MS Connection, fall 2015

FALL 2015 UPPER MIDWEST CHAPTER

MS CONNECTION NEWSLETTER

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

04MORE THAN $100,000 AWARDED IN MS SCHOLARSHIPS

08RENEWED IDENTITY AFTER AN MS DIAGNOSIS

12NEW DIRECTIONS IN DIET AND MS

14UPCOMING PROGRAMS

NEW DIRECTIONS IN DIET AND MS

2 MS CONNECTION: FALL 2015 3MSSOCIETY.ORG | 800-582-5296

CAN YOU HELP US?If you’re able to make an in-kind donation to the Upper Midwest Chapter, contact Mark at 612-335-7970, 800-582-5296 (option 2) or [email protected]. To see the full in-kind list, visit MSsociety.org and click “Donate,” then select “Other ways to give.”

Needed items:n Pitney Bowes D380

Insertern Power pallet jackn Bike rackn Digital photo printern Gift cards (restaurants,

convenience stores, etc.)

n Concert and event ticketsn Jump drives

(portable storage devices)n Gift basket items

for silent auctionsn Paper cutter

Studies show that early and ongoing treatment with an FDA-approved therapy can reduce future disease activity and improve quality of life for many people with multiple sclerosis. The National MS Society’s medical advisors recommend that people with MS talk with their health care professionals about using these medications and about effective strategies and treatments to manage symptoms. If you or someone you know has MS, please visit nationalMSsociety.org or call 800-582-5296 to learn more.

CONNECT WITH US ONLINEIf you wish to receive MS Connection via email, please let us know at [email protected].

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NATIONAL MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETYUpper Midwest Chapter 200 12th Ave. S. Minneapolis, MN 55415 800-582-5296

Board chair: Larry Schmid Chapter president: Holly Anderson Editor: Maggie Flanagan Design: Sue Schweitzer

© 2015 National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Upper Midwest Chapter

Information provided by the National MS 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 Society recommends 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 or any product or service mentioned.

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

WHAT DOES WELLNESS MEAN TO YOU? Back in January, I injured my knee, which turned out to be a learning experience in many ways. For the first time in my life, I required assistive devices. I learned how unreliable those scooters in grocery stores can be. I learned how to drive an electric wheelchair and how to use a cane. I watched people watch me, pity me or look away, and I learned quite a bit about wellness, mobility and coping with change.

Wellness is something many people with MS want to learn more about. Every day people with MS ask us, “What should I eat? Which exercise is best? How do you keep your brain active if you’re not working? How do I cope with depression?” There isn’t one answer to any of these questions. Wellness itself is complicated. It involves physical, emotional, social, intellectual, occupational and spiritual dimensions. Achieving wellness does not occur quickly or with a single behavior.

At a recent meeting convened by the National MS Society, people with MS, health care professionals, researchers and Society staff summarized what is currently known about diet, exercise and emotional issues in MS; identified key questions to be answered in each of these areas, along with the research gaps; and outlined next steps to move this important priority forward.

This comprehensive approach to wellness includes research, advocacy and services. I’m excited about this initiative and hope you are, too. What I learned through my own experience is that it’s important to get good advice, to focus on what’s going well and to never give up. I also learned that your friends and family greatly contribute to how you feel. Visit nationalMSsociety.org/research to learn more about some of the research being conducted in wellness. n


CHAPTER AWARDS MORE THAN $100,000 IN MS SCHOLARSHIPS

The National MS Society, Upper Midwest Chapter selected 79 students to receive a combined $101,000 in academic scholarships for the 2015-2016 school year. Nationally, the Society granted more than $1 million in scholarships to 718 students across the country.

MS doesn’t just affect individuals — it affects families. That’s why the MS Scholarship Program exists. Beginning in 2003, the scholarship program has helped thousands of students affected by MS achieve their post-secondary education goals in spite of the many financial challenges the disease can present.

MEET A FEW OF THE SCHOLARSCarly Allen-Tice; Mahtomedi, MN

Lauren and Alex Schrock Endowed Scholar Carly Allen-Tice started her college career at the University of Wisconsin–Madison this fall, majoring in biochemistry.

