We take these things for granted.

Unfortunately, many people would do anything to be able perform any of these tasks independently and without pain. Many of these people suffer from Multiple Sclerosis. March is Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month. Let’s raise awareness and help those who are affected by it!

Multiple Sclerosis (or simply MS) is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. The myelin, which is a protective covering around nerves, becomes damaged and eventually destroyed. This causes reduced communication between the brain, and the nerve pathways. This can lead to many other problems in the body, and MS can affect almost everything.

Common symptoms include severe fatigue, vision and speech problems, balance and coordination difficulties, and impaired mobility. Debilitating acute pain can also cause paralysis, complete blindness, or even total paralysis.

Multiple Sclerosis can also lead to depression and suicide. Worldwide, there were 22.5 million people living with MS in 2010. However, no treatment is available to reverse the progression of progressive MS.

Chris Christie, the Governor of New Jersey, declared March Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month in 2015. He encouraged residents and public officials to participate in programs and activities meant to raise awareness of the difficulties faced by people with this disease.

This month is great for celebrating. Are you a friend or relative with Multiple Sclerosis? Do you know someone with Multiple Sclerosis? If so, now is the time to show your support. Give them a call, make them some stew, or stop by their house to ask for help. People often feel powerless and useless when they are disabled. However, knowing that they aren’t forgotten makes someone feel happier.

Last, but not least: Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month is about spreading awareness. Take some time to learn more! For example, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society of the United States organizes various events that you can participate in, such as Walk MS. You can help the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Great Britain by taking on small jobs such as driving a minibus or managing an online site.

You might consider donating to someone living with MS if you don’t know any. This brave woman, for example, has been fighting the disease for over 20 years and needs help paying for the care home she will have to finally move to: https://www.gofundme.com/jbrvcn6c Remember, every dollar and every share counts!

What are you waiting for?! March only has 31 days, but there is so much to do!