A MUM whose daughter was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis as a teenager is hosting an event to raise awareness of the debilitating condition.

Laura Reynolds is raising money for a multiple sclerosis charity by hosting a craft and gift fair.

Her daughter Sophie, 23, was diagnosed with the condition when she was just 15.

Laura, from Colchester, said: “While she was at the Gilberd School Sophie’s leg kept giving way.

“She struggled with sport and her co-ordination.

“After a few months she kept falling over and went to the doctor.”

After having MRI scans it was initially thought she had a brain tumour, however, Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge ruled this out and confirmed it was MS.

Laura said: “It affects her right side, she can’t use her right arm and has trouble with her right eye.

“She finished school and went to Colchester Institute, staying on to do a degree in Graphic Design at the University Centre Colchester, so she doesn’t let it stop her but you get all sort of fatigue with MS.

“She also works part time at the Co-op and a lot of the customers know her.”

Sophie, who has a younger brother David, 20, has regular physiotherapy as the signals from her brain are not reaching her limbs.

The Colchester branch of the MS Society has offered lots of support and money raised from the event will be given to the branch as a thank you for its help.

The craft and gift fair will be at Myland Parish Hall in Mile End Road, Colchester.

The event will run from 11am until 4pm on July 27.

  • A raffle is being held and anyone able to donate prizes can email laura@reynoldz.com.