A story of courage, motherhood, and choosing joy every day
Born in Johannesburg as the youngest of three, Tina Angelos grew up surrounded by brothers who toughened her spirit and sharpened her resilience early in life. She later qualified as a pharmacist and then pushed herself even further, earning a business degree from WITS. Ambitious and determined, Tina built a thriving career — first as a Business Strategist, then a Management Consultant, and finally in Financial Services.
But during her last corporate role, she began to feel that something was not quite right. Wanting better balance and more time with the people she loved, she made the decision to join her family’s group of companies. It was there, in 2005, that her life shifted dramatically: she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at just 30 years old.
Facing MS Head-On
At the time, MS was far less recognised than it is today, and treatment options were limited. Tina reacted poorly to the medication available — a regimen of multiple weekly injections that left her feeling as though she had full-body flu.
Yet she refused to let MS define her.
“I am madly in love with life, so I decided I would not let MS rule mine — easier said than done.”
The physical, emotional, and lifestyle adjustments were immense, especially early on. But Tina kept showing up, day after day, choosing to keep living boldly and fully.
Motherhood: A Journey of Hope and Heartbreak
When Tina decided it was time to grow her family, MS added layers of complexity. She stopped her treatment, grateful to escape the harsh side effects — but this came with its own painful consequences. Over several years, she endured seven miscarriages and multiple MS flares.
Eventually, she realised that even the strongest among us need support. With renewed determination and the right help, Tina and her family welcomed two healthy boys through surrogacy.
Today, she is the proud mother of two sons, aged 9 and 11.
“Being a mom is the best gift from God.”
She balances motherhood with running the Industrial Sector of her family’s companies, often travelling locally and internationally for work.
Life is full, demanding, and deeply meaningful — just the way Tina likes it.
Finding the Right Treatment — and Stability
As she continued educating others about MS in her early years of treatment, Tina realised she needed a specialist who truly understood the disease. She found a new neurologist and shifted to monthly IV infusions.
It was life-changing.
“I’ve been on my infusion for 12 years and am currently in NEDA — no evidence of disease activity. I’m incredibly grateful.”
Her lesions remain — a reminder of the storm she has weathered — but there has been no deterioration.
A Life Anchored by Movement, Mindset, and Support
Tina thrives when she is moving. She swims, walks in nature, and proudly swims at MSSA events to help raise awareness and funds. Heat worsens her symptoms, so she keeps her movement light and intentional.
When indoors, she turns to crime shows, business reads, and the sacred ritual of morning coffee.
But what truly keeps Tina grounded is her commitment to mental well-being.
“Your mindset is everything. You need constant emotional and mental support.”
She works closely with a psychiatrist, attends monthly appointments, and adheres to her medication plan — not out of weakness, but out of wisdom.
“I take my antidepressants so I can be the best version of myself. No one can do this journey alone.”
She also speaks openly about MS — with friends, colleagues, and family — because she believes education reduces misunderstanding and creates safer spaces.
And above all, she practices kindness toward herself.
“Only you know exactly how you feel. Give yourself solitude. Don’t feel guilty about taking time for yourself.”
Her Message to Others Living With MS
Tina believes that while each MS journey is unique, people with MS share powerful common experiences. Her advice to anyone navigating MS is simple, compassionate, and practical:
“Lean on one another. Reach out to people you trust. Ask direct questions. Take control of what you can — and for the rest, let the process take its course.”
Tina’s life is a testament to courage, purpose, and choosing joy even when the path is steep. Through her commitment to her family, her career, her mental health, and her MS community, she shines as a powerful example of what it means to live — truly live — with MS.