My story with MS, however, began in 2021. It took me some time to adjust and accept my new reality. During that time one thing became clear; I didn’t have many opportunities to speak with other young people living with MS.
That opportunity finally presented itself in 2022. By then, MS had helped me to become a stronger and better version of myself. Feeling confident again, I began to search for information about MS. That’s when I discovered the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform. To my surprise, they had a group specifically for young people with MS. Without hesitation, I sent an email.
Young People’s Network
A month later, I found myself at the airport in Barcelona, catching three planes to a small village in Lithuania for the first post-pandemic meet-up of the Young People’s Network (YPN). I was nervous and didn’t know what to expect. Little did I know, however, that this meeting would mark the beginning of an entirely new chapter in my life.
In 2023, I was fortunate enough to attend the young people’s festival in Helsinki. It was a two-day event bringing together people living with MS from all over Europe. Later, I also participated in the European Youth Event at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, representing EMSP YPN. We presented a project called ACT! Activists Cut Through.
This human library featured YPN members sharing their personal stories, connecting them to themes such as health, security, and the planet. The event was a success, particularly because of the young audience who resonated with our stories. It left me feeling inspired and more determined to continue advocating for change.
2024 brought more opportunities for advocacy. As a YPN member, I was selected to join the youth group of the European patient forum, where I proudly represent the voice of young people living with MS.
That same year, I join the community advisory board of the European Federation of Neurological Associations. These roles allow me to advocate for the MS community at an EU level and push for meaningful change.
A new chapter
Life took a new direction in 2025 when the opportunity I was looking for finally arrived - my voluntary and professional journeys finally came together. In January, I packed up and moved to Brussels to start my new role at EMSP in the capacity of membership and community engagement coordinator.
I’m responsible for leading communication with our member organisations, as well as overseeing the membership capacity building programme. I also have the privilege of leading the Young People’s Network, a project I feel deeply connected to.
I’m excited to continue strengthening and growing this network. We are currently working on several initiatives, including the Let’s Talk MS Podcast (which you can already tune into on Spotify and Apple Music).
To any young person living with MS, I highly recommend connecting with your local MS society and meeting other young people in your area. The support you gain from these connections can be life changing.
Amplify your voice
If you're looking to further advocate for your rights, I warmly invite you to join the Young People’s Network. Together we work to amplify our voices, learn from each other, and implement meaningful change within our local communities.
If you want to learn more or get involved, don’t hesitate to reach out at anna.revilla@emsp.org.
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