CARLYLE - Each May, MS Canada (formerly known as the MS Society of Canada) recognizes MS Awareness Month, which is dedicated to connection, community and raising awareness of what it means to live with or support someone living with multiple sclerosis (MS).
Canada has one of the highest rates of MS in the world. More than 90,000 Canadians live with MS and 12 Canadians, on average, are diagnosed with the disease every day.
MS is a disease of the central nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves. Symptoms can include numbness and tingling, vision problems, impaired speech, loss of balance/co-ordination, fatigue, loss of mobility and mood changes. MS is unpredictable and often episodic, meaning a person can have fluctuating periods of wellness and disability.
MS Canada connects people affected by MS to information and resources, and funds research to find the cause and cure for the disease.
These resources are available across the province and country, and include peer support groups, one-on-one peer support, virtual wellness programs, education webinars, and a quality-of-life equipment program. There is also the MS Knowledge Network – an information hub where MS Navigators help individuals find their way through all things MS. Navigators are available via phone, email or live web chat from Monday-Friday.
While there is currently no known cause or cure for MS, researchers are looking at genetic and environmental factors. Since 1948, MS Canada has invested over $212 million in MS research. In these 75 years there has been significant progress in advancing treatment and care, enhancing well-being, understanding and halting disease progression, and preventing MS.
Canada is home to some of the world’s leading MS researchers, and this research – including research happening in Saskatchewan – is the key to finding new treatments and pathways to cures.
Whether you participate in a fundraising event, sign a petition, volunteer, support an organization giving back to MS Canada, or take the time to learn about MS, every action has an impact. Get involved and join the momentum in the lead-up to World MS Day on May 30.
On May 28, communities across the province will come together for the annual Saskatchewan Blue Cross MS Walk. Register for a Walk near you, or attend a virtual MS Walk, to join a powerful community dedicated to making life better for people with MS. Your participation ensures that no one living with MS is alone in their journey.
You can also support the MS community through the May 50k – a global challenge to run, walk, or roll 50 kilometres for MS research and access to treatment, or by registering for the upcoming MS Bike.
Visit MS Canada’s website, mscanada.ca, to stay updated on the many ways to participate, advocate, educate and donate throughout MS Awareness Month.
