Selma Blair's MS Journey: From Cane to Carpet

Selma Blair, known for her roles in movies like "Cruel Intentions" and "Legally Blonde, " recently made an appearance at the Elle Women in Hollywood event. She showed up in a stylish white dress and heels, leaving behind her walking cane and service dog, which had become her companions over the past few years due to multiple sclerosis (MS). "I've been feeling much better this past year, " she shared. "I'm back to work and have some exciting things to announce soon. " Blair opened up about her MS diagnosis in 2018, crediting her improvement to a bone marrow treatment and changes in her medication. She hadn't expected her health to turn around so positively. "I felt so weak and the symptoms made it hard for me to go out, " she recalled. "I didn't think I'd ever feel this strong again. "

Her advocacy for people with disabilities continues to be a significant part of her life. "You don't realize how important visibility is until people thank you, " she said. "Even a simple 'thank you' for making them feel seen means a lot. " Blair presented the Norman Lear-Geri Jewell lifetime achievement award to Michael J. Fox at the event. She praised Fox for his support when she was diagnosed with MS, recalling his visits and encouragement despite the challenges of her home's accessibility. Fox, known for his role in "Back to the Future, " was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at the age of 29 in 1991. He publicly announced his condition in 1998 and founded the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research two years later. Blair highlighted Fox's work in advancing treatments for Parkinson’s, noting that his foundation has raised billions for research. She also mentioned the 2023 documentary "Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie, " which follows Fox's journey with his disease. Fox accepted the award virtually, urging the audience to remember that the disabled community has a lot to offer. The 2024 Media Access Awards will air on PBS SoCal and other local stations, as well as be available for streaming on the PBS app.

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