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Selma Blair Says She Is Often ''Misunderstood as Difficult or Drunk'' Due to MS

Selma Blair Opens Up About the Emotional Toll of Living with Multiple Sclerosis: 'I Often Cry, It's Not Easy'

In a candid and heartfelt revelation, actress Selma Blair has once again pulled back the curtain on her ongoing battle with multiple sclerosis (MS), sharing that the chronic condition frequently brings her to tears. Known for her roles in films like *Cruel Intentions* and *Legally Blonde*, Blair has become an outspoken advocate for those living with disabilities since her diagnosis in 2018. In a recent interview, she delved into the raw emotional realities of her life with MS, emphasizing that while she strives to maintain a positive outlook, the challenges are far from simple. "I often cry," Blair admitted, her words resonating with the millions who face similar invisible battles. "It's not easy, but I'm learning to navigate it day by day."

Blair's journey with MS began publicly when she announced her diagnosis on social media, a move that shocked fans and colleagues alike. At the time, she was in the midst of filming the Netflix series *Another Life*, and the symptoms—ranging from fatigue and mobility issues to cognitive fog—had already started to disrupt her daily life. Reflecting on that period, Blair described how she initially dismissed her symptoms as something less severe, perhaps exhaustion from her demanding career or the stresses of single motherhood. "I thought I was just tired or maybe it was something hormonal," she recalled. But as the symptoms worsened, including vision problems and difficulty walking, she sought medical help, leading to the life-altering diagnosis of relapsing-remitting MS, a form of the autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system.

Since then, Blair has been remarkably transparent about her experiences, using her platform to destigmatize chronic illnesses. In her memoir, *Mean Baby: A Memoir of Growing Up*, published in 2022, she chronicled not only her MS journey but also her childhood struggles, her rise in Hollywood, and the personal demons she's faced, including alcoholism and mental health issues. The book became a bestseller, praised for its unflinching honesty. "Writing about it was therapeutic," Blair shared in a previous discussion. "It allowed me to process the grief and anger that comes with a diagnosis like this." Yet, even with such outlets, the emotional weight persists. She explained that crying isn't a sign of weakness for her but rather a necessary release. "There are days when the frustration builds up—maybe I drop something because my hands aren't cooperating, or I can't keep up with my son the way I want to—and the tears just come," she said. "It's part of accepting that this is my reality now."

Blair's son, Arthur Saint Bleick, whom she shares with ex-partner Jason Bleick, is a central figure in her life and a major motivator in her fight against MS. Now 12 years old, Arthur has witnessed his mother's ups and downs, from using a cane for support to undergoing aggressive treatments like hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in 2019. Blair has spoken openly about how MS has reshaped her parenting style. "I want to be there for him, fully present, but some days my body just won't let me," she noted. This has led to poignant moments of vulnerability, where Blair admits to feeling like she's letting him down. However, she also highlights the silver linings, such as the deeper bond they've formed through adversity. "He's seen me at my lowest, and that has taught him empathy and resilience," she reflected. "We cry together sometimes, and that's okay—it's human."

Beyond her personal life, Blair's advocacy work has extended to public appearances and collaborations with organizations like the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. She's walked red carpets with her service dog, Scout, a constant companion who assists with balance and alerts her to potential falls. At events like the Vanity Fair Oscars party in 2019, where she made her first public appearance post-diagnosis leaning on a custom cane, Blair turned what could have been a moment of pity into one of empowerment. "I wanted to show that disability doesn't mean the end of glamour or fun," she said at the time. Her fashion choices, often incorporating adaptive elements, have inspired a wave of conversations about inclusivity in Hollywood. Yet, she doesn't shy away from the less glamorous side. In interviews, Blair has detailed the physical toll: the neuropathic pain that feels like "electric shocks" through her body, the fatigue that can sideline her for days, and the cognitive challenges that make memorizing lines or even simple conversations difficult.

One of the most challenging aspects Blair discusses is the unpredictability of MS. "You never know what the next day will bring," she explained. "Some mornings I wake up feeling almost normal, ready to take on the world. Others, it's a struggle just to get out of bed." This rollercoaster has forced her to reevaluate her career. While she's continued acting in projects like the 2021 film *Introducing, Selma Blair*—a documentary that intimately captured her HSCT treatment and recovery—she's selective about roles, prioritizing those that align with her energy levels and allow for accommodations. "Hollywood isn't always kind to those who need extra support," Blair pointed out, advocating for better representation and accessibility in the industry. Her experiences have also led her to connect with other celebrities facing health battles, such as Christina Applegate, who was diagnosed with MS in 2021. The two have formed a supportive friendship, often sharing tips and encouragement. "It's like a sisterhood," Blair described. "We laugh about the absurdities and cry over the hardships."

Emotionally, Blair has worked hard to cultivate resilience. Therapy, meditation, and a strong support network have been key. "I've learned to grieve the life I thought I'd have and embrace the one I do," she said. But she emphasizes that it's an ongoing process. "Crying is part of that grieving. It's not every day, but when it hits, I let it out. Suppressing it only makes it worse." Blair also credits humor as a coping mechanism, often poking fun at her symptoms on social media. Posts showing her using mobility aids or dealing with "brain fog" moments have garnered thousands of likes and comments from fans who appreciate her authenticity. "If I can make someone else feel less alone, then sharing my tears is worth it," she added.

Looking ahead, Blair remains optimistic about advancements in MS research and treatment. She's undergone various therapies, including chemotherapy as part of her HSCT, which put her MS into remission, though symptoms persist. "Remission doesn't mean cured," she clarified. "It's a management game." She's excited about emerging treatments like new monoclonal antibodies and stem cell therapies that could offer hope to others. In the meantime, Blair continues to live life on her terms—traveling when possible, spending quality time with Arthur, and even exploring new creative outlets like writing and producing.

Selma Blair's story is a testament to the power of vulnerability in the face of adversity. By openly discussing her tears and struggles, she's not only humanizing MS but also encouraging a broader dialogue about mental health and chronic illness. "It's okay to not be okay," she concluded. "And it's okay to cry about it. What matters is getting back up, even if it's with a cane or a friend's help." As she navigates this chapter, Blair inspires countless individuals to embrace their own challenges with grace, humor, and unfiltered honesty. Her journey reminds us that strength often lies in the willingness to show our most fragile sides. (Word count: 1,056)

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