February 4, 2026
When Gus was finally diagnosed with Primary Progressive MS in 2022, it came after a long and frustrating period of back-and-forth with the healthcare system. The news was difficult, not just because of the diagnosis itself, but because of what it meant for the life he had built.
After 34 years working with Scottish Water as a strategic mechanical and electrical engineering planner, Gus was medically retired, supported by his employer to access his pension. Until then, his life had been full of movement and adrenaline challenges. He was a keen skydiver with over 2,000 jumps under his belt, a lifelong motorbike enthusiast, and a regular at the Isle of Man TT races for more than 20 years.
Losing balance and facing licence restrictions meant giving up those passions, something Gus describes as a “sorry loss” in his life. Like many people newly diagnosed with MS, he found himself trying to come to terms with a future that suddenly looked very different.
“I was angry. Completely at a loss trying to adjust to this change in direction.”
It was Gus’s MS nurse who recommended support from Revive. Coming along to the centre gave him something he hadn’t realised how much he needed.
“To be able to speak to fellow MS sufferers and staff who understand where I’m coming from was a godsend. People who get the symptoms, the frustrations, and who can offer real, practical support.”
Since then, Revive has been a key part of Gus’s MS journey. Seeing the dedication of staff and the way other supporters and service users fundraise to keep the centre going made a strong impression on him. So when the Firewalk challenge came up, he knew he wanted to be involved.
“I wanted to be part of a fundraising initiative that I’d actually enjoy and hopefully raise a worthwhile amount to help fund the ongoing support that makes such a difference to people like me.”
For some, the idea of walking barefoot across hot embers might sound intimidating, but Gus has a very different perspective.
“I’ve looked down at a motorway from three miles up, travelling at 150mph. “We as MS sufferers don’t have the time or patience to be ‘stand back’ kind of people,” Gus says. “Firewalk? Bring it on.”
You can support Gus on his Firewalk challenge via his JustGiving Page >>>
Inspired to join Gus for the Firewalk challenge on 15th February? We have a few spaces remaining! Sign up here>>>
