MS Connection Fall 2015

Fall 2015 Southern CaliFornia & nevada Chapter

MS ConneCtion newSletter

inSide thiS iSSue

10SpeCial eventS

04reSearCh

14prograMS ConneCtion

20CoMMunity groupS

2 MS connection: fall 2015

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

Fueling progreSSMy family and I connected with the National MS Society many years ago. My mother had MS and the Society offered a place where we could turn for answers and support. We’ve always felt hopeful that the course of MS would change and have seen many milestones of progress along the way.

At the end of this year, the Society’s groundbreaking No Opportunity Wasted (NOW) Campaign (page 13) will meet its goal of raising $250 million for research aimed at stopping MS in its tracks, restoring lost function, and ending MS forever. In just five years, we’ve raised more than 25 percent of our total research commitment since the first dollar was allocated in 1947.

Uncovering solutions, understanding causes, and finding ways to help people who need our support is the heart of campaigns like NOW and everything we do. We act with urgency to find solutions and change the world for people with MS. We want to end this disease forever. We want each person with MS to live their best lives and have access to the best information, resources, and people.

You are making a difference. When you participate, donate, volunteer, or share your story, you are making an impact. You are changing the course of MS for all the families like mine and yours that have been impacted by this disease. Together, we are fueling progress to one day live in a world free of MS.

Warm regards,

Julie Kaufer, Chapter President

P.S. I am excited to share another opportunity to make an impact! Flip to page 10 to learn about our new partnership with Interbike at Bike MS: Las Vegas on September 19, 2015.

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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 Editor: Emily Hazlett Designer: Nare Ovsepian Copywriter: Jenna Tucker

© 2015 National MS Society, Southern California & Nevada Chapter; Published Quarterly—Fall 2015

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.

top FundraiSer party

CloSer to a CureOver 180 top fundraisers and donors celebrated a year of accomplishments at the Del Rey Yacht Club in Marina Del Rey, CA on June 6. This outstanding group of individuals collectively raised and donated over $4 million last year, accounting for nearly 50 percent of the Southern California & Nevada Chapter’s fundraising. Their contributions of time, money, and fundraising have gone above and beyond and are immensely important to our Chapter. Funds will serve nearly 105,000 people with MS and their families over the next year through life-changing programs, vital services and resources, and critical MS research. Outstanding Achievement Awards were presented to the following recipients:

Following the awards presentation, Dr. Mark Morrow, Chairman, Program Director, and Professor of Neurology at Harbor UCLA Medical Center, shared remarks relating to the incredible ways the National MS Society helps people with MS live their best lives, as well as exciting progress in the research pipeline. n

Khalid Ali — Bike MSJudi Bruner — Challenge Walk MS

Joe Grubbs — Walk MSSteve Haston — Walk MS

Janell Pomeroy — Walk MS


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 are 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 the 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 those with 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, no increased risk of developing MS with excess sodium intake was found. 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)

a diet low in Saturated FatS and high in antioxidantS, Could be aSSoCiated with poSitive ChangeS in body CoMpoSition & Fatigue


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 www.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.

CoFFee May lower the riSk oF developing MS.


On July 10, 2015, the United States House of Representatives passed the 21st Century Cures Act (H.R. 6). The initiative includes three priority issues for the National MS Society:

Spotlight on advoCaCy

7 StepS to Changebreaking newSYour story is a unique and powerful advocacy tool -- perhaps the most powerful tool you possess and one that can influence incredible change. You can create your own story toward powerful change by following these seven steps from brad Fitch of the Congressional Management Foundation:

eStabliShing a data ColleCtion SySteM to identiFy riSk FaCtorS For MS

H.R. 6 creates the National Neurological Disease Surveillance System, which will collect data about people living with neurological conditions in an effort to better understand prevalence, incidence, and environmental factors.

inCreaSing reSourCeS For the national inStituteS oF health (nih) & u.S. Food and drug

adMiniStration (Fda)

inCorporating patientS perSpeCtiveS intodrug developMent and review

H.R. 6 calls for increased discretionary funding for the NIH and establishes the NIH Innovation Fund, which will increase NIH funding by $8.75 billion total from 2016 to 2020, to support biomedical research through basic, translational, and clinical research.

H.R. 6 strengthens the FDA’s ability to take the direct experiences of patients with particular diseases and conditions then use that data to modify and improve potential treatments.

