This archive report was first published on 24 July 2019.
Actress Selma Blair has been open about her multiple sclerosis diagnosis since 2018, and in a recent interview with People magazine, she shared how her condition has impacted her 8-year-old son, Arthur Saint Bleick.
Blair, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at the end of 2018, has been using a cane for help with balance and has been sharing her experiences with her followers on Instagram. She has posted makeup tutorials, shown her emotional support animal, and even attempted to play tennis.
Her son Arthur has been a major part of her journey, and Blair says he's been a source of strength and support. "He's had to endure a lot; he's seen a lot," Blair told People magazine. "He says, 'Mommy's not sick. Mommy's brave.' "
Blair also shared a story about Arthur's love of surprise visits to his school, where he expertly handles all of his classmates' questions about why she may walk or talk differently. "He said, 'I love when you come to school because you make the kids laugh and you answer all their questions,'" Blair recalls.
Blair says she's learned that her son is proud of her, not embarrassed, of her health changes. "I explain what's happening and that my voice doesn't hurt, and we have really decent exchanges," she says. "I had no idea Arthur was proud of that. I thought 'I'm probably an embarrassment,' but to know I'm not was one of my proudest moments."
Blair says she strives to be a positive example for Arthur, and to not focus on the negative parts that MS has brought. "This is it. The only life we get," she says. "My disease isn't a tragedy, but I tell myself, 'You're going to live in a way that would be an example for yourself and your son.' "
Blair also spoke about her co-parenting arrangement with Arthur's father, fashion designer Jason Bleick, who she dated between 2010 and 2012. "He's shown up in a big way. I'm really proud of us," she says.
