You shouldn't be surprised at the large turnout or the verve of the attendees, but many probably would be.

No other country has a higher rate of people with multiple sclerosis than Scotland, with some 10,500 living with the condition.

Yet the understanding of MS and what it means for those affected remains low.

A condition of the central nervous system, MS is usually diagnosed in those between 20 and 40, and is the most common disabling neurological condition amongst young adults in Scotland.

Over the coming days, the MS Society Scotland is calling for increased public awareness of the significant physical, financial and emotional costs associated with the condition and the support needed by those who live with it.

As I have a blether with some of those affected by MS, the reality of their lives becomes a bit more visible.

Following the initial shock of diagnosis, the challenge of coping with the physical effects of the condition begins.

Symptoms can vary considerably and strike without warning, ranging from
difficulties with balance and mobility to loss of sight.

''The worst part of it is the unknown," said Marie. ''You just don't know what kind of symptoms you are going to get. Even just having a cold could lead to something much worse, so the best way of coping is just tackling the symptoms one thing at a time."

Fellow sufferer Scott said: "When I started coming to these meetings and saw people in wheelchairs, it really scared me.

"I was shocked when I thought that's what could happen to me. I actually stopped coming for a while."

Veronica, another member of the group, said: "A lot of the time it's invisible.

"Symptoms like fatigue are not so visible. I could be walking up the high street and people would not notice anything different, but in the morning I could have been feeling awful."

This hidden aspect of the condition also presents other problems.

Group member Susan said: "When you park your car in a disabled space, you actually get people arguing and questioning you just because some of us may not appear disabled at first sight."

Outwith the physical aspect of MS, the condition can also have an effect on people's work or career and can have serious financial implications.

Around half of those who either have MS, or who are caring for someone who has it, have to give up work eventually. The cost of MS is not only significant for those who live with it, but also for society – estimated at more than £150m across Scotland.

"I was diagnosed 29 years ago," said Linda. "I was a domestic supervisor in a hospital and one day I ended up falling down the stairs. Although I hadn't been diagnosed at the time, I think they were just happy for me to go away!

"After you stop working, it can become a real struggle when you only have from one wage coming into the house instead of two.''
Scott was another who had to stop working.

"I was working in the building trade, but I knew one fall could cause me a bad injury, so I knew myself had to give it up."

Marie added: "I think employers have definitely got a lot better now, and in our experience have been far more flexible with those with MS."

Living with MS can also trigger a range of emotions. Those affected are three times more likely to suffer a major bout of depression, while relationship breakdowns and the pressures of caring responsibilities can result in other emotional problems.

"Thankfully I have been lucky, but I do know of people who come to the meetings whose marriage has broken down," said Marie.

"The main problem is when you go through periods in a day where you feel really bad and have low points," explains Thomas.

Scott agreed: "It can also be quite emotional when you realise you can't manage to do things that used to be pretty easy – as simple as standing and making a sandwich.

"You do lose some friends, but also make new ones and you definitely discover who your real friends are," said Linda.

"The main thing is to keep on smiling and fighting the condition."
For more information contact Marie Wotherspoon, secretary of the
Falkirk and district branch of the MS Society, on 01324 716260, or visit www.mssociety scotland.org.uk

m.henderson@falkirkherald.co.uk