MS Connection Fall 2014

Fall 2014 Southern CaliFornia & nevada Chapter

MS ConneCtion newSletter

inSide thiS iSSue

09SpeCial eventS

04reSearCh

14prograMS ConneCtion

17SelF-help groupS

get Moving For your Future ConneCt with FitneSS ClaSSeS planning ahead Story page 6 Story page 15

2 MS connection: fall 2014

new beginningSThe fall season reminds me of new beginnings and to take time to practice gratitude. We have many great opportunities this quarter to connect with others on important topics such as financial wellness, healthy living, and networking. Whether you join us in person through a support or self-help group, attend one of our programs, or connect online, the National MS Society is here to help you find the information and resources relevant to you.

The 2014-2015 academic year has begun, which means Scholarship Program applications will be available soon (see page 8). The Society funds academic scholarships for promising individuals affected by MS, and many of our scholars go on to do incredible work in the fields of medicine, physical therapy, advocacy, and more! We continue to see great strides in research on progressive MS (see page 4) and look forward to sharing and building our resources for wellness, including fitness classes (see pages 6 & 7).

Our jam-packed fall event season comes to a close with our new Bike MS Coastal Challenge: Santa Monica to Santa Barbara (Oct. 11 & 12) and our first ever MuckFest MS Los Angeles (Oct. 25). We’re already excited for Walk MS 2015 and will be opening registration in November. We hope you will join us for this incredible event that connects our MS communities across the country.

As we transition into cooler weather, know that the National MS Society is always walking beside you and grateful to have you as our partner in creating a world free of MS. n

ConneCt with uS online:www.nationalMSsociety.org/CAL

Like us: facebook.com/MSsoutherncal

Follow us: twitter.com/MSsoutherncal

Watch us: youtube.com/MSSoCalChapter

letter FroM the preSident

the SoCiety’S proMiSe around reSearCh iS Clear: Stop diSeaSe progreSSion, reStore what’S been loSt, and end MS Forever. addreSSing the ChallengeS oF everyone aFFeCted by MS requireS a SiMilar FoCuS - and proMiSe.

3nationalmssociety.org/cal | 1-800-344-4867

national Multiple SCleroSiS SoCietySouthern California & Nevada Chapter 5150 W. Goldleaf Circle., Ste. 400 Los Angeles, CA 90056 1-800-344-4867

Chair: Kim Phillips Chapter President: Susan Bradley Editor: Emily Hazlett

© 2014 National MS Society, Southern California & Nevada Chapter; Published Quarterly—Fall 2014

Information provided by the Society is based upon professional advice, published experience and expert opinion. Information provided in response to questions does not constitute therapeutic recommendations or prescriptions. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society recommends that all questions and information be discussed with a personal physician.

The Society does not endorse products, services or manufacturers. Such names appear here solely because they are considered valuable information. The Society assumes no liability for the use or contents of any product or service mentioned.

SMith’S CoMMunity rewardSThe National MS Society has teamed up with Smith’s Food and Drug in Nevada as part of the Smith’s Community Rewards Program. Smith’s contributes more than $220 million annually in funds, food, and products to support local communities.

The Smith’s Community Rewards program makes fundraising easy! Shoppers who enroll just have to shop and swipe their rewards card and a portion of their bill will be donated back to the National MS Society! Smith’s Community Rewards is offered in Southern Nevada (#81541) and Northern Nevada (#60436). To enroll, please visit www.smithscommunityrewards.com or call Angela VanBrackle at 702-736-7272.

ChriStMaS in renoThe Friends of the National MS Society in Reno, NV received a donation of artificial Christmas trees. The trees are free for people with MS. If you are interested in one of the trees, please call 775-323-3311.

bringing help and hope to our nevada CoMMunitieS


reSearCh

prioritieS in MS reSearChThe National MS Society has committed $50 million in research for 2014, the highest allocation of research funding in Society history. While pursuing all promising paths to stop MS in its tracks, restore lost function, and end the disease forever, we are focused on three priority areas: progressive MS, nervous system repair, and wellness and lifestyle factors. Learn how these research programs are driving solutions in Southern California & Nevada:

progreSSive MSIn progressive stages of MS, there are few or no relapses, and few or no recovery or remission periods when major symptoms improve. While there are currently no treatments for progressive MS, the landscape is rapidly changing: • Large clinical trials are going on right now,

including tests of Tysabri, Gilenya, and more.

