MS Society to Hold Black MS Experience Summit
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society will host the second edition of its Black MS Experience Summit, a virtual event to help forge connections among those who understand the experience of living with multiple sclerosis (MS) as a Black person.
Register here to join the interactive, two-day virtual event, which takes place Sept. 22–23.
The Black MS Experience Summit is part of a series of events and activities designed to give voice to the unique needs of the Black community living with the disease.
“Being Black with MS carries unique challenges and experiences — from scientific and clinical differences in the disease itself to inequities in the healthcare system and more. The Black MS Experience Program Series is an opportunity to connect with others who understand the distinct experience of life with MS as a Black person,” the MS Society wrote on its webpage.
The summit features a number of breakout sessions aimed at empowering Black people with MS to navigate and overcome challenges that could be faced in daily life. These sessions are designed as workshop-style group activities and are meant to provide a safe space to share experiences, build connections, and raise awareness.
During the registration process, participants are asked to select two breakout sessions each day. Among the several options from which participants may choose: You and MS Research; Self-Advocacy in MS; Navigating MS as a Millennial; Managing MS Below the Belt; MS and the Family; and Aging in MS.
The program series also incorporates opportunities for virtual, small group discussions combined with content and videos around topics such as health disparities, clinical trials, mental health, wellness, and advocacy. The discussions are organized by location, but are held online, meaning they are available to anyone regardless of their current location. Visit this webpage to view the next dates and join the group discussions.
To further engage with the community of people living with MS, the Society invites anyone interested in accessing learning guides, live content, and open discussions to join the National MS Society Community on Facebook. The society also has developed content specific for the Black MS community; it is available here.