For more tools and resources to help you craft your story and to see a compelling example by MS Activist, Robert Taylor, visit www.nationalMSsociety.org/7stepactiviststory

the want1 begin with theending in mind.

the opening2 Set the stage &establish the stakes.

paint the piCture3 Details &the senses.

the Struggle4 Describe thechallenges.

diSCovery5 Provide interesting& impactful facts.

we Can win6Introduce the potentialof success & joy.

the button7 Finish withthe request.

houSe paSSeS 21St Century CureS aCt


Creating iMpaCtFul ChangebY JAMES STEWART

A little over a year ago, I was informed of an opportunity to be a District Activist Leader (DAL) for my legislative district. Since becoming disabled and stopping employment, I wanted to participate in an activity that would keep me mentally sharp and engaged.

The responsibility and activities associated with DAL were just the right fit for me. being a DAL allows me to experience political activism that supports the views and concerns of people like me, living with MS. I have an opportunity to share my experiences, which are common to others living with MS, in an effort to persuade politicians to support bills that could become laws favoring those impacted by this disease. Mostly, this involves sending letters to our representatives, but it also involves calling their office to request support for said bills.

This year, I participated in the Capital Action Day in Sacramento where I scheduled meetings with my legislators. Along with others from my region, we informed our legislators about key priorities including Sb 26 California Health Care Cost and Quality Database, Sb 137 Provider Directories, and Ab 339 concerning the affordability of Outpatient Prescription Drugs.

It was great to be in Sacramento to hear from the chair of the Senate Health Committee Senator Ed Hernandez, who authored two of the bills, and to learn tips and talking points from professional health policy advocates. We met with representatives of our Assembly members and explained why these bills are important to people living with MS, providing examples and sharing personal experiences.

One of the more reassuring experiences I had was when I attended a local Affordable Care Act informational meeting and met my Congressman Mike Thompson. After explaining who I was and that I represented the NMSS, he said, “Don’t worry, I’ve got your back.”

This gives me encouragement that our political system does function for the betterment of people affected by MS and also encourages me to continue my important work as a volunteer District Activist Leader. n

get involved!

To learn more about how you can get involved as a District Activist Leader or join the MS Activist Network, visit nationalMSsociety.org/DAL or contact Tiffany Jordan at 310-481-1130.


CongratulationS!MS should not stand in the way of an education, which is why the National MS Society developed a scholarship program for students who have MS, or have a parent with the disease. This year, the Southern California & Nevada Chapter awarded 28 scholarships:

Student Spotlight:

Rambod was diagnosed with MS in 2011. Although the challenges of being a teenager, going to school, and living with MS were extensive, Rambod did not let his disease stand in the way of his dreams, and plans to study biology this fall.

Hassan’s mother was diagnosed with MS when he was just six years old. Taking care of his younger brother while his father worked night shifts, Hassan’s responsibilities as a young boy were immense. “I became something of an adult by virtue of necessity,” he wrote in his personal statement. but Hassan’s experiences have shaped him and helped him choose an exciting path to business school this fall.

Going back to school was always a dream for Tracy, who lives with MS. Despite balancing a full-time job, a rigorous class schedule, and challenging MS symptoms, Tracy is determined to pursue her degree in Literary Arts and continue her passion for writing.

2016 Scholarship Applications will be available October 1 through mid-January. Visit nationalMSsociety.org/scholarship for more information. n

2015 SCholarShip reCipientS

rambod Meshgi (Fresno, Ca)university of California, labiology

tracy downey (las vegas, nv)College of Southern nevada literary arts

hassan Smith (los angeles, Ca)university of pennsylvaniabusiness

- Schedule your classes with enough time in between for rest periods.

- Plan ahead as much as possible so that homework and classes do not become overwhelming.

- Ask your instructors about available accommodations.

- Establish a wellness program and make sure to have a health care team in your new community.

- For parents of a student with MS, stay involved by meeting teachers and other parents, attending on-campus activities, and keeping open communication with school officials.


CarepartnerS & MS

a Field oF dreaMSLocal Fresno couple, bill & Kathy, set out on April 6 to take the trip of their dreams. The cross-country adventure was centered around baseball, a sport much like religion to bill and his family growing up. His father always wanted to take his family across the country, visiting as many major league baseball stadiums as possible along the way. but when bill’s mother Stella was diagnosed with MS in 1987, that dream ended.

bill’s father served as the primary caregiver to Stella, whose MS progressed severely leaving her wheelchair-

bound. “My father worked tirelessly to make sure my mother’s every need was met,” said bill. “It was much more than a full-time job; it became his life.” Despite the challenges at home, bill and his father were able to find the bright side of life through baseball. “There was nothing more he wanted to do than to go to the ballpark, but his duties with mom always took precedence,” said bill. In 2014, bill’s father passed away, having never realized his MLb dream. So bill and Kathy decided to dedicate their trip this spring to his father and every other caregiver who “passed on their dreams so that their loved ones were comfortable.” They pledged to donate $100 for each stadium they visited and fundraised along the way. Twelve baseball stadiums and $1,340 later, the “MLb Roadies” returned with a lifetime of memories, a fulfilled dream, and hope for millions of people, including their loved ones, affected by MS. n

noveMber iS national FaMilyCaregiverS Month!