• MS organizations around the world are working together through the International Progressive MS Alliance to speed up the development of treatments.

• Researchers are also working to understand what drives progression and how to stop it. These efforts include advanced imaging and lab studies seeking to define and track the full measure of MS disease activity as well as stem cell research.

• Researchers are reporting success using novel exercise and rehabilitation techniques to improve walking, reduce fatigue, reduce disability due to dizziness, and improve learning and memory in people with MS.

nervouS SySteM repairNervous system repair was just a dream a few years ago, but now holds significant promise as a strategy to restore function and reduce or stop MS progression. Today, the Society is supporting 87 research projects in this priority area. In California institutions alone, over $2.6 million in research dollars were dedicated to nervous system repair projects. Researchers are focused on:• Finding ways to promote natural capacity

for repair;• Exploring potential stem cell therapies;• Protecting the nervous system from further

damage with potential therapies;• and tracking repair.Achieving success in this priority area could allow us to restore neurological function for people with all types of MS, including progressive forms of the disease.


wellneSS & liFeStyle FaCtorSIncreasing evidence suggest that wellness and lifestyle factors help influence whether a person develops MS, and may also influence disease course and quality of life. Some candidates include looking at smoking as a factor that can increase MS risk and progression; understanding the association between obesity in teenage girls and increased MS risk; and associating vitamin D levels, increased through sunlight exposure or foods such as fatty fish, with reduced risk of MS.

Recently, researchers have reported significant progress with some of the wellness and lifestyle studies. Weight training, for example, has

been shown to improve walking and quality of life. A 6-week balance and eye movement-focused exercise program improved balance, reduced fatigue, and reduced disability due to dizziness or disequilibrium in a group of people with MS. And strong evidence shows that cognitive rehabilitation improves learning and memory, and also benefits other aspects of quality of life.

Finding SolutionS, Changing liveSThese are just a few examples of the exciting and promising research projects going on right now to continue to help people with MS live their best lives. We look forward to sharing another research update at our Annual Meeting in January 2015. n

Featured reSearCh StudieSMultiple Sclerosis Ancestry StudyThe University of Southern California MS Comprehensive Care & Research Group is working to learn more about ancestry in MS. As part of the research effort, we are creating a registry of patients diagnosed with MS of Hispanic background. Participants enrolled in the registry will complete a one-time questionnaire and donate a one-time blood sample. Qualifying participants must be diagnosed with MS, of Hispanic/Latino descent, and 18 years of age or older. For more information or to participate, please email [email protected] or call 323-442-6870. You may also visit http://keck.usc.edu/mscenter.

Estriol Study for Women with MSThe University of California, Los Angeles is looking for women for a 12-month study looking to see if there is cognitive improvement with the treatment of oral estriol as compared to oral placebo. Qualifying participants are women, 18-50 years old, diagnosed with definite relapsing-remitting, secondary-progressive, or primary-progressive MS, and on a stable dose of standard MS treatment or no treatment. If you are interested, call Jenny Bardens at 310-206-2176 for information and a 20-minute telephone screening to determine eligibility.

Stay tuned for more Clinical Trials and Research Studies in the Winter 2014/2015 edition of MS Connection.


Staying aCtiveAs research suggests, leading a healthy and active lifestyle is one of the key factors for people with MS to live their best lives. We are pleased to feature fitness classes throughout the Southern California & Nevada Chapter that are specifically designed for people living with MS and other neurological diseases. n

Channel iSlandSGentle Yoga for MS Two gentle yoga classes per week are offered for free for individuals with MS as part of a collaboration with the local National MS Society Office.

Mondays & Wednesdays 11:00 am - 12:00 pm Vista del Monte Fitness & Aquatics Center, Santa Barbara Contact Jeanette Chian at 805-682-8783 ext. 68103 for more information.

FreSnoKnow the Self: An Introduction to Yoga & MS COIL Yoga offers a 2-hour journey into the potential that yoga has to offer in enriching our lives. In this workshop we will discuss the practice of yoga and how it complement and assist those living with MS. This class is designed for people with MS who are able to walk (alone or with a cane) and are able to move from a chair to the floor by themselves.

Saturdays October 18, November 1, and November 8 11:00 am - 1:00 pm COIL Yoga, Fresno Pre-registration is required. Please call 559-270-4709 to register, or visit coilyoga.com.

greater loS angeleS

Feldenkrais Method of Movement Education This movement class, taught by Carolyn Garfinkel, consists of a series of subtle exercises where you learn to free yourself of habits that cause tension, stiffness, and pain; improve posture, flexibility, coordination, balance, and breathing; gain renewed energy, vitality, and relaxation; and more!

