Lady Sarra Hoy, the wife of Olympian Sir Chris Hoy, has recently disclosed her diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). This revelation comes in the midst of her husband’s own health battle after being diagnosed with cancer, with Sir Chris stating he may have only two to four years left to live. Sarra Hoy, also known as Lady Sarra Kemp Hoy, is widely recognised for her advocacy work in neonatal care, particularly following the premature birth of their son, Callum, at just 29 weeks.
Sarra Hoy has been vocal about the emotional hardships she faced during this period, shedding light on the isolation and trauma experienced by parents with newborns requiring intensive care. As an ambassador for Bliss, a charity supporting families with premature or sick babies, Sarra has actively raised awareness about neonatal care and mental health for parents in similar circumstances. Additionally, she has initiated fundraising efforts for children with eye cancers and participated in campaigns to enhance outcomes for babies in neonatal units.
Prior to her husband’s cancer diagnosis, Sarra had undergone tests for a tingling sensation in her face and tongue. Subsequently, it was confirmed just before Christmas that she has MS, described as “very active and aggressive,” necessitating urgent treatment. Notably, the couple has chosen not to disclose Sarra’s MS diagnosis to their children. Recognising the importance of early detection, the National Health Service (NHS) highlights common signs of MS including fatigue, numbness and tingling, balance and coordination issues, muscle spasms, vision problems, along with various other symptoms ranging from pain to depression and anxiety.
The couple’s journey through these health challenges underscores the need for vigilance and awareness in detecting potential MS symptoms. As Lady Sarra Hoy embarks on managing life with MS alongside her husband’s cancer battle, their resilience and determination to navigate these adversities serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of health awareness and support for individuals facing chronic illnesses.