Selma Blair Celebrates Health Milestone in Multiple Sclerosis Journey
Selma Blair has shared a significant health update, revealing she has remained relapse-free in her battle against multiple sclerosis (MS) for the past couple of years. In an interview with Stellar on November 22, 2023, the actress expressed her gratitude for not experiencing any further deterioration in her condition, which she first disclosed to the public in 2018.
Blair, 53, emphasized the importance of her current health status, stating, “That, of course, means the world to me that I’m not, at this moment, accumulating more damage in my brain.” She has also made considerable progress in understanding neuroplasticity, a concept referring to the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections.
“Everyone’s experience with MS is different. I think I do have a certain place. My big mouth likes to see what I can do about stigma,” she added, highlighting her desire to raise awareness about the condition. According to the Mayo Clinic, multiple sclerosis is a disease that impacts the protective covering of nerves, potentially leading to symptoms such as numbness, weakness, difficulty walking, and vision changes.
Blair publicly announced her diagnosis through an emotional Instagram post in October 2018, sharing a mirror selfie while discussing her experiences during a wardrobe fitting for her Netflix sci-fi series, Another Life. In her post, she revealed the challenges she faced, stating, “I have #multiplesclerosis,” and described her symptoms at the time, including memory fog and physical difficulties.
“I am in an exacerbation,” she noted, also thanking her supportive colleagues and producers at Netflix for allowing her to continue working despite her challenges. Blair expressed her hope to inspire others facing similar battles, stating, “I am in the thick of it but I hope to give some hope to others. And even to myself.”
In a recent appearance at the Flow Space Women’s Health Summit, Blair recounted how her early symptoms were dismissed by medical professionals. “I was diagnosed with relapsing remitting MS in 2018. It turned out I probably had juvenile MS as my first optical neuritis was when I was about seven,” she shared. Blair recalled enduring consistent pain and fatigue throughout her life, which went unaddressed for years, including during childhood hospital visits.
“I had CAT scans as a kid, and I had doctor visits, and I stayed in hospitals for weeks at a time,” she explained. Despite her mother’s concerns, doctors often attributed her symptoms to normal developmental issues. “They’re like, ‘Oh, she doesn’t need it. She’s probably getting her period,’” she recalled.
Blair’s openness about her health journey serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding and addressing symptoms of chronic illnesses. She encourages others facing similar battles to seek help and support, emphasizing that “you can’t get help unless you ask.”
As she continues to navigate life with MS, Blair remains optimistic about her future. “I want to play with my son again. I want to walk down the street and ride my horse,” she stated. Her journey not only sheds light on the complexities of living with multiple sclerosis but also fosters a sense of community among those affected by this challenging condition.
