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WINTER/SPRING 2015 MID FLORIDA CHAPTER MS CONNECTION NEWSLETTER INSIDE THIS ISSUE 03 CHALLENGE WALK MS 06 WALK MS 11 THE ROLE OF MICROGLIA 14-15 SELF-HELP GROUPS MESSAGE FROM THE STAFF HAPPY NEW YEAR! e National MS Society, Mid Florida Chapter would like to wish you and yours a happy and healthy New Year! We have high hopes and expectations for 2015, and we are gearing up for our best year yet. In this issue of the MS Connection, instead of a President’s Column, we are sending New Year’s greetings from each of the Chapter staff members. “As I look forward with anticipation to 2015, the message I want to convey to you, our constituents, is one that I think about every morning as I prepare to drive to the Mid Florida Chapter office in the Maitland Center. It is embodied in the three words we say over and over again at this time of the year: ‘Happy New Year.’ First used in the 14th Century, the word ‘happy’ has evolved and taken on different meanings depending on the context in which the word is used. In this message to you, as I wish you a Happy New Year, I want you to know how ‘fortunate’ I am to work for the National MS Society. I am ‘fortunate’ because of the many opportunities my work has afforded me to meet and connect with people like you. I am ‘fortunate’ because you have brought joy, laughter and meaning into my life. I am ‘fortunate’ because you have shared your stories with me and worked alongside me in the office and at events. I am ‘fortunate’ too because we share a common goal – one that we will accomplish by continuing to work together to bring an end to MS. Yes. One day there will be a cure for MS. We are so ‘fortunate’ that we have a whole year ahead of us to help make that happen. I hope you will stay connected with all of us in the Mid Florida Chapter as wonderful things unfold in 2015. Happy New Year to you and your families.” – With appreciation, Carroll Franklin “May this new year bring new light and new hope. Looking forward to a wonderful 2015.” – Laura Choate “Happy New Year, My Mighty Strong Family! Wishing you all a healthy and peaceful year as you follow your DreaMS! See you at Walk MS 2015.” – Love, Pat Chuck “‘Here’s to all volunteers, those dedicated people

MS CONNECTION NEWSLETTERMID FLORIDA CHAPTER · season and appreciate you all for your accomplishments and achievements for 2014. I thank one and all for your support and dedication,

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Page 1: MS CONNECTION NEWSLETTERMID FLORIDA CHAPTER · season and appreciate you all for your accomplishments and achievements for 2014. I thank one and all for your support and dedication,

WINTER/SPRING 2015MID FLORIDA CHAPTER

MS CONNECTION NEWSLETTER

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

03CHALLENGE WALK MS

06WALK MS

11THE ROLE OF MICROGLIA

14-15SELF-HELP GROUPS

MESSAGE FROM THE STAFF

HAPPY NEW YEAR!The National MS Society, Mid Florida Chapter would like to wish you and yours a happy and healthy New Year! We have high hopes and expectations for 2015, and we are gearing up for our best year yet. In this issue of the MS Connection, instead of a President’s Column, we are sending New Year’s greetings from each of the Chapter staff members.

“As I look forward with anticipation to 2015, the message I want to convey to you, our constituents, is one that I think about every morning as I prepare to drive to the Mid Florida Chapter office in the Maitland Center. It is embodied in the three words we say over and over again at this time of the year: ‘Happy New Year.’

First used in the 14th Century, the word ‘happy’ has evolved and taken on different meanings depending on the context in which the word is used. In this message to you, as I wish you a Happy New Year, I want you to know how ‘fortunate’ I am to work for the National MS Society. I am

‘fortunate’ because of the many opportunities my work has afforded me to meet and connect with people like you. I am ‘fortunate’ because you have brought joy, laughter and meaning into my life. I am ‘fortunate’ because you have shared your stories with me and worked alongside me in the office and at events. I am ‘fortunate’ too because we share a common goal – one that we will accomplish by continuing to work together to bring an end to MS.

