The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Bermuda will hold its annual medical symposium next month to spread awareness of the disease.

The event is open to the public, medical professionals and sufferers of MS who would like to learn more about the condition and support available on the island.

Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that targets myelin, the insulating covers of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.

The disease affects the nerves’ ability to transmit signals and results in vision problems, muscle weakness and a loss in sensation and control.

The symposium will be held at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute on March 7 and is free to all.

Medical professionals’ registration will run from 8am to 8.45am, while medical professionals’ sessions will take place between 9am and 12.30pm.

Sessions for the general public will take place between 1.30pm and 4.30pm, and will be opened by Tinée Furbert, the Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors.

Speakers will include Yosbelkys Martin Paez, a neurologist with Lahey Hospital & Medical Centre, Laura Safar, the vice-chairwoman of Lahey, and Jeffrey Bennett, a professor at the University of Colorado school of Medicine.

Carolyn Armstrong, the president of the MS Society of Bermuda, said: “The society is delighted to welcome this outstanding group of professionals to Bermuda to share their expertise.

“We look forward to welcoming all of those interested in learning more about multiple sclerosis and how we can better support a number of our residents who face the daily challenges that living with it brings. We look forward to seeing you there.

“In addition, we greatly appreciate the additional support being provided by Allshores, who are sponsoring the lunch, and the Lahey clinic hospital.”

Anyone who would like to attend must RSVP no later than March 2 by e-mailing carolynarmstrong416@gmail.com.