Your Guide to MS Support Services in South Africa

by Community | May 28, 2025 | Free Resources, Uncategorised

Every year on May 30th, the global community comes together to mark World Multiple Sclerosis Day, a time to raise awareness, challenge stigma, and amplify the voices of those living with MS.

World MS Day is more than a date on the calendar, it’s a worldwide movement of solidarity, a call for better access to care, and a celebration of resilience.

What is Multiple Sclerosis?

MS is a chronic illness of the central nervous system, affecting the brain and spinal cord. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering of nerve fibers (myelin), causing inflammation and disrupting communication between the brain and the rest of the body.

MS affects over 2.8 million people globally, with varying symptoms depending on the area and severity of nerve damage.

Where to Find Help and Support in South Africa

Whether you’re newly diagnosed, a caregiver, or looking to support someone living with MS, help is available:

Multiple Sclerosis South Africa (MSSA)

www.multiplesclerosis.co.za
Regional branches in Gauteng, Western Cape, KZN, and Eastern Cape – 0860 45 67 87
Offers education, support groups, access to resources, and advocacy for MS patients.

South African MS Facebook Groups and Forums

Search for private support groups like:

• MS Warriors South Africa
• Living with MS in SA 

Neurology Departments at Major Public Hospitals

Access diagnosis, treatment plans, and referrals for further care:

• Groote Schuur Hospital (Cape Town)
• Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital (Johannesburg)
• Steve Biko Academic Hospital (Pretoria)
• Inkosi Albert Luthuli Hospital (Durban) 

How You Can Help This World MS Day

Raise Awareness

• Share stories, facts, or the official hashtag #WorldMSDay on social media.

Donate or Fundraise

• Support MSSA or individuals raising funds for mobility aids, treatment, or daily living needs on platforms like BackaBuddy.

Wear Orange on May 30

• Orange is the global colour of MS awareness. Wear it proudly and spark conversations.

Living with MS can be an uphill journey, but no one has to walk it alone. By increasing awareness, strengthening support networks, and advocating for better care, we can help people with MS live fuller, more empowered lives.

Recognising World Parkinson’s Day – A Call to Support, Understand, and Empower Those Impacted

by Community | Apr 11, 2025 | Free Resources, Uncategorised

April 11th marks World Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Day, a moment to unite in solidarity, educate the public, and highlight the voices of individuals and families navigating life with this complex neurological condition.

Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a progressive disorder of the nervous system that affects movement. It develops gradually, often beginning with a barely noticeable tremor in just one hand, and can eventually impact speech, mobility, and daily function. But more than its visible symptoms, Parkinson’s often brings invisible battles with mental health, fatigue, and emotional well-being.

In South Africa, thousands of individuals live with Parkinson’s Disease, and yet, awareness remains limited. Many people go undiagnosed or face delays in receiving proper care due to lack of information, financial constraints, and limited access to neurological specialists, especially in rural and underserved communities.

Living with Parkinson’s in South Africa requires navigating unique challenges. Access to neurologists, medication, and therapy can be limited outside major cities. Many caregivers also lack support and information.

But there is hope!

Local support networks, online forums, and awareness campaigns are empowering individuals to speak up, seek help, and break the silence around the condition. Initiatives that promote exercise, mental health support, and community care are helping people with Parkinson’s live full, meaningful lives.

How You Can Help

Whether you know someone affected by Parkinson’s or simply want to be part of the solution, here’s how you can make a difference:

• Learn and Share: Use your voice and social media to spread awareness this Parkinson’s Day.
• Support Local Organisations: Donate or volunteer with Parkinson’s ZA or similar groups.
• Be Kind and Patient: Offer compassion to those living with Parkinson’s, it goes a long way.

Start a Campaign on BackaBuddy

This Parkinson’s Awareness Day, consider launching a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy to support someone living with Parkinson’s or raise funds for vital services like therapy, transport to treatment, or medication.

Whether you’re a caregiver, friend, family member, or advocate, creating a campaign is simple, and every donation can help someone live with more dignity, comfort, and hope.

Create your campaign today: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/auth/signup

Resources & Support

• Parkinson’s Association of South Africa: Website: www.parkinsons.co.za, Phone: +27 21 447 9350, Email: [email protected]
• Facebook Groups: Search for “Parkinson’s Support South Africa” to join active online communities.
• Therapeutic Services: Consider physiotherapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy, all of which can greatly improve quality of life.

Parkinson’s Disease may be a lifelong diagnosis, but with early intervention, support, and awareness, people can thrive and find strength in community. Let’s commit to building a more inclusive South Africa, one where no person living with Parkinson’s walks alone.