The National MS Society provides services and support for the thousands of caregivers and partners who provide invaluable strength and assistance to their loved ones living with MS, such as:

n Support through one-to one counseling and community groupsn In-person, online, and telephone programs for the whole family n Access to quality MS care resources and referralsn And more!

For more information and resources for caregivers, please visit nationalMSsociety.org/caregiver or call 1-800-FIGHT-MS (344-4867).


bike MS

Ruth bollo will be traveling across the country to join us as a volunteer this year at bike MS Coastal Challenge: Santa Monica to Santa barbara on October 10 & 11. She is the captain of the volunteer team Operation LA and has been working with some of her family members to raise money for the event. She shares her story below:

My family and I are so excited to make the trek from New Jersey to California to participate in bike MS Coastal Challenge: Santa Monica to Santa barbara this October. We have sent over 180 letters to other family members and friends asking for their support and have already received so many donations via our participant center page. I also send out a monthly email to my entire contact list and post a monthly reminder message on my Facebook page.

We are determined to not only meet our fundraising goal, but to exceed it!I feel like I have been more fortunate than some others when it comes to my MS, which is why I have gotten involved; I want to do something to help and give back. I have been in contact with the bike MS team in Southern California over the last few months and can’t wait to finally meet everyone in person. Plus, I am really looking forward to volunteering at the overnight on Saturday night of the ride.

“The support, response, and love we’ve gotten from the communities that we have reached out to has been amazing.

I know that volunteering and raising funds for MS is the right thing for my family and I to do, and I am glad to see the success we have hadso far!

To date, Ruth and her family have raised over $7,500 and aren’t stopping until they reach their $10,000 goal!n

operation: la

bike MS: laS vegaSJoin us for bike MS: Las Vegas, presented locally by Interbike and presented by Caesar’s Entertainment/Rio Hotel Casino, on September 19, 2015! Participants who meet the $100 fundraising requirement will receive a complimentary entry to Interbike’s Customer Appreciation Day on Friday, September 18 at the Mandalay bay Convention Center.

bike MS Coastal Challenge participants who raise $750 by August 28 can attend bike MS: Las Vegas by paying only the registration fee!

RegisteR today!

1 day // 30 & 50 miles // www.bikemslas vegas.oRg

RegisteR today foR bike ms! 2 days // 30 - 150 miles // www.bikemssocal.oRg


MuCkFeSt MS

MuckFest MS is built for laughs, especially when you’re rocking the obstacles with a team of close friends. That’s what Los Angeles team Men at Twerk are all about—

FUN. Last year, team captain Ross Girard recruited his kickball team and a few friends for their first MuckFest MS event.

“We were talking about how we’ve always wanted to do a mud and obstacle run – an athletic challenge that is fun and a bit out of the ordinary,” Ross said. “I got an email from the National MS Society about MuckFest MS and the rest is history!” And so team Men at Twerk assembled, gathering 16 teammates (including ladies, too!) for a muddy obstacle adventure that was out of this world.

Men at twerk In their first year, the team raised over $6,300, rallying in honor of Ross’ close family member who lives with MS. “I’ve seen firsthand how unpredictable and scary this disease can be,” explained Ross. “The work that the National MS Society is doing both for research and in helping people living with MS is really fantastic; I want to do whatever I can to help support the organization and their efforts.”

You can make a difference, too! Join Men at Twerk and thousands of other muckers at this year’s MuckFest MS Los Angeles on October 24 at Prado Regional Park in Chino, CA. Conquer the 5K course with a swinging dirty cocktail of fun and muddy obstacles, and celebrate after the event with a free beer (or soda) and snack. Lil’ Muckers ages 5 to 11 can get in on the action too, with a mucky playground space for children who aren’t old enough to be on the full course.