Tuesdays 2:30 pm - 3:30 pm Studio City Library, Studio City Contact Carolyn Garfinkel at 818-870-2332 for more information.

living with MS

Send uS your FavoriteS!If you have a favorite fitness instructor, fitness facility, or other class that you like in your community, send them our way! For every referral you send, you will be entered into a drawing to win a deluxe Adidas Duffel Bag!

Please email Tiffany Jordan at [email protected] with your fitness referrals.


inland eMpireYoga for People with MS Join us for a 6-week session of yoga classes designed for people living with MS. This class series will introduce you to the concepts of yoga while providing specific adjustments, based on your physical needs.

Mondays November 3 to December 15 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Pomona Valley Health Center, Claremont Contact Yehudit Coutin at 951-235-1117 or [email protected] for more information.

Kern CountyMove to Improve This class, designed specifically for women with physical limitations, is a low-impact, low-intensity and semi-private training program. A typical class begins with light cardio, followed by a series of strength, core, and posture exercises perfomed mostly in a chair. Every class concludes with stretching.

Tuesdays & Thursdays 10:30 am - 12:00 pm Total Woman Fitness, Bakersfield Call 661-589-8931 for more information.

northern nevadaYoga for MS Join us Monday evenings for an adaptive yoga class designed specifically for people living with MS and other neurological diseases.

Mondays 5:00 pm Pilates Studio, South Lake Tahoe Contact [email protected] for more information.

Southern nevadaAdaptive Water Exercise Class Focus on increasing mobility and range of motion, while improving cardiovascular and muscle strength. In addition, basic swimming skills and adapted stroke progression will be introduced and practiced.

Mondays & Wednesdays 10:00 am - 11:00 am Municipal Pool, Las Vegas Contact Angela VanBrackle at 702-736-7272 for more information.

Find Classes in Your Community!

Visit nationalMSsociety.org/CALfitness and browse classes in your area, or call 800-344-4867 to speak with an MS Navigator today!


MS shouldn’t stand in the way of an education. The National MS Society’s scholarship program exists to help highly qualified students who have been diagnosed with MS or who have a parent with MS achieve their dreams of going to college.

The National MS Society raises funds to support scholarships, establishes award criteria and directs the evaluation of all applications.

Who can apply? Individuals who have MS or have a parent with MS are eligible to apply as

long as they meet all eligibility criteria. To learn full details about eligibility and the application process, please visit nationalMSsociety.org/scholarship.

Applications will be available in October each year and must be submitted by the January deadline. Scholars will receive notification of awards in April. n

When Jennifer Freed was just 9 years old, her mother was diagnosed with MS, changing their lives drastically. Jennifer went from being a fun-loving child to someone who had to take on responsibility not only for herself but for her mom and younger sister, Amanda. Gone were the carefree days of childhood.

Despite the impact of MS on her family, Jennifer was determined not to let MS stop her and her family from fighting back and spreading awareness about MS. Four years ago, she applied for and received one of the National MS Society’s Scholarships, allowing her to achieve her dream of going to college. In June 2014, Jennifer graduated from California State

University, San Bernardino. Her sister Amanda was just awarded a 2014 Scholarship to pursue her college dreams as well.

Jennifer is now working as an intern at the Ontario office of the National MS Society and is so excited about the opportunity to give back because of what the Society has done for her and her family. She is also pleased to report that her mom is doing very well now. Jennifer’s goal is to help people with MS and spread awareness about this devastating disease. She and her family are so appreciative of the work the National MS Society does, and she looks forward to paying it forward in any way she can. n

SCholarShipS

CoMing Full CirCle

apply For 2015 SCholarShipS


i ride with MSWhen Regina Lyles signed up to participate in Bike MS in 2011, her only connection to MS was the event, which seemed like a fun way to cycle and raise some money for the disease. A few months later, she received an MS diagnosis. Regina pulled out the Bike MS ride packet that had arrived that day and showed it to her doctor, asking, “how ironic is life?” She was no longer just participating in an event for MS, she was now one of over 2.3 million people living with the disease.

