By Angel Blair

It can be a truly powerful thing. Yes, sometimes it’s not easy. It can make you feel uncomfortable, unsure, and anxious. But eventually you find that it is absolutely necessary in order to take care of yourself and to put your needs first. It’s finding your voice and using it when situations call for it. It’s self-advocacy, and it is a crucial part of life. Advocating for yourself is a monumental task and one that elicits various outcomes and feelings. An admirable trait that when executed effectively, can evoke feelings of pride and content. 

For individuals living with MS or another chronic illness, self-advocacy becomes a vital part of the disease journey. From diagnosis to treatment and care, speaking up for your needs, expressing concerns, and asking questions are necessary components to ensure quality care. There may come a time where you have to question a provider, seek another opinion, or say no in response to something regarding your health. These aren’t always easy to accomplish. But you’ll find that because you know yourself and your body best, it’s essential to make others understand what your needs are. 

To do this you have to use your voice, even when others try to shut you down. Sometimes this can feel like a fight, and saying speak up is easier said than done. But if you don’t, you may end up questioning more things than you’d like and wondering how things could have looked differently. The MS disease course can be so unique to those affected that it requires individual accounts, personal perspective, and self-assertion when needed. 

It’s hard not to question or doubt yourself if others protest or show doubt in you. It takes belief and faith and proves to be a job in itself. Having trust in the self-advocacy process is difficult. And though it proves to be a struggle sometimes, it’s worth the fight if it leads to what’s best for you and your care. Ensuring you’re being cared for in the best way possible is the ultimate goal and what you rightfully deserve.