At 21 years old, Shropshire woman Rebecca Naylor was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and was shocked to be introduced to a group where people were in wheelchairs and using walking frames.

Now the mother-of-one has set up the first county group for young sufferers of the debilitating disease to show those affected can lead an active life. 

It is such a success that Mrs Naylor, 26, of Shawbirch, Telford, has started a parent and baby group after having son James five months ago. She set up Club MS with fellow sufferer Sturcha Wynn, 33, of High Ercall.

Mrs Naylor said she feared she would not be able to cope with a family but after meeting other parents through her own group, she has proved it can done.

The once A* student failed her A-levels due to side effects which later led to the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis which sees the immune system attacking the central nervous system. She said the condition often confines her to a wheelchair but the support of her group members allows her to get through the bad times.

Mrs Naylor said: “I joined the MS Society but everyone at the meetings were much older than me. I saw them all using wheelchairs and panicked and walked straight back out again.

“I thought if I’m getting freaked out about it then I’m sure other people would be too.”

Mrs Naylor, who works part-time at the Inland Revenue, said the MS Society had welcomed her new club.

The next Club MS meal group meeting will be held on October 31 and the next parent and baby meeting on November 21. For details of where the meetings will be held contact Mrs Naylor on 07972614307.

By Kirsty Smallman