Arfa supports multiple sclerosis patients in the Kingdom with million-dollar efforts
In a move reflecting its unwavering commitment to improving the lives of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients in Saudi Arabia, the Arfa Multiple Sclerosis Association in the Eastern Province announced significant achievements within its unique "Be Strong for Yourself" program in its sixth season. The campaign successfully reached over 1.8 million beneficiaries and provided direct support to 1,050 individuals living with MS, thanks to the community efforts of 1,039 volunteers.
General context: Multiple sclerosis and the role of non-profit organizations
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It results from the immune system attacking the myelin sheath that insulates nerve fibers, leading to disrupted communication between the brain and the rest of the body. Symptoms vary greatly among patients and may include extreme fatigue, difficulty walking, vision problems, and cognitive challenges. Amidst this silent suffering, the role of community organizations like the Arfa Association emerges as a vital component of the healthcare system, working to bridge gaps and provide psychological, social, and awareness support that complements the work of medical institutions.
“Be Strong for Yourself” Program: Vision and Goals
The “Be Strong for Yourself” program was launched in 2021 under the generous and ongoing patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Saud bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz, Governor of the Eastern Province, and with the support of governmental and private entities. This strategic project aims to highlight the magnitude of the challenges faced by individuals with multiple sclerosis and to provide effective means to improve their quality of life. The association revealed that it has provided a comprehensive package of health, awareness, and consultative services to more than 1,050 people with multiple sclerosis, reflecting its institutional commitment to supporting this group and removing obstacles in their lives.
Importance and impact: From local to global
The program's impact wasn't limited to the local level; it resonated nationally and internationally. Locally, field activities covered public and private hospitals, shopping malls, and entertainment venues, in addition to advertising screens throughout the Eastern Province, ensuring the awareness message reached a broad segment of society, estimated at over 1,809,702 beneficiaries. Globally, the program garnered international attention in 2022 by entering the Guinness World Records for creating the largest multiple sclerosis (MS) logo using 1,012 umbrellas, thus placing the issue on the global map. The association further solidified its leading role in the medical field by organizing the first MS conference in the Kingdom in 2023, with plans to launch the second edition in 2025, further cementing the Kingdom's position as a center of knowledge and research in this field. Program organizers affirmed their commitment to their humanitarian mission, striving to build a more informed society and achieve a sustainable impact that improves the lives of people living with MS.