Register your team today! Visit muckfestMS.com and join us for this year’s MuckFest MS Los Angeles. n


danCe walk

Movement isn’t always a guarantee, which is something people living with MS know all too well. Quality of life is impacted for anyone experiencing mobility problems, but movement issues are especially disheartening to individuals whose careers are reliant on the ability to push their bodies to extremes. “So You Think You Can Dance” (SYTYCD) star Courtney Galiano knows this firsthand. Courtney was diagnosed with MS in 2012, after first experiencing symptoms during a SYTYCD tour. “My body started to feel numb. It’s difficult to describe the feeling (or non-feeling) exactly, but it was like a mix between pins and needles and when you get Novocain at the dentist,” the dancer said in an interview with DanceSpirit.com. When her suspicions of MS were confirmed, Courtney’s first question was if the disease would affect her dancing. Her doctor’s response was to keep dancing to keep her muscles strong.

This advice is being echoed by other specialists, including Dr. Alexander Ng, who has been studying potential effects of dance for patients with chronic diseases, along with a team at Marquette University. Dr. Ng’s initial research has shown that partnered dancing, such as a waltz, is beneficial for patients with MS. “It allows patients to do more movements for

longer periods, or different ones than they would be able to do by themselves,” said Ng.

Courtney Galiano is using her celebrity status to raise money and awareness for MS. Courtney and co-chair Philip byron started the bEAT MS Dance Walk, which will celebrate its third anniversary this year. Participants learn a choreographed dance routine and then perform it alongside dancers from television shows like SYTYCD, “Hit the Floor,” and “Dancing with the Stars.” Since its inception, the bEAT MS Dance Walk has raised over $115,000!

This year, the bEAT MS Dance Walk will be held on September 12 at Palisades Charter High School. Register at thebeatms.com! n

Southern California& Nevada 2015

RegisteR today walkMS.org 1.800.344.4867

South Lake tahoeseptembeR 19, 2015

BakerSfieLdoctobeR 31, 2015

get Movin’ and help uS beat MS!


wayS to give

the tiMe iS now!In 2011, the National MS Society launched the groundbreaking No Opportunity Wasted (NOW) Campaign with a goal to raise $250 million. This campaign seeks to accelerate research to stop MS in its tracks, restore what has been lost, and end MS forever. Of the nearly $900 million invested in MS research by the Society since 1946, the NOW campaign fueled more than 25 percent of that total in the last five years.

We are now in the homestretch of this campaign having fueled a total of $228.6 million in research investments to date! Together, we must raise the necessary funds to successfully complete this historic achievement.

how Can i help?Your gift will ensure we achieve the largest MS research campaign ever conducted. Please help the National MS Society reach its $250 million goal with a gift to the NOW Research initiative. Call Elicia Lopez at 310-481-1111 to learn more or make a gift by phone.

Checks noting the donor’s desire to support NOW research can be mailed directly to the Chapter’s Los Angeles office at 5150 W. Goldleaf Circle, Suite 400, Los Angeles, CA 90056.

Be a part of the MS Research Revolution. NOW.

aCCelerated iMpaCt É We continue to pave the way for all MS treatments – five approved in just the last five years.

É We have expanded the MS treatment pipeline – there are now more potential treatments in trials than any other time in history.

É We have recruited more than 900 new researchers to the field – nearly every thought leader driving advances today got their start with Society funding.

É We have turned the promise of myelin repair into reality – three potential myelin repair treatments have entered trials in just the last five years.

É We have galvanized the world around solving progressive MS – 10 countries and growing are collaborating through the International Progressive MS Alliance.

É We have advanced our understanding of the causes of MS – Over 100 genetic variants have been identified in the last five years and several risk factors confirmed.


prograMS ConneCtionFall 2015

■ Get Fit: Exercising regularly improves your overall conditioning, body awareness, and fitness level. In can improve your endurance and balance and lessen fatigue.

■ Scan and Plan: being more attentive and intentional as you move through your environment can help you reduce your risk of falling. Take note of your environment – maybe there is a curb cut at the street crossing, or the road goes into a shadow and you cannot see how steep it is. Stop, scan, and plan what you are going to do.

■ Home Modifications: Addressing important risks in your home can help you stay safe. Adequate lighting, de-cluttering, and moving furniture are just a few small, but effective, home modifications that can help prevent falls.

learn at hoMe! Watch the Free From Falls DVD (with companion brochure), and learn about fall prevention and what you can do to minimize risk. To request your copy of the at-home Free From Falls DVD, please call an MS Navigator at 1-800-344-4867. Two videos are also available online at www.youtube.com/nationalMSsociety.

