Living with multiple sclerosis is not just a medical journey—it’s a deeply personal path of strength, adaptation, and growth. In this episode, we meet Claudia Dieckmann, a woman who embodies resilience, creativity, and the power of purpose. Her story is a testament to the belief that, even in the face of chronic illness, we can reclaim control, nurture our passions, and make a lasting impact.
Self-empowerment doesn’t mean doing it all alone. It means listening to your body, trusting your intuition, and surrounding yourself with people who lift you up. Claudia’s work as a fundraiser and advocate highlights how vital community is—not only for emotional support, but also for raising awareness, driving change, and building a future where no one with MS feels invisible or alone.
Let her story remind you: you are not defined by your diagnosis. You are powerful, you are part of something bigger, and together, we make each step count.
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More InformationTable of Contents
Introduction – Who is Claudia Dieckmann?
Claudia Dieckmann: Was born in Johannesburg. After gaining a degree in marketing I traveled the globe for almost a century and now live in Cape Town, the best move I ever made.
I was diagnosed in 2011 at the age of 31.
I now focus on my health and make sure I live a balanced life.
I used to do a lot of sport but due to MS can now only enjoy the world of water. I can move in water but not very well on land (like a seal). So, I enjoy swimming (pool and ocean), aqua aerobics and free diving.
If I’m not in the water, I am at home being creative in my cooking.
I married almost 2 years ago and have 2 cats.
Diagnosis and status
When were you diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and what led to it?
Claudia Dieckmann: I was diagnosed in 2011 with optic neuritis.
Looking back, were there earlier signs you now associate with MS?
Claudia Dieckmann: I always used to say with certainty “no”. But recently I had a memory – during a friend’s 30th birthday party where we went to play “paint ball” my legs kept collapsing whilst darting between the trees. That was abnormal and could have been an early warning sign.
How did you experience the diagnosis emotionally?
Claudia Dieckmann: There is a saying “you don’t get it, until you get it”. This was completely true for me. I didn’t know what MS was until I was diagnosed.
Were you offered a disease-modifying treatment early on, and how did you decide on your treatment path?
Claudia Dieckmann: I was put in treatment shortly after receiving a diagnosis. My neurologist (who is still my neurologist) used the words “If you were my sister, this is what I would do”. I appreciated that as he explained early intervention could result in delayed progression.
Have you ever changed therapies, and if yes, what was the reason?
Claudia Dieckmann: Yes. I am now on my 4th DMT.
Started on Betaferon. Moved to Gilenya. On to Tysabri and now on Ocrevus.
Reason? There are a number of reasons:
– Technology has advanced and better drugs are available;
– Medical aids require you to start on a specific drug before they will consider supporting you on your medical journey of MS (jump through hoops);
– They work until they don’t.
Are you using any symptomatic therapies? If yes, which ones?
Claudia Dieckmann: Yes. Drugs for depression, neurological restless legs, and bladder issues.
How did you adjust your lifestyle after diagnosis?
Claudia Dieckmann: My daily routine always includes:
Morning stretches and an afternoon nap.
The rest of the time is filled with mild exercise, MSSA work (fundraising) and general admin. Everything depends on energy levels.
Stress is not my friend. I avoid it at all costs.
What has been the most difficult point in your MS journey, and how did you move forward?
Claudia Dieckmann: In the beginning it was definitely asking for help. I used to be fiercely independent and was once described as too ambitious.
Now, it is definitely accepting my new normal – that is constantly changing.
I can’t get upset by the things I can no longer do. I focus on what I can do and listen to my body.
How are you currently doing with your MS?
Pretty good.
Fundraising & Advocacy Work
You organize events like Quiz4MS and Swim4MS – what sparked your passion for fundraising?
Claudia Dieckmann: Organising events is in my blood. I put events together for activities I love. It gives me joy to share my passion with others.
Everyone knows someone with MS. Getting them invested in raising money for the cause is an easy sell.
I truly believe, “If it’s not fun, then what is the point”. So I make sure whatever fundraising event I organise, people have a good time.
What has been your most meaningful campaign moment so far?
Claudia Dieckmann: I think it’s seeing people having a good time, laughing, clapping, sharing.
What are the biggest challenges when organizing fundraising activities for MS in South Africa?
Claudia Dieckmann: Geo-economic.
Geography: The activities predominantly happen where I am.
Economic: If the activity is online, do they have access to the internet and are they computer literate?
How do these events help bring awareness and community together, beyond raising funds?
Claudia Dieckmann: Without a doubt!
Education and visibility is always part of our campaigns. Radio and articles often follow our activities.
What was your experience like participating in the May50K campaign?
Claudia Dieckmann: What an exciting opportunity this was!
It was such a pleasure to work with people from other countries and to make South Africa a force in the cause.
Living Well with MS: Lessons & Advice
You’ve said, “Motion is lotion” – what does that mean for you in daily life?
Claudia Dieckmann: Like I said previously, I make morning stretches a daily practice and try to swim most days (energy levels allowing).
It is a tricky balancing act to find out how much activity is energising and how much is too much.
I also say, “Everything in moderation, including moderation”.
How do you personally define a “holistic approach” to MS, and what elements are part of your strategy?
Claudia Dieckmann: It has to be a patient-centric approach to treating MS:
- Body – moderate exercise
- Mind – be kind to yourself. Talk to those that understand
- Spirit – just be kind and find what gives you strength
- Support network – friends, family, societies, professionals and doctors.
What tips do you have for others living with MS who might feel stuck, isolated, or discouraged?
Claudia Dieckmann: You are not alone!
There are understanding societies with vaults of information and advice.
Looking Ahead
What’s your biggest hope or goal – personally or for the MS community?
Claudia Dieckmann: Personally – I take each day as it comes. I want to keep swimming for as long as possible.
MSSA – financially secure 😉
What development would you like to see in the field of multiple sclerosis in the next 5 years?
Claudia Dieckmann: A cure 😊.
Farewell
If you could go back in time, what would you tell your newly diagnosed self?
Claudia Dieckmann: MS is a marathon, not a sprint. There will be those out there that will try to convince you they have the answer to fix you. Trust the science, the research, and the doctors.
Any final message for others living with MS?
Claudia Dieckmann: Mindset is everything.
Where can people follow your journey or support MSSA?
Claudia Dieckmann: Best place to keep up to date is via the MSSA website and social media platforms.
Thank you Claudia for all your fundraising efforts.
See you soon and try to make the best out of your life,
Nele
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