CLYDEBANK’S MP Martin Docherty-Hughes has shown his support for investment in multiple sclerosis (MS) research, after visiting an exhibition by the MS Society in the House of Commons.

“Multiple Sclerosis – The Research Story” gave parliamentarians the opportunity to hear from people living with MS and researchers.

It featured personal objects from the MS community, representing what it’s like to live with the condition, alongside the latest developments in cutting-edge research.

One of the personal objects included was the 1970s putter that golfer Tony Johnstone used to win the Jersey Seniors Classic in 2008. After being diagnosed with MS in 1994, the sporting hero was told he’d never compete professionally again, but medical advances enabled him to extend his career.

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Martin Docherty-Hughes MP said: “I am delighted to have attended the MS Society’s parliamentary exhibit and see first-hand how close we are to stopping MS.

“Multiple sclerosis is an unpredictable and challenging condition, which can be painful and exhausting. I want to see investment in this area of research continue to rise so everyone living with MS in West Dunbartonshire and across the UK has access to effective treatments.”

Over the past 20 years research has led to major advances, including more than a dozen licensed treatments for people with the relapsing form of MS.

More investment is needed to find better treatments for all sufferers – including for those with the progressive form of the disease.

Dr Susan Kohlhaas, director of research at the MS Society, said: “We’re really grateful Martin Docherty-Hughes MP has pledged his support for our work.

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“More than 100,000 people live with MS in the UK and many are still left without treatment options that slow or stop progression. But we are at a turning point in MS research and the UK is at the forefront of this. We are closer than ever before to having treatments for everyone with MS and stopping MS for good.

“This exhibition shined a light on the realities of living with MS and, importantly, how we plan to stop it.

“We hope the stories of people living with MS will encourage parliamentarians to recognise the need for more investment in MS research, to get involved, and to join us in our fight to stop MS.”