Episode 99 – Taking on Briana Landis, MS activism & getting diagnosed at 4 years old

“How would you feel if everybody’s talking about you behind your back? You need to be talking to the actual patient.” Just days before our conversation for this episode, Briana Landis was on Capitol Hill advocating for the Multiple Sclerosis community and bringing real stories into rooms where decisions are made. Her work in Multiple Sclerosis advocacy continues to push for better research, access, and patient-centered care. This is nothing new for Briana. Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at just 4 years old, she has spent her life turning her lived experience into action. In this episode, Briana, now 28, shares what it means to grow up with MS, step into advocacy, and speak up in spaces where patient voices are often missing. We take a deep dive with Briana into: A behind-the-scenes look at advocating for Multiple Sclerosis on Capitol Hill Why patient voices must be part of healthcare conversations What it's really like growing up with MS and what still needs to change How small moments of advocacy can lead to real impact Briana does so much more than talk about advocacy. She lives it. And in doing so, she reminds all of us that our stories carry weight, especially when they’re shared in the right rooms, at the right time. Here are the links we referenced that offer further insights into our conversation: • Watch Briana’s TED Talk The Nerve to Synapse: Connecting as My Body Disconnects • Explore the details about the two priority issues that Briana and nearly 170 activists took to Capitol Hill in late March • Learn more about how you can share your voice and get involved with advocacy through the National Multiple Sclerosis Society • Donate to support Briana’s fundraising efforts for Briana’s Team at the Raleigh Walk MS event *** Remember to rate, review, and subscribe to A Couple Takes on MS Podcast for two insightful perspectives on this one multifaceted disease.