A University of Central Oklahoma music professor's struggle with multiple sclerosis will be featured in a PBS documentary airing next week.
The documentary on Jim Klages, "Healed: Music, Medicine and Life with MS," airs at 9pm on July 8 on OETA.
The film tells the story of Klages — an accomplished musician and cornet soloist for the United States Marine Band— who was slated to perform at former President George H.W. Bush's inauguration in 1989.
But Klages woke up that morning to an unusual, unshakeable tingling in his left arm which led to a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, the autoimmune disease that affects the brain and spinal cord.
The film documents Klages' illness, love of music and path toward recovery. As Klages’ story is shared widely this summer and into next year on PBS stations throughout the country, he hopes that his story of hope will resonate with those who watch it.
“I want to encourage people facing things that seem impossible. We’re not abandoned in those times. I want to give hope — that was my thought from day one,” Klages said.