Regina has participated in eight Bike MS events across the country since, and is part of this year’s

“I Ride with MS” program, a special Society program that celebrates Bike MS cyclists living with MS. “I have had to change how I do some things, but I haven’t stopped doing them. I have always said that MS is what I have, NOT who I am!” said Regina, who will join over 1,500 cyclists at Bike MS Coastal Challenge: Santa Monica to Santa Barbara on October 11 & 12, 2014. The event, which aims to raise $1.25 million, had already raised over $800,000 when this issue went to print. n

biKe MS

Walk to create a World free of mS

Southern California& Nevada 2013regiStration opening fall 2014!

www.WalkToEndMS.org

april 11, 2015 Conejo Valley, Conejo Creek Park Desert Cities, Palm Desert Civic Center Park Las Vegas, Sunset Park San Luis Obispo, Sinsheimer Park

april 18, 2015 Inland Empire, Citizens Business Bank Arena

april 19, 2015 Greater LA, Pasadena Rose Bowl

april 25, 2015 Antelope Valley, Lancaster Marketplace Fresno, Fig Garden Village

may 2, 2015 Big Bear, North Shore Elementary School Long Beach, Shoreline Park Santa Barbara, Leadbetter Beach Reno/Sparks, Idlewild Park Terrace


Celebrating our ChaMpionSThe Southern California & Nevada Chapter hosted three incredible Dinner of Champions events this summer, which made an enormous contribution in the movement to end multiple sclerosis.

The “dinner season” kicked off with the 8th annual Dinner of Champions Reno, honoring the Dolan Family on August 21, 2014 at the Silver Legacy Resort Casino. The Dolan Family was honored for their demonstrated passion and dedication to the Reno community. Nearly $100,000 was raised to support programs and services for over 1,400 people with MS in Northern Nevada.

The 39th annual Dinner of Champions Los Angeles made its mark two weeks later on September 4, 2014 at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza. The event honored Pam Kehaly, President, Anthem Blue Cross, in recognition of her and Anthem Blue Cross’ continued support

of the National MS Society. Rep. Henry A. and Janet Waxman were also honored, receiving the “Dorothy Corwin Spirit of Life” award for their untiring efforts to be a force for good in people’s lives. Nearly $250,000 was raised to help fund critical MS research and support direct programs and services for people with MS.

The 3rd annual Dinner of Champions Fresno honored the Dalena Family on September 17, 2014, at Pardini’s Catering & Banquets, raising over $50,000 to fund programs and services in the San Joaquin Valley, and pledges are still coming in! The Dalena Family, who purchased the first table at the inaugural Fresno event, have been proud and relentless supporters of the Society and the Fresno community for many years. n

dinner oF ChaMpionS

the dolan FaMily

paM Kehaly, with Son trevor Kehaly

the dalena FaMily


danCe it out!the beat MS danCe walK

On September 13th, over 600 participants, volunteers, and celebrities gathered at Palisades Charter High School with one goal -- to BEAT MS. The 2nd annual BEAT MS Dance Walk was a smashing success, raising over $55,000 for the Southern California & Nevada Chapter.

Honoree Ricki Lake was in attendance, along with stars from So You Think You Can Dance, Hit The Floor, Glee, and the cast of Hair at the Hollywood Bowl, who treated participants to a special live performance. Celebrities including Modern Family’s Sarah Hyland, Weeds’ Hunter Parrish, High School Musical’s Corbin Bleu, Happyland’s Kat McNamara, and more brought great press to the event as they walked the “orange” carpet.

Dance walker, Sarelle Eddins, anticipated her first event for months and said, “I love music, and I love to dance. With having MS, it’s not something you get to do all the time. So whenever I get the chance to do it, I try to do it to the best of my ability.” Eddins, who lives with MS,

was instrumental in spreading awareness and recruiting new dance walkers in her hometown of Ridgecrest, CA.

The BEAT MS Dance Walk brings together artists, dancers, and people who want to do something about MS NOW. Stay tuned for more details on the 3rd annual event, coming Fall 2015! n


You can take advantage of tax-saving strategies as you begin to think about your year-end charitable priorities. Donations can reduce your taxable income and lower your tax bill. Cash, real estate, personal property and stocks are among the most popular types of charitable gifts. All donations must be completed by December 31 to qualify for a 2014 income tax deduction. The day you transfer control of an asset is typically considered the gift date for tax purposes, however this date is determined differently depending on the type of asset and method of donation.

• Checks - The mailing date is the date of the gift.

