Hilary was diagnosed with the relapse-remission type of Multiple Sclerosis in 1986 at the age of just 23 after experiencing pins and needles and a general weakness in her right side. For many years it would have been very difficult to tell that there was anything wrong with her health and she enjoyed a normal life.

However, in 2000 Hilary started to experience more frequent relapses and although she would recover after a while her strength would never quite return to its previous level. It was at this stage that her Consultant Neurologist recommended Beta-Interferon treatment, but also gave her the bad news.......it was not available on the NHS due to its high cost and she would have to go on a waiting list while it underwent further evaluations. During 2001 Hilary's health deteriorated even further and by the summer she could not walk, feed herself, or carry out even her most basic needs. However, despite now requiring frequent visits from District Nurses, and daily carers, she was still denied the only treatment that might help her.