Isle of Man businessman, Andrew J Moore has reached the finals of the prestigious MS Society Awards 2013.
Andrew from Laxey, Isle of Man, is one of three finalists in the category of ‘MS Carer of the Year’, sponsored by Merck Serono Ltd, and will attend the awards ceremony on Thursday 17 October in London. He was nominated for the award by his wife of nine years, Bethany, who has multiple sclerosis (MS).
Bethany, aged 44, is a wheelchair user as her symptoms have progressed and Andrew helps with all her physical needs, including driving her to her full time job as a lecturer every day, and assisting her during the day if she needs him. As well as caring for Bethany; Andrew is Chairman of the village Commissioners and has helped raise thousands of pounds for both local and national charities. He is an emotional support for an underprivileged and homeless young people and has enriched the lives of many people in the area with disabilities.
Explaining why she nominated her husband, Bethany said:
“Andrew has always said, ‘We will make this journey together.’ We got married after we received my diagnosis nine years ago, and although it’s been a tough journey Andrew has always been by my side. Over the years, Andrew has helped rebuild my confidence and given me the belief that I can still achieve my goals.
Teaching is my passion and he is patient and encouraging when I have tough days, because he knows how important work is to me. Because of him and all his care and support, I am able to live life to the full rather than merely exist in it, and he keeps me fighting.”
Speaking about his nomination, Andrew said:
“I’m very touched and honoured to be nominated. As far as I am concerned, caring for Bethany is just another element of our commitment to each other in our marriage. Life with MS hasn’t always been easy, but I know Bethany would do the same for me and I am just happy I can help her live as full and enjoyable a life as possible.”
The MS Society Awards, this year sponsored by Next, were created to reward individuals and groups for their hard work in improving the lives of people affected by multiple sclerosis (MS). The judges for the ‘MS Carer of the Year’ category were looking for people whose care has made a positive impact in the life of someone with MS – enabling them to lead independent, full lives.
Patricia Gordon, Acting Chief Executive of the MS Society, said:
“The purpose of the MS Society Awards is to celebrate carers like Andrew. His commitment to supporting Bethany with her MS makes him a very deserving finalist for the ‘MS Carer of the Year’ award and we look forward to welcoming him to our awards ceremony in October.”
David Garmon-Jones, General Manager of Merck Serono said:
“Sponsoring this category is true to Merck Serono’s strong commitment to serving the needs of those living with multiple sclerosis whether they are a patient or carer. As part of this dedication, we are committed to developing new treatment options and devices as well as offering enhanced patient support services to help improve the lives of people living with MS. Andrew shows great fortitude in caring for someone living with MS in a way that truly comes alive and helps others better understand the condition. We wish him the best of luck at the finals.”
The MS Society Awards 2013 will be held on Thursday 17 October at The Dorchester Hotel, London.
For more information about the MS Society visit www.mssociety.org.uk.