This Saturday, May 30th is World MS Day!

This Saturday, May 30th, marks the 19th annual World MS day!

MS (multiple sclerosis) is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system. This disease attacks the protective covering of the nerves, damaging the myelin and causing inflammation. Worldwide, more than 2.3 million people have a diagnosis of MS. Canada has one of the highest rates of MS in the world, with an estimated 77,000 Canadians living with this disease. Symptoms may include extreme fatigue, lack of coordination, weakness, impaired sensation, vision and bladder problems, cognitive impairment and mood changes. Its effects can be physical, emotional and financial, with no cure currently available.

World MS day brings the global MS community together to share stories, raise awareness and campaign with everyone affected by MS. The theme for World MS Day 2020-2022 is ‘connections’. The MS Connections campaign is about building community connection, self-connection and connections to quality care. MS Connections challenges social barriers that leave people affected by MS feeling lonely and socially isolated. It’s an opportunity to advocate for better services, celebrate support networks and champion self-care.

This year, MEDUCOM team members advocated for the campaign by forming the shape of a heart with their hands and capturing a picture. This movement can be seen on all social media platforms around the world!

To learn more, please visit: https://worldmsday.org/ and be sure to explore the hashtag #MSConnections on various social media platforms!