Understanding Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. It is a disabling disease of the brain and spinal cord that damages the myelin sheath surrounding nerve fibers. Myelin is the protective covering that surrounds nerve fibers and helps transmit nerve signals. When myelin is damaged, communication between the brain and other parts of the body can be disrupted. This leads to a variety of symptoms related to vision, arm or leg movement, sensation, or balance.
MS Symptoms Vary
Symptoms of MS depend on which part of the central nervous system is affected. Some common symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Numbness or tingling
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Mobility problems
- Pain
- Vision problems
- Bowel and bladder dysfunction
The progression of MS varies greatly from person to person. Some have mild symptoms that worsen slowly over time, while others experience more aggressive forms that lead to rapid accumulation of disability. MS flare-ups can be unpredictable and come and go.
Famous Figures with MS
A number of celebrities and famous figures have opened up in recent years about living with MS. Their stories help raise awareness and inspire others who are struggling with the condition.
Selma Blair
In 2018, American film and television actress Selma Blair revealed her MS diagnosis. Best known for her roles in films like "Cruel Intentions," "Legally Blonde," and "Hellboy," Blair has continued acting while battling symptoms of MS.
She has been applauded for the grace, strength and humor she has demonstrated while living with MS in the public eye. Blair underwent a stem cell transplant in 2019 in hopes of slowing MS progression.
Christina Applegate
Emmy-award winning actress Christina Applegate tweeted in 2021 that she had been diagnosed with MS "a few months ago." Applegate first gained fame on the sitcom "Married...with Children" and has starred in movies such as "Anchorman," "Vacation," and "Bad Moms."
After her diagnosis, Applegate took a break from filming the third and final season of her Netflix series "Dead to Me" to focus on treatment. She has stated that the show will still wrap up as planned.
Jack Osbourne
Reality TV star Jack Osbourne, son of famous rocker Ozzy Osbourne, was diagnosed with relapsing-remitting MS at age 26. He has served as a high-profile advocate for MS awareness and raising funds for research to find a cure.
Osbourne also founded an annual charity bike ride called Jack Osbourne's MS Ride to help raise money for those battling MS who don't have adequate health insurance or access to medication and treatment.
Teri Garr
Veteran film and television actress Teri Garr was at the peak of her career when she was diagnosed with MS in 1999. Known for roles in classic comedies like "Young Frankenstein" and "Tootsie," her acting was significantly impacted after her diagnosis.
Garr helped found the Teri and R.J. Foundation, raising money toward MS research and patient rehabilitation. She has written articles and given speeches to help destigmatize the disease and provide hope to other MS patients.
Annette Funicello
As one of the original Disney Mouseketeers and beach-movie star in the 1960s, Annette Funicello was the epitome of wholesome, youthful fun when she was diagnosed with MS in 1987 at just 46 years old.
Though the disease eventually robbed her of the ability to walk or speak, Funicello became an inspirational figure in the MS community by speaking openly about the toll of the disease. The Annette Funicello Research Fund for Neurological Diseases was founded to fund treatment research.
The Impact of High-Profile Cases
When celebrities announce they have MS, it often focuses media and public attention on the disease. As common symptoms like mobility issues, pain, fatigue and cognitive changes make carrying out normal life difficult, fans watch first-hand the impact MS can have.
Seeing high-profile stars grappling with MS can help validate experiences for those already diagnosed and spark compassion in those who do not have first-hand experience with the disease.
Celebrity stories often illustrate the courage and resilience needed to manage such a difficult condition - they must continue to work and also advocate for understanding and support of MS patients. Their fame and openness further fuels research funding and ongoing efforts to eventually develop a cure.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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