As part of the global observance of World MS Day, the Multiple Sclerosis Society of India (MSSI), Chennai Chapter, organised a public awareness initiative titled “Walk in My Shoes” on Thursday, 14th May 2026, at Express Avenue Mall, Royapettah, Chennai. Conducted in line with the international theme “Navigating MS Together,” the programme aimed to create awareness about Multiple Sclerosis (MS), encourage empathy towards persons living with MS, and strengthen community support.
The programme began with a warm welcome by Mrs. Archana Ganeshan, Committee Member, followed by Tamil Thaai Vazhthu rendered by Miss Smitha Sadasivan, Committee Member. Mrs. Ann Gonsalvez, Hon. Secretary and Founder Member, Chennai Chapter, delivered the welcome address. Mrs. Archana Ganeshan also introduced the panel of distinguished guests, who were formally honoured with shawls by MSSI members
Prof. Dr. A. Nithyanandam, Head of the Department of Neurology, Government Multi Super Speciality Hospital, Omandurar, delivered the keynote address. He shared valuable insights into Multiple Sclerosis, emphasising the importance of early diagnosis, timely treatment, rehabilitation, and continued support for persons living with neurological conditions. Awareness reels portraying the lived experiences and resilience of persons with MS were also screened, helping the public better understand the challenges faced by PwMS.
The programme also featured addresses by Ms. Adhilakshmi, Advocate and Secretary, Women’s Advocate Association, High Court, Chennai, who spoke about legal rights, accessibility, and inclusive support systems for persons with disabilities. Chief Guest Mrs. M. Lakshmi IAS, Commissioner, Department for the Welfare of Differently Abled Persons, Government of Tamil Nadu, appreciated the efforts of the MSSI Chennai Chapter and reiterated the Government’s commitment towards accessibility, inclusion, and welfare initiatives for persons living with disabilities and chronic neurological conditions.
Informational leaflets in Tamil and English were distributed to visitors at Express Avenue Mall to further spread awareness about Multiple Sclerosis. The programme concluded with tokens of appreciation for the speakers, followed by the Vote of Thanks delivered by Mr. Ashokan, Committee Member.
The event brought together over 100 Persons with MS (PwMS), caregivers, volunteers, and members of the public, creating an inclusive platform for awareness and dialogue. Through “Walk in My Shoes,” the MSSI Chennai Chapter reinforced the importance of awareness, empathy, and collective action in supporting persons living with Multiple Sclerosis.
