Dean Howcroft was engaging in a routine motorbike ride when he experienced double vision.

The Ulladulla resident, 24 at the time, thought he needed glasses, but it was the events that followed which would change the course of his life.

“I’d just turned 24 at the time and a few months after multiple tests and MRI’s, I was sitting in my specialist’s office being told that I had multiple sclerosis, so that was obviously a huge shock to the system” Howcroft said.

Friday is World MS Day. The MS International Federation is raising awareness through the MyMSDiagnosis social media campaign which encourages those with lived experience to share their story.

When asked what World MS day means to him, Howcroft said: “It is pretty close to my heart, (after) being diagnosed with MS back in 2004, it has been quite a journey.”

While there is no specific cure for MS, there are treatments and rehabilitation available within Australia through the NDIS.

Part of this evolutionary process for treatment and rehabilitation is the Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL) machine built and designed by RoboFit, which Howcroft uses to aid his rehabilitation.

“I just discovered it (RoboFit) as a pop-up ad on social media,” Howcroft said.

“It’s like an exoskeleton that straps to your legs, and you are on a treadmill … it looks and feels quite futuristic.”

RoboFit founder Daniel Hillyer using the state-of-the-art exoskeleton. Photo: Supplied

Howcroft explained in detail how it works from the mechanics of the machine to the neuroscience behind this rehabilitation tool, and the feeling of being able to walk in a correct walking pattern.

“It was quite a strange feeling in the beginning, but I have had 10 sessions now and I am noticing some improvement,” he said.

The improvement is the redevelopment of neuroplasticity and rewiring the brain.

“You can see it happening in real time on the screen in front of you,” he said.

The HAL technology was manufactured by Cyberdyne in Japan and imported by RoboFit.

While this rehabilitation process is supported through the NDIS, the logistical components of travel and availability to use the HAL machine remains a barrier for Howcroft.

“It would be beautiful if we didn’t have to travel two hours and you could get more sessions, because when it comes to neuroplasticity, repetition is ideal.”

Despite the challenges of his diagnosis and other barriers, it will not break Howcroft’s self-proclaimed “swagger”.

He has a young family and also leans on his engagement with the community by establishing a local men’s group in Ulladulla. Called Brothers of Bhundoo, they aim to foster support, connection and collaboration.

Howcroft has also started a self-titled podcast with the founding members of Brothers of Bhundoo.

“It’s amazing sitting around with a dozen fellas, sharing and reflecting.”