More Than a Diagnosis – My Personal Journey
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is one of over 100 known autoimmune diseases, but its impact is uniquely personal for each person who lives with it. I know this firsthand.
I was diagnosed with Relapsing-Remitting MS (RRMS) – the most common form of MS, marked by unpredictable relapses where symptoms flare up before subsiding again. Some people regain full function after a relapse; others, can experience lasting effects that add up over time.
For me, MS isn’t just a medical term. I am reminded I have it everyday. ANd that’s ok because it made me stronger.
MS is often called an “invisible illness” because you can’t always see its effects, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t real.
Understanding MS: The Three Main Types
While every person’s experience with MS is different, there are three primary types of the disease:
🌀 Relapsing-Remitting MS (RRMS) – The most common form (about 85% of cases). Symptoms come and go in episodes called relapses, followed by periods of remission.
📉 Secondary Progressive MS (SPMS) – Often develops after RRMS. Symptoms gradually worsen over time, with fewer remissions.
📈 Primary Progressive MS (PPMS) – A less common type where symptoms progressively worsen from the onset, without distinct relapses or remissions.
Each form of MS presents its own challenges, but no two cases are exactly alike. MS is like a fingerprint – unique to each person.
Fighting Back: How We Combat MS
While there’s no cure for MS yet, there are ways to manage its progression and improve quality of life:
🧪 Disease-Modifying Therapies (DMTs) – Medications that help slow disease progression.
🏋️ Physical Therapy & Exercise – Strength training, stretching, and movement help maintain mobility.
🥦 Nutrition & Lifestyle – A balanced diet, vitamin D, and anti-inflammatory foods can help reduce flare-ups.
🧘 Stress Management – MS symptoms are often triggered by stress. Practicing mindfulness, therapy, and relaxation techniques can be game changers.
💡 Emerging Research & Innovations – Clinical trials and new therapies are bringing hope to the MS community every day.
I don’t have time to worry about biases or what other people think about my condition. I have work to do.
Famous Faces in the MS Community
Many well-known figures have shared their MS journeys, helping to bring awareness to the condition:
🎭 Christina Applegate – Actress and advocate, openly discussing her challenges with MS.
🎬 Selma Blair – Courageously using her platform to educate others.
📺 Montel Williams & Neil Cavuto – TV personalities breaking the stigma.
🎶 Tamia Hill, Clay Walker, Art Alexakis (Everclear) – Musicians raising awareness through their platforms.
📚 Trevis Gleason – Chef and author sharing life with MS.
🏛️ Ann Romney – Advocate and wife of Senator Mitt Romney.
🎥 Jason DaSilva – Filmmaker documenting his MS journey.
These public figures remind us that MS doesn’t discriminate – it affects people from all walks of life. And every time one of them speaks out, it helps normalize conversations about this condition.
Let’s continue to build the MS brand in the Autoimmune family, one step at a time.
