In 2005, Janice Dean, the beloved Fox News senior meteorologist and co-host of Fox & Friends, faced a life-altering moment. At the age of 35, she received a diagnosis that would change her world: multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic autoimmune disease that attacks the central nervous system, often causing unpredictable symptoms like numbness, fatigue, and difficulty walking. For many, such a diagnosis might cast a shadow of despair, but for Janice, it became the starting point of an extraordinary journey—one marked by resilience, hope, and an unwavering commitment to inspiring others. Twenty years later, her radiant smile and tireless advocacy for MS warriors have made her a beacon of light for millions. But what fuels her unyielding spirit? The answer lies in a blend of personal strength, family love, and a mission to transform fear into hope.

A Diagnosis That Shook Her World

When Janice first heard the words “multiple sclerosis,” she was gripped by fear. MS is a disease that affects over 2.3 million people worldwide, with symptoms that can range from mild to debilitating. Most commonly diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50, it disproportionately affects women, striking two to three times more often than men. The disease damages myelin, the protective layer around nerves, disrupting communication between the brain and body. For Janice, the uncertainty was overwhelming. She recalled the darkness of those early days, searching for stories of others who were thriving despite MS but finding little to cling to. “Getting a diagnosis of MS was very dark,” she later shared, reflecting on her desperate need for hope.

Yet, even in those moments of fear, Janice’s innate optimism began to shine through. She refused to let MS define her. Instead, she embarked on a journey to understand her condition, seeking out treatments and stories of resilience. Books by public figures like Richard Cohen, Teri Garr, and Montel Williams, who also live with MS, offered her glimpses of possibility. Their experiences showed her that a fulfilling life was still within reach, and she resolved to carve her own path forward.

Turning Pain into Purpose

Janice’s journey with MS has been anything but easy. Over the past two decades, she has faced flare-ups—periods when symptoms worsen—that tested her physical and emotional strength. One particularly challenging moment came in 2019, when she shared a selfie on the Fox & Friends set during an MS flare-up, revealing the invisible struggles she faced behind her signature smile. The response was overwhelming. Fellow Fox personalities and viewers alike hailed her as a “beacon of strength,” inspired by her courage to be vulnerable. This moment solidified her decision to go public with her diagnosis, a choice she made in 2008 after initially keeping it private. “I don’t want to be the poster girl for this disease,” she said, “but I do want others with it to know they are not alone.”

Her openness has transformed her into a powerful advocate for the MS community. Through her platform at Fox News, where she has worked for over 20 years, Janice has raised awareness about the disease, sharing insights into her treatments and lifestyle changes. She has also used social media to connect with others, posting about infusion days, World MS Day, and her interactions with fellow “MS warriors.” In one poignant post, she wrote about her son’s teacher, Mrs. Klein, who also has MS and inspired Janice to talk openly with her children about her condition. These connections have fueled her mission to spread hope, showing others that MS is not a death sentence but a challenge that can be faced with courage.

The Power of Family and Faith

At the heart of Janice’s resilience is her family. Married to Sean Newman, a New York City firefighter, since 2007, she credits their partnership as a cornerstone of her strength. Together, they have two sons, Matthew and Theodore, who bring joy and purpose to her life. Janice often shares glimpses of her family on social media, celebrating milestones and cherishing everyday moments. When she was first diagnosed, she feared MS might rob her of these dreams—marriage, motherhood, a thriving career. Yet, with Sean’s unwavering support, she has built a life that defies those early fears. “Family is my greatest asset,” she has said, a sentiment that echoes through her story.

Faith has also played a pivotal role in her journey. A touching moment came when her Fox & Friends co-anchor Ainsley Earhardt prayed with her during a difficult time, envisioning divine protection over Janice. This spiritual support, combined with the encouragement of her work family at Fox, has helped her navigate the unpredictable waves of MS. Her neurologist, Dr. Tracy DeAngelis, calls her a “warrior” who refuses to let MS dictate her life, a testament to the inner strength bolstered by those around her.

A Career That Defies the Odds

Janice’s professional achievements are nothing short of remarkable. As Fox News’ senior meteorologist, she delivers weather forecasts with a warmth and professionalism that have made her a household name. Her role on Fox & Friendsand contributions to Fox Weather showcase her expertise, honed over decades in broadcasting. Born in Toronto, Canada, on May 9, 1970, Janice began her career as a bylaw enforcement officer before transitioning to journalism. Her rise to prominence at Fox, where she joined in 2004, is a testament to her determination—a quality that MS has only strengthened.

Despite the challenges of MS, Janice has adapted her lifestyle to maintain her health and career. Regular infusions, a treatment that helps manage flare-ups, are part of her routine, and she approaches them with the same positivity she brings to her broadcasts. In 2021, she wrote about the potential for an MS vaccine, expressing excitement about advances in treatment that could halt the disease’s progression. “There is still no cure for MS,” she noted, “but there is a much better forecast for those of us managing the disease.” Her optimism reflects a broader shift in MS care, with new therapies offering hope to patients worldwide.

Inspiring a Global Community

Janice’s impact extends far beyond the studio. Her advocacy has connected her with countless individuals affected by MS, from those newly diagnosed to long-time warriors. She has participated in events with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, which funds research and provides resources for patients. Her message is clear: together, the MS community is stronger. “Even if we don’t have a cure for this, there is certainly the hope that we can stop the progression altogether,” she has said, rallying others to remain hopeful.

Her story resonates because it is not just about surviving—it’s about thriving. Janice’s radiant smile, a hallmark of her on-air presence, is more than a professional asset; it’s a symbol of her refusal to let MS dim her light. Whether she’s forecasting a storm or sharing a personal milestone, she embodies the idea that life’s challenges can be met with grace and determination. Her journey has inspired others to embrace their own battles, proving that hope can flourish even in the face of adversity.

A Legacy of Hope

As Janice Dean marks 20 years since her MS diagnosis, her story is a powerful reminder that fear can be transformed into something beautiful. Through her advocacy, she has given voice to the struggles and triumphs of the MS community, showing that no one fights alone. Her family, faith, and career have anchored her, but it’s her relentless spirit that truly sets her apart. “I remain optimistic and #mostlysunny,” she wrote in a recent post, a phrase that encapsulates her approach to life.

What continues to fuel Janice’s unyielding spirit? It’s the love of her family, the support of her community, and her determination to make a difference. Her journey is a testament to the power of hope—a force that can light the way through even the darkest storms. For Janice Dean and the millions of MS warriors she inspires, the forecast is clear: with resilience and love, anything is possible.