Scarlett and Geordie together.

We decided to set up the Facebook page a few weeks ago after one of my neighbours, who has a relative with MS, asked what was out there for people.

There is Leuchie at North Berwick, which is respite, the MS Society and clinics, but we felt a Facebook group would be a great way to get people talking, raise awareness and get information about services and treatment.

She said that those with MS and carers could feel isolated during the Covid-19 pandemic, with respite facilities closed.

Claire said that the feedback about the Facebook page had been positive, adding: People have said they are so glad its here.

We are trying to reach everyone, and hope to get professionals who work with people with MS on board.

She added that, in future, it might be possible to organise group meetings and she was also keen to encourage fundraising for MS causes, including Leuchie, which Robert enjoys attending to receive physiotherapy.

To join the group, search East Lothian MS Warriors on Facebook.

Visit link:

Electric wheelchair gives Musselburgh dad the gift of freedom - East Lothian Courier