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MOVING TOWARD A WORLD FREE OF MS | VOLUME 8 EDITION 1

MSCONNECTION
2010 Annual Meeting and Recognition Breakfast
Outstanding Volunteers and Fundraisers Honored
The Chapters Annual Meeting and Recognition Breakfast was held at the Troy Community Center on Saturday, November 13, 2010. Approximately 200 guests were present at the event to hear from Chapter Board of Trustees Chair, Dean Munger, and Chapter President, Elana Sullivan, who presented the annual state of the Chapter address. Sullivan gave a detailed report on the Chapters year and successful events and programs and also recognized four dear Chapter volunteers who passed away in 2010: Kevin Degen, Milton I. Firestone, Judge Hilda Gage, and Michael Rokosz. Keynote Speakers Kathleen and Joe Flaherty of Almont, MI shared their experience of their daughters MS diagnosis. Claire was diagnosed with MS three years ago at the age of seven. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is usually considered to be a disease of young adults, but its estimated that 2 to 3% of patients with MS are under age 18. It is rarely seen in very young children and the percentages increase with age. Kathleen and Joe went from experiencing frustration with doctors who didnt know enough about the disease in children to make a referral or a diagnosis, to researching Continued on page 2

The Flaherty Family

The National MS Society Michigan Chapter is on Facebook! Look for:

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Getting Ready for Warmer Make Your Voice Heard Weather PAGE 5 PAGE 9

Free Legal Clinic PAGE 11

JOIN THE MOVEMENT PAGE 13

MSCONNECTION
A PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY, MICHIGAN CHAPTER
21311 Civic Center Dr. Southfield, MI 48076-3911 Ph: 800 344 4867 or 248 351 2190 Fax: 248 350 0029 E-mail: info@mig.nmss.org Chapter Chair Dean Munger Chapter President Elana Sullivan Newsletter Editor Chris Collins The National Multiple Sclerosis Society does not endorse products, services or manufacturers. Such names appear here solely because they are considered valuable information. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society assumes no liability for the use of contents of any product or service mentioned. 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 National Multiple Sclerosis Society is dedicated to ending the devastating effects of MS.
Copyright 2011 National MS Society, Michigan Chapter

Annual Meeting continued from page 1 answers on their own and finding hope and support through the National MS Society and the Pediatric MS Center in Buffalo, NY. Claire has been relapse free for two years. Numerous volunteers and members of the community were also recognized for their achievements during this years Annual Meeting. They included: Barbara Barton received the MS Achievement Award for the combination of her experience with MS and deep commitment to Michigans disability community. Don Wolcott received the Richard Ennis Award for his accomplishments and dedication to the National MS Society. He has volunteered at many fundraising and program events over the years, and also has reached the VIP Circle level for his personal fundraising efforts.

(left to right) Dean Munger, Don Wolcott & Elana Sullivan.

Representative Ellen Cogen Lipton received the Public Official of the Year Award for her unwavering support of issues important to people with MS. This year, the Advocate of the Year Award was renamed in honor of a dear friend of the Chapter who recently passed away. Milt Firestone was an active, highly respected, and

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NEWS

GO GREEN & HELP SAVE THOUSANDS!

Did you know that with your help the Michigan Chapter can save thousands of dollars annually? Our environment would also benefit by the huge reduction of paper usage. How can you help? Sign up now to receive MS Connection and other mailings electronically. Try it. If you change your mind, we can always put you back on the list to receive printed copies. To sign up, visit our website at www.nationalmssociety.org/mig. Complete the short form, and thats it!

