Alan Osmond has died aged 76 following a long-running battle with multiple sclerosis (MS), a serious neurological illness that can sometimes begin with symptoms that seem minor.
Osmond was diagnosed with MS in 1987 and lived with the condition for decades.
Multiple sclerosis is a disorder that affects the brain and nervous system, with symptoms that can vary widely from person to person.
Although there are treatments that can help reduce flare-ups and manage day-to-day impacts, there is currently no cure, meaning people typically live with MS for life.
Over the years, Osmond spoke openly about his experience and said his faith helped him cope.
The singer said: “I was on stage and couldn’t raise my right hand. I trusted my Heavenly Father. You have to have opposition in life – this was my test.”
He added: “I may have MS, but MS does not have me!”
Confirming his death on April 20, Osmond’s family paid tribute to the way he approached the illness and the time he spent supporting others.
In a statement after his death on April 20, Osmond’s family said: “His positive outlook was an inspiration to many, and he donated much of his time speaking at MS events, encouraging individuals like himself on how to mentally and physically deal with the advancement and treatment of the disease.”
Because MS impacts the central nervous system, it can be difficult to predict how it will show up in any one person, and two people may have very different symptoms and progression.
That unpredictability can also make MS harder to identify early on, as some signs can look like other, more common issues.
MS is generally not considered a terminal illness, and many people diagnosed with it go on to live long lives, particularly with the right medical support.
Still, certain symptoms may be easy to dismiss or attribute to something else. The Mayo Clinic has highlighted a range of signs that can be associated with MS.
One possible symptom is problems with coordination, which might present as clumsiness or unusually awkward movement.
Changes to eyesight, including blurry vision, can also occur—though this can point to many conditions, not just MS.
Another common complaint is fatigue, where a person feels persistently exhausted even after adequate rest.
As MS disrupts nerve signals, it can also affect speech, sometimes leading to slurring or difficulty speaking clearly.
Mood changes are another symptom that can be misunderstood, as they may be linked to many health issues, including mental health conditions.
MS is complex and wide-ranging. While it cannot be cured, many people are able to manage symptoms through treatment, monitoring, and ongoing support.
Anyone experiencing symptoms they’re worried about should speak with a doctor.