• Credit Cards - The date the charge is authorized is considered the gift date for most credit card transactions. However, credit card donations sent by mail can use the mailing date.

• Pledges - Pledges are deductible in the year(s) they are fulfilled rather than the year the pledge is made.

• Securities - When securities are transferred electronically, the gift date is the day the securities enter the recipient’s account. However, if securities are mailed, the mailing date is considered the gift date. Call the Chapter for instructions on how to wire or transfer gifts of stock.

Please consider making a special gift to the National MS Society this year! Your contribution will help meet the needs of community members with MS and their families while funding important scientific leads in discovering the cause, advancing therapies, and finding a cure for multiple sclerosis. If you have any questions about planning your charitable gift, please contact Kate McIntosh at 310.481.1124. n

plan For year-end giving

giving

The Kenrose Kitchen Table Foundation and the Steve and Caroline Kaufer Family together have posed a $575,000 Challenge for this year’s Golden Circle campaign. If Golden Circle donors contribute a total of $575,000 by December 31, 2014, the campaign will be ensured an aggregate of at least $1,150,000!

All Golden Circle gifts contributed October 1 – December 31, 2014 will count toward the $1.15 Million Challenge regardless of restriction or giving level.

Your contribution will fund research and help people living with MS live their best life as we search for a cure. Please make a gift today and help the Chapter move closer toward a world free of MS. For more information, please contact Elicia Lopez at 310.481.1111. n

golden CirCle $1.15 Million year end Challenge


We are grateful to the foundation and corporate supporters who contributed $737,500 in grant awards between June 1–September 15, 2014:

• $450,000 from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, as part of 3-year $1,350,000 grant to support The Marilyn Hilton MS Achievement Center at UCLA

• $171,000 from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, as part of 4-year $1,245,000 grant to support three MS research projects on Progressive MS, Rehabilitation and Promising Concepts & Leads

• $65,000 from The Green Foundation in support of the Improving Access to MS-Related Care Initiative

• $12,500 from Friends of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society in general operating support for the Northern Nevada office

benevolent baCKerS

• $9,000 from the John and Maria Laffin Trust to support NOW: An MS Research Revolution

• $8,000 from Employees Community Fund of Boeing California to support the Chapter’s Educational Scholarship Program for Students Affected by MS

• $5,000 from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation in support of The Marilyn Hilton MS Achievement Center at UCLA

• $5,000 from The Frank and Victoria Fertitta Foundation, Ltd. for the Better Living program in Las Vegas

• $5,000 from the Freeman E. Fairfield Foundation to support the HOPE at Hillcrest program for people with progressive MS at Hillcrest Care Center in Long Beach

• $5,000 from The Towbes Foundation for continued support of salary costs for the Channel Islands Director

• $2,000 from the Bloomingdale’s Fund of the Macy’s Foundation to provide a scholarship for a member of The Marilyn Hilton MS Achievement Center at UCLA.n

Mark Spencer of Boeing presented a check to support Scholarships to (from left to right) Kate McIntosh, Vice President, Development; Tiffany Jordan, Manager, Client & Family Education; Susan Bradley, Chapter President; and Denise Nowack, Executive Vice President.


dial, liSten & learn Join us from the comfort of your own phone for this free conference call program. Pre-registration is required - call 800.344.4867 or visit www.nationalMSsociety.org/telelearn to sign up today!

Tips for People with MS and their Partners: Planning for the Future Tuesday, November 18, 2:00pm Thursday, November 20, 7:00pm

Presented by Dick Bell of Financial Education Partners Foundation and Bradley Frigon of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, this session will provide helpful information, including legal and financial considerations, for care partners and people living with MS.

beyond phySiCal therapyWhen Reina Magpale set a goal to cross the finish line at Walk MS 2013, she enlisted the help of her team of physical therapists from [re+active] Physical Therapy & Wellness in Westchester, CA. After 8 weeks of training and preparation, the team set out on the route. Slowly but surely, her legs started to fail. “My PTs used their MacGyver skills to tear an extra large t-shirt and tie it with tape and thera-bands to my feet and shins to help my legs with each step,” Reina recalled. Three miles and three hours later, they crossed the finish line.

Having a supportive team behind you can make all the difference. [re+active] Physical Therapy & Wellness offers a variety of classes designed for individuals of all physical abilities, including those with neurologic, orthopedic, or other disorders. Classes are led by a Doctor of Physical Therapy specializing in neurology and include Zumba, NeuroYoga, and an exciting Nordic Pole Walking Group!

