Setting sail against the odds: Vella's story

‘When you’re diagnosed, there are plenty of times when you think, no I couldn’t possibly do that, but then I realised I am capable of stepping outside of my comfort zone. I don’t need to be wrapped in cotton wool, I can still achieve things if I set my mind to it. MS is not a death sentence,’ Vella says.

Oceans of Hope provides unique and fun sailing challenge events for people living with MS to gain self-confidence and a renewed sense of empowerment. The initiative, originating in the UK and later expanding to sailing experiences across Europe, Australia and New Zealand, is led by people with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Vella first heard about Oceans of Hope back in 2018 and set sail not long after, heading out of Auckland and down the coast to Tauranga in the Bay of Plenty for five days and five nights on the Tall Ship Spirit of NZ.

‘As a Kiwi living in Australia, given Tauranga used to be my home, and with a sister still living in Auckland and a mother in between, I thought why not?! I’m a person who likes to give things a go and it was an experience of a lifetime I’ll never forget,' Vella says.

‘At one point we went up the rope ladder to the crow’s nest and down the other side, I remember thinking if I could just get halfway up, that would be enough, but I managed to get all the way up the rope ladder to the crow’s nest and back down!

‘We also did a rope jump/swing over the side, which was really scary but felt so good afterwards. With everybody there to support you, you gain your confidence back.’

Five years later, in September 2023, Vella set sail again, this time from Brisbane.

‘We sailed around the Moreton Bay area, past Stradbroke Island, Moreton Island and other smaller islands.

‘On the South Passage, sailing up the Brisbane River under full sail to Newfarm Dock was absolutely fantastic and a real highlight. Taking turns at the helm and adjusting sails all added to the fun,’ Vella says.

Vella, who was diagnosed with MS in 2000, says the experience has built her sense of self-worth and confidence.

‘After this, I know I can do whatever I set my mind to and manage it within the limitations of my MS. Managing all the challenges that came our way, while stretching our limitations and boundaries was such an incredible learning experience for all of us.

‘The camaraderie among the group, who were all living outside our comfort zones, was wonderful.

‘The biggest thing is just to have a go and to keep a sense of humour. For five days you are living on top of each other, it does get crowded and sometimes you just need a bit of space to yourself. You’ll find if you do go and sit alone for a while, someone will always come and check in and see if you are okay.

‘We all worked as a team and truly accepted everyone for who they are and their abilities. We shared the highs and lows of each day and had a lot of laughs and fun together. I have truly made lasting friendships with many others living with MS from all over the world.’

After two challenging trips at sea, would Vella venture out for a third go?

‘I would do the Oceans of Hope challenge again in a heartbeat.’