Carly worked part-time through high school, while also participating in lacrosse, spirit club, band and piano. After her mother was diagnosed with MS in 2012, Carly was inspired to pursue neuroscience research to help find a cure for neurological disorders like MS. She said, “Although MS has caused hardship in my family, it has inspired new aspirations in myself, both to raise awareness about MS and to develop more effective treatments for it.”

Keely Bycroft; Bondurant, IAKeely Bycroft, the Edmund and Betty Nightingale Endowed Scholar, has begun her second year at Buena Vista University in Storm Lake, Iowa, where she’s pursuing a degree in

Business. Keely maintained a 4.0 GPA through her first year while playing softball for Buena Vista and participating in volunteer activities. She said there’s so much more she wishes to prove to herself and others, and will continue to work hard, not only for herself, but also for her mom who lives with MS.

Hanna Glissendorf; Rapid City, SDHarvard University’s psychology program is Hanna’s first step toward becoming a psychiatrist. Hanna, recipient of the Cub Cares Endowed Scholarship, worked through high school to

help support her family. In addition to helping care for her mother, who lives with MS, and little sister while her father took a second job, Hanna was involved in numerous clubs and groups at school. Even with a packed schedule, Hanna found a way to excel in school, and said “I appreciate how these responsibilities have shaped me into a more mature person and created a work ethic that will continue to grow within me.”

Mira Koster; Minneapolis, MNThe University of Chicago welcomes Mira, recipient of the C.H. Robinson Jeff Scovill Endowed Scholarship, as she pursues a degree in mathematics. Mira was active

in Math League, track and field and cross country while maintaining excellent grades in school. The perspective she’s gained through watching her mother’s MS progress is remarkable. She said, “My mother has taught me that it’s not the challenges that I face, but the way I face them that defines me.”

JUMPSTART MS SCHOLARSHIPThe Jumpstart MS Scholarship sponsored by Best Buy is an annual $1,500 scholarship designed to encourage ninth graders affected by MS to stay on track toward a post-secondary education and remain active in their school and community.

Aiden Zoutte; Knoxville, IAThis year’s Jumpstart MS Scholar is Aiden Zoutte. Aiden, whose mother lives with MS, is a ninth grader at Knoxville High School. He’s actively involved in

extracurricular activities including football, basketball, tennis and baseball. He’s also vice president of the 4-H Club, a role he uses to educate people about MS, and hopes to continue to support the Society for years to come. Aiden said, “My mom may be the one with the diagnosis of MS, but the whole family lives with the disease.”

Visit nationalMSsociety.org/scholarship to see a full listing of scholars and learn more about 2016 applications, which will be accepted starting Oct. 1, 2015.

A special thank you goes to Great River Energy for hosting the annual MS Scholarship Program Celebration. n

SUPPORT THE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMTo learn about making a donation to the MS Scholarship Program, contact Jenn at 612-335-7965 or [email protected].


VOLUNTEER

VOLUNTEERS HOST MORE THAN 70 PROGRAMS IN 2015People affected by MS across the Upper Midwest Chapter area have stepped up to address programming needs in their communities. In 2014, volunteers from Bismarck to Des Moines hosted 45 programs ranging from social to educational in nature. In 2015, that number nearly doubled.

DAWN TUVESONOne such program is the Friends and Family Picnic, hosted by Dawn Tuveson in Lino Lakes, Minn. Recognizing a need for more connection opportunities for

people affected by MS, Dawn decided she would plan one herself. With help from a friend, Dawn organized a picnic for people in her MS network. Later, when she learned that the National MS Society had launched an initiative to support volunteer-led programs like her picnic, she jumped at the opportunity. With this support, Dawn’s program has become an annual tradition. Krista, program manager at the Upper Midwest Chapter, recently caught up with her to learn more about her experience in program planning.

Krista: How much time does it take to plan this program?

Dawn: From the time I started through the event, I have spent no more than 16 hours planning.

K: What is the most challenging thing about planning a program?

D: Having staff support with funding and marketing is a huge help. I was able to bounce ideas off of someone and get some direction. So, cost and marketing were my two greatest challenges before I began collaborating with Society staff to plan the picnic.