(left to right) Renee Firestone, Joseph Firestone, Lily Ciccodicola & Karen Firestone Rossen.

valued member of the Chapters Government Relations Committee since its formation in the early 1990s. Milt was also an enthusiastic member of the Chapter Board of Trustees for many years. Milts wife Renee Firestone, son Joseph Firestone and his wife Lily Ciccodicola and daughter Karen Firestone Rossen presented the Milton I. Firestone Advocate of the Year Award to Vaughn Thompson. The 2010 George A.L. Gant Award was presented to four extraordinary Chapter volunteers: Fred Moses of the Eastern region Fred May of the Southeastern region Nancy Beukema of the Upper Peninsula region Tracy Tanis of the Western region The 2010 Corporation of the Year Award was presented to Marketing Associates of Detroit for their outstanding support of the Chapter through our Walk MS and da Vinci Awards programs. The Ford Motor Company received the Shining Star Award in recognition of the outstanding fundraising efforts of its employees throughout the year. Congratulations and THANK YOU to all of our special 2010 Award recipients.

Knowledge Is Power is a six-week free, at-home educational program for people who are newly diagnosed. Mail or e-mail formats. To register, call 1-800-344-4867, or visit nationalMSsociety.org/knowledge.
TOLL FREE NUMBER 1 800 344 4867 | 3

Tahirah, diagnosed in 2004

LIVING WITH MS

LEARN ABOUT MS ANYTIME

who might benefit, pros, cons and potential side effects. There are more than 50 other Learn Online videos available. Transcripts (.pdf format) and podcasts (.mp3 audio format) are available for most programs. Correspondents who interview the MS experts not only have a professional background in broadcasting, they have MS themselves. So what they want to know is often what other people with MS want to know, said Julie Gibson, special projects consultant for the Society. RESEARCH

Dr. Aaron Miller discusses Gilenya, the first FDA-approved oral therapy for MS.

Sign up at nationalmssociety.org/ mslearnonline to receive an e-mail whenever a new webcast debuts.

For 10 years, MS Learn Online has provided educational webcasts, featuring health professionals from all over North America, accessible at nationalMSsociety.org/ mslearnonline any time, day or night. A recent feature presentation is Getting a Good Nights Sleep with MS, in which Rock Heyman, MD, chief of the division of Neuroimmunology and director of the MS Center, the University of Pittsburgh, explains why people with MS seem to be more prone to sleep disorders. He has some tips for dealing with the problem. Another new presentation is on Gilenya, the first oral disease-modifying therapy to be FDA-approved. Aaron Miller, MD, professor of neurology at Mount Sinai and medical director at the Corinne Goldsmith Dickinson Center for Multiple Sclerosis in New York City, discusses Gilenya in two sessions covering how it works,
4 | JOIN THE MOVEMENT: nationalMSsociety.org

Explore Learn Online videos online: Basic Facts of MS, Treatments, Symptom Management, Healthy Living, Progressive MS, Research, Family Life and Relationships, Employment and Insurance, and En Espaol. On the first and third Thursdays of each month, two new videos are added. An update on disease-modifying therapy is generally added once a year. In a hurry? Visit Daily Minutes. In 60 seconds youll get some basics on Who Gets MS, What is Myelin, What is Relapsing-Remitting MS and more. Click on the Daily Minute link in the blue box at nationalMSsociety.org/ mslearnonline.

LIVING WITH MS

GETTING READY FOR WARMER WEATHER

After a cold and snowy winter many in Michigan look forward to the warm, sunny days of spring and summer. Some persons with MS, however, are less excited about the rising temperatures because their bodies are heat sensitive. MS research has proven heat and humidity often aggravate common MS symptoms and cooling the body can help provide temporary relief for people experiencing distress from these symptoms. The Chapter offers solutions for keeping the body temperature cooler through its Financial Assistance program. The most common portable cooling product is a vest that can be worn under or over clothing. The vest contains insulated pockets which hold small ice packs. Other products that might provide relief are neck and wrist wraps. People wearing these items often experience a level of cooling relief which allows them to enjoy outdoor activities. For indoor relief, there is also financial assistance available for window air conditioning units. These units are standard window units that can cool a room approximately 150 square feet. The Chapter arranges the delivery of the units to the home but arrangements for installation have to be made independently. People with MS who have mobility issues may find getting out of their homes difficult. The Chapter is able to help with financial assistance and referrals for companies and agencies that install outdoor permanent ramps. In the past, the Chapter has worked with several United Way offices that offer ramp building programs for those who qualify. A call to a local United Way is a good place for persons to start in their search for assistance putting a ramp on their home. As a reminder to qualify for financial assistance from the Chapter, an application needs to be submitted along with a confirmation of MS diagnosis and a prescription from a physician indicating the need for a cooling garment, an air conditioner, or a ramp. Call 1-800-344-4867, then select Option 1 to start the process. MSAA also offers a cooling products program for those that qualify. Call 1-800-532-7667 to learn more.

