Multiple sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis is a disease that impacts the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves, which make up the central nervous system and controls everything we do. The exact cause of MS is unknown, but we do know that something triggers the immune system to attack the CNS. The damage to myelin, the protective layer insulating wire-like nerve fibers, disrupts signals to and from the brain. This interruption of communication signals causes unpredictable symptoms such as numbness, tingling, mood changes, memory problems, pain, fatigue, blindness and/or paralysis. Everyone’s experience with MS is different and these losses may be temporary or long lasting.
MS Research & Stigma
Evren's goal through our fundraising efforts is to support science breakthroughs to end MS and identify everyday solutions that change the lives of people with all forms of MS. Although the cause of MS is still unknown, thanks to global research efforts, we’ve already seen some immense successes. For instance, these research efforts have led to faster, more accurate diagnoses of MS, shortening the wait for answers, and offering earlier treatment, which may help prevent nervous system damage. Another breakthrough example is research that has helped identify some of the genes that contribute to MS susceptibility — a key in understanding the cause and how to prevent MS.
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Most people with MS experience social stigma as a result of their MS, a stigma which has been linked to poorer quality of life and depression. Several MS symptoms can make people feel stigmatized, such as difficulty walking, speech problems, cognitive difficulties and visual problems. Evren plans on tackling this through education. More specifically, we are launching various community outreach events within the University of Calgary campus to promote an increased awareness regarding MS.