K: What is the most rewarding thing about planning a program?

D: I’m really excited to see it grow. After the first event, people started to ask when my next program would be and that was rewarding. It’s not always the same people in attendance, but some do come back, so it’s nice to see friendly faces.

K: What, if anything, surprised you about the programs you’ve coordinated?

D: I have made a great group of friends who I met at programs like mine. Participating in things like a friends and family picnic helps your network of support grow. It also helps promote awareness of MS.

K: What made you want to plan your own program?

D: A friend and I did something similar a few years ago and people asked us to do another one. The people [who attended] liked the social part and connecting with other people. I feel like this is something I can provide very simply.

ADVOCACY

LEGISLATIVE PROGRESS FOR PEOPLE WITH MS BY DAN ENDRESONPublic Policy Manager, Upper Midwest Chapter

The 2015 Legislative Sessions concluded in Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota in the spring, and we’re happy to report that with the help of MS

advocates across the chapter area, several laws were passed this year to help people living with MS. Here are a few of the highlights:

IOWAPrior Authorization for Prescriptions

The Iowa State Legislature enacted a new policy regarding the response time from an insurance company for drug prescriptions. Starting this month, an insurance company must respond to all claims within five calendar days and within 72 hours for emergency claims. In the past, people living with MS may have had to wait weeks or months to have a prescription approved.

Therapy Co-Pays

The Iowa State Legislature passed a law requiring that co-pays for physical, occupational and speech

therapy be at the same level as those for primary care. Previously, co-pays for these services were much higher than primary care, limiting those with MS to seek these important services.

MINNESOTAMedical Assistance Reform

The Minnesota State Legislature passed two laws that will reduce the cost of enrollment in Medical Assistance, Minnesota’s Medicaid program. Many Minnesotans living with MS use Medical Assistance to access quality health care.

The Medical Assistance Excess Income Standard (also known as the “spend-down”) will be increased from 75 percent ($729/month) of the Federal Poverty Guideline to 80 percent ($779/month) starting July 1, 2016. This will allow people who qualify for Medical Assistance through the spend-down to keep around $50 more each month.

The premium increase that many people on Medical Assistance for Employed Persons with Disabilities (MA-EPD) saw in October 2014 was repealed Sept. 1. The MA-EPD premium will return to what it was prior to the increase.

GET INVOLVED!Get more information about hot issues across federal state and local districts as they relate to people with MS, learn how you can become an MS activist and read more about positive change MS activists drive every day by visiting nationalMSsociety.org/advocacy. n

CONTINUED ON PAGE 11 (VOLUNTEER)


LIVING WELL WITH MS

MAKING MUSIC WITH ADAPTIVE TECHNOLOGY

On a good day, Greg Fier, 53, can wiggle his shoulders and raise his left forearm a few inches from his power chair. As someone who identified as a musician for nearly 30 years and

relied on his forearms to power through guitar riffs, Greg’s MS diagnosis and speedy disease progression seemed very much like a curtain closing. However, thanks to adaptive technology and his new passion for advocacy, Greg may be writing his most powerful verse yet.

Greg was diagnosed with relapsing remitting MS in May of 1995. He remembers the day very clearly — it was the same day the Oklahoma City bombing took place.

“I remember tearing up right away,” said Greg, “The doctor had a lot to say, but he just sounded like Charlie Brown’s teacher ... My mind shut down. There’s a mechanism in the human brain that doesn’t allow you to think it’s a possibility.”

For five years, Greg opted out of MS treatments entirely and lived as though the MRI and spinal tap had never happened. Then, in 2000, his symptoms returned, and he went back to the

doctor where he was told there was significant progression. Greg then started treatment, but despite his efforts to slow MS down, his diagnosis was changed to secondary progressive MS in 2007.

Unfortunately, Greg’s disease progression was accompanied by big changes in his personal life. As his MS worsened, he found himself grieving a divorce, early retirement and loss of connections to friends. He also experienced significant limitations in his ability to create music. Until that point, Greg had been a long-time member of a local band that performed in shows at the Riverfront. He played guitar and piano, identifying first as a musician, second as a salesman. When he was no longer able to play instruments, it was a loss he felt deeply.

