At just 23 years old, Cheryl Tan felt an unassuming tingling in her right leg—little did she know, this was the beginning of a life-altering journey. She initially dismissed the sensation, not realizing it was the first warning sign of multiple sclerosis (MS), a debilitating neurological condition that would eventually challenge her mobility and alter her career as a passionate baker.

Cheryl, who dedicated her life to baking, was accustomed to the physical demands of the job, often hoisting large bags of flour and sugar. Doctors suspected the numbness was a result of a slipped disc, a condition common among those in physically taxing jobs, and it wasn’t until the symptoms intensified that she found herself in the emergency room—a moment that would change her life forever.

After numerous tests, including the daunting lumbar puncture that analyzed cerebrospinal fluid for abnormal proteins linked to MS, Cheryl received an unexpected diagnosis. Learning that she had multiple sclerosis was a shocking blow, plunging her into a wave of confusion about her future. 'I had never heard of MS before; it felt surreal,' she shared. As she adjusted to the reality of her condition, Cheryl had to confront the difficult truth that her beloved baking career would need to take a backseat due to the physical strain it posed.

Originally, she held hopes of returning to work after her treatment, but discovered that many potential employers were unfamiliar with MS and, as a result, hesitant to hire her. This lack of awareness is troubling, especially given the fact that globally, around 2.9 million people live with MS, yet it remains relatively rare in places like Singapore, affecting just over 300 individuals.

The emotional weight of her diagnosis was heavy, leading to struggles with acceptance and feelings of isolation. She recalls moments of denial: 'How can this be happening to me? No one in my family has experienced this.' Despite the mental hurdles, she began to re-evaluate her life and career options.

In the following years, as her symptoms progressed, Cheryl faced considerable physical challenges. Navigating public spaces became an ordeal, with obstacles such as curbs and narrow corridors proving daunting. By 2019, she was relying on a motorized wheelchair, a stark reminder of her new reality. She often debated the practicality of her living situation, envisioning a future where she could navigate independently in a home designed for accessibility.

Despite these seemingly insurmountable challenges, Ms. Tan’s story took a positive turn when she found a new calling with Tower Transit Singapore as a customer experience and inclusivity officer. In this role, she champions advocacy for persons with disabilities, striving to make public transportation more accommodating for all.

Her initiatives include workshops aimed at raising awareness about mobility challenges, such as the Public Bus Inclusivity Course and the Public Bus Confidence Course. With each session, she empowers participants, helping them build confidence in using public transit—much like she wished she had when she first learned about her condition.

Cheryl's inspiring journey has not only transformed her life but also positively impacted those around her. Commuters express gratitude for her assistance, often surprising her with gestures of kindness, like homemade cookies. 'I was so shy before my diagnosis,' she reflects, acknowledging how her struggles forced her to develop resilience and a willingness to share her story with others.

Her employer, Glenn Lim, director of communications and customer experience at Tower Transit Singapore, remarks on her remarkable empathy and strength. 'Cheryl has shown us that asking for help shouldn’t feel like a burden,' he said.

Today, Cheryl uses her voice to raise awareness about multiple sclerosis, urging society to move beyond misconceptions surrounding disabilities. 'It’s essential for people to understand the invisible challenges many face,' she emphasizes, hoping that her experience inspires others who may be struggling. 'There’s always hope. Recovery and adaptation are possible, and we can find light even in the darkest tunnels.'

Cheryl Tan’s metamorphosis from baker to advocate is a testament to her resolve and the power of community support. As she continues to navigate her life with MS, her story serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us all that perseverance can lead to meaningful change.

For those grappling with similar situations or feelings of despair, support is always available through various helplines. Remember, it’s okay to seek help, and no one has to journey through this alone.