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International Women's Day is a time to recognize the achievements of women across the globe, especially those who dedicate themselves to lifting others up. Among these women are the leaders of multiple sclerosis support groups — women who have stepped forward to create safe, understanding spaces where individuals navigating MS can find solace, strength, and solidarity. Their efforts are vital in fostering community, and educating and advocating for those affected by MS.

Desire' Covaleski

Dawn Golda

Marianna Malveaux

Brandie Wheeler

Monica Proctor Wilson

For many of these women, leadership was not necessarily a planned path, but rather a calling that emerged from the need to keep these essential groups alive. Dawn Golda, leader of Journey In MS (J.I.M.S.), stepped up when the previous leader could no longer continue. "We recognized how valuable the group was as a resource for those living with MS and didn't want to see it dissolve due to a lack of leadership," she said. 

Similarly, Marianna Malveaux, who leads MS Warriors of Southwest Louisiana, was drawn to the role out of a deep desire to encourage and uplift others. "This role has helped me stay positive no matter what may be going on," she said.

An extended family

Women in these groups don't just lead; they create spaces where members feel understood. Support groups remind us that no one is alone in their MS journey. "The women in our group uplift each other by offering advice, sharing coping strategies, and simply listening," Golda said. 

Malveaux said sometimes, laughter is the best medicine: "We do crazy things and just have to stop and laugh at ourselves before moving on." These bonds create a support system where women can be vulnerable, celebrate victories, and weather challenges together.

For Brandie Wheeler, a member of We're F**kin MS Warriors, the sense of community has been life-changing. "This group is my family. The support and love I get from fellow members are beyond words." Having once struggled with mobility, she turned to writing, reclaiming her ability to put pen to paper and now sharing daily inspirational quotes with the group. "I love it when someone tells me how much they needed to see that particular quote. It reminds me that even the smallest encouragement can make a huge impact."

Monica Proctor Wilson, leader of SPEAK MS, takes a unique approach, referring to her group as a self-help group rather than a support group. "The word 'support' can sometimes be condescending, while 'self-help' gives us power over our being," she said. "Our group is like an extended family, with members ranging from 18 to 80 years old across the U.S. and Canada. We stay connected beyond meetings, checking in on one another throughout the week."

Leadership, education, and advocacy

The challenges faced by MS support group members are vast — navigating healthcare, battling isolation, and managing fluctuating symptoms. "One of the hardest things is helping people understand that MS affects each person differently," said Desire' Covaleski, co-founder of We're F**kin MS Warriors. "Symptoms vary so much, and getting members to embrace that uncertainty can be difficult, but it's also what makes support groups so important. We can share resources and help guide each other through it." 

Wilson echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that one of the most challenging struggles for her group members is getting family and friends to understand the silent symptoms of MS. "To assist with these challenges, SPEAK MS invites guest speakers to our meetings and even holds a Family and Friends Awareness group to help educate loved ones about MS and its impact on relationships."

Beyond emotional support, these women are also dedicated to education and advocacy. "A big misconception about MS is that everyone with it is in a wheelchair or walks with a cane. That's not always the case," Malveaux said. "Our group pushes one another to be their own advocate, to know what they want and need at all times." Wilson said another major misconception is that looking good means you must not have a severe form of MS. "MS is often invisible, and it doesn't mean someone isn't struggling just because they look well."

The role of female leadership in MS advocacy is ever-evolving. "Women bring a strong sense of empathy, collaboration, and resilience to these spaces, which are essential qualities in building supportive communities," Golda said. "As more women lead these efforts, there's an opportunity to amplify diverse voices and ensure that the needs of those affected by MS are met with understanding and compassion." 

Malveaux sees women as the backbone of these movements: "Whether it's running a support group, caring for children, or leading in the workplace, women with MS prove every day how strong they are."

Living life differently

For those newly diagnosed, the advice is unanimous — reach out and connect. "You're just living life a little bit differently now," Malveaux said. Wheeler added, "Strength comes in numbers, and everyone in this group has your back." 

Wilson encourages newly diagnosed women to join a self-help group and surround themselves with those who have been through the journey. "Stay away from 'Dr. Social Media' and only use reputable sources like MS Focus, the National MS Society, and Can Do MS," she said. "Build a team — including an MS specialist, physical therapist, psychotherapist, and self-help group — to support you along the way."

Resilience takes on different meanings for each of these women. "At one time, I thought resilience meant being strong, but I've learned that some situations don't allow for resilience, and that's okay. I've learned to forgive myself when I can't push through," Wilson said. She finds it encouraging that MS advocacy organizations recognize her leadership and invite her to participate in their efforts.

International Women's Day provides an opportunity to recognize these women and the communities they have built. Their leadership is a testament to the power of connection, resilience, and the spirit of those who refuse to let MS define them. "You are an important person in this world," Malveaux said. "MS is just one part of your story — but you are here to stay."