TOLL FREE NUMBER 1 800 344 4867

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RESEARCH

THE WORLD OF MS RESEARCH

In October, more than 5,500 neurologists and other investigators from around the world covered almost every aspect of current MS research in some 900 scientific presentations and posters at the annual ECTRIMS (European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis) conference in Gothenberg, Sweden.

In a separate session, Dr. Antonio Uccelli of the University of Genoa described attempts to stop MS progression using infusions of an individuals own bone marrow or blood stem cells (mesenchymal cells). Dr. Uccelli is now collaborating on a study that he hopes will show that these cells are beneficial. Restoring function

Several research teams reported progress in improving quality of life and specific symptoms, including fatigue and mobility issues, through group physical therapy, and Some research highlights supervised aerobics, yoga and resistance training classes. Another study suggested that memory A newly completed two-year, phase III trial of training can improve brain function. Many teriflunomide, an oral compound that inhibits reports focused on CCSVI specific immune cells, Two different doses of (chronic cerebrospinal venous in 1,088 people with relapsing MS, found teriflunomide significantly insufficiency), with mixed or conflicting results. Lab positive results. Dr. Paul reduced the rate of MS studies identified additional OConnor of the University relapses by up to 31.5% molecules that may block of Toronto reported that two different doses of compared to placebo, and the ability of myelin-making cells to repair damage caused teriflunomide significantly the higher dose reduced the by MS; selectively turning reduced the rate of MS risk of disability progression them off could be useful for relapses by up to 31.5% encouraging myelin repair in compared to placebo, by 29.8%. people with MS. and that the higher dose reduced the risk of disability progression by Risk factors 29.8%. It also reduced the risk of new MS lesions and reduced disease activity. Additional clinical Dr. Trond Riise of the University of Bergen trials are under way. reviewed the growing list of factors that may contribute to an individuals susceptibility to Other medications also show promise at various developing MS, and pointed to current studies trial stages. An oral compound called firategrast that may lead to a better understanding of the caused a significant decrease in the rate of new interactions and variations of these multiple risk MRI-detected lesions in a six-month trial in factors. relapsing-remitting MS. Ocrelizumab, which targets and kills immune B cells, reduced new For a more complete report on the conference, lesions by at least 89% over placebo in a 24-week search ECTRIMS at nationalmssociety.org. trial.
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MONEY MATTERS

THE FIRST STEPS TO SMART MONEY MANAGEMENT

BY REBECCA A. CLAY
Financial planning is crucial for people with MS and their families: As the disease continues, expenses tend to grow which may bring difficult financial choices. Early planning can help. Get started: Call us Begin by calling 1-800-3444867 to connect with an MS Navigator. This highly trained professional can refer you to service providers who can help you address issues like health insurance, employment and taxes. Next: Read up One key resource the Navigator will recommend is a brochure called Adapting: Financial Planning for a Life with Multiple Sclerosis. Full of worksheets, tips, and references, the 72page publication is an overview of your financial options. The Navigator can mail you a free copy, or you can download it at nationalmssociety. org/financialplanning. Finally: Talk to a professional You may need more specific information, which means consulting one-on-one with a financial planning professional. Through the Societys partnership with the Society of Financial Service Professionals (SFSP), the Financial Education Partners

Program provides free personal counseling. In this program, you receive advice during a telephone session with a volunteer from SFSPs membership. These volunteers are certified public accountants, attorneys, or other professionals. The more honest and open you are, the more your advisor can help. Sessions are completely confidential, and the volunteers are not there to sell you anything but to share their financial knowledge. Be aware that the program cannot help with crisis needs, such as foreclosure assistance. It is not a funding source and offers no programs for indigent care. The idea is to help you forge a workable plan to prevent crises from occurring in the future. While the advisor cant serve as a long-term advisor, he or she can get you started toward whatever your financial goals might be. Rebecca A. Clay is an award-winning writer in Washington, DC. She specializes in health issues.

