I have found that full disclosure of my illness to my workplace has meant that they have supported and helped me on my journey

“I was diagnosed with relapsing remitting MS in 2009, whilst working for a wine company based in Gisborne, which was bought out by Indevin Group, a couple of years after my diagnosis. This September I will have worked with the same people for 20 years – about 6 years before diagnosis, and nearly 14 years since.

At the time of diagnosis and for a short time afterwards, I was managing a large vineyard and multiple staff members.  Both physically and mentally I was not up to the job and had a couple of relapses which meant I was off work or on light duties for extended periods of time.  My managers and colleagues were very supportive through that time and throughout my whole time with Indevin.

About a year into Indevin’s ownership, we went through a restructure, and a role was created that had my name all over it.  The new role was more flexible and had no direct reports, still in the same team, but more of a technical role. I was given the tools to be able to work from home if I needed to. I love the variety of my role. It’s an industry I enjoy working in, and the staff discounts on the wine is pretty good too!

Looking back, the prognosis and advice I got from medical professionals and well-meaning people painted a pretty ugly picture.  In the relatively short time since my diagnosis, ways of managing MS have advanced considerably, and most people can just carry on with their lives.  I have found that full disclosure of my illness to my workplace has meant that they have supported and helped me on my journey so far.

I also found that it took time to adjust to my new normal, something that I still struggle with from time to time.  It takes time to become aware of how MS affects you and over time you learn to listen to your body.  Rest when you need to.  Be kind to your body and the people that care for you.”

Bryce