Soon-to-be Paralympian Hugh Nibloe is encouraging people affected by multiple sclerosis (MS) to sign up to a free curling taster session taking place in Lockerbie this month.
MS Society Scotland, a charity which helps to support people affected by the neurological condition, will be hosting the event in partnership with Lockerbie Curling Club.
And wheelchair curling champion, Hugh Nibloe who is currently in training for his Winter Paralympic debut in Pyeongchang, hopes the session will allow others to get involved in the accessible sport.
The taster session which is being run on January 31 as part of the charity’s MS Active Together programme will include an introduction, warm up and give participants the chance to try out one of Scotland’s most enjoyable sports.
MS Active Together is raising awareness of the benefits of physical activity for people with the MS, and how even light exercise can make a difference. The programme has launched a series of online work out videos to suit all abilities as well as sharing tips and information on working towards a more active lifestyle for people living with MS.
Hugh who was diagnosed with MS aged 24, said: “Wheelchair curling has been a huge benefit for me, being active and meeting new friends has helped me mentally as much as physically. Being on the verge of my first Paralympics was probably beyond my wildest dreams the first day I tried out, but there’s a road there to the top but I know a lot of people who are just as happy to curl at club level.”
MS Society Scotland Active Together Lead, Tracey Harrison said: “We are delighted to be hosting our latest MS Active Together taster session here in Lockerbie. It is an honour to have someone as inspirational as Hugh support our MS Active Together programme which is aiming to highlight the benefits of activity for people with MS.
“Research shows that exercise can improve mood, mobility and muscle strength. It also plays a key role in helping people manage challenging MS symptoms like fatigue, balance problems and muscle spasms.”
“We would be delighted to welcome along anyone who is affected by MS and is looking to get active.”
The curling taster session will take place at Lockerbie Ice Rink on January 31 from 5pm until 7pm. For more information or to sign up, please contact Tracey Harrison on [email protected] or 0131 335 4054/ 07809100965.
More than 11,000 people are living with MS Scotland. It affects people differently, but everyone can benefit from getting active. Find out more about MS Active Together and exercising with MS at www.mssociety.org.uk/MSActiveTogether.