Forge a workable plan to prevent crises like foreclosure from occurring.

FREE TAX PREPARATION SERVICES

The IRS will help you prepare tax returns. The online Interactive Tax Assistant answers questions about deductions, eligibility for credit and more. For those who qualify, the IRSs Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program offers free tax help by certified volunteers. Call 1-800906-9887. For general information, go to www.irs.gov or the IRS general number, 1-800-829-1040.
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ADVOCACY

Legal Briefs
By Ina Cohen
There are many legal issues that have particular impact on the lives of those diagnosed with MS. While the local chapter cannot provide legal services, it does try to provide general information and referrals to resources. Ina C. Cohen is an attorney and member of the Board of Trustees, National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Michigan Chapter, Inc.

amount will be claimed plus additional court costs and interest and a judgment will be entered. After the judgment becomes final (the appeal period expires), the creditor can take legal steps to satisfy the judgment (garnishment get money from your bank accounts, an employer or anyone holding your assets or an attachment seize property to satisfy the money claim). If a judgment does get entered, you can file a request for installment payments and if the request is granted, no garnishments or attachments can occur as long as you comply with the installment plan approved. 4. Garnishments and attachments can only be done after a court judgment has been entered. 5. There are a number of statutes that protect military personnel so if you are part of the military, find out your rights from a military service organization or the Department of Military and Veteran Affairs (State of Michigan). 6. If you have student loans and are disabled, investigate whether there is a waiver of payments upon proof of disability. 7. If you are receiving Social Security disability benefits or Supplemental Security benefits, they are not subject to creditors claims or garnishment (except for taxes or child/ spousal support) but only if you can prove that the money is from one of those sources. If you commingle SS benefits or SSI with other money, you may lose the protection. 8. Dont rush into bankruptcy if your only sources of income are disability benefits, SS benefits, SSI, unemployment benefits, etc. as it may be unnecessary and just cost

Economy Woes!
Everyone is under financial pressure. Here is some information that might be useful: 1. When you receive a bill from a creditor, look at it! Make sure you know the creditor, what it represents and whether the amount is correct. If not, the law provides certain rights that you should use. The creditor is required to include a notice on the bill of how to get further information but you must do so within thirty (30) days. Sometimes, the documentation is lost or is inaccurate and you can challenge the claim successfully. 2. There are federal and state laws that protect you from harassing calls, the times you can be called, etc. If a creditor is abusive or harasses you, keep track in writing so you can take action if necessary. You can inform them you dont want any further contact but you must do so in writing. 3. If you receive a summons and complaint, dont ignore it. If you cannot afford legal representation, go to court yourself. If you default by not appearing, the entire
8 | JOIN THE MOVEMENT: nationalMSsociety.org

ADVOCACY

you the bankruptcy expenses. Do consult with someone who will give you an honest opinion. 9. Be cautious about debt repair services or services that offer to negotiate with your creditors. Very few will do what they claim and they often charge large fees and accomplish little of what is promised. If you are in serious trouble, consult a bankruptcy attorney and inquire whether your situation would be suitable for such services. 10. If you have unpaid medical bills from hospitals, call the billing department to determine whether you qualify for a waiver under the Hill-Burton law. This federal law requires institutions that receive federal money to provide a certain amount of free medical care.

