Meet Ty and Max

In August 2021, Ty Welsh was a fit and active 50-year-old when an unexpected stroke changed his life forever. Losing nearly 90% of the left side of his brain, Ty faced immense challenges in mobility, communication, and daily living. But with unwavering determination, the support of his loving family, and the expertise of MS Queensland’s specialist neuro rehab team, he continues to defy the odds.

Now, less than four years later, Ty is gearing up for his third MS Brissie to the Bay ride—an event that has become more than just a cycling challenge. It’s a celebration of resilience, a chance to give back, and an opportunity to connect with a passionate community riding to make a difference.

“MS Brissie to the Bay isn’t just about the ride—it’s about showing up, proving to myself what I can still do, and helping others get the support they need,” 

With his ‘Stroke Blokes’ crew cheering him on, Ty proves that life after a neurological event doesn’t mean giving up—it means adapting, pushing forward, and embracing new possibilities. By taking part in MS Brissie to the Bay, you’re not just riding—you’re helping Queenslanders like Ty access the vital services and support they need to keep moving forward.

Meet Emma

Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) at just 12 years old, Emma Thomson spent years in denial—hiding her condition from friends, avoiding treatment, and trying to live life as a ‘normal’ teenager. But when her health started to decline in her mid-20s, she could no longer face MS alone.

“I just wish I’d been willing to reach out for support sooner, the people are fantastic, and the gym at the Neuro Wellness Hub is the best thing I’ve ever come across—the equipment is incredible.”

Now 36, Emma is a passionate advocate for raising awareness and ensuring others don’t go through MS in isolation. She credits her family, friends, and the life-changing services made possible by MS Queensland’s supporters and Brissie to the Bay riders for helping her navigate life with MS.

“If sharing my story helps someone, that would mean the world to me,” she says. “It’s so much better to go through this with people you can lean on rather than trying to deal with it yourself.”

By joining MS Brissie to the Bay, you’re not just riding—you’re helping provide vital support for people like Emma.

Meet Paul & Bridie

When Paul Flanders first signed up for MS Brissie to the Bay more than 25 years ago, he had no idea the cause he was riding for would one day hit so close to home.

As a teacher, Paul saw the event as an opportunity to inspire his students, raise funds, and support those living with MS. Over the years, he and his students raised over $200,000. Then, in 2018, his daughter Bridie was diagnosed with MS—a heartbreaking moment that gave his commitment an even deeper meaning.

“There’s still a mountain to climb when it comes to awareness and the funding needed to carry out research and make life better for people with MS,” Bridie says. “If we could sort out a cure, that would be marvellous!”

Now, Paul rides not just for a cause, but for his own daughter. He knows firsthand how critical the support from MS Queensland can be—helping Bridie navigate her diagnosis and access life-changing services like physiotherapy and NDIS support.

“I’ve always believed we have an obligation to help each other,” Paul says. “Awareness is the key. If people understand MS, then hopefully that leads to more support—and one day, a cure.”

Meet Libby

What starts as a team challenge can become a personal mission—and that’s exactly what happened for Libby. She first joined MS Brissie to the Bay as part of a corporate team with KPMG, leading colleagues in both fundraising and fitness. But what began as a workplace initiative quickly turned into something far greater.

With no personal connection, Libby initially saw the ride as a great way to connect with colleagues and give back. But as she learned more about MS Queensland’s work and the people they support, her commitment deepened. The experience opened her eyes to the power of corporate social responsibility—not just as a workplace initiative, but as a way to create meaningful change.

As a corporate team, we receive so much support from MS Queensland in getting set up, activating our team and community and getting to the start line. The team aspect fosters encouragement to each other and MS Queensland kept us excited so we really hit the start line very motivated. And, it’s a fun perk to be at the front of such a big pack on event day.  

Even after moving on from KPMG, Libby remains a passionate advocate for the cause. From hosting fundraising events to rallying teams, she’s seen firsthand how small actions add up to a big impact.

Her story is proof that you don’t need a personal connection to MS to make a difference—you just need the drive to step up.

Meet Maddie

Maddie, a 33-year-old living life on the Gold Coast with two children and a playful Frug named Dotti, is excited to share her journey as she embarks on the Ride to Fight MS.

Maddie's battle started after experiencing a strange pain in her right eye, and after four months of constant appointments, she received confirmation of what she already suspected, the diagnosis was MS. 

Since getting in touch with MS Queensland, Maddie has been able to access services like being provided with workplace support through the Employment Support Team and connecting with the NDIS. 

“From the bottom of my heart I would like to thank MS Queensland and the MS Queensland community for being such an amazing support for us through my MS journey. I have truly never felt alone.” 

Meet Jenny

You may recognise Jenny’s face from past years as you’ve cycled over the finish line and are greeted by the crowd of clapping Cheer Club supporters in their red and white shirts, welcoming you back from your ride and thanking you for showing your commitment to fight MS.

Jenny was diagnosed with MS in 1973, when she was in Year 10 and just 15 years old. The muscle spasms, lack of balance and numbness made it hard to live the active life of a regular teenager. Jenny’s mum, who was a nurse herself, insisted that Jenny see her GP, where she was immediately referred to a Neurologist.

Yet, before she could see the specialist, Jenny had a severe episode- experiencing complete paralysis and blindness in both eyes. For Jenny, the next three months were spent in hospital enduring countless tests to determine the cause of her symptoms. At this time, MRI’s were not available, and Jenny had to endure three lumbar punctures before receiving her MS diagnosis. She was confused, scared and could not fathom what effect that would have on the rest of her life.

Soon after her diagnosis, Jenny began working and was employed with the same company for eleven years. She fondly refers to the business as family, rather than an employer. In 2013, Jenny’s ongoing symptoms forced her to stop working.

Today, Jenny spends most days with her wonderful husband and full-time carer; Charlie. When asked what her motivation is to keep fighting, she states:

“My husband….my husband is my motivation.”

The two have been married for over 35 years ago and still their friendship and love is evident.

Jenny is a fierce member of the MS Community, and with Charlie by her side, the pair are unstoppable!