“When you start losing your ability to do things, that’s the hardest part,” said Greg, “You’re in mourning for that kind of stuff. It was a very, very dark time … I was losing music. I was suicidal.”

MS has caused muscle stiffness and weakness that allows for little movement in all four of Greg’s limbs. He requires complete assistance

for every activity in daily life, and utilizes the help of an in-home caregiver and a home-health aid, both paid for with Medicaid. This assistance, in combination with home modifications (widened hallways and doorways, a ramp to his front door and a roll-in shower) allows him to stay in his own home. Though Greg is tremendously grateful for all these things, he attributes a special type of computer software to his regained happiness. SmartNAV, Dwell Clicker and other programs like them have allowed him to find a new sound. He may not strum the guitar strings anymore, but he’s able to create and compose his own music with the click of a mouse made by a reflective cursor he wears on his head. “There’s nothing I can’t do on a computer,” said Greg.

“WHEN YOU START LOSING YOUR ABILITY TO DO THINGS, THAT’S THE HARDEST PART … IT WAS A VERY, VERY DARK TIME. I WAS LOSING MUSIC. I WAS SUICIDAL.”

As Greg began to reclaim his independence, he also reconnected with old friends and made new ones in the MS community. It was a new connection that helped him translate his passion for adaptive technology into action. On an especially tough day, Clinton Iowa MS Group leader Tami Leavens, and Greg’s live-in caregiver Katie Simon, pushed him to attend the State Action Day at the State Capitol in Des Moines, Iowa. During State Action

Day, people with MS meet with legislators to discuss issues that affect them. It was that day that Greg discovered a new purpose.

“I took to the legislators like a duck in water. Without having rehearsed anything, I just started talking about how important it was that I stay at home,” said Greg.

Greg’s journey with MS has taught him a lot about isolation and its effects on mental and emotional well-being. He’s especially passionate about reducing isolation with increased access to education on computer technology and assistive software. Though technology designed for people living with a disability is becoming increasingly available (and more affordable), Greg noted that it’s of little value to someone who does not have basic computer skills. He believes that because a healthier state of mind can lead to a healthier body, computer skills should be available in the same manner as physical and occupational therapy.

Greg’s participation in Iowa’s State Action Day inspired him to do much more. Having lost and then regained his ability to make music, his personal experiences have pushed him to share his story with legislators and anyone who will listen.

“It [advocacy] really made me feel empowered,” he said. “And it’s so much simpler than what one might think. They’re just people, and they’re just conversations.”

You can listen to Greg’s music and view a music video he helped produce at http://bit.ly/1M2qRnJ. n

MS CONNECTION: FALL 2015 MSSOCIETY.ORG | 800-582-529610 11

GIVING

EMPLOYEE GIVING CAMPAIGNSEvery year, more than 1.5 million public and private sector employees designate charitable contributions to nonprofit organizations through employee giving campaigns. If you’re a federal government employee or your employer offers a charitable giving campaign through United Way, Benevity, Your Cause or Community Health Charities, you can help move us closer to a world free of MS by designating your contribution to the National MS Society, Upper Midwest Chapter.

Most charitable giving programs offer employees the opportunity to have a portion of

their annual donation automatically deducted from each paycheck. Donations can also be made through a one-time contribution.

If your company doesn’t offer an employee giving campaign, talk to your benefits administrator about starting one. We’re glad to help make this connection! Contact Mark at [email protected] or 612-335-7970.

Participating in your employer’s charitable giving program is a convenient, easy way to help move us toward a world free of MS.

If you’re unable to make a gift through your workplace this fall, you can still make a big difference over the course of a year by setting up a sustaining gift online. Setting up an automatic, monthly donation is simple. Start by visiting the donation page at MSSociety.org. n

SMALL GIFTS GO A LONG WAY!The cost of living with MS is estimated at $70,000 per year, per person. A little bit goes a long way! Here’s how your generosity can make a difference:n $5 per pay-period can provide transportation to an MS club or group meeting for

someone with no means to get there.n $50 per pay-period can help pay the rent for a family affected by MS struggling to pay

medical bills and other expenses.n $100 per pay-period covers the cost of a wellness or exercise program. n $250 per pay-period can provide scholarships to help young people affected by MS

pursue a college education.

