Member since: 2/1/2008
After a 17 year run on television, I was saddened to hear that Montel Williams, a prominent day-time TV talk show host, is ending production on his show because of increasing problems associated with his Multiple Sclerosis. Montel won a Daytime Emmy award in 1996 for his work on the nationally syndicated talk show "The Montel Williams Show."
Montel went public with his diagnosis in 1999 and quickly became an MS advocate. He used his celebrity status to raise money and awareness for MS. According to his official website, "he established the Montel Williams MS foundation to further the scientific study of MS, provide financial assistance to select organizations and institutions conducting research, raise national awareness, and educate the public.”
Montel talked often about MS on his show and was never shy about discussing his fear, frustration and pain. During the 8 years since his diagnosis, Montel, like so many others in the MS community, has struggled with the disease. However, lately he has endured increasing problems.
"Montel is quitting his show because he's starting to see signs his disease is progressing. The weakness in his arms and legs is increasing. He's worried that he'll have problems while taping a show." (Source)
Unlike most people with MS, Montel's job involved being filmed for a national television audience. He is no longer able to hide some of the debilitating effects that MS is causing on his body.
"Montel said he doesn't want that captured on tape, so he wants to step down while he's still relatively healthy." (Source)
In addition to his work to better the lives of those living with MS, Montel was also very outspoken about the war in Iraq and the soldiers fighting in it. Additionally, he is the national spokesman of the Partnership for Prescription Assistance (PPA), a patient-assistance program that helps low-income patients apply for free or reduced-priced prescription drugs. (Source)
While I am sad to see Montel end his show, I am so grateful for his work in advancing awareness for Multiple Sclerosis. His work has single-handedly helped me and so many others fighting this disease across the world. I wish Montel the best in his own battle with MS and realizing the hope for a cure.
Links:
Montel Williams Official Website
Montel Williams Show
Montel Williams MS Foundation
My first reaction, I'm ashamed to say, was "Excellent, the less daytime TV the better!" Unfortunately, I doubt they'll replace it with anything but another talk show, so I'll share in your unhappiness that Montel- among the best of that category and a great advocate for awareness- is retiring. I hope his health improves with less stress.
I'm like Veralidaine, my first reaction was, maybe Sylvia Brown will stop hurting people, now. But you're right, this is a sad thing. He has done far more for MS research and awareness than anyone else. Thanks for posting this.
As an MSer, I appreciate the work he has done, and I understand while he does not want his disease progression documented on TV. I hope he continues his mission.
Good luck, Montel, and good health.
hi daniel, i wish him the best too. [you too] hopefully some of that research will be able to help you soon. :) xoxo
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