SENATORS’ STATEMENTS — Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month

Honourable senators, I rise today to recognize Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month and to pay tribute to the thousands of Canadians living with multiple sclerosis, or MS.

MS is a chronic neurological disease that affects the brain and spinal cord, and for many people, it changes the course of their lives at a time when they are building careers, families and futures. Its effects are often invisible, but they are deeply felt in homes, workplaces and communities from coast to coast to coast.

May is an important time to raise awareness, but for people living with MS, awareness must lead to understanding, support and action every day. Canada continues to face one of the highest rates of MS in the world, which makes this issue especially important for us.

Behind every diagnosis is a person adapting to uncertainty, fatigue, mobility challenges, pain and the emotional burdens that can accompany a disease that is often unpredictable. Behind every person is a family, a circle of friends and a network of caregivers who are also affected.

I want to acknowledge the dedication of MS Canada, researchers, clinicians, volunteers and advocates — including our own Senator Mary Coyle — who work tirelessly to improve outcomes for those living with the disease. Their efforts have helped to advance research, strengthen support services and give a voice to Canadians who, too often, must navigate their illness quietly and with great resilience.

I also want to recognize the courage of people living with multiple sclerosis, or MS, who continue to work, parent, study, serve and contribute in so many ways while managing a serious health condition.

As legislators, we have a responsibility to support better access to diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and community-based care. We must also continue to invest in research because scientific progress offers hope not only for better treatment but for a future with fewer limits and greater possibilities. Awareness is important, but it is not enough on its own. It must lead us to practical measures that improve quality of life and reduce barriers for those affected.

Colleagues, in closing, I want to thank all those who wear the red carnation in solidarity with the MS community. Let us stand with Canadians living with MS, not only in recognition of their challenges but in support of their strength, dignity and hope.

Thank you. Meegwetch.