MiniMize your riSk oF FallingResearch shows that more than half of people with MS will experience a fall in any given year. From this same group, more than half will fall more than once. The National MS Society offers many programs and resources to help people with MS prevent and recover from falls. In honor of National Falls Prevention Awareness Day (September 23, 2015), we are sharing some tools and tips from the Society’s Free From Falls program:


Free FroM FallSThe National MS Society’s Free From Falls program designed for people living with MS who are able to walk but may be at risk for falling. Discussion, exercise, and group and individual activities are elements of this engaging format where participants will learn about: fall risks, tips, and strategies to reduce risk for falling and exercises to enhance balance and safety. A supportive group atmosphere and expert instructors in the field of rehabilitation, health and wellness will help each participant develop a personal plan to maximize safety.

Through this course, participants will:

• Increase awareness of the prevalence of falls among people with MS and the risk factors that may contribute to falls.

• Identify strategies they can employ to prevent falls and develop a fall prevention action plan.

• Engage in and develop a home fitness plan that addresses balance, endurance, and strength aimed at reducing fall risk.

• Increase confidence in minimizing fall risk and in managing falls if they do occur.

• Identify additional community resources to implement a fall prevention action plan

Register today for an upcoming Free From Falls program in your community!

one day workShopSouth Lake TahoeThe Inn at the LakeSaturday, October 24, 201510:00am – 2:00pm

RSVP is required. Please call Linda Lott at 775-827-4257 or register online at nationalMSsociety.org/CAL.

8-week SerieSEach week’s two-hour program will have two parts: a discussion component focused on awareness of issues related to falls and an exercise component directed to improving postural alignment, balance, endurance, and mobility.

Los AngelesMarilyn Hilton MS Achievement CenterMondays, Oct. 5 - Nov. 23, 2015

Level 1: 1:00pm to 3:00pmLevel 2: 10:00am - 12:00pm

Application Deadline: Sept. 28, 2015Call Katherine at 909-949-1363

Pomona - 8-Week SeriesCasa Colina Centers for RehabilitationWednesdays, Jan. 13 - Mar. 2, 201611:00am - 1:00pmApplication Deadline: Jan. 6, 2016Call Tiffany at 310-481-1130

Pre-registration and an application are required. Please call the contacts listed above for an application today!

16 MS ConneCtion: Fall 2015

prograMS

reaCh to aChieveAdult Day Program

The Marilyn Hilton MS Achievement Center at UCLA offers an ongoing one-day-a-week wellness and lifestyle program in Los Angeles for. Work with Center staff to help you set your wellness goals. Together, you will customize activities and get the tools to help you enhance your physical and emotional well-being and increase independence—all within a setting of shared support. Programs include yoga and t’ai chi, memory enhancement, stress management, exercise, and group support to promote practices that you use throughout the week to maximize your ability to live well with MS.

Enrollment is ongoing. Call Elise Herlihy, RN at 310-267-4071 for an application.

the wellneSS Center at the hiStoriC general hoSpitalRedefining health and wellness for Los Angelenos

The National MS Society, together with the USC MS Comprehensive Care Center, is proud to be a part of a new and innovative partnership that offers wellness programs and resources to the Los Angeles community. Ongoing programs include:

What is MS?Tuesdays & Thursdays at 10:00amEnglish & SpanishJoin us for a discussion about diagnosis, symptoms, and programs for those recently diagnosed.

Vocational Rehabilitation Fridays from 9:00am – 12:00pmEnglish & SpanishMake an appointment to speak with a vocational rehabilitation specialist and learn more about the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), accommodations, and other important resources for people with MS in the workforce.

Adaptive ZumbaThursdays from 10:30am – 11:30am Move and groove at a Zumba fitness class designed for people with varying abilities.

For more information about The Wellness Center, please call 213-261-3685.

wellneSS & MS

17nationalMSSoCiety.org/Cal | 1-800-344-4867

phySiCal aCtivity reSourCeS in your CoMMunity

Many people with MS find it beneficial to work with a fitness instructor who is knowledgeable about the disease, understands how the symptoms of MS impact movement, and can adjust an exercise routine to accommodate different levels of ability.

We now offer a free online training about MS and need your help connecting with fitness professionals in your community.

take the Survey!http://bit.ly/physicalactivitysurvey

exerCiSe and MS workShop[re+active] physical therapy & wellness and the National MS Society are offering a one-day exercise and MS training program in Los Angeles this fall. This program is designed specifically for people with MS who are able to walk, but may require the use of a cane. Please call 800-344-4867 or register online atwww.nationalMSsociety.org/CAL.

