On Sunday, Jackie Thomson took on the incredible challenge of Adaptive HYROX Glasgow and has so far raised an amazing £836 for Revive MS Support.
Jackie is 50, married to her amazing and supportive husband Andy, and mum to Alastair (19) and Cameron (16). Their two dogs, Smudge and Poppy, have also played their part in helping the family navigate life following Jackie’s MS diagnosis, with Poppy arriving at just the right time to give everyone a new focus.
Finding a way forward
After becoming seriously ill with Covid at the start of the pandemic, Jackie made a powerful commitment to her health, discovering a love for boxing-based fitness classes and losing almost five stone.
But in June 2023, Jackie was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.
Heat intolerance and fatigue meant I couldn’t keep up the same classes. I put some weight back on, my mood was so bad and I felt lost.
I heard of Adaptive HYROX and thought maybe this is the challenge I needed to kick-start my fitness journey again.
What is Adaptive HYROX?
Adaptive HYROX is an inclusive fitness race designed so that people of all abilities can take part. Participants complete eight rounds of a run or walk (adapted depending on ability), with functional fitness stations in between, including SkiErg, rowing, farmer’s carries, lunges, and wall balls.
Every element can be adapted, from reduced distances and lighter weights to using mobility aids or having a guide for support.
Training with MS
In the lead-up to the event, Jackie focused on what her body needs now, working with a personal trainer to safely adapt each station, improving her nutrition, and learning to rest without guilt.
My sleep and resting are not something to feel guilty about, but I do still feel guilty and angry I can’t do things the way I used to. I am a very stubborn and determined bugger!
Jackie’s MS Journey
Looking back, Jackie first experienced symptoms over 20 years ago, including optic neuritis and sensory changes, but it wasn’t until 2023 that her diagnosis was confirmed following a sudden onset of numbness down her left side.
Like many people, MS forced Jackie to rethink how she saw herself and particularly when it came to her fitness and identity.
I was devastated. After all those years, I just couldn’t believe it.
I used to do two or sometimes three fitness classes a day. That was me. So I thought why not give HYROX a go and raise funds? I knew it would push me to train and complete the event.
Jackie’s Connection to Revive
Jackie first discovered Revive through her work, supporting a client who attended weekly exercise classes. Since her diagnosis, Revive has become a key part of her support system.
From meeting with an MS nurse for the first time, to accessing oxygen therapy for fatigue, physiotherapy, counselling, financial advice and cognitive support, Jackie has embraced a wide range of Revive’s services.
I previously supported a client who accessed Revive once a week and she loved going to her exercise class and I got to know some staff and other Revive clients. I don’t think I would have known anything about Revive otherwise as I’m from Inverclyde.
Revive has a brilliant team who go above and beyond to help. Every single person is so welcoming and you just feel comfortable and supported.
I have visited Revive feeling bad – I have cried and laughed – but I always leave feeling better after a cuppa in the café and laughs with everyone. I have some amazing new friends who get me and know how I feel.
Giving back to Revive
For Jackie, taking on HYROX wasn’t just about her personal goals but it was also about giving something back to Revive and for other people living with MS across Scotland.
I would be lost without Revive. The services are a lifeline to anyone with MS. For anyone thinking about donating or taking on their own fundraising challenge I say just go for it! You’re never going to regret joining us at Revive. Everyone needs a goal, it helps you focus and shows you what you are capable of achieving.”
Thanks to Jackie’s determination and fundraising efforts, more people affected by MS will be able to access support services that make such a difference.
If you’d like to support Jackie’s fundraising, there’s still time to get involved.