Yes. One day there will be a cure for MS. We are so ‘fortunate’ that we have a whole year ahead of us to help make that happen. I hope you will stay connected with all of us in the Mid Florida Chapter as wonderful things unfold in 2015. Happy New Year to you and your families.” – With appreciation, Carroll Franklin

“May this new year bring new light and new hope. Looking forward to a wonderful 2015.” – Laura Choate

“Happy New Year, My Mighty Strong Family! Wishing you all a healthy and peaceful year as you follow your DreaMS! See you at Walk MS 2015.” – Love, Pat Chuck

“‘Here’s to all volunteers, those dedicated people

Page 2: MS CONNECTION NEWSLETTERMID FLORIDA CHAPTER · season and appreciate you all for your accomplishments and achievements for 2014. I thank one and all for your support and dedication,

02 MS CONNECTION: WINTER/SPRING 2015

CONNECT WITH US ONLINE:website: www.nationalmssociety.org/flcemail: [email protected]

www.facebook.com/nmssflcwww.twitter.com/nmssmidfloridawww.pinterest.com/nmssmflcwww.instagram.com/mssociety_midfl

Main Office2701 Maitland Center Parkway, Suite 100Maitland, FL 32751

Tampa Office4919 Memorial Highway, Suite 103Tampa, FL 336341-800-344-4867

OUR STAFFCarroll FranklinChapter President

Laura ChoateDirector of Operations

Patricia ChuckPrograms & Services Manager

Linda GurianPrograms & Services Coordinator

Mary HealeyDevelopment Manager

Lisa OsborneAdministrative Assistant

Mike RobertsonDevelopment Manager

Stephanie WalgamottDirector of Marketing & Special Programs

who believe in all work and no pay.’

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our volunteers and wish you all a very healthy and happy New Year ! May the coming year be a good one for all.” – Linda Gurian

“As the New Year is approaching, I want to take this as an opportunity to extend my heartfelt greetings for the season and appreciate you all for your accomplishments and achievements for 2014. I thank one and all for your support and dedication, and I am looking forward to a very successful Walk MS 2015 season and getting closer to finding a cure for MS. My best wishes to you and your families!” – Mary Healey

“Happy New Year to our clients and supporters! I’m looking forward to 2015 to continue to bring awareness to MS and building long-lasting relationships with you all!” – Lisa Osborne

“We say goodbye to 2014 with much thankfulness. My wife Sara and I celebrated the birth of our son Collin in September. His big sister Kjerstin has really been a great helper to us. We had a very successful year with Bike MS as we exceeded our goal and added almost 200 riders over the prior year.

The upcoming new year looks to be one of great excitement as well. We are on pace for an even bigger Bike MS event, and have our sights set on raising even more funds to provide programs, services and much needed research towards new treatments, and ultimately a cure for MS. I look forward to a fantastic 2015!” – Mike Robertson

“Happy 2015 to all! I know that this is going to be a great year, and I’m looking forward to the strides we will make on the road to a cure for MS. In March, I will be walking 50 miles in Challenge Walk MS, and I can’t wait. Thank you all for everything you do to help create a world free of MS. Here’s to a happy and healthy year!” – Stephanie Walgamott

Page 3: MS CONNECTION NEWSLETTERMID FLORIDA CHAPTER · season and appreciate you all for your accomplishments and achievements for 2014. I thank one and all for your support and dedication,

03NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG | 1-800-344-4867 03CHALLENGE WALK MS SAVANNAH:2015 WALKING 50 MILES FOR A CURE BY STEPHANIE WALGAMOTT

With the new year upon us, people everywhere are resolving to get fit, volunteer, donate to charity, eat less and do endless other things to make an impact in their lives and in the world.

Right now, there are 274 people across the country training and preparing for a unique challenge in 2015. They will be walking 50 miles over three days to help create a world free of MS March 6-8, 2015 at Challenge Walk MS: Savannah.

Riverview resident Amy Downey has accepted the challenge and will be participating in the event for the first time this year. A 40-year-old wife and mother of twins with a busy career in the construction industry, Amy is walking in Challenge Walk MS for a very personal reason. “My mother, Joann Smallwood, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in the early 90’s, and I am proud to be walking in her honor,” says Amy. “From her initial diagnosis, we were all floored, but she always had a positive attitude and made the choice to wake up happy every day. She was the ‘optimist optimist’, and she always told us MS was her dance.”

Amy and her mother were very close. “She was my best friend and my daughter’s best friend. She helped raise my kids from the day they were born,” says Amy. Joann lived every day with a smile and believed family and love were the most important things. Sadly, Joann was diagnosed with lung cancer in March of 2013 and passed away in August 2013.

