In a candid Instagram post, actress Selma Blair revealed that she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis after experiencing symptoms for years.
The "Cruel Intentions" and "Legally Blonde" star said she received her diagnosis on Aug. 16 after a friend encouraged her to see a doctor.
"I have had symptoms for years but was never taken seriously until I fell down in front of him trying to sort out what I thought was a pinched nerve," Blair wrote. "I have probably had this incurable disease for 15 years at least. And I am relieved to at least know. And share."
Multiple sclerosis is a disease that affects the central nervous system and interferes with the communication between the brain, spinal cord and the rest of the body, according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Symptoms vary but can include difficulty walking, numbness, muscle spasms, weakness, vision impairment and fatigue.
Blair wrote that she is "disabled" and sometimes "drops things, ... and my left side is asking for directions from a broken gps."
She added: "But I will do my best."
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Blair shared her story along with a photo of herself in wardrobe for "Another Life," an upcoming sci-fi drama for Netflix. Blair expressed "the deepest gratitude" for her costumer, who she said "carefully gets my legs in my pants, pulls my tops over my head, buttons my coats and offers her shoulder to steady myself."
The actress said she wanted to offer hope to others suffering from the disease, "and even to myself."
"I have MS and I am ok," she said. "But if you see me , dropping crap all over the street, feel free to help me pick it up. It takes a whole day for me alone. Thank you and may we all know good days amongst the challenges.
