ABU DHABI // An Emirati father recently diagnosed with multiple sclerosis believes it is possible to have it and lead a full, happy life.
“I want people to know that not every MS patient has a bad story at the end,” said Mohamed Al Matrooshi. “They can have a happy life and a normal life. MS is a sad thing, but we can live with it.”
A few weeks ago, the 43-year old visited hospital complaining of loss of sensation and numbness in his leg.
“The doctor suspected I had MS and wanted me to get it checked immediately,” said the father of two boys. Tests confirmed Mr Al Matrooshi had MS.
“My cousin has MS,” he said. “I was aware of this because of him. Otherwise, I would have thought maybe I’m tired or stressed out because of work or have been driving a long distance or sitting for a long time, and thus having the loss of sensation in my legs.”
A year ago, Mr Al Matrooshi felt a burning sensation in his leg. He consulted a neurologist and when the doctor was not able to draw a conclusion, he was sent home with anti-inflammatory medication. “My current doctor said that was my first attack,” said Mr Al Matrooshi.
He is now on a lifelong course of medication. “The medication will reduce the chance of having attacks by 50 per cent,” he said.
newsdesk@thenational.ae
