June is Myasthenia Gravis Awareness Month

Kawartha Lakes – June is Myasthenia Gravis (MG) Awareness Month, a time to learn about a rare and often misunderstood disease that affects the body’s muscles. Myasthenia Gravis is a long-term autoimmune disorder that causes extreme tiredness and serious muscle weakness. It can make everyday things very difficult: like walking, smiling, talking, or even breathing.

On June 9, the lights at City Hall in Lindsay will shine purple in recognition and support of Myasthenia Gravis Awareness Month.

What is Myasthenia Gravis?

Myasthenia Gravis (MG) happens when the body’s immune system attacks the communication between the brain and muscles. This prevents muscles from working properly. MG can affect anyone, but it’s most common in women under 40 and men over 60. Because symptoms vary from person to person, MG is often called a “snowflake disease.”

Common Symptoms

People with MG may experience:

• Drooping eyelids
• Double vision
• Trouble smiling, breathing, or swallowing
• Muscle weakness in arms and legs
• Tiredness that doesn’t go away with rest

Is There a Cure?

Right now, there is no cure for MG. But there are treatments, like medication and surgery, that help many people manage their symptoms. Rest often helps improve how a person with MG feels, but the condition can change from day-to-day.

Why Awareness Matters

MG can be hard to diagnose, and many people live for years without knowing what’s wrong. It’s also an “invisible illness,” meaning someone may look healthy on the outside but still struggle every day. That’s why it’s important to build understanding and kindness.

“People with MG are so much stronger than their weakest moments,” say advocates.

Learn More

To learn more about Myasthenia Gravis, visit the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America at myasthenia.org. You can find information on symptoms, treatments, support groups, and the latest research.

Let’s work together to raise awareness, offer support, and make life better for those living with MG. This June, we can help people understand a rare disease that makes everyday life harder for people living with MG.

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