Clay Walker – Opens Up About His Multiple Sclerosis

Clay Walker was diagnosed with the degenerative disease back in 1996. At the time, the diagnosis was devastating to the country star. He was at the top of his game and career. But the dignosis was truly devastating.

Our thanks to The Biloxi Sun-Herald for coverage of these quotes

“I was told that I would be in a wheelchair in four years and dead in eight years,” Walker said.

With five number 1's, a fourth album in the can and the birth of a new daughter, the diagnosis could not have come at a worse time. Clay originally knew something was wrong when he felt persistent tingling on his ride side and had facial spasms. The diaanosis was like a death sentence for a 26-yearold.

Now, the good news, after treatment, Clay has been in remission for 13 years. And counting.

With a persoonal stake in the outcome of research to conquor MS, Clay started the non-profit organization called Band Against MS 8 years ago.

“If I’d been diagnosed five or 10 years before, I might not be able to walk right now,” he said. “The people who came before me had enough drive to get together the research that allowed me to be in remission. I want to take it to the next level.”

“Four hundred fifty thousand people in the U.S. have the disease, and half of them aren’t even doing anything about that,” Walker said. “That’s epidemic to me.”

He understands the hopelessness that comes with failed therapies, but said, “If one doesn’t work for you, don’t stop there. We know that MS can do a lot of damage unprotected.”

Even with his hectic schedule and his still pursuing a singing career, Clay wants to dedicate as much time as he possibly can to making people aware of MS and also to helping fund research as much as he possibly can.

I find it inspiring that he has a life's purpose. I'm also happy to know that the remission seems to be lasting. I'm sure I'm joined by many, many of Clay's fans in hoping he keeps on keepin' on.

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