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Steven was in his mid 20’s, living in England and working as a jazz musician, when he got multiple sclerosis. Graham recalls getting the phone call from Steven out of the blue saying he’s been diagnosed with MS and he’s coming home.
Judy was a nurse, but had no experience with MS and neither of them knew anything about it. So before Steven arrived home they were in touch with the MS Society of the North Shore and spoke to a field worker.
Steven moved back home to New Zealand, and got involved in the MS Society. Steven met other people living with MS and joined a men’s group that was operating at the time. They all became quite close and enjoyed getting together.
Sadly, his disease progressed quickly and became bed bound and got pneumonia, and sadly was too weak to fight it. Just 8 years after he was diagnosed, Steven passed away in his family home.
Steven’s brother, Billy, Steven’s girlfriend, Julie, and Steven (right). The photo was taken soon after Steven was diagnosed with MS.
Graham and Judy were always grateful for all the support and assistance the family received from the MS North Shore Society. In fact they were so appreciative that they became involved with the Society. Graham became the president, and Judy, who was a committee member, helped out with all the activities and events.
Judy gave so much of her time that she was made an honorary member of the Society for all the work she did over the years. Graham went on to become the vice-president of MS Auckland when Auckland and the North Shore amalgamated. He now continues to serve on the MS Auckland Committee and is a member of the MS Auckland Region Trust Board.
The field workers were tremendously helpful. They came to our home, and told us everything about MS and what to expect. They also informed us about the wide range of support that the society could offer. Graham Wear.
When doing their wills both Graham and Judy felt it only right to remember their youngest son, Steven. They feel that the society did so much for Steven and their family that this is only appropriate.
MS Auckland would like to thank the Wear family for including MS Auckland in their will. Without the generosity of everyday Kiwis, the services MS Auckland provides wouldn’t exist.
Your support is essential for ensuring our work continues into the future.
Unfortunately, John Tooman's life was cut tragically short on his way to volunteering. John had planned to leave a lasting legacy in memory of his mother, who had MS.
