Published
March 8, 2024
Case Study: Selma Blair Announces Remission from Multiple Sclerosis Following Hematopoietic Stem-Cell Transplantation
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Selma Blair, a renowned 49-year-old actor known for her roles in movies like “Cruel Intentions,” “Legally Blonde,” and “Hellboy,” announced that she is in remission from Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Diagnosed with the disease in 2018, Blair shared her positive prognosis during a panel at the Television Critics Association.
Having undergone hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation, a procedure that utilizes stem cells derived from bone marrow, peripheral blood, or umbilical cord blood, Blair expressed her relief at seeing the inflammation and lesions diminish over the course of about a year following the treatment. Initially hesitant to discuss her condition, she felt compelled to share her journey once she noticed significant improvements. According to the Mayo Clinic, MS is an autoimmune disease characterized by the immune system attacking the protective myelin sheath covering nerve fibers, leading to symptoms such as vision loss, pain, fatigue, and impaired coordination.
Despite her remission, Blair acknowledged the ongoing challenges of managing the disease, emphasizing the importance of maintenance, treatment, and coping with occasional setbacks. Speaking candidly about the cognitive changes she has experienced, Blair highlighted the documentary “Introducing, Selma Blair,” directed by Rachel Fleit, as a platform to share her story authentically. The documentary, set to debut in theaters on October 15 and stream on Discovery+ from October 21, captures Blair's journey with MS, including her medical emergencies during filming.
Blair's revelation comes in the wake of actor Christina Applegate's own MS diagnosis, underscoring the importance of raising awareness about the disease. Reflecting on her symptoms preceding her diagnosis, Blair admitted to carrying the burden of a chronic illness for years, though the official diagnosis came as a surprise. As a single mother to her 10-year-old son, Arthur, Blair credits him as a source of strength, particularly following the loss of her mother, Molly Ann Cooke, in May 2020. Hindered by the COVID-19 pandemic, Blair was unable to visit her mother in Michigan, prompting reflections on mortality and resilience.
Despite the challenges she faces, Blair finds solace in her newfound appreciation for life, remarking on her journey towards self-identity, boundaries, and time management. While she occasionally longs for a quiet recovery in her hometown of Michigan, Blair embraces her role as an advocate, leveraging her platform to offer support and encouragement to others navigating similar struggles. Through her resilience and determination, Blair embodies a message of hope and empowerment, inspiring others to confront life's challenges with courage and grace.
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