THIS week is Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week, when the MS Society seeks to raise the profile of the condition which affects 85,000 people in the UK.o

In MS, 'sclerosis', or scarring, to the sheath surrounding nerves means messages to and from the brain may be distorted or lost.

Symptoms vary but may include fatigue, speech and muscular problems, partial loss of sight, and incontinence. There is no known cure.

One issue that will be highlighted is the shortage of specially-trained medical staff. There are just 80 MS nurses in Britain, about one for every 1,000 patients. There is also a severe lack of specialist counsellors, physiotherapists and occupational therapists.

The society's East Herts and West Essex branch one of the largest of the 372 local branches nationwide is currently campaigning for an MS nurse at Princess Alexandra Hospital in Harlow.

Branch welfare secretary Brenda Gibbens, from Hatfield Heath, said: "More staff is the number one priority at the moment. The services when you can get them are very good, but it's very hard to get them."

There is currently a lack of support from diagnosis onwards.

Branch chairman Ian Newland, 44, said: "I was shocked when I was told by a neurologist that I had MS. But I was just expected to get on with my life with no counselling whatsoever."

Mr Newland and Mrs Gibbens gave up work because of the debilitating fatigue which affects most sufferers.

Mr Newland said: "Through fatigue and weakened muscles I can't walk more than 50 yards without becoming exhausted. I drive everywhere, door to door."

Mrs Gibbens, who has been confined to a wheelchair for ten years, added: "Another high priority is improved access for disabled people in town centres and pubs and restaurants, and education for people so they're aware of the needs of someone in a wheelchair."

For more information, call the MS helpline on 0808 800 8000.