Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an unpredictable, often disabling disease of the central nervous system — the brain and spinal cord. The disease attacks the protective myelin covering of the central nervous system, causing inflammation and often destroying the myelin in patches. In its most common form, MS has well defined attacks followed by complete or partial recovery. The severity of MS, progression and specific symptoms cannot be predicted at the time of diagnosis.

• Canadians have one of the highest rates of multiple sclerosis in the world.

• MS is the most common neurological disease affecting young adults in Canada.

• Women are more than three times as likely to develop MS as men.

• MS can cause loss of balance, impaired speech, extreme fatigue, double vision and paralysis.

• Every day three more people in Canada are diagnosed with MS.