Dont ignore your financial issues. Seek out assistance or advice from reputable professionals. If you belong to a credit union, most have persons trained in helping consumers analyze their situations and provide assistance. Finally, you can register for our legal clinic which occurs on the first Saturday of the even numbered months. SIGN UP FOR THE NEXT LEGAL CLINIC Talk with an attorney for free about issues related to MS. Future Legal Clinics in 2011 will take place April 2nd, June 4th, August 6th, October 1st and December 3rd. Call ahead to schedule your session at 1-800344-4867, option 1.

MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD Be an MS Activist

The Michigan legislature faces very tough decisions as they construct the FY12 budget. We need MS activists to tell state legislators the importance of state funding for home care. Legislation to expand health care access will be introduced soon and needs your support as well. Join us for MS Day at the Capital on Wednesday, May 25, 2011 in Lansing. Meet in small groups with your Michigan Representative and Michigan Senator - express the needs of people with MS - tell your story of living with MS - ask boldly for support. Training about the issues and preparation for our appointments will be conducted via a toll free conference call. Assistance with transportation will be available. Register by calling 1-800-344-4867 or email Ruth.Linnemann@nmss.org for more information. People who cant make it to Lansing can join MS Day at the Capital by being a virtual MS activist. Join the Action Alert network. Go to www.nationalmssociety.org/mig. Then click on Take Action in the left column. You will receive a sample email message to send to your legislators during MS Day at the Capital. You will also receive announcements throughout the year when it is the most effective time to express your opinion. Speak up now!
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NEWLY DIAGNOSED REGIONAL NEWS

(continued from previous page)

Washington, a MICHIGAN CHAPTER just says, You need need one for medications toexercise PROGRAMprescription for a regular slow program as much as you CALENDAR down or Day at the Capital, on MS My Choice will be held on Saturday,your diseaseMScontrol your symptoms. Wednesday, May April 16, 2011 at St. Marys Education Center to ask your physician for that all MS activists to 25, 2011 in Lansing is for prescription and You may need in Saginaw, MI. Topics will include Yoga, express their needs to their state legislators. for a referral to a physical therapist or a rehabilitation physician eliminating barriers to recreation and you may need to educate the therapist about MS. As Dr. and leisure, Training via teleconference will be provided health eating, and benefits of pet therapy. before are trained in sports medicine or how Kraft points out, many PTsthe event. Email Ruth.Linnemann@ nmss.org for more information. to deal with the aftereffects of accidents or stroke. Ask about their Ask the Expert will be held on Saturday, April experience with MS. Its appropriate to invite a PT to contact the 30, 2011, noon to 2:30 p.m. at the Holiday Inn 8 Hours to a Lifetime of Relationship Societys Professional Resource Center at HealthProf_info@nmss. Express- Petoskey. A panel of a neurologist, a Satisfaction will be offered at the Hampton Inn org to learn more about MS. physiatrist and a urologist knowledgeable about and Suites in Grand Blanc. In this program for MS will be available to answer your MS-related couples affected by MS, participants ts learn Its also appropriate to develop an exercise program thatwill your questions. Call 800-344-4867, option 1 to appeals to you personally. The Illinois researchers problem solving techniques, communication lifestyle and register.diagnosed in 1997 skills, and not formal physical therapy sessions. analyzed studies on exercise, much more. The program will be held Mary, Saturday, June 18, 2011 with Doug Schwentor, U.P. Spring Conference will be held at LMSW as facilitator. LIVING WITH MS Hospital on Saturday May Marquette General WHERE TO FIND 14, 2011. Topics will include the NAEP Who? MS can read or available PDFs the Traverse You Aquatics isdownloadfree at of Society Why? How? Searching for the Cause of MS. City Civic Center Pool, 1125 Civic Center Dr., brochures at nationalMSsociety.org/brochures. Also, an expert panel will be available to Traverse City. Eight Saturday sessions held April Or call 1-800-344-4867 for print copies. For READ ALL ABOUT IT IN discuss new treatments for MS and possible 2, 2011 to June 4, 2011 (no session on April easy searching, brochures are divided into 23 SOCIETY BROCHURES the interactions with prescription and over and May 28), 9:50 a.m. to 10:40 a.m. Newly eight categories: General Information,include counter medications. guided water exercise. Participants do Diagnosed, Employment Issues, Stayingnot need Whether youre recently diagnosed, or managing to know how to swim. Caregivers are invited Well, Managing Specic Issues, Managing Gateway to Wellness is a six-week program, an old friend of a symptom, the Society offers to participate as helpers. Funded by Tharp Major Changes, For Children & Teenagers and held in Grand a range of issues will be six MS. Blanc, MI. There related to brochures on memorial. Call Espaol. You can also download Informacin en 800-344-4867, option 1 for Wednesday evening sessions, running fromin May These brochures are reviewed by experts more catalog with a PDFinformation. brief descriptions of all the 11-June 15, 2011,revised forto 8:00 p.m. You 6:00 p.m. the most accurate MS and regularly publicationsDATE!!! offers clients. will learn how to make SAVE THE the Society information possible. informed choices about lifestyles and medical care. Learn exercises that EXTRA! Treasures for Modern Health Ancient EXTRA! Some brochures updated in 2009 include are safe and practice setting realistic personal Onebe held on Wednesday, May 4with breaking will brochure regularly updated from 12:00Living with MS; Multiple Sclerosis and play, goals so that you can achieve a balance of newsp.m. (and repeated on Friday, May 20 3:00 is Disease-Modifying Drugs. The online Your Emotions; Research activities inin life. work, family and self-care Directions your version (nationalMSsociety.org/DMD) With from 5:00-8:00 p.m.) in Farmington Hills. MS; Win-Win Approach to Reasonable Request an application by calling 1-800-344includes the most recent information possible on many people pursuing complementary and Accommodations; Food an email to christy. 4867 option #1 or send for Thought: MS and the disease-modifyingit is essential toBetaseron, alternative therapies, drugs Avonex, educate Nutrition; A Guide for Caregivers; Solving bomba@nmss.org. Copaxone, Novantrone, Rebifchoose. At this yourself about therapies you and Tysabri. Cognitive Problems; and Depression and The booklet covers how they are taken, their program you will have the opportunity to Multiple Sclerosis. In addition, a number of experience and learn more about Adaptive Yoga brochures are now available in Spanish. Adems, benets, side effects, and how to pay for them. Check back regularly for new reports on DMDs. tenemos disponibles folletos en espaol.
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Courtesy of Moore, Ink.