K: How did you decide what kind of program you wanted to plan?

D: When I discovered the MS Society was looking for volunteers to host programs, I knew we needed to do something that was accessible. I thought a picnic was an easy thing.

K: What has been your experience regarding the support you’ve received from the Society throughout the planning process?

D: It’s probably easier than what someone thinks. At first, it seems like, “Oh my gosh! Where do I start?” But Society staff are really helpful. If someone told me they were thinking about planning their own program, I would say, “Call Krista!”

K: Has there been a time when someone at a program asked you a question you weren’t able to answer, like something about MS or the MS Society?

D: Sure. I did receive a call from someone recently who needed help from the Society that I couldn’t give them. I took down the information and passed it along to my staff contact.

The National MS Society is a volunteer-driven organization, and we rely on the help of people who are passionate about the MS movement to get involved and create connections in their communities.

If you have ideas for a program and are interested in planning it, contact Will at 612-335-7992 or [email protected]; or Krista at 612-335-7937 or [email protected]. n

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6 (VOLUNTEER)

CORPORATE SPOTLIGHT

SPONSORS BRING SUCCESS TO MS 150 RIDE

The 2015 Bike MS: C.H. Robinson MS 150 Ride saw huge success in 2015. Events like the MS 150 Ride would not be possible without the generosity of corporate partnerships. The Upper Midwest Chapter gives tremendous thanks to the following companies, which each gave $10,000 or more in cash or in-kind gifts.

THANK YOU, SPONSORS!


RESEARCH

NEW DIRECTIONS IN DIET AND MSBY NICHOLAS LAROCCA, PHD

To think that you might be able to change the course of multiple sclerosis, or at least relieve symptoms, by eating or not eating specific types of food is enticing. However, “the proof is in the pudding,” scientifically speaking, since studying diet is challenging. That’s why it’s been exciting to see how many researchers were trying to do just that at the American Academy of Neurology’s annual meeting, which took place in Washington D.C., this April. Diet and MS was the subject of numerous platform talks and poster sessions, showing that clinicians and researchers are asking the same questions we hear so often from people who live with MS.

DIET AND MS SYMPTOMSIn a small study, Dr. Rocco Totaro and a team from the University of L’Aquila in Italy tested whether a six-week diet that was low in saturated animal fats, and high in antioxidants, would be associated with positive changes in body composition and fatigue in 17 people with relapsing-remitting MS. In their study, the participants’ percentage of body fat decreased, and their fatigue as measured by a clinical scale lessened significantly as well. We need more and larger studies like this, to show how diet may impact symptoms that affect the lives of people with MS. What does it mean for you now? A healthy diet certainly can’t hurt, and it may even help both MS and general health. (Abstract P2.211)

MORE ON SALTWe’re hearing more and more about the possibility that salt may increase the immune activity in the brain and spinal cord in MS. A team from the Network of Pediatric MS Centers showed that this may not be the case in children. Looking at salt intake prior to diagnosis among 174 children or adolescents with MS, compared

with 337 people without the disease, they saw no increased risk of developing MS with excess sodium intake. It will be interesting to see if this finding is confirmed, and whether it helps us to understand if, when and how salt becomes a factor in MS. (Abstract S38.003)

COFFEE AND MSPrevious studies have suggested that caffeine may protect against Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, but there haven’t been any definitive studies in MS thus far. So I was intrigued by a study by an international team led by Johns Hopkins University researcher Dr. Ellen Mowry, which looked at coffee consumption in two large data sets—in a group of 1,629 Swedish people with MS and 2,807 people without MS, as well as a group of 584 people with MS and 581 controls enrolled in the Kaiser Permanente health plan of Northern California. In the Swedish study, drinking six cups of coffee a day was associated with a reduced risk of developing MS, and four cups a day did the same in the American study. Studies like this may help us figure out how to prevent MS in the future. What this study doesn’t tell us is whether or how drinking coffee may impact MS in people who already have the disease, so it’s probably not a good idea to increase coffee consumption until we know more. (S45.004)

