“Has anyone been cured yet?”

This is a common question we often hear. Deep down, we all sense that there is an answer somewhere. Many of us have tried various approaches, whether it be a healthy diet, regular exercise, or even oxygen therapy.

We hear inspiring stories of people who have managed to reverse their diabetes, kidney issues, and even certain types of cancer. It’s uplifting. Many of us personally know someone who has overcome seemingly insurmountable health challenges, and we believe in their journey. However, when someone claims to have been cured of multiple sclerosis (MS), it feels unsettling.

The word “cure” often brings with it a multitude of perceptions—misleading, laughable, or outright lies. This is understandable, as the idea of a cure can evoke strong emotions. Throughout history, individuals have faced backlash for challenging widely accepted beliefs, and the notion of a “cure” can threaten existing misconceptions. Before delving further, let’s clarify what “cure” means.

**Cure** To relieve a person or animal of the symptoms of a disease or condition.

The real question is: How far are you willing to go to cure the disease? This fear of missing out on a potential solution can be overwhelming.

The concept of “cure” has been manipulated throughout history, ranging from temporary distractions to permanent harm. Somewhere in between, patients have emerged healthier.

For decades, we have witnessed the benefits of various therapies: psychological, physiotherapy, light therapy, oxygen therapy, stem cell therapy, Ayurvedic therapy, vitamin therapy, diet therapy, and more. Yet, determining what will truly work for us remains elusive. Many of us have not seen any changes in our MRIs over the years. While the MS isn’t progressing, our symptoms appear to be worsening. It can feel like there is no hope for a cure. But, if MS is diagnosed based on the lesions in my brain, and if my neurologist tells me that immunosuppressants are effectively stabilizing those lesions, isn’t that a form of a cure? Or is that merely referred to as disease-modifying therapy (DMT) so that patients continue taking it?

Many individuals within this community have chronic lesions that haven’t changed for years, yet these individuals no longer visit their neurologists or take immunosuppressive medication. Should they claim to have “permanently modified their disease” or even cured it?

The market for MS treatment is projected to reach $30 billion soon, primarily due to immunosuppressive drugs, followed closely by muscle relaxants and CNS depressants such as SSRIs, SNRIs, and benzodiazepines. An army of neurologists prescribes immunosuppressants without assessing whether a patient has active autoimmunity and often without discussing the high dependency and side effects of these medications, which can mimic MS symptoms in the long term. The market is strong, and so is the rhetoric: No cure! Here’s the DMT.

Groups like this one were created to raise awareness. If we were completely satisfied with our neurologists, we wouldn’t be here. We gather to share information about potential ways to modify the disease without causing the harm that neurologists might overlook.

Every patient has the right to express their feelings, whether related to their illness or what has helped them feel better. Many members here have explored unconventional treatments, and some have experienced life-changing benefits. However, they often fear sharing their experiences and are worried about being ridiculed.

So, why isn’t there a cure for MS yet?

Because we often recoil at the mere mention of the word. Corporate interests thrive on lucrative markets. The MS market surged from $20 billion before COVID-19 to an estimated $30 billion, with projections of reaching $40 billion in the next decade. Naturally, more resources are devoted to managing MS rather than eliminating it. While “cure” may not be a welcome term, increasing awareness is critical. More young people are being diagnosed with MS, and like any other disorder, early detection can lead to better outcomes. Instead of dismissing those who claim to have found relief, we should listen to their stories. What they experienced may not align with the interests of the expanding MS industry.

It’s essential to recognize that the views expressed here are not necessarily representative of mainstream medical or scientific perspectives. While the financial aspects of healthcare and the significance of patient experiences are valid discussions, developing effective treatments and potential cures for complex diseases like MS requires rigorous scientific processes involving extensive research and clinical trials.

We must reestablish our understanding of MS from a reparative perspective rather than just a pharmaceutical one. Education leads to safety and efficacy. These communities often contain more diverse patient experiences than conventional clinical trials. We must encourage open dialogue. We need to listen and learn, as no one can advocate for us better than ourselves.