• From the Community
  • April 2, 2026

Kids Can Get MS Too: Frankie’s Story

Many in the MS community are familiar with the key stats:  

  • Canada has one of the highest rates of MS in the world.  

  • Over 90,000 Canadians live with MS. 

  • Women are up to 3X more likely to be diagnosed than men. 

  • Most people are diagnosed with MS between the ages of 20 and 49. 

But what we don’t hear often are the stories of children diagnosed with MS.  

For Erica, it’s something she knows all too well. Her son Frankie was diagnosed in 2024 at just 9 years old. 

“When Frankie was diagnosed with MS, we were scared and didn’t know what to expect. We weren’t sure what it meant for his future,” she shared. “I think he was suffering in silence for a while.” 

Since Frankie’s diagnosis, their family has made some lifestyle changes, “His diagnosis changed our lives. It’s made us more active and more intentional with the foods we eat,” Erica said. “We’re also a lot more patient if Frankie’s tired or not in the mood to do things.” 

When it comes to support, Erica joined a Facebook group for parents with children living with MS. It’s a space she can go to with questions, in addition to the reading and research she does on her own. 

Frankie and his mom, Erica, holding their framed MS Walk awards.

Erica, Frankie, and their family and friends participated in MS Walk last year for the first time, “We decided to get involved to raise more awareness that kids can get MS too,” Erica said. “Frankie is a funny, charismatic, and sweet boy. He’s always looking out for other people, so I was extremely grateful to see so many family members and friends show their support.” They were even awarded the largest team and most spirited, which was a memorable moment for Erica. 

When asked what she would say to someone considering participating in MS Walk for the first time, Erica said, “Just do it! It’s a positive event full of love and a day outdoors to support a good cause.” 

Frankie and his team at MS Walk.

Erica believes it’s important to continue fundraising to fuel research for new treatment options and ultimately, a cure. She’s hopeful that Frankie will see a cure for MS in his lifetime. 

For other parents navigating their young child’s diagnosis, Erica shared, “It’s going to be scary at first, but your child is going to be ok, and you will be too.” 

Continue reading for a little Q&A with Frankie and his friend, Sophia. 

Two young children in colorful hoodies smiling outdoors at a charity run event.

Frankie 

Can you tell us a little about yourself and what you like to do for fun? 

I like to play soccer, hang out with my friends, and sing. 

What’s something you wish other kids knew about MS? 

MS sucks and so does taking medicine every day. But I’m gonna be ok. 

What was your favourite part about MS Walk last year? 

I liked getting my awards. That was cool! I was also proud to see so many family members and friends support me. 

How does it make you feel knowing Sophia and other friends participated in MS Walk to support you? 

I was so happy Sophia joined us with a few other friends. She raised so much money for our team. 

What would you say to other kids who live with MS? 

MS doesn’t define who we are. We can still become anyone we want. 

Sophia 

Can you tell us about your friend Frankie and why you decided to take part in MS Walk to support him?  

My friend, Frankie, found out he had MS when he was 9 years old. He couldn’t be himself for a while. It must have been very hard for Frankie to go through lots of tests and treatments.  Now he looks much better, thanks to the treatments and medication he’s been taking.   

I decided to do the walk to raise awareness that kids get MS too. I also wanted to raise money for MS research to hopefully find more treatments and one day a cure.  

How do you hope your support made Frankie feel?   

I hope Frankie feels that with all the money we raised, there soon will be a cure for him and all kids with MS. I want kids to live a life without MS and be able to live the life that they’ve dreamed of.   

What have you learned about MS from Frankie?   

I didn’t even know what MS was or that kids could get it before it happened to Frankie. Frankie taught me that MS causes lesions in your brain and the brain can’t send messages to the rest of your body. This can make your muscles not function properly.   

What would you say to another kid who is thinking about joining MS Walk for someone they care about? 

I think they should do it because it’s always good to raise money for a good cause. We should always help when we can. 

Thank you to Erica, Frankie, and Sophia for sharing with us! 

Interested in making an impact for Frankie and the over 90,000 Canadians living with MS? Click here to register for an MS Walk in your area.  

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