When MSSA began, we were a small circle of compassionate support — a place where people with MS (pwMS) could turn for comfort, connection, and practical advice. But over time, as the needs grew clearer and the gaps in care more urgent, we grew too.
Today, we’re still that place of comfort. But we’re also delivering resources, opening doors, and taking part in shaping the future of MS in South Africa and beyond.
From Local Support to Global Advocacy
Some of the milestones that reflect how far we’ve come:
Access on the Global Stage
In 2023, the WHO added three DMTs to the Essential Medicines List — Rituximab, Glatiramer Acetate, and Dimethyl Fumarate. MSSA supported this push through global advocacy efforts with MSIF, marking a crucial step toward improving treatment access in low- and middle-income countries, including South Africa.
Upskilling General Practitioners
One of our most impactful initiatives was the GP Upskilling Webinar Series, developed and led by a leading MS specialist neurologist. This series addressed South Africa’s urgent need for earlier diagnosis and timely treatment — and equipped over 3,000 healthcare professionals with critical MS knowledge.
From COVID Pivot to Permanent Resource
What started during the pandemic grew into something much more. Our YouTube webinar library now houses a growing archive of practical, expert-led sessions. These recordings have extended the value of each event far beyond the original audience — and brought the voices of South African MS specialists into homes across the country.
Workplace Rights and Real-Life Help
By listening to the workplace challenges our members face, we brought in a Labour Law expert to offer tailored advice. It’s made a real difference in helping pwMS navigate disclosure, unfair treatment, and employment rights.
Personalised, Human-Centred Support
Every person who registers with MSSA is more than a name on a list. We take time to understand their diagnosis, life circumstances, and concerns — and offer support that’s personal, practical, and grounded in lived experience.
Creating a Place for Younger Voices
As more young people began to be diagnosed, we created space for their unique journeys — while integrating their voices into our main support structure. We know that the wisdom of older generations and the energy of youth are both essential in building a strong MS community.
Building a Resource of Care Options
With no MS-specific care centres in South Africa, we began building a directory of trusted facilities — especially for those in need of palliative or long-term support. As the MS community ages, this resource is becoming increasingly important.
The Big City Tours
Our Big City Tours brought MS education directly to communities — giving people the chance to hear from MS-specialist neurologists and ask the questions they rarely have time for during clinic visits.
Global Recognition and Representation
After years of engagement, MSSA was formally welcomed as an Associate Member of MSIF — a dream long in the making. It marks our official presence on the global MS stage. We were also invited to participate in the Global Patient Council — ensuring South Africa’s lived MS experience contributes to shaping international conversations on inclusion, care, and innovation.
Up-to-Date, Always
We consistently bring the latest research, treatment updates, and digital health trends into local focus — making global progress accessible and relevant to our members.
Stories that Speak the Truth
Over the years, we’ve collected powerful stories from people across South Africa living with MS. These upfront and personal narratives reflect real-life experiences — breaking stigma, sparking understanding, and showing what MS really looks like.
A More Inclusive MS Community
One of our quiet but proudest milestones has been the growing inclusion of South Africa’s Black community — a group long sidelined by the myth that “Black people don’t get MS.” As we’ve reached out, the light has gone on. There’s magic in being seen, heard, and believed — and in watching new connections form across race, region, and circumstance.
A Living, Evolving Chronicle
This blog is just a snapshot — not a checklist. Our advocacy is ongoing, growing with the people we support. These milestones remind us of what’s possible when we listen deeply, act intentionally, and build bridges across every barrier.
From support to systemic change — this is MSSA’s journey. And we’re only just getting started.