For more information about [re+active] Physical Therapy & Wellness please contact [email protected] or visit www.re-activept.com.

Connect with an MS Navigator today for wellness referrals in your area! Please call 800-344-4867 or visit nationalMSsociety.org/CAL.

InformacIón en españolLa Sociedad ofrece un número de recursos en español sobre la esclerosis múltiple (EM) en la Internet. Hallará información sobre diagnóstico y tratamientos, manejo de síntomas y asuntos laborales, así como información para cuidadores y niños. También hallará transmisiones educativas a través de la Internet, libros y enlaces a otros sitios educativos en la Internet. Para nuestras familias bilingües, cada título tiene su traducción en inglés y el enlace a su respectivo informativo (de así haberlo). Visite www.nationalMSsociety.org/espanol hoy.

prograMS ConneCtion

15nationalMSSoCiety.org/Cal | 1-800-344-4867

The National Disability Institute presents a free webinar series featuring resources and information tailored to address the unique challenges MS can present. Upcoming webinars include:

socIal securIty DIsabIlIty benefIts: InformeD DecIsIon makIngWednesday, October 15th | 1:30 - 3:30pm

This webinar will highlight the basic criteria the Social Security Administration examines for eligibility for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.

creDIt: accessIng It, unDerstanDIng It, usIng It WIselyWednesday, November 19th | 1:30 - 3:30 pm

This webinar will explore ways to maintain credit, including setting up a bill paying system and prioritizing debts, as well as explore the safest ways to access your credit report, check accuracy, and understand your credit score and standing.

Each webinar consists of a one-hour expert presentation followed by a half-hour Q&A for participants. Visit www.realeconomicimpact.org/FinancialWellness to register today! n

FinanCial wellneSS webinar SerieS

Register Now at MuckFestMS.com

MuckFest® MS Los Angeles A mucky romp of pure athletic hilarity, full of outrageous obstacles & mud.

It’s not just about the fun, there’s also a mission behind the muck: 100% of your fundraising dollars benefit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Have a blast and make a difference!

Saturday, October 25, 2014Prado Regional Park, Chino, CA

© 2014 Event 360, Inc.

Have a ball at MuckFest® MS!

Money MatterS

16 MS ConneCtion: SuMMer 2014

FinanCial aSSiStanCeWe offer Direct Financial Assistance to people with MS and their families to help access needed services that are not available using other resources or insurance. The program is based on financial need and offers funding for the following services. Checks are made out and sent directly to the vendor. For more information, call 800.344.4867 or 310.479.4456.

MediCal CareMS Physician Consult program: Funding for one-time consult with an MS specialty neurologist. Must have limited geographic and/or insurance resources.

Physical/Occupational/Speech Therapy: In-home evaluation and five to six follow-up visits for a person who cannot leave home.

Individual counseling/telecounseling sessions: 6–10 visits per year with a licensed therapist who is experienced in MS.

Support ServiCeSSherak Emergency Fund: Funding for unexpected one-time situations (food, rent, utilities). Official documentation demonstrating proof of emergency is required. Limit: up to $300 within an 18-month period.

Durable Medical Equipment: Share of cost for durable medical equipment (wheelchairs, hand rails, etc.). Limit: up to $400/year.

Rhoda Goetz Home Assistance Fund: Provided through a licensed home care agency for a person experiencing an exacerbation or post-hospital visit who does not have a caregiver. Limit: Up to 72 hours per year.

Rhoda Goetz Personal Care Fund:• Beauty/Wellness: A fund to assist

individuals who face barriers to maintaining healthy personal hygiene and care. Gain access to services such as hair, skin and nail care. Limit up to $120/year.

• Chore Service Program: Light housekeeping only for those unable to manage these tasks. Limit: up to $300/year.

Support For FaMily MeMberSGrisanti Respite Fund: Provided through a licensed home care agency for the family member who is a full-time care partner and needs time off. Limit: up to 50 hours/year.

Supporting the Family: A fund to take care of special out of the ordinary family needs (i.e. school pictures, sports uniforms, etc.) Limit: up to $300/year.


