Janine's Journey with MS

"When I received the diagnosis, I was told if I didn’t have any treatment at all, I would be in a wheelchair within 5 years and expect to live only another 10 years. I was told to go home and make myself comfortable."

Janine’s journey with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) began in 2007, when she was just 25 years old. At the time, she was a high school Health and Physical Education (HPE) teacher living in the small, rural town of Chinchilla, Queensland. Janine had always been an active person, playing tennis, squash, and even goalkeeping in soccer. "I was still doing all the things I loved, even in the hot summers," she recalls, so the diagnosis of MS came as a shock. One day, she was living a full, active life; the next, she was faced with the reality of a condition she knew nothing about. The uncertainty surrounding the condition was overwhelming, "I didn’t know anyone with MS. There were so many unknowns and a lot of fear."

As Janine began processing the reality of her diagnosis, she realised that acceptance would be key. "It’s about finding a way to live with it, not fight against it. Once I accepted it, it felt easier to manage." She shifted her perspective and realised that while MS was a part of her journey, it didn’t have to define her, "I wanted to be like everyone else. I wanted to live fully, and I didn’t want MS to be my defining characteristic."

Determined not to let the condition limit her, Janine forged ahead with remarkable resilience. After her diagnosis, she transitioned from teaching to focusing on her physical and mental strength, and she found a new passion in para-taekwondo. Despite the challenges, Janine threw herself into the sport, quickly becoming a four-time world champion. Her love for sport didn’t stop there - she also became a four-time Australian Women’s Singles Champion in wheelchair tennis:

"I’ve always loved sports, and I wasn’t going to let MS stop me. I wanted to show myself and others that it’s possible to live an active, fulfilling life with MS."

Throughout her journey, Janine has also received support from MS Queensland, which she says has played an important role in helping her navigate life with MS, "MS Queensland has been an amazing support, offering both practical resources and emotional guidance. Knowing they were there for me made a big difference. It helped me navigate the challenges of living with MS."

Janine’s advocacy is rooted in more than raising awareness - it’s about offering hope and inspiration. "Life with MS can still be good. Yes, there are challenges, but there are also moments of joy and fulfilment. You just have to keep pushing forward." 

Through her personal achievements and advocacy, she continues to inspire others living with MS, showing them that it’s possible to live life with strength and purpose.

Janine’s journey has been anything but easy, but it stands as a testament to her determination and resilience. "I’ve learned so much over the years, and I’m proud of how far I’ve come. It’s all about living with purpose and making the most of every day." Janine’s story is a powerful reminder of strength, determination, and the importance of living life on her own terms - no matter the challenges.

By supporting MS Lotteries, you’re helping people like Janine - someone who faces the challenges of living with a neuro condition while embracing life with hope, strength, and a passion for inspiring others. Your support funds resources, research, and programs that directly impact her journey and others like her.

As Janine puts it, “Buying a lottery ticket is about helping people live their best life. While it’s not a cure, your support makes a real difference today, empowering people with MS to live life to the fullest!”