A speech by Art Therapist Louise Weston for the 2026 MS Plus Virtual Art Show.
We received hundreds of submissions this year, making 2026 one of our biggest art shows yet! Congratulations to our seven amazing winners and a big thank you to everyone who shared their incredible work with us.

For Tig and Marilyn Simmons, who have both been volunteering with MS Plus since 1996, the joy of volunteering comes from knowing your contribution matters. “Of course there is the personal satisfaction you get from volunteering, and the social aspect of it, but really it’s knowing you contributed to something worthwhile – you gave back to society in some way,” Tig says.

When Regan Longfield discovered MS Plus’ Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme, it perfectly aligned with his two volunteering goals: to support older Australians while giving back to the community. The program, funded by the Australian Government, provides companionship for older people living in aged care homes or in their own homes with a Support at Home Package.

Malcolm McGinn has always believed in the power of helping others, and ensuring people aren’t going through challenges alone. That is why, after he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease six years ago, he quickly turned his attention to volunteering with Parkinson’s Tasmania, a non-profit organisation providing support, education and advocacy for people living with Parkinson’s, their families and carers across the state.

Following her diagnosis of relapsing-remitting MS in 2016, and later secondary progressive MS in 2021, Karyn’s life changed in profound ways, including the loss of her teaching career. Through these challenges, poetry became a constant source of support. Whether in hospital during recovery and rehabilitation, or in quiet moments at home, writing has helped her process and express her experiences.

MS Plus has successfully completed the sale of its former premises, marking a significant milestone in the organisation’s long-term strategy to strengthen services and ensure the best possible outcomes for people living with multiple sclerosis and other neurological conditions.

Discover how allied health support transformed Peter’s MS journey – boosting strength, independence and confidence through personalised exercise, expert care and NDIS-backed services.

At MS Plus Footscray Wellbeing Centre, physiotherapist Jack Wong is passionate about helping people with multiple sclerosis (MS) and other neurological conditions improve their movement, independence and quality of life.

Discover how artist Leon Waldhuter transforms life with multiple sclerosis (MS) into powerful, message-driven art, inspiring others through creativity, community and resilience. Leon was the winner of the Barry Allen Art Award in the 2025 MS Plus Virtual Art Show.

“When I was first matched with Rosi for a one-on-one phone chat, I was initially disappointed that she was based in Sydney, while I’m in Hobart, but it actually never mattered at all!” Nicole says.

“I had been putting off reaching out for help for a while but after that I rang MS Plus. The staff member I spoke to was super kind and so patient and reassuring and she just made me feel so much less nervous about my diagnosis.”