SelF help groupS

ConneCtCommunity Self-Help GroupsPlease contact the group’s facilitator(s) to learn more about a specific self-help group listed below, or contact the Chapter at 800.344.4867.

at-hoMe telephone group3rd Wednesday, 1:00 pm Toll-free dial-in number: 1-888-279-3775, entry code 4001#

loS angeleS County Antelope Valley 3rd Thursday, 6:30 pm, Robertson Honda Call Missy 661.406.0741

Boyle Heights/USC Wellness Center Spanish speaking group 2nd Saturday, 10:00 am, The Wellness Center at the Historic General Hospital Call Carlos at 213.261.3685

Central LA 4th Saturday, 12:00 pm, Bilbrew Library Call Alva at 323.233.5413

Downey - The Force MS Self-Help Group Thursdays, 10:00 am Rancho Los Amigos Rehabilitation Center Call Staci at 310.603.6853 or 310.918.8977

Downey - Young Professionals Group for people in 20s - 40s. 2nd Saturday, 10:00 am, Rancho Los Amigos Rehabilitation Center. Contact Sarah at 562.401.7622 or Beth at [email protected]

Lakewood/Long Beach 3rd Sunday, 1:00 pm, May Boyer Park Call Fran at 562.925.4405

Los Angeles 3rd Thursday, 6:00 pm, Fairfax Branch Library Call Michael at 213.804.1249 or Allison at 323.876.7606

Monrovia/Pasadena 2nd Monday, 10:00 am, First Presbyterian Church Call Aynn at 626.303.4343

North Hollywood - Drumming Group Learn a unique way to express yourself. No musical experience needed. 2nd Saturday, 12:00 pm, Remo Drum Center. Call Beth at 818.219.1715

Santa Clarita 2nd Thursday, 6:30 pm, Saint Kateri Catholic Church. Call Eire at 661.297.6887

South Bay/Harbor City 3rd Thursday, 4:00 pm, Gardena Mayme Dear Library. Call Pattie at 310.769.0694

Tarzana/Northridge – Spanish Speaking Group 2nd Saturday, 9:00 am, Tarzana Community & Cultural Center. Call Maria at 818.370.8073

Tarzana – Let’s Play social group 3rd Saturday, 12:00 pm, Tarzana Community Center. Call Linda at 818.222.7678

West Covina 2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 11:00 am, Senior Center North Building. Call Tadd at 626.962.7909

West LA Last Monday, 6:30 pm, Veteran’s Memorial Building. Contact Susan at [email protected]

West LA – Men’s Group 3rd Tuesday, 6:00 pm, Fraser Communications Call Larry at 310.926.1641

18 MS ConneCtion: SuMMer 2014

Murrieta - So Cal MS Outlaws 4th Wednesday, 10:00 am, Maxx’s Pizza Call Roxie or Bill at 951.506.3787

Ontario 1st Saturday, 10:00 am, Redeemer Lutheran Christian Church. Call Emily at 909.851.6204 or Kathy at 909.621.3519

Palm Springs 2nd Sunday, 12:00 pm, Billy Reed’s Restaurant Contact Tony at 760.831.6365.

Rancho Cucamonga - Moms with MS 2nd Tuesday, 12:00 pm, Rancho Cucamonga Resource Center. Call AnaMaria at 909.463.0334 or Kim at 909.904.0352

Palm Desert 4th Thursday, 11:00 am, Buffalo Wild Wings Call Richard at 760.899.4174

Riverside 1st Saturday, 10:00 am, Tucker Medical Building Call Gilbert at 951.544.1441 or Katrina at 951.906.1752

Temecula 1st Monday, 10:00 am, Mary Phillips Senior Center. Call Denise at 909.519.4410, Tammy at 909.792-6518, or Jacqueline (Spanish-speaking) at 951.302.3529

Temecula - Men’s Group 4th Monday of every other month at 1:00 pm Location TBD Call Ric at 619.985.5736

Upland Last Wednesday, 10:00 am, Calvary Chapel. No meetings in July or August. Contact Tammy at 909.792.6518 or Denise at 909.519.4410.

