Support center
Community Stories
Testimonials
MSA patients
“Looking for clarity, I searched the internet and…found [Mission MSA]. I learned how to cope with this incurable, progressive disease through [Mission MSA] conferences. I also learned how we all cope differently with our symptoms. Shared patient stories gave me courage and hope. It allows us to give back to other patients through our own stories. This is not a forgiving disease, and we have all lost so much already. We do not want to be pitied. What we get from [Mission MSA] is empathy, prayer and hope which we all give to each other. Laughter is there sometimes as well, which can be an important part of our therapy. MSA assaults the body in many unthinkable ways. I urge you to help us find a treatment and a cure.”
“What do you do when you are diagnosed with a rare, terminal, neurodegenerative disorder with no cure? Struck down in my early 50s with children still at home, and a career I loved but could no longer function at the same level? All the internet searches were so disheartening and most doctors have no experience with it which delays diagnosis and symptom management by years. I found [Mission MSA] and there were other people like me all over the world! This international group advocates for research, fundraising and provides support for patients and caregivers. This organization has given me hope.”
“I was diagnosed with MSA back in 2014. Although it’s a very difficult experience, I have been supported by my wife, my family, friends, care partners and [Mission MSA] which has been right with me seeking new treatments and therapies all along. [Mission MSA] has funded many studies and is working hard to eradicate MSA. Please help them however you can.”
“I donate and host fundraisers for [Mission MSA] in honor of my father Drew D’Angelo’s memory. The lives of everyone in my family were directly affected by my dad’s battle with MSA, so I know first hand how hard it is. My hope is all funds raised will be donated to research for a cure, and therapies/medicines/support for those impacted by MSA. There are people out there like me, who will do whatever they can to help. I know my dad would be proud of my efforts. We won’t ever give up!”
“For patients and caregivers battling a disease like MSA, organizations like [Mission MSA] make all the difference. Access to a community of other individuals facing the same diagnosis and the unknowns that come along with it, rely on each other to make it through. The resources available are invaluable in the navigation of the diagnosis and the disease’s progression.”
“For patients and care [partners] battling a disease like MSA, organizations like [Mission MSA] make all the difference. Access to a community of other individuals facing the same diagnosis and the unknowns that come along with it, rely on each other to make it through. The resources available are invaluable in the navigation of the diagnosis and the disease’s progression.”
The Power of Your Story
Every shared experience offers comfort and strength to our global community. Whether you wish to offer a deep reflection or a quick piece of advice, your contribution helps ensure that no one navigates the complexities of MSA alone.
Share a Testimonial
Providing a testimonial is a powerful way to highlight the impact of Mission MSA’s programs and resources. By sharing how our support groups, research initiatives, or educational materials have assisted you or others in your life, you help us demonstrate the vital nature of our mission to donors and new community members alike. These accounts are essential for showing the real-world difference that dedicated support makes in the lives of those affected by MSA.
Feature Your Story
Your experiences can serve as a beacon of hope for those at different stages of their journey with MSA. By contributing a written narrative or a 90-second horizontal video, you help others feel supported and connected, providing the encouragement needed to face challenges with resilience. We invite you to use our suggested prompts to share how MSA has shaped your life, the milestones you’ve reached in fundraising, or the importance of community support. Your insights may be featured on our blog or in future efforts to educate and inform others about the reality of MSA.
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How has your life been impacted by multiple system atrophy?
What have been the primary challenges you have navigated, and what strategies have helped you manage them?
What specific activities or practices do you engage in to maintain your well-being and stay hopeful?
What message or piece of guidance would you like to offer to others affected by MSA?
If you have participated in fundraising for Mission MSA, what did you find most rewarding about that experience?
As a patient or care partner, what do you value most about Mission MSA’s role in your life?
What is one thing you wish someone knew about the reality of MSA?
What is the best piece of advice you have received since your journey began?
Is there a specific product, recipe, or adaptive tool (such as specialized silverware) that has made your daily routine more manageable?
What would you like to say to the people who fundraise for or donate to Mission MSA?
Offer Quick Insight
Sometimes, the most impactful support comes in the form of a single piece of advice or a practical tip for daily life. We invite you to share a brief quote or a “life hack” that has made a difference in your routine—whether it is a piece of wisdom you’ve received, a specific adaptive tool that simplifies a task, or the one thing you wish the general public understood about MSA. These short contributions are perfect for social media and email, helping us spread awareness and practical help one insight at a time.
Driven to Help
“I just want to make it to Christmas,” Austin Crawford says, as he fights a battle he can’t win with never-ending courage, drive, and of course flair.
Watch a recording of the premiere film screening of Driven to Help, a 55-minute documentary featuring the story of Milford resident Austin Crawford and his ongoing battle with Multiple System Atrophy. Join Austin in his 1970 Dodge Dart as he drives home the message that no matter how much is taken away, there’s still more to give, whether that’s at a local car show, tattoo parlor, or to his thousands of followers on TikTok.