By Ammarah Siddiqui

Every day almost 12 people are diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) which can affect every aspect of their lives.

MS is one of the most common diseases of the Central Nervous System and around 2.8 million people in the world have MS.

MS targets the immune system by attacking the myelin. This causes difficulty for the brain to send signals throughout the body, resulting in varied symptoms. While every individual faces different symptoms some common ones include numbness, weakness, paralysis, tremors, speech impediments and others.

At present, there is no cure for MS, but current treatments are able to help with some symptoms and research is underway. The condition can be lifelong or last multiple years, although research that requires great funding is working to shorten this duration.

Currently, high-profile researchers such as neurologist Jiwon Oh are working to make breakthrough discoveries and expedite the support of those living with MS.

While MS is known as a debilitating condition, in March during MS Awareness Week the National Multiple Sclerosis Society showcases the stories of powerful, resilient individuals diagnosed with MS under the hashtag #ThisIsMS.

World MS Day is on May 30th and the theme for 2022 is connections. This celebrates support networks, advocacy and champions self-care.  For more information visit World MS Day or search #msconnections.

To support those living with  MS you can offer donations to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and start your own fundraising campaigns to raise money for research or support.