“My mom was such an inspiration to everyone she met. Prior to having MS, she owned an interior decorating business and was well-known in the

Brandon area. She always said ‘I may have MS, but MS doesn’t have me…. She taught me how to see the beauty in everything.”

2013 was hard on Amy’s family. “The holidays were especially rough since my mom was such a big part of that. But this Christmas season, I could feel the magic all around me, and I’m inspired and thrilled to be able to honor my mom by walking in Challenge Walk MS.” Amy is also participating to help raise awareness about multiple sclerosis and for everyone else who is living with the disease. “My mom was one of the lucky ones. She was always able to walk…. A lot of people don’t know what MS is or how debilitating it can be, so I really want to bring that to light.”

Challenge Walk MS: Savannah 2015 presented by Merrill Lynch will take participants on a journey throughout and around historic Savannah, Georgia through Skidaway Island (The Landings) and to Tybee Island. Each walker will fundraise a minimum of $1,500 and aim to complete the physical challenge of walking 50 miles. The event will raise a total of $575,000 to support the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Registration is now open at www.ChallengeMS.org for a fee of $75.

Amy with Joann on the day her twins were born.

Joann Smallwood

Page 4: MS CONNECTION NEWSLETTERMID FLORIDA CHAPTER · season and appreciate you all for your accomplishments and achievements for 2014. I thank one and all for your support and dedication,

04 MS CONNECTION: WINTER/SPRING 2015

Oliv ia Ma r t inez was diagnosed with MS in December of 2012. She wishes to bring awareness to the fact that teens get MS too.  Her favorite aspect of Walk MS is having all of her friends around to join her team and show their

support. Olivia believes anyone who wants to learn and show support for MS should attend Walk MS. Olivia, who walks with Team Olivia spreads the word about Walk MS through word of mouth and Facebook. She has been involved with the MS Society since shortly after her diagnosis. Meet Olivia at Walk MS Brevard on March 14, 2015.

Peter Carel l i w a s diagnosed with MS 22 years ago. Since his diagnosis, he and his family have learned that people with the disease are strong and are fighters. He has been involved with the National MS Society on and off for 19 years

and spreads the word about Walk MS through friends, family and church members. His team, The Carelli Cruisers, is made up of village residents, police officers, friends and family who also walk for the cause. To Peter, the phrase “Join the Movement” means to come together as one and move for those who can’t. He believes that others should participate to show loved ones support. Meet Peter at Walk MS Ormond Beach on March 7, 2015.

Dawn Varvaro was first diagnosed with MS in the spring of 2002. “It’s a way of living, ... but I don’t let it control my life.” Dawn wishes to educate her friends and family, but she also wishes to find a cure. She does this by raising money to support the

MS Society. To Dawn, “Join the Movement” symbolizes a group of individuals coming together and uniting for a cause. “When we stand alone, our voice may not be heard, but as a united group, we can stand together and move toward a common goal.” Meet Dawn at Walk MS Largo on March 14, 2015.

Emilie Pinho has been living with MS since 2004. MS has affected her coordinat ion, cognition, memory, energy and ability to handle stress, but best of all, MS has given her community involvement and wonderful experiences

that humble her and make her thankful. She shamelessly spreads the word about Walk MS to everyone and participates in Walk MS because she believes that “we need to spread awareness to generate research for a cure, and keep up hope that this disease is not a death or wheelchair sentence.” Meet Emilie at Walk MS Sarasota on March 14, 2015.

MEET THE 2015 WALK MS AMBASSADORS

Page 5: MS CONNECTION NEWSLETTERMID FLORIDA CHAPTER · season and appreciate you all for your accomplishments and achievements for 2014. I thank one and all for your support and dedication,

05NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG | 1-800-344-4867

M a r y Jo V i t a l e MacLean was diagnosed with MS in April of 2012. Six months later, her sister’s husband was also diagnosed. She believes that “awareness is key to receiving the funds that will help researchers find a cause and a cure.” She also

feels that “WALKING shows the world that MS will NOT keep us still!” Her team, Team Bella Voce, has more than 20 members and raised $2,000 last year. Mary Jo uses her popularity to spread the word about Walk MS around The Villages. “Most people know I have MS and I feel it is my duty to use my popularity to spread the word and raise awareness.” Meet Mary Jo at Walk MS Lady Lake on March 21, 2015.

