Sello Maphosa spent nearly 30 years living with unexplained symptoms before receiving a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.
Fatigue was the first sign. Then came numbness, weakness, and episodes that made daily life increasingly difficult. Over time, his vision deteriorated, and in 2009 he lost his sight completely. Still, no clear explanation was given. For years, doctors ruled out MS, in part because Sello is an African man and MS was not considered likely.
For Sello, the uncertainty was as hard as the symptoms themselves.
Born and raised in Potchefstroom in South Africa’s North West province, Sello was active from a young age and developed a deep love for sport, especially golf.
He went on to study at Wits University, completing a BCom degree followed by a Master’s in Business Administration. He built a career in banking and today works in relationship banking, supporting small businesses.
Throughout this time, his body was quietly working against him.
It was only in 2018, after decades of living with symptoms, that Sello finally received a formal MS diagnosis. The diagnosis brought mixed emotions, but above all, relief.
“Formal diagnosis was actually good for me,” Sello explains. “Life had been very tough because I did not understand what was wrong with me. I learned to understand myself. Being on treatment also helped. Before that, I was very hard on myself, thinking I was incompetent and useless.”
Looking back, Sello reflects on how damaging disbelief can be. “From 2010, doctors ruled out MS because they did not believe that an African can have MS. I was even told I was one of only two Africans in South Africa with MS. What a fallacy.”
The impact of delayed diagnosis affected many areas of his life. Cognitive challenges and memory difficulties made professional progression harder, and MS cost him opportunities and financial security over time. Completing his studies despite these challenges remains one of his greatest achievements.
“Studying was extremely difficult,” he says. “The cognitive issues and inability to concentrate were a major problem. Completing my degrees was a huge triumph.”
Today, Sello lives with both good days and difficult ones. While he can no longer play golf, he remains closely connected to sport, following matches from home. Outside of work, he enjoys cooking and often spoils his wife, Zandile, with homemade desserts.
Sello is passionate about raising awareness, particularly for men and people of colour who are still told that MS is unlikely or impossible.
His advice to others navigating diagnosis is grounded and generous.
“Do not be hard on yourself. Acceptance of your condition and circumstances is key. Read about MS, belong to a support group, and make sure your immediate support structure understands the condition. Mental resilience is very important.”
Sello’s story is a powerful reminder of why Patient Community Day matters. Across the world, people living with MS continue to face delays, disbelief, and isolation. When lived experience is shared, it creates understanding, shortens journeys, and helps others feel less alone.
Because being believed can change everything.
About Multiple Sclerosis South Africa (MSSA)
MSSA is the national voice for people living with MS in South Africa.
- Providing peer support, resources & referrals
- Advocating early detection, diagnosis & treatment
- Promoting equal access to care for all — regardless of race, background, or belief
- Amplifying the South African MS voice on global platforms
Blog courtesy of Multiple Sclerosis South Africa, a Patient Community Day Supporting Partner. View the original article here.