September 26, 2015 | 10am - 3pm[re + active] physical therapy and wellness8830 S. Sepulveda blvd, Los Angeles

Moving Forward with MS

Coming this fall!Casa Colina Centers for Healthcare255 E. bonita Ave, Pomona, CA 91767

Hearing the words “you have multiple sclerosis” can set off a flood of emotions, fears and questions. but the information and support you need most can be found at beyond Diagnosis. This free program is designed for people diagnosed with MS within the past two years.

Join MS health and wellness professionals in an open conversation about the disease and discover how wellness practices can help you live your best life with MS. Through this interactive conversation participants will:

• Have a better understanding of treatments to manage MS and its symptoms

• Learn how wellness practices integrate into healthy living with MS

• Have a chance to connect and share with others’ experiences around managing a new diagnosis

Join Richard Shubin, MD, Kathy SanMartino, PT, NCS, MSCS, ATP/SMS, and Denise Nowack, RDN this fall!

Contact Katherine Lee at 909-949-1363 for more information about this upcoming program.

beyond diagnoSiS

18 MS ConneCtion: Fall 2015

Good nutrition is essential to everyone. but for people with MS, how you eat can have additional importance. Don’t let the holidays sabotage your best intentions to eat well. Join registered dietitian nutritionist, Denise Nowack, as she provides great tips to survive holiday eating and shares four simple steps to take the stress out of entertaining. Step into 2016 with the strategies you need to integrate healthful eating throughout the year! Participants will learn how to:• Use the top 10 holiday eating tips to survive

the season • Relax more and stress less around holiday

cooking• Taste some quick & easy recipes that you

can take home and use this season• Adopt a holistic approach to healthy eating

that can contribute to living well with MS

diet & MS: Surviving the holidaySprograMS

loS angeleSThursday, November 12, 201510:30 am – 12:30 pm The Wellness Center at the Historic General Hospital - Demonstration Kitchen1200 N State St, Los Angeles, CA

bakerSFieldWednesday, December 9, 201512:00 pm - 1:30 pmLorene’s Ranch House & Coffee Shop6401 Ming Avenue, bakersfield, CA

viSaliaWednesday, December 9, 20155:30 pm - 7:30 pmLocation TbD

San luiS obiSpoThursday, December 10, 201510:00 am - 12:00 pmLocation TbD

inland eMpire Coming this winter! Call Katherine at 909-949-1363 ext. 66503 for details.Fontana Senior Center, Fontana, CA

Visit nationalMSsociety.org/CAL to RSVP or call 800-344-4867 today!

19nationalMSSoCiety.org/Cal | 1-800-344-4867nationalMSSoCiety.org/Cal | 1-800-344-4867

dial, liSten & learn

taking Charge oF depreSSion and other Mood ChangeS in MS Presented by Can Do MS Tuesday, September 8, 5:00pm

Please join Courtney Macksoud, DPT, MSCS and Rosalind Kalb, PhD for a conversation about how to recognize and manage depression and other mood changes. They will be offering the facts you need to know about depression, some tips for recognizing significant mood changes in yourself or your partner, and insights on the possible role of exercise in managing depression.

RSVP today www.MScando.org/webinar.

preparing For MS doCtor viSitS Tuesday, September 15, 4:00 pm Thursday, September 17, 7:00 pm

It is important to make the most of your visits with your doctor. In this teleconference, Kathy Costello, MSCN, Associate Vice President of Clinical Care, National MS Society offers tips to help you prepare for upcoming appointments. Learn how to make your visits more successful and how to build a true partnership with your provider.

RSVP today at www.nationalMSsociety.org/telelearning or call 800-344-4867.

teleConFerenCeS tired oF being tired? tipS, toolS & teChniqueS to keep you going Presented by Can Do MS Tuesday, October 13, 5:00 pm

Join us in this webinar where Juliann Hanson-Zlatev, OT, and Patty bobryk, PT, will help you understand the definition of fatigue, and more importantly, provide you with strategies on how to boost your energy, make your activities of daily living easier ,and improve your participation in things that are important in your life.

RSVP today www.MScando.org/webinar.

online newly diagnoSedorientation

A diagnosis of MS can create many unexpected emotions that leave you with a strong need to understand the changes you may be facing This web-based program will be conducted by Dr. Elizabeth Crabtree, Assistant Clinical Professor of Neurology at UCSF and Director of Patient Program Development at UCSF’s MS Center. The program will address the most common concerns for people who are newly diagnosed. A phone and computer with internet access will be necessary to join this program.