Six years ago, Chris Hanson’s world suddenly changed when he was diagnosed with progressive MS. He was a Rollins MBA graduate who enjoyed sports and the arts. Chris has learned over the years to turn his struggles

and frustration into positive energy. His aim is to nurture compassion and understanding, drawing out empathy rather than sympathy, and his message to the MS community in Florida and the world is “we are all more than our bodies.” Meet Chris at Walk MS Orlando on April 12, 2015.

Christine Caraway woke up one morning experiencing double vision. After a trip to the emergency room, a series of MRIs and other “fun” tests, she was diagnosed with MS. Christine participates in Walk MS because it’s fun and something

tangible. Her favorite aspect of the walk is crossing the finish line. She believes that it’s a wonderfully fun event that brings together a community of people who have, in their own unique way, been affected by MS. The walk allows each participant to make a difference in so many lives, so that one day, no one else will ever have to hear those words “you have MS.” So far, she has raised $14,550 for the MS Society. She also created MSsion Possible in 2011 as an additional fundraiser. Meet Christine at Walk MS Tampa on March 28, 2015.

Mid Florida 2015

BY FALLON CARRINGTON

Page 6: MS CONNECTION NEWSLETTERMID FLORIDA CHAPTER · season and appreciate you all for your accomplishments and achievements for 2014. I thank one and all for your support and dedication,

06 MS CONNECTION: WINTER/SPRING 2015

BE INSPIRED. GET CONNECTED. WALK MS.

REGISTER TODAYwalkMS.org or 855.372.1331Walk MS connects people living with MS and those who care about them. This community event raises critical funds to support life-changing programs and cutting-edge research.

MARCH 7, 2015Ormond Beach: Rockefeller Gardens Park

MARCH 14, 2015Largo: Central Park

Brevard: Church @ Viera

Sarasota: Lakewood Ranch

@ Main St.

MARCH 21, 2015Lady Lake: The Villages Polo Field

MARCH 28, 2015Tampa: Al Lopez Park

APRIL 12, 2015Orlando: Baldwin Park

@ Harbor Park

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT [email protected] OR 407.478.8882 OR VISIT WWW.WALKMS.ORG.

Mid Florida 2015

MARCH 7, 2015Ormond Beach: Rockefeller Gardens Park

MARCH 14, 2015Largo: Central Park

Brevard: Church @ Viera

Sarasota: Lakewood Ranch @ Main St.

MARCH 21, 2015Lady Lake: The Villages Polo Field

MARCH 28, 2015Tampa: Al Lopez Park

APRIL 12, 2015Orlando: Baldwin Park @ Harbor Park

SEPTEMBER 27, 2015Port Charlotte: The Cultural Center

Page 7: MS CONNECTION NEWSLETTERMID FLORIDA CHAPTER · season and appreciate you all for your accomplishments and achievements for 2014. I thank one and all for your support and dedication,

NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG | 1-800-344-4867 07

BIKEMS.ORG or 855.372.1331

Page 8: MS CONNECTION NEWSLETTERMID FLORIDA CHAPTER · season and appreciate you all for your accomplishments and achievements for 2014. I thank one and all for your support and dedication,

08 MS CONNECTION: WINTER/SPRING 2015

Savannah 2015presented by

CHALLENGE WALK MS: SAVANNAH MARCH 6-8, 2015

3 DAYS. 50 MILES.CONNECT TO END MULTIPLE SCLEROSISLEARN MORE: challengeMS.org or 1.800.344.4867

Volunteers Needed! The Mid Florida Chapter wants YOU! We need your time, talent and skills to help with

WALK MS

BIKE MS

PROGRAMS

SERVICES

MARKETING

OFFICE HELP

GRAPHIC DESIGN

INTERNS

If you are interested in volunteering to help create a world free of MS, please contact [email protected] or 407-478-8882 ext. 55132.

Register directly to volunteer for events at www.walkMS.org and www.bikeMS.org.

