The POWER of determination

Three women share how persevering against all odds can lead to a wealth of new opportunities

- KIM WILLIS

Nicola Kaufman, 49, lives in Horsham, West Sussex with her husband Adrian, 49.

As soon as we've sailed out of the marina, I take the helm. Away from traffic and life onshore, I love looking out for dolphins. I never stop feeling lucky to have found sailing.

It's a far cry from the summer of 2012. By the time I found out that I had multiple sclerosis (MS) - a condition that affects the brain and central nervous system - I was so exhausted I could only work four hours a week. With extreme fatigue came cognitive impairment. I struggled with balance and sensory problems, such as pins and needles, and nerve pain. Two years later, at 38, I was medically retired. While my husband Adrian was at work, I'd stay at home. It was a lonely, dark time.

Renewed purpose

In August 2014, my mum told me about a boat, Oceans of Hope, crewed by people with MS, sailing around the world. It was coming to Portsmouth for day sails. I had little experience, but it felt serendipitous that this opportunity had come along at my lowest point.