Aureus School has chosen the MSA Trust as its charity of the year in honour of former colleague Carolyn Saul, who is living with Multiple System Atrophy (MSA), a rare, life-limiting neurological condition.
Ms Saul, 48, was a much-loved member of staff at the Didcot secondary, joining in 2019 after 19 years at Rosebery School in Epsom (both part of GLF Schools). She served as Head of Humanities and later as Assistant Headteacher for Personal Development, before moving to a Head of Year role.
“There is no treatment for it. They can treat the symptoms, but it is life-limiting with no cure,”
— Carolyn Saul
Carolyn’s diagnosis took eight months. Early symptoms, including sudden leg weakness while out shopping with her daughters and fainting when standing, initially mimicked other conditions. “At first they thought I could have Huntington’s, Addison’s or multiple sclerosis,” she said. “I was lucky to be under neurology Professor George Tofaris at the John Radcliffe Hospital; he knew pretty much straight away that it was MSA.”
Now being cared for at home by her husband, Carolyn remains in close touch with the school. Staff and students are organising fundraising and awareness activities throughout the year to support the MSA Trust, the small national charity that has helped her and others with the condition.
Assistant headteacher Hannah Powell said:
“Carolyn has been an indispensable member of our team. Her knowledge of our community and deep affection for her students is inspiring. We were all heartbroken to learn of her diagnosis, and we’re proud to support the MSA Trust in her honour.”
Carolyn added that, despite the challenges, she looks back fondly on her time at Aureus: “It’s been an amazing school and I loved my time there… Before I left I was working on the social side and careers — I got to do all the trips and the fun stuff.”
What is MSA? (In brief)
- Multiple System Atrophy is a rare neurological condition affecting roughly 3,500 people in the UK.
- Early symptoms can overlap with conditions such as Parkinson’s or multiple sclerosis, which can make diagnosis difficult.
- While there is no cure, symptoms can be managed and specialist charities provide practical and emotional support for families.
How you can help
- Donate or learn more: search “MSA Trust” online for advice, helplines and ways to give.
- Support Aureus School’s fundraising: check the school’s website and social channels for upcoming events and how to contribute.