Page 9: MS CONNECTION NEWSLETTERMID FLORIDA CHAPTER · season and appreciate you all for your accomplishments and achievements for 2014. I thank one and all for your support and dedication,

09NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG | 1-800-344-4867

CALENDARMARCH 2-8MARCH 6-8MARCH 7MARCH 14MARCH 21MARCH 28APRIL 12MAY 2-3

MAY 15-17MAY 27JUNE 25

MS Awareness Week

Challenge Walk MS: Savannah

Walk MS: Ormond Beach

Walk MS: Largo, Brevard and Sarasota

Walk MS: The Villages

Walk MS: Tampa

Walk MS: Orlando

Bike MS: The Citrus Tour

MS Kids Camp

World MS Day

MS Teen Expression

CHECK OUT ALL OF OUR HAPPENINGS AT WWW.NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG/FLC.PLEASE CALL 1-800-344-4867 FOR MORE INFORMATION. Mid Florida

Chapter

Page 10: MS CONNECTION NEWSLETTERMID FLORIDA CHAPTER · season and appreciate you all for your accomplishments and achievements for 2014. I thank one and all for your support and dedication,

10 MS CONNECTION: WINTER/SPRING 2015

DAY OF DISCOVERY 2014On Saturday, December 6, more than 600 people attended Day of Discovery at SeaWorld Orlando. Guests enjoyed a gourmet breakfast, learned about different community resources and companies that specialize in products and services to help people with MS and participated in a presentation by Dr. Jake McCauley from the University of

Miami, Miller School of Medicine.

Dr. McCauley spoke about his research, which is funded in part by the National MS Society. After the program, guests were able to enjoy the rest of the day in the park. Special thanks to our sponsors for making this program possible: SeaWorld Orlando, Genzyme, Teva, Mobility Freedom, Bayer, Hill & Ponton, Assistance Fund and Novartis.

Page 11: MS CONNECTION NEWSLETTERMID FLORIDA CHAPTER · season and appreciate you all for your accomplishments and achievements for 2014. I thank one and all for your support and dedication,

NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG | 1-800-344-4867 11

RESEARCH

THE ROLE OF MICROGLIAA type of immune cell called microglia, which is widely believed to exacerbate chronic adult brain diseases such as multiple sclerosis, might actually slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases, according to new research. The research was led by Dr. Bruce Trapp, chair of the Department of Neurosciences at Cleveland Clinic’s Lerner Research Institute, and was published in Nature Communications in July 2014.

“Our findings suggest the immune system protects the brain after injury or during chronic disease, and this role should be further studied,” Dr. Trapp says. “We could potentially harness the protective role of microglia to improve prognosis for patients with traumatic brain injury and delay the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, MS and stroke. The methods we developed will help us further understand mechanisms of neuroprotection.”

HOW MICROGLIA WORKMicroglia are primary responders to the brain after injury or during illness. Dr. Trapp’s team used an advanced technique called 3D electron microscopy to visualize this activation of microglia and subsequent events in animal models.

They found that, when chemically activated, microglia migrate to inhibitory synapses, which are the connections between brain cells that slow the firing of impulses. Microglia then dislodge the synapse, thereby increasing neuronal firing and leading to a cascade of events that enhance survival of brain cells. Dr. Trapp’s past research has included investigating the causes of neurological disability in people with MS, the cellular mechanisms of brain repair in neurodegenerative diseases and the molecular biology of myelination in the central and peripheral nervous systems. In 2009, he received the National MS Society’s 2009 Stephen C. Reingold Award and, in 2013, he was inducted into the Society’s Volunteer Hall of Fame for Scientific Researchers. He also received the John Dystel Prize in 2003, awarded jointly by the Society and the American Association of Neurologists to recognize outstanding contributions to the field of MS research. n

Originally published in the Ohio Buckeye MS Connection newsletter.

DR. BRUCE TRAPP

Page 12: MS CONNECTION NEWSLETTERMID FLORIDA CHAPTER · season and appreciate you all for your accomplishments and achievements for 2014. I thank one and all for your support and dedication,

12 MS CONNECTION: WINTER/SPRING 2015

LIVING WITH MS

REACH OUTFOR HELPFor Brian Thompson, symptoms of multiple sclerosis were something he ignored as long as he could. Between 2007 and 2009, he experienced two cases of optic neuritis, an inflammation that can cause a complete or partial loss of vision. However, after treatment, he regained his vision completely. “So, I went far too long before getting a diagnosis,” the Burbank, Calif., resident says.