Thursday, September 10 & November 12 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm RSVP today at nationalMSsociety.org/calendar/norcal or call 800-344-4867

Available In-Person or Online

20 MS ConneCtion: Spring 2015

CoMMunity groupS

loS angeleS County

at-hoMe telephone groupConnecting with others with similar life experiences at a community group can be a great way to enrich your life. Michael Gerber, leader of the Los Angeles group, explains why gathering in this setting is so important:

Our group has been meeting for more than four years, and I still look forward to these get-togethers every month. I have learned a lot over the years and believe I have a better understanding of why these meetings are so important.

Reason #1: It is good to know that you are not alone and meet other people also live with this disease.

Reason #2: With a combined total of over 200 years of experience living with MS, we learn a lot from each other, which helps us in our number one goal to enable each other to live our lives better with MS.

Reason #3: We can all learn from each other. When we can offer a suggestion to someone else living with MS that helps them in any way, it feels good.

For more information about the Los Angeles Group, contact Michael Gerber at 323-939-9598.

3rd Wednesday, 1:00 pm Toll-free dial-in number: 1-888-279-3775, entry code 4001#

Antelope Valley 3rd Thursday, 6:30 pm, Location TbD Leader: Christine, 661-321-9512

Boyle Heights/USC Wellness Center--Spanish speaking group 2nd Saturday, 10:00 am, The Wellness Center at the Historic General Hospital Leader: Carlos, 213-261-3685

Central LA 4th Saturday, 12:00 pm, bilbrew Library Leader: brenda, 310-628-6771

Downey - The Force MS Self-Help Group Thursdays, 10:00 am Rancho Los Amigos Rehabilitation Center Leader: Staci, 310-603-6853 or 310-918-8977

ConneCt with otherSpleaSe 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.


CoMMunity groupSDowney - Young Professionals Group for people in 20s - 40s. 2nd Saturday, 10:00 am, Rancho Los Amigos Rehabilitation Center Leaders: Sarah, 562-401-7622 or beth, [email protected]

Lakewood/Long Beach 3rd Sunday, 1:00 pm, May boyer Park Leader: Fran, 562-925-4405, [email protected]

September 20 – Guest speaker from Home Instead Home Care

October 18 – Halloween Luncheon put on by the bellflower Elks Emblem Club. RSVP with Fran by October 15.

Los Angeles 3rd Thursday, 6:00 pm, Fairfax branch Library Leader: Michael, 323-939-9598 & Allison, 323-876-7606

Monrovia/Pasadena 2nd Monday, 10:00 am, First Presbyterian Church Leader: Aynn, 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. Leader: beth, 818-219-1715

Santa Clarita 2nd Thursday, 6:30 pm, Saint Kateri Catholic Church Leader: Eire, 661-297-6887

South Bay/Harbor City 3rd Tuesday, 4:15 pm, Gardena Mayme Dear Library. Leader: Pattie, 310-769-0694

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Tarzana/Northridge – Spanish Speaking Group 2nd Saturday, 9:00 am, Tarzana Community & Cultural Center Leader: Maria, 818-370-8073

Tarzana – Let’s Play social group 3rd Saturday, 12:00 pm, Tarzana Community Center Leader: Linda, 818-222-7678

West Covina 2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 11:00 am, Senior Center (North building) Leader: Tadd, 626-962-7909

West LA Last Monday, 6:30 pm, Veteran’s Memorial building Leader: Nancy, 310-999-8335

West LA – Men’s Group 3rd Wednesday, 6:00 pm, Veteran’s Memorial building, Leader: Larry, 310-926-1641

Channel iSlandSArroyo Grande 2nd Tuesday, 6:00 pm, United Methodist Church Leader: Ellen, 805-343-6094

Ojai Valley Wallwalkers Lunch Meeting 4th Tuesday, 12:30 pm, Eggs N Potatoes Leader: Donna, 805-646-3750 & Tammy, 805-648-6402

Simi Valley 1st Monday, 10:00 am, Cornerstone Church Leader: Dennis, 805-584-2526 & Tina, 805-581-2264

Thousand Oaks 2nd Monday, 9:30 am, Goebel Senior Adult Center Leader: Tina, 805-581-2264 & Ken, 818-518-4226

22 MS ConneCtion: Spring 2015

Palm Desert 2nd Thursday, 11:00 am, buffalo Wild Wings Leader: Richard, 760-899-4174

Riverside 1st Saturday, 10:00 am, Riverside Medical Clinic (lower level) Leader: Gilbert, 951-544-1441

Temecula 1st Monday, 10:00 am, Mary Phillips Senior Center Leaders: Denise, 909-519-4410; Tammy, 909-792-6518 & Jacqueline (Spanish-speaking), 951-302-3529

Temecula - Men’s Group 4th Monday of every other month at 1:00 pm Location TbD Leader: Ric, 619-985-5736

Upland Last Wednesday, 10:00 am, Calvary Chapel Leaders: Tammy, 909-792-6518 & Denise, 909-519-4410.

