Background
Established in 1984 the Centre was set up to provide a range of therapies and support services to all those affected by MS.
In the Beginning:
The story of the Kent Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Centre in Canterbury began over 25 years ago. A group of local people, all diagnosed with MS, recognised a need for an MS Support Service in East Kent and bravely made the decision not only to try and raise enough money to build and equip a purpose built Centre, but also to raise £50,000 every year thereafter to cover the running expenses.
Their vision was to provide a complete service for people with MS in an environment which was positive, caring and supportive.
Finding a suitable site was not an easy task and the group experienced several financial hiccoughs along the way. Eventually, with their sustained effort over the years and the good will and encouragement of many supporters, the Centre became a reality.
In 1984, the Centre, housed in a small prefabricated building, was erected at Merton Lane North, next to Canterbury Rugby Club.
Some of those involved with the fundraising over 25 years ago are still active members today - underlining the spirit of the charity's motto "Self Help is Our Way of Action"
Over the years the Centre has gone from strength to strength and it's thanks to the countless acts of generosity from the local population that has enabled the Centre to weather a sometimes fragile economic climate and move forward in a very positive way.
With a rapidly growing membership, the Centre now provides a drop in facility, neurological physiotherapy, counselling, nutritional advice, hyperbaric oxygen therapy,acupuncture, reflexology, massage, chiropody, specialist nurse clinics, symptom management workshops and self management programmes.
Although not a cure for MS, all of these services can help improve the quality of life for those people living with the condition.
Our current building is now 27 years old and no longer large enough to accomodate the increasing demand for it's services. The building may not be the most attractive, but what goes on inside makes a very positive difference to all it’s members. Until such times that we have a new Centre, we intend to continue doing what we do best - supporting people with MS.