Thompson’s symptoms slowly progressed over the next three years, and he started experiencing issues with balance, endurance, strength and heat intolerance. “I was at a point where I could no longer disregard these symptoms,” he remembers. Shortly thereafter, he was diagnosed with MS.

“What do I do now?” and “How will my life change?” are just a couple of the questions Thompson had after he received the news. However, at the MS Comprehensive Care Center at the Keck School of Medicine of University of Southern California, Thompson connected with an MS-certified care manager. “She has been an amazing resource,” he says. “She has helped me with everything from filling out paperwork to making sure I ask my neurologist the right questions.”

When Thompson broke his leg after a fall and required in-patient care, the care manager connected him to a local rehabilitation facility

and set him up with 72 hours of support for his recovery time at home. The extra support was a relief for Thompson and his girlfriend, Shelli. “Having the help took the burden off us. Sometimes MS becomes the third person in the room. It’s nice to not have to focus on it,” he says. n

Originally published in the Southern California & Nevada MS Connection newsletter.

The MS Navigator program can connect people like Brian Thompson to the information, resources and support they need. Call 1-800-344-4867 to:

• Find MS specialty care—doctors, counselors, social workers, physical therapists and more• Get personalized answers about your unique needs, including up-to-date information, referrals and practical resources• Learn about research and clinical trials• Advocate for better health care, research funding, and policy initiatives that are important to you• Understand benefits such as health insurance

BRIAN THOMPSON, DIAGNOSED WITH MS IN 2012

Page 13: MS CONNECTION NEWSLETTERMID FLORIDA CHAPTER · season and appreciate you all for your accomplishments and achievements for 2014. I thank one and all for your support and dedication,

NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG | 1-800-344-4867 13

MONEY MATTERS

MANAGING SYMPTOMS ON THE JOBBY CHRISTINA L. FORSTER, MA, CRC

Multiple sclerosis is a complex and unpredictable disease—which can make it challenging for people with MS who work. However, thanks to new technologies and better symptom management strategies, many people with MS remain employed well after their diagnosis.

MANAGING FATIGUEWhile there are many symptoms that can affect work performance, two of the most common are fatigue and cognitive issues. Some strategies for managing fatigue, which occurs in about 80 percent of people with MS, include:

• Prioritizing difficult tasks for high-energy times and easier tasks for high-fatigue times

• Planning ahead to space out meetings or avoid overcrowded schedules

• Scheduling breaks and rest times

• Taking advantage of flexible work hours or working from home

To learn more about fatigue, visit www.nationalMSsociety.org/fatigue.

MANAGING COGNITIVE ISSUESAs with fatigue, there are strategies that can help you adapt to cognitive changes such as memory and attention challenges. These include:

• Minimizing distractions

• Taking notes to help with memory

• Asking for written descriptions of tasks whenever possible

• Using organizational tools and project templates

Visit www.nationalMSsociety.org/cognition to learn more about what you can do to address cognitive challenges.

KNOW THYSELFBecause MS is so variable, it is critical to learn your limits. Keep a symptom journal or mark on your calendar how you feel each day. This allows you to recognize patterns and identify possible triggers. Turn to your healthcare providers for help assessing symptoms and finding adaptive aids and techniques that will work for you.

Call an MS Navigator at 1-800-344-4867 to connect to more employment and symptom-related resources, or visit www.nationalMSsociety.org/employment.The Job Accommodation Network, a free service sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, is another excellent resource. For more information, visit www.askjan.org or call 1-800-526-7234. n

Christina L. Forster, MA, CRC, is an employment services manager at the National MS Society in the Philadelphia area.

This article was originally published in the Greater Delaware Valley’s MS Connection newsletter.

Page 14: MS CONNECTION NEWSLETTERMID FLORIDA CHAPTER · season and appreciate you all for your accomplishments and achievements for 2014. I thank one and all for your support and dedication,

MS CONNECTION: WINTER/SPRING 201514Group Name Location Meeting Time Contact

Brevard CountyEau Gallie Group

Brevard County Central Cocoa Sunday Group

Hillsborough County (South Tampa) Thursday Afternoon

Orange County (includes Seminole County) Sunday Afternoon Group

Citrus County Saturday Morning Group

Lake County Wednesday Morning Group Mighty Survivors

Orange County “Orange A.N.T.S.” Support Group

Hillsborough County (Central) Tuesday Evening Group

Marion County “Multiple Sclerosis Villages People”

