Guide for those Black and Newly Diagnosed

Multiple Sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that disproportionately affects Black people. However, with the right education and skills, you can live a full, healthy, and active life with MS.

What Your Diagnosis Means and What You Can Expect How Does MS Affect the Black Community Differently What and Who Can Help Manage Your Symptoms Becoming A Self Advocate Tips for a Strong Relationship with Your Doctors How to Be a Prepared and Proactive Patient

The face of MS is changing.

Up until recently, MS was treated like a “white woman’s disease” – often making Black people feel isolated, or worse, undiagnosed and unheard. Today, we know that Black populations have an increased risk for earlier and greater disability from MS. It can feel like the healthcare system is set up against you, representation is lacking, and the search for people you can relate to is an ongoing struggle. The resources below were created for you to educate yourself on your disease and learn tips on receiving the best care so you can live well with MS.

What Your Diagnosis Means and What You Can Expect

Understand the basics of multiple sclerosis and what you can expect living with this disease.

Featuring: Mitzi Joi Williams, Neurologist 

In this video you’ll learn:

  • What multiple sclerosis does to your body
  • How to make sense of your MRI
  • The different types of multiple sclerosis
  • Common symptoms of multiple sclerosis
  • First steps in living well with multiple sclerosis

 

Neurologist Mitzi Williams explaining what your MS diagnosis means and what you can expect

How Does MS Affect the Black Community Differently

Why multiple sclerosis is different in the Black community and what you can do about it.

Featuring: Mitzi Joi Williams, Neurologist

In this video you’ll learn:

  • What is different about multiple sclerosis in people who are Black
  • Why there are differences and gaps in multiple sclerosis research, diagnosis, and care
  • How inequalities create a different experience for a Black person
  • What you can do about it
Neurologist Mitzi Williams explaining how ms affects the black community differently

What and Who Can Help Manage Your Symptoms

Different treatment options, symptom management strategies, and healthcare professionals who can help.

Featuring: Paula Hardeman, Physician’s Assitant

In this video you’ll learn:

  • The 2 main categories of disease modifying therapies (DMTs)
  • Factors to consider when choosing a disease modifying therapy
  • How you can manage your symptoms through lifestyle changes
  • What healthcare professionals you can add to your team to help
Physician's Assistant Paula Hardemen

How I Became My Own Best Advocate (And You Can Too)

Learn ways to feel empowered as a patient and take ownership of your health.

Featuring: Victoria Reese, Patient Advocate

This video covers:

  • Why it’s crucial to take ownership of your healthcare
  • How to effectively communicate your needs
  • Ways to work towards a better quality of life outside your doctors appointment
Victoria Reese who lives with MS

Tips for a Strong Relationship with Your Doctors

Victoria shares her tips for being open and honest with her doctors and when to know if it’s time for a second opinion.

Featuring: Victoria Reese, Patient Advocate

In this video she covers:

  • How to be open when feeling overwhelmed or intimidated
  • Tips for accurately describing your multiple sclerosis symptoms
  • Warning signs that you are not being heard or respected
  • What to do if it’s time for a second opinion
Victoria Reese who lives with MS

How to Be a Prepared and Proactive Patient

The importance of being involved in your own care.

Featuring: Paula Hardeman, Physician’s Assistant

In this video you’ll learn:

  • Gaining the right knowledge of your plan of care
  • Staying on top of your MRI schedule
  • Understanding why treatment decisions were made

 

Physician's Assistant Paula Hardemen