New documentary depicts Selma Blair’s struggles with MS

New documentary depicts Selma Blair’s struggles with MS

'Introducing, Selma Blair' details the US actress' journey with the condition as she undertakes stem-cell treatment.

Actress Selma Blair announced her diagnosis to fans in October 2018. (Reuters pic)
LOS ANGELES:
In October 2018, Selma Blair announced to her fans that she had been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, an incurable debilitating neurological condition in which the immune system eats away at the protective covering of nerves.

New documentary “Introducing, Selma Blair” details the American actress’ journey with the condition and follows her as she undertakes stem-cell treatment.

The film shows Blair at her rawest, depleted by chemotherapy and consumed by her condition. Director Rachel Fleit said the crew worked around Blair’s symptoms.

“I was very much aware that my subject was also not feeling well, so we wouldn’t do 12-hour days, we’d get these short chunks of time together.

“She’d let us know when it was time to go, but no matter what the state was, the crew was there. Selma was available and open and willing to film, which was amazing,” she said.

Blair had advice for people who have been diagnosed with the condition.

“Don’t just say, ‘Oh, it’s not happening’. Have patience. It might not go away overnight but there are disease modifiers. Try not to worry. This is your body giving you a gift sadly of telling you to slow down.”

“Introducing, Selma Blair” is currently in limited release in cinemas in the United States and will stream on Discovery+ from today.

Stay current - Follow FMT on WhatsApp, Google news and Telegram

Subscribe to our newsletter and get news delivered to your mailbox.