NEWLY DIAGNOSED

(continued from previous page)

REGIONAL NEWS

Washington, says, You need a prescription for a regular exercise program just as much as you need one for medications to slow down your for MS, Ayurveda (a holistic system of healthdisease or control your symptoms. PROGRAM PLANNING and healing with a philosophy of balancedneed to askASSISTANCE NEEDED You may your physician for that prescription and living in harmony with nature), Spiritual for a referral to a physical therapist or a rehabilitation physician If you live Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Monroe, Wellness and Supported Relaxation, and you may need to educate the therapist about MS. As Dr. as well as Washtenaw, or St. Clair counties and would other complementary therapies. Look for an out, many PTs are trained in sports medicine or howbe Kraft points interested in working upcoming e-mail, check our website, or with the aftereffects of accidents oron a committee to help to deal call stroke. Ask about their and carry out 800-344-4867, option 1 for more information MS.planappropriate to programs serving the MS experience with Its invite a PT to contact the Community, please HealthProf_info@nmss. on this exciting program AFTER Societys Professional Resource Center atcontact Sue at 800-344MARCH 15. 4867, option 2, ext. 232. Committee meetings org to learn more about MS. are typically held at the office in Southfield. FREE STATEWIDE LEGAL CLINIC Its also appropriate to develop an exercise program that ts your lifestyle and appeals to you personally. The Illinois researchers Talk with an attorney for free. People with analyzed studies on exercise, not formal physical therapy sessions. Mary, diagnosed in 1997 MS schedule confidential calls. Issues must be related to MS. