Selma Blair: Son, MS, and Strength

Selma, who many of us know and love from iconic roles like Elle Woods, is navigating life with multiple sclerosis, a journey she was diagnosed with in 2018. As reported by PEOPLE, she recently spoke at the Forbes Power Women’s Summit, and her words were incredibly moving. She shared how her teenage son, Arthur, whom she co-parents with ex-boyfriend Jason Bleick, is not only a source of pride but also her caregiver at times. It’s a powerful testament to the bond between a mother and son, especially when facing significant health challenges.
What struck me most was her candidness about being a single mom while managing MS. She mentioned to Today how fatigue was always a primary concern, and as any parent, particularly a single one, knows, there’s simply no room for extra exhaustion. It makes you wonder how she finds the strength. Blair herself acknowledges that she’s had to actively seek out others for advice, asking, "How do you do this?" when raising Arthur. Now, she says she’s "in a good spot," which is wonderful to hear.
Her perspective on her illness is particularly inspiring. She doesn't view her disease as a tragedy. Instead, she tells herself, "You're going to live in a way that would be an example for yourself and your son." That's a profound outlook, isn't it? It’s about finding purpose and living fully, regardless of obstacles. Arthur, in turn, seems to deeply admire his mom's bravery, and he even shared a sweet, slightly humorous detail about her giving him Call of Duty points. It just goes to show that even in the face of adversity, everyday moments and connections shine through.
This sort of personal strength resonates deeply, much like how fashion can be a form of mood-lifting. Jonathan Simkhai, for instance, is designing a spring collection aimed at bringing joy and ease, drawing inspiration from California's coastal living and vintage vibes. He mentioned to Vogue that he wants his clothes to make people feel good and provide them with "armor to take on the day." It’s a beautiful parallel, isn’t it? How different aspects of life, from personal resilience to creative expression, can offer us ways to navigate the world with grace and optimism.
In a world that often feels overwhelming, stories like Selma Blair's remind us of the power of perseverance and love. What lessons do you think we can all take away from her remarkable journey?