Yucaipa 3rd Tuesday, 1:00 pm, Good Shepherd Church Leaders: Clare, 909-795-5128 & Tom, 909-795-1717

CoMMunity groupS

inland eMpire & CoaChella valley

nevada & northeaSternCaliFornia

Apple Valley/Victorville 1st Thursday, 10:00 am, Senior Select Advocate Apple bear Center Leader: Katrina, 951-906-1752

Hemet 1st Wednesday, 10:00 am, Hemet Public Library Leader: Sarah, 760-580-0658

Lake Arrowhead 1st Friday, 4:00 pm, Location varies Leader: Joyce, 909-337-7573

Murrieta - So Cal MS Outlaws 4th Wednesday, 10:00 am, Trinity Lutheran Church Leaders: Roxie & bill, 951-506-3787

Ontario 1st Saturday, 10:00 am, Redeemer Lutheran Christian Church Leaders: Emily, 909-851-6204 & Kathy, 909-621-3519

Palm Springs 2nd Sunday, 12:00 pm, billy Reed’s Restaurant Leader: Tony, 760-831-6365

Rancho Cucamonga - Moms with MS 2nd Tuesday, 12:00 pm, Rancho Cucamonga Resource Center, Leaders: AnaMaria, 909-463-0334 & Kim, 909-904-0352

Henderon4th Friday, 1:00pm, Touro UniversityLeader: Sandy, 702-777-4809

Las Vegas/Henderson - Oasis Group1st Saturday, 11:00 am, Hope CurchLeader: Mike, 313-310-1439

Ventura Last Friday, 11:30 am, Carrow’s Leader: Tammy, 805-648-6402

Ventura Social Group 3rd Thursday, 3:00 pm, Panera bread in Ventura Leader: Tammy, 805-648-6402


CoMMunity groupS

San joaquin valley

Las Vegas - MS Lunch Club1st Tuesday, 11:30 am, Town Center Lounge & Restaurant, must RSVP, lunch is $10/personLeader: Carol, 702-633-4158

Las Vegas - Westside Stories3rd Wednesday, 6:30 pm, HealthSouth Center Leader: Gaby, 702-328-6989

Las Vegas - Young People with MSEmail [email protected] for detailsLeaders: Cecilia & Suzanne

Reno/Sparks3rd Thursday, 2:30 pm, Renown Rehabilitation CenterLeader: Christine, 775-560-1215

Reno/Sparks2nd Tuesday, 10:00 am, N. Nevada Center forIndependent LivingLeader: Mary, 775-772-3404

Reno – Young People with MS Under 403rd Wednesday, 5:30 pm, Swill Coffee HouseLeader: Dana, 775-843-0784

Truckee2nd Thursday, 5:30 pm, Tahoe Forest HospitalCafeteriaLeader: Rick, 530-550-0654

Bakersfield1st Thursday, 7:00 pm, HealthSouth Rehab HospitalLeader: JoAnn, 661-872-1973

Bakersfield - Breakfast & Lunch Groups2nd Wednesday, 12pm or 4th Wednesday, 10:00 am Lorene’s Coffee ShopLeader: Ron, 661-833-0388; JoAnn, 661-872-1973

Bakersfield - Young Professionals Group4th Tuesday, 5:30pmLeader: Christine, 661.321.9512

Clovis/Fresno3rd Saturday, 9:30 am, San Joaquin Rehab HospitalLeaders: Yolanda, 559-908-4644 &Doris, 559-299-2072

Fresno – Newly Diagnosed/WorkingProfessionals Group3rd Tuesday, 6:00 pm, call for locationLeaders: Cherish, 559-287-3042 & Myrna, 559-349-0423

Fresno – Spanish Speaking GroupCall for detailsLeader: Sharon, 559-579-4096

Hanford1st Saturday, 10:00 am, First Christian ChurchLeaders: Judy, 559-585-1198 & Debra, 559-585-8054

Tehachapi2nd Thursday, 5:00 pm, Tehachapi Moose Lodge, Optional “Dinner on the Grill”Leader: Linda, 661-822-7440

Tehachapi – Wheels in Motion3rd Tuesday, 10:00 am, Kelcy’s RestaurantLeader: Linda, 661-822-7440

Visalia2nd Saturday, 10:00 am, Kaweah Delta RehabLeader: Mary Ann, 559-936-3960

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

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Documents

MS Connection Fall 2015