The Multiple Sclerosis Society of India (MSSI), Chennai Chapter, observed India Multiple Sclerosis Day 2026 on Sunday, 1st February 2026 at 3:00 PM at the YWCA of Madras, Poonamallee High Road, Chennai, in alignment with the national theme #AcceptAdaptAchieve. The event aimed to raise awareness about Multiple Sclerosis (MS), strengthen community support, and celebrate the resilience and achievements of Persons with Multiple Sclerosis (PwMS).
Around 60 PwMS and caregivers, along with volunteers and members of the Chennai Chapter, participated in the program, making it a warm and meaningful community gathering.
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- Audience View
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- A full house audience
The event began with a welcome address by Mrs Ann Gonsalvez, Hon. Secretary & Founder Member, MSSI Chennai Chapter. She highlighted that Mrs. Meenakshi Nandakumar, Committee Member, had been nominated as one of the India MS Icon 2026 nominees, recognising her active contribution to the MS community through collaborations and engagement at national and global levels. However, she was placed as Runner–up with Mrs Krante Munje of the Mumbai Chapter as the India MS Icon 2026.
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- Mrs.Ann Gonsalvez’s speech to the audience
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- Committee Members
This was followed by an insightful talk by Mrs. Archana Ganesan, Committee Member, who spoke on the significance of India MS Day and elaborated on the theme Accept, Adapt, Achieve. She explained how acceptance of MS, adaptation to daily challenges, and recognition of personal milestones empower PwMS to lead meaningful and fulfilling lives.
A major highlight of the event was the screening of video and audio stories shared by PwMS from across Tamil Nadu. These narratives reflected their journeys of acceptance, coping strategies on difficult days, and personal growth and achievements after living with MS. The heartfelt stories resonated deeply with the audience and beautifully reflected the spirit of the theme. In appreciation of their participation, the Chennai Chapter presented a token of gratitude to the contributors.
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- Accept, Adapt, Achieve Videos by our PwMS telecast to the audience
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- PwMS presenting his video and interacting with the audience
The formal session concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Mrs. Chitra Ramachandran, Committee Member, who acknowledged the efforts of all speakers, participants, caregivers, volunteers and organisers.
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- Token of love for the PwMS who contributed to the video telecast
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- Committee on India MS Day 2026
Following the program, attendees enjoyed high tea and a birthday celebration for members Divya, Saranya, Kuberapandian & Pratha born in the month, fostering bonding, interaction, and a strong sense of community.
India MS Day 2026 reaffirmed MSSI Chennai Chapter’s commitment to advocacy, awareness, accessibility, and continued support for Persons with Multiple Sclerosis.
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- Birthday Celebration