LOOKING IN THE GUTGut bacteria is another area where research is increasing, and it presents the exciting possibility that probiotic strategies may ultimately be

developed to treat MS. I’m pleased that a small pilot grant from the National MS Society helped launch the MS Microbiome Consortium, a collaboration of researchers in California, Colorado and New York who presented some early findings from their analysis of blood and stool samples from people with MS treated with glatiramer acetate, untreated individuals and healthy controls. They found differences in gut bacteria between the treated and untreated individuals and also between those with MS and healthy controls. The team recently won a Collaborative MS Research Center Award from the Society to pursue this promising research. I’m eager to see more from this group, and to see how their findings can be translated into a way of stopping immune attacks in MS. (Abstract P2.205)

A NEW ERANot so long ago, searching the medical literature for “diet and MS” yielded little. I’m thrilled to see that we are entering an era where diet and lifestyle are truly considered to be factors that can help lead to innovative treatments and ultimately free the world of MS.

Visit nationalMSsociety.org/signup to sign up for MS eNews and stay up to date on MS research. n

Nicholas LaRocca is the vice president of Health Care Delivery and Policy Research at the National MS Society. This article was originally published on MSconnection.org/blog.


CHAPTER PROGRAMS

UPCOMING PROGRAMSPrograms are free unless otherwise noted. For more information or to register for a listed program, visit MSsociety.org or call 800-582-5296 (option 1).

PROGRAM FEATURE

Des Moines, IA nSaturday, Jan. 16 Sioux Falls, SD nSaturday, Feb. 20

Brooklyn Center, MN nSaturday, Jan. 30 Fargo, ND nSaturday, March 5

Attend an MS Annual Conference to learn more about the progress we made in 2015 and what’s in store for the year ahead. Hear about groundbreaking research, recently approved therapies and what’s in the pipeline. Plus, join us to celebrate the remarkable work of volunteers, donors and other dedicated leaders who made an impact this year.

Networking and social opportunities will be available for both teens and care partners.

Additional conference information will be available soon.

SAVE THE DATE CHAPTER TO HOST FOUR MS ANNUAL CONFERENCES

IOWA

DRIVING WITH MSDavenport nOct. 1, 6 p.m. Davenport Public Library, 3000 N. Fairmount St., Davenport, IA 52804

Driving — one of the many ways we maintain our independence — can be one of the most complex activities in daily life. In the same way other things we do can be affected by MS, the ability to drive can also be altered. Although symptoms associated with MS can affect the skills necessary for safe driving, adaptive automobile equipment is available to help you drive safely.

For more information about this program, contact Becky at 563-650-0820 or [email protected].

BOWEL AND BLADDER ISSUES IN MSDes Moines nOct. 18, 2 p.m. Walnut Ridge at Clive Senior Community, 1701 Campus Drive, Clive, IA 50325

For more information, contact David at 515-556-5338 or [email protected]

Cedar Rapids nNov. 15, 2 p.m. Mercy Hospital, Hallagan Education Center, 701 10th St. SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403

For more information, contact Carrie at 319-360-3563 or [email protected].

Clinton nNov. 17, 6 p.m. Mercy Medical Center North Campus, 1410 N. Fourth St., Clinton, IA 52732

For more information, contact Tami at 563-357-4884 or [email protected].

People with multiple sclerosis may find that bladder and bowel symptoms prevent them from fully interacting with their community, friends and family. These common MS symptoms can be manageable and treatable! View a DVD program that presents discussions about the latest advances and recommendations, both from clinicians at the forefront of MS research and treatment, as well as from individuals who have experienced these symptoms.

WHEN I WALK: MOVIE AND DISCUSSIONDavenport nNov. 5, 6 p.m. Davenport Public Library, 3000 N. Fairmount St., Davenport, IA 52804

Jason DaSilva was 25 years old and a rising independent filmmaker when a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis changed everything — and inspired him to make another film. When I Walk is a candid and brave chronicle of one young man’s struggle to adapt to the harsh realities of MS while holding on to his personal and creative life. Join the Sturgis MS Group to view When I Walk and take time afterward to discuss.

