Marching Forward: My Journey with MS
March is Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on a disease that affects millions worldwide, yet often remains shrouded in shadow, especially for the black community.
African Americans tend to experience more aggressive disease progression, greater disability, and symptoms that profoundly impact our quality of life, such as walking, balance, coordination issues, cognitive and visual symptoms, more frequent relapses with poorer recovery, and an earlier onset of disability. Yet, despite the severity, black people remain underrepresented in MS research, creating a significant gap in our understanding and treatment of the disease in black communities.
The disparities in diagnosis and treatment for African Americans with MS hit close to home for me, not just as statistics, but as my reality. When I was diagnosed with MS in 2019, I faced a glaring absence of resources for black women battling this condition. Today, I'm sharing a slice of my journey with MS — not just as a story of struggle but as a beacon of hope and a call to action.
My personal experiences with MS, combined with the stories of countless others, underscore the urgent need for more inclusive research and equitable healthcare solutions. These challenges have fueled my passion for advocacy and inspired me to write a book detailing not only my journey but also the broader context of MS within the black community. As I put the finishing touches on my manuscript this week (!), I am actively seeking agent representation and a traditional publisher to bring these important insights to a wider audience.
But this isn't just my story — it's a shared narrative that calls for awareness, understanding, and action. We need more voices to amplify the conversation around MS, particularly in underrepresented communities. We need more research that takes into account the diverse experiences of those living with MS. And we need a healthcare system that recognizes and addresses the disparities that prevent black individuals from receiving the care and support they need.
This MS Awareness Month, let's commit to making a difference. Whether by educating ourselves and others, advocating for more inclusive research, or simply offering support to those affected by MS, each action brings us closer to a world where no one has to navigate this journey alone.
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If my story resonates with you, or if you're moved by the broader challenges faced by black individuals with MS, I urge you to get involved. Advocate, donate, or simply start a conversation. Together, we can pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for all living with MS.
Five Resources for African Americans Living with MS
We Are ILLmatic is a dope advocacy organization for black women with MS
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