Channel iSlandSArroyo Grande 2nd Tuesday, 6:00 pm, United Methodist Church Call Ellen at 805.343.6094

Morro Bay Last Saturday, 10:30 am, St. Peters by the Sea Church. Call Jeanette at 805.682.8783 ext. 68103

Ojai Valley Wallwalkers 2nd Thursday, 7:00 pm, Oak View Community Center. Call Tammy at 805.648.6402

Ojai Valley Wallwalkers Lunch Meeting 4th Tuesday, 12:30 pm, Eggs N Potatoes. Call Donna at 805.646.3750 or Tammy at 805.648.6402

Simi Valley 1st Monday, 10:00 am, Cornerstone Church. Call Dennis at 805.584.2526 or Tina at 805.581.2264

Thousand Oaks 2nd Monday, 9:30 am, Goebel Senior Adult Center Call Tina at 805.581.2264 or Ken at 818.518.4226

Ventura Last Friday, 11:30 am, Carrow’s. Contact Vincy at 805.340.9627 or [email protected]

inland eMpire/CoaChella valleyApple Valley/Victorville 1st Thursday, 10:00 am, Senior Select Advocate Apple Bear Center. Call Roseanne at 435.630.7572

Hemet 2nd Friday, 10:00 am, Hemet Public Library Call Tammy at 909.792.6518

Lake Arrowhead 1st Friday, 4:00 pm, Location varies Call Joyce at 909.337.7573


Yucaipa 3rd Tuesday, 1:00 pm, Good Shepherd Church Call Clare at 909.795.5128 or Tom at 909.795.1717

nevada & northeaStern CaliForniaLas Vegas/Henderson - Oasis group 1st Saturday, 11:00 am. Call Ed at 702.271.3007 or Jerry at 702.285.6479

Las Vegas - MS Lunch Club 1st Tuesday, 11:30 am, Los Prados Country Club Call Darlene at 702.240.3210. Must RSVP and purchase lunch for $10/person

Las Vegas - Westside Stories 3rd Wednesday, 6:00 pm, HealthSouth Call Darlene & Maria at 702.240.3210

Loyalton Rural Outreach to Wellness Call Bonni Sue at 530.993.4499 for details 213 Main Street/HWY. 49, Ste. 1

Mesquite 1st Tuesday, 2:00 pm, Mesa View Home Care Call Erica at 702.610.3786

Reno/Sparks 3rd Thursday, 10:00 am Northern Nevada Center for Independent Living Call Mary at 775.772.3404

Truckee 2nd Thursday, 5:30 pm, Tahoe Forest Hospital Cafeteria. Call Rick at 530.550.0654 or Bonni Sue at 530.993.4499

San Joaquin valleyBakersfield 1st Thursday, 7:00 pm, HealthSouth Rehab Hospital. Call JoAnn at 661,872.1973.

Bakersfield - Breakfast & Lunch Groups 2nd Wednesday, noon or 4th Wednesday, 9:30 am Lorene’s Coffee Shop. Call Ron at 661.833.0388 or Sarah at 661.865.6238

Clovis/Fresno 3rd Saturday, 9:30 am, San Joaquin Rehab Hospital. Call Yolanda at 559.908.4644 or Doris at 559.299.2072

Fresno – Newly Diagnosed/Working Professionals Group Call Cherish at 559.287.3042 for details.

Fresno – Spanish Speaking Group Call Sharon at 559.579.4096 for details.

Hanford 1st Saturday, 10:00 am, First Christian Church Call Judy at 559.585.1198 or Debra at 559.585.8054

Tehachapi 2nd Thursday, 5:00 pm, Tehachapi Moose Lodge Optional “Dinner on the Grill” $3.50 & up Call Linda at 661.822.7440

Visalia 2nd Saturday, 10:00 am, Kaweah Delta Rehab Call Mary Ann at 559.936.3960

nationalMSSoCiety.org/Cal | 1-800-344-4867

5150 W. Goldleaf Circle, Suite 400 Los Angeles, CA 90056

Southern California & Nevada Chapter 5150 W. Goldleaf Circle Suite 400 Los Angeles, CA 90056 310.479.4456 800.344.4867

CALIFORNIA OFFICES

Channel Islands 1921 State Street, Suite A Santa Barbara, CA 93101 805.682.8783

Inland Empire 3110 E. Guasti Road Suite 320 Ontario, CA 91761 909.949.1363

Kern County 1800 30th Street Suite 105 Bakersfield, CA 93301 661.321.9512

San Joaquin Valley 7472 N. Fresno St., #210 Fresno, CA 93720 559.439.2154

NEVADA OFFICES

Northern Nevada 4600 Kietzke Ln., #K-225 Reno, NV 89502 775.329.7180

Southern Nevada 2110 East Flamingo, #203Las Vegas, NV 89119 702.736.7272 Save the date: January 2015

2015

annual Meeting + MS reSearCh

Documents

MS Connection Fall 2014