For more information about this program, contact Becky at 563-650-0820 or [email protected].


MINNESOTA

MS FAMILY DAY AT THE WATER PARKBloomington nSunday, Oct. 4, 10:45–11:30 a.m. check-in Water Park of America, 1700 American Blvd. E., Bloomington, MN 55425

Multiple sclerosis doesn’t only affect the person diagnosed with the disease — it can have a significant impact on the whole family. That’s why the National MS Society offers support services and programs to friends and family of people with MS. Join us and other families affected by MS for a fun day at Water Park of America!

This program is free. Registration is required. We kindly ask that guests include only immediate family members.

WHEN I WALK: MOVIE AND DISCUSSIONMankato nThursday, Oct. 8, 7 p.m. Hosanna Lutheran Church, 105 Hosanna Dr., Mankato, MN 56001

Jason DaSilva was 25 years old and a rising independent filmmaker when a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis changed everything — and inspired him to make another film. When I Walk is a candid and brave chronicle of one young man’s struggle to adapt to the harsh realities of MS while holding on to his personal and creative life. Join the Mankato MS Group to view When I Walk and take time afterward to discuss.

For more information, contact Jen at 507-381-3017 or [email protected]; or Shirley at 507-340-8114 or [email protected].

ADAPTIVE YOGA WORKSHOPSartell nWednesday, Oct. 14, 5 p.m. Opportunity Matters, 701 23rd St. S., Sartell, MN 56377

You’ve heard about the many benefits of yoga, but where do you start? For the past 15 years, certified yoga instructor Cherie Hotchkiss has been teaching all levels of classes to students of all ages. Her experience living with MS has changed her personal yoga practice. Ms. Hotchkiss has designed a workshop offering you a way to feel better in your body, no matter your ability.

For information, contact Betsy at 320-253-5421 or [email protected]; Paulette at 320-253-6779; or Debbie at [email protected].

MANAGING BLADDER & BOWEL ISSUES IN MSBemidji nSaturday, Oct. 17, 10 a.m. Sanford Bemidji Medical Center, Education Room A, 1300 Anne St. NW, Bemidji, MN 56601

For more information, contact Ann at 218-766-1465 or [email protected].

Burnsville nTuesday, Nov. 3, 6:30 p.m. Fairview Education Center, 152 Cobblestone Lane, Burnsville, MN 55337

For more information, contact Sue at 952-200-9515 or [email protected].

People with MS may find that bladder and bowel symptoms prevent them from fully interacting with their community, friends and family. These common MS symptoms can be manageable and treatable! View a DVD program that presents discussions about the latest advances and recommendations, both from clinicians at the forefront of MS research and treatment, as well as from individuals who have experienced these symptoms.

NUTRITION, DIET AND MSSt. Paul nWednesday, Nov. 11, 6 p.m. Macalester Plymouth Church Social Hall, 1658 Lincoln Ave., St. Paul, MN 55105

Good nutrition is essential to everyone. For people with MS, the role of diet can have even more importance — from helping manage MS symptoms to the possible impact on disease progression.

Join us for this educational program, presented by Sarah Johnson, a registered/licensed dietitian. Sarah led a study on dietary interventions and MS which was published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in 2012.

For information or to RSVP, contact Beth at 612-825-7990 or [email protected].

SOCIAL SECURITY & DISABILITY: TOOLS, FACTS AND RESOURCESSt. Cloud nWednesday, Nov. 11, 5 p.m. St. Cloud Public Library, 1300 W. St. Germain, St. Cloud, MN 56301

A Disability Linkage Line counselor will discuss information and tools that could help you make informed decisions about benefits, community services and work; and safely explore options and plan for your future. Counselors can help you access resources to live your best life with MS.



