My MSAA Community Marks 3 Years of Supporting and Connecting People with MS

This summer marks three years since the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA) launched its free online forum, designed to support, inform, and uplift members of the multiple sclerosis community. The organization encourages all affected by MS to make use of this resource.

Called My MSAA Community, the platform was created to give patients, caregivers, and family members a way to connect with others living with the disease. It’s hosted by HealthUnlocked, a health-specific social network that bills itself as the world’s largest of its kind.

The peer-to-peer forum allows users to safely share information and their experiences regarding MS. Participants may contribute to ongoing conversations or start one, perhaps with a question or post about the patient journey.

Recently, the platform included posts addressing a visit with a neurologist, certain treatments, vision problems, and the proper use of “energy bursts.”

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Since its introduction, My MSAA Community members are said to have formed enduring bonds, regularly checking in on one another, and sharing updates about their health and coping mechanisms.

“I believe this group will help you overcome obstacles you may be facing, while enabling you to become a well-informed individual,” a community member recently said in a forum, according to a news release. “We’re here to listen, guide, and empower others throughout their journey. I found this group to be very warm and friendly, but I especially like how some of these folks can put a big smile on your face, when the world may feel like it’s turning upside down.”

Designed to offer members the opportunity to pose questions to healthcare experts in a user-friendly format, the MSAA also regularly hosts Ask Me Anything events on the platform. In March, during MS Awareness Month, the forum featured an event with a focus on relationships and MS. Those interested can find a transcript of that discussion here.

To join My MSAA Community, please visit this site. To learn more about this initiative, contact Kaitlyn Gallagher at [email protected].

Estimates indicate that more than 2.3 million people have MS worldwide, with nearly 1 million residing in the United States.