4th Sunday of every month, 2 PM

2nd Sunday of every month, 2 PM

2nd Thursday of every month, Noon - 2 PM

1st Sunday of the month September through June, 2 PM

1st Saturday of every month, 11 AM

3rd Wednesday of every month, 10 AM

1st Monday of every month, 6 PM

2nd Tuesday of every month, 7 PM

3rd Tuesday of every month, 10 AM

Healthfirst Gateway Center1223 Gateway Dr.Melbourne, FL 32901

Cocoa Public Library308 Forrest AvenueCocoa, FL 32922

Hyde Park United Methodist ChurchKnox Hall- Room 156500 W. Platt StTampa, FL 33606

Winter Park Hospital Medical Library 200 N. Lakemont Ave Winter Park, FL

1st Baptist Church3790 E. Parsons Point Rd, Hernando, FL 34442

Nat’l Training CenterSouth Lake Hospital1099 Citrus Tower Blvd.Clermont, FL 34711

Dr. Phillips HospitalAtrium Conf. Room9400 Turkey Lake RdOrlando, FL 32819

Lake Magdalene Church Heritage Hall2902 W. Fletcher AveTampa, FL 33618

La Hacienda Center1200 Avenida CentralLady Lake, FL 32159

Kevin (321) [email protected]

Kevin (321) [email protected]

Florence (813) 390-6937ffoster@tampabay ladieswithms.com

Ian King (407) [email protected]

Shana (352) [email protected]

Aimee(352) 242-2350 [email protected]

Jeff Hamilton(407) [email protected]

Rita (813) [email protected]

Mary (352)[email protected]

Page 15: MS CONNECTION NEWSLETTERMID FLORIDA CHAPTER · season and appreciate you all for your accomplishments and achievements for 2014. I thank one and all for your support and dedication,

NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG | 1-800-344-4867 15Group Name Location Meeting Time Contact

Pasco CountyWest Pasco MS Support Group

Orange County “Downtown A.N.T.S.” Support Group

Osceola County “Osceola A.N.T.S.” Support Group

Polk County (East) Thursday Morning Group

Volusia County “Wave Riders” Support Group

Pinellas County (Central) Tuesday Evening Group

Sarasota County Thursday Noon Group

Volusia County “MSKeteers” Support Group

Pinellas County (South) Thursday Morning Group

Sarasota County “Friends of Hope”

2nd Tuesday of every month, 12 noon

1st Friday of every month, at 10 AM

3rd Thursday of every month, at 6 PM

3rd Thursday of every month, 10:30 AM

3rd Tuesday of every month, 12:30 PM September through May

2nd Tuesday of every month, 6:30 pm

1st Thursday of every month, 12:30- 2:30 PM

3rd Saturday of every month, 1 PM

1st Thursday of every month, 10 AM

3rd Thursday of every month, 6:00 PM

Havana Dreamers Café 3104 Town Ave. Suite #107New Port Richey, FL 34655

32 West Gore St. 4th FLOrlando, FL 32806

KUA 1701 Carroll St.Kissimmee, FL 34741

Abiding Lutheran Church1910 Havendale Blvd Winter Haven, FL 33881

DSIL119 S. Palmetto Ave, Daytona Beach, FL 32114

HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Largo, Classroom C901 Clearwater/Largo Rd., Largo, FL 33770

HealthSouth Rehab6400 Edgelake Dr.Sarasota, FL 34240

Deltona Public Library 2150 Eustace Ave., Deltona, FL 32738

Azalea Center1600 72nd St. N.St. Petersburg, FL 33710

Sarasota Memorial Healthfit5880 Rand Blvd. Sarasota, FL 34238

Susan (727) [email protected]

Carla Sims (312) [email protected]

Jeff Hamilton (407) [email protected]

Jeff (863) [email protected]

Gabrielle (386) [email protected]

Marie (727) [email protected]

Lee (941) [email protected]

Nayda (386) 789-0332Msketeers2004 @embarqmail.com

Linda (727) 544-5981

Chris (941) [email protected]

Page 16: MS CONNECTION NEWSLETTERMID FLORIDA CHAPTER · season and appreciate you all for your accomplishments and achievements for 2014. I thank one and all for your support and dedication,