LAUGHTER: THE BEST MEDICINESt. Cloud nWednesday, Dec. 9, 5 p.m. St. Cloud Public Library, 1300 W. St. Germain, St. Cloud, MN 56301

Laughter can reduce stress, increase energy, boost your immune system, lower blood pressure and protect the heart. It increases happiness and enhances relationships. In this program you’ll learn how to harness the powerful health benefits of laughter and humor. Guest speaker Linda Hutchinson is the author of two books, a national speaker and humor expert.


NORTH DAKOTA

WHEN I WALK: MOVIE AND DISCUSSIONGrand Forks nTuesday, Oct. 13, 7 p.m. NDAD, 2660 S. Columbus Road, Grand Forks, ND 58201

Jason DaSilva was 25 years old and a rising independent filmmaker when a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis changed everything — and inspired him to make another film. When I Walk is a candid and brave chronicle of one young man’s struggle to adapt to the harsh realities of MS while holding on to his personal and creative life. Join the Grand Forks MS Group to view When I Walk and take time afterward to discuss.

For more information, contact Lee at 701-787-5164 or [email protected].

MANAGING BLADDER & BOWEL ISSUES IN MSBismarck nTuesday, Nov. 17, 7 p.m. Broadway Grill & Tavern, 100 W. Broadway Ave., Bismarck, ND 58501


For information or to RSVP, contact Nettie at 701-355-2254 or [email protected].

SOUTH DAKOTA

BOWEL AND BLADDER ISSUES IN MSAberdeen nNov. 7, 11 a.m. First United Methodist Church, 502 S. Lincoln, Aberdeen, SD 57401

For more information, contact Lois at 605-262-0363 or [email protected].

Sioux Falls nNov. 12, 6 p.m. Non Profit Center, 1000 N. West Ave., #310, Sioux Falls, SD 57104

For more information, contact Maureen at 605-332-7297 or [email protected].


WHEN I WALK: MOVIE AND DISCUSSIONSturgis nNov. 11, 6:30 p.m. 1401 Lazelle St., Sturgis, SD 57785

Jason DaSilva was 25 years old and a rising independent filmmaker when a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis changed everything — and inspired him to make another film. When I Walk is a candid and brave chronicle of one young man’s struggle to adapt to the harsh realities of MS while holding on to his personal and creative life. Join the Sturgis MS Group to view When I Walk and take time afterward to discuss.

For more information about this program, contact Jon at 605-651-7276 or [email protected].

NonprofitUS Postage

PAID Twin Cities, MNPermit No. 1759

200 12th Ave. S.Minneapolis, MN 55415-1255

ATTEND THE ANNUAL MEETING BY PHONEHear board chair and Society staff discuss progress we’ve made and what’s in store for the future. People affected by MS and their loved ones are invited to dial in for the Upper Midwest Chapter’s annual meeting Saturday, Oct. 24, from 11 to 11:30 a.m. To attend, call 888-317-4343.

My fiancé was diagnosed with MS in 2009. In addition to wedding planning, we’ve made some other plans for our future. Finding a cure for MS is so important to us, and that’s why we both included a bequest to the National MS Society in our wills.

Join the Movement®

It’s easy to provide for causes you care about, and the National MS Society can help you learn how. Contact Jennifer at [email protected] or 612-335-7965.

WE CARE ABOUT A CURE … THIS IS WHY WE GIVE

200 12th Ave. S.Minneapolis, MN 55415-1255

FREE MATTERFOR THE

BLIND ORHANDICAPPED

ATTEND THE ANNUAL MEETING BY PHONEHear board chair and Society staff discuss progress we’ve made and what’s in store for the future. People affected by MS and their loved ones are invited to dial in for the Upper Midwest Chapter’s annual meeting Saturday, Oct. 24, from 11 to 11:30 a.m. To attend, call 888-317-4343.

My fiancé was diagnosed with MS in 2009. In addition to wedding planning, we’ve made some other plans for our future. Finding a cure for MS is so important to us, and that’s why we both included a bequest to the National MS Society in our wills.

Join the Movement®

It’s easy to provide for causes you care about, and the National MS Society can help you learn how. Contact Jennifer at [email protected] or 612-335-7965.

WE CARE ABOUT A CURE … THIS IS WHY WE GIVE

Documents

MS Connection, fall 2015