It took me by surprise, the 23-year-old recalled.
My arm felt heavy.
I didnt take much notice of it.
I urgently made my way to A&E (accident and emergency), Solice remembered.
The growing concern on the doctors faces made me aware of the severity.
However, doctors alerted the youngster that an inflammation with a sort of rash was visible on his brain.
I didnt realize I would lose complete mobility, Solice toldBored Pandain an email.
From then on, it went downhill.
As with other forms of multiple sclerosis, patients undergo acute flares.
The condition tends to have a rapidly progressive course but is not necessarily fatal.
Eventually, the disease can cause permanent damage or deterioration of the nerve fibers.
I was losing more of myself.
My mind slowly was deteriorating, and I couldnt do anything.
He described losing his speech as a terrifying experience.
Not even my yes[es] or nos were right.
Nevertheless, this wasnt the first time Solice faced a challenge specifically related to his body and identity.
As atransgenderman who is familiar with overcoming profound obstacles, Solice never gave up.
It wasnt until the end of the week [that] I received a clear diagnosis.
Balos concentric sclerosis, a rare variant of multiple sclerosis.
I would have to be patient, and that is what I did.
Hospitalized since April 15, 2024, Solice has had to put his studies on pause.
And more recently, the strong-willed mansharedsome positive insights, recording himself lifting heavy weights at the gym.
I am slowly getting better, Solice toldBored Panda.
He added: To compare where I was in the beginning, it is a massive improvement.
Some people experience periods of remission where symptoms lessen or disappear.
Famous people likeChristina Applegate and Jack Osbourne have opened up about living with MS.
Moreover, exogenous testosterone is used in transgender men to induce virilization and suppress feminizing characteristics.
I worried about [HRT causing MS], but it has been confirmed, Solice said.
Thanks to his platform, people have been able to relate and connect with Solices story.
I was in the wrong body, and no one understood the weight it had on me.
My mum suspended her own degree because she needed to support me.
Prior to his diagnosis, Solice described himself as very social and loved to meet new people.
I was heartbroken when I learned couldnt be there at my very own graduation.
I will learn how to navigate through life as a disabled person, he said.
I hope to form new connections with the MS community.
The basic element of privacy was a problem.
Being unable to speak meant I couldnt say end the door when it was visiting hours.
It has taken Solice two and half years to receivegender-affirming care.
After a grueling wait and countless referrals, I began testosterone.
Were sharing stories, raising awareness about health inequities and celebrating progress in research.
Pre-diagnosis, I struggled with my dysphoria and anxiety.
I cared too much about the little things, I was focused on wishing I could be someone else.
I have friends and family that love me for me.
Being patronized and talked down to was a common occurrence.
He added: I have come a long way.
Ive battled with dysphoria, depression, and anxiety.
Practicing healthy coping strategies and self-care.
The gym was a big part of my life it helped me build much-needed confidence.
Then it clicked: I didnt have to lose it.
I could find new ways.
When I look at it as a challenge, it drives me to overcome it.
It might look a little different, but thats the beauty of it.
I am excited for the journey its going to take me on.
I will continue to challenge myself.
My disability wont get in the way, and even if it does, I will find new ways.
It is just another obstacle to overcome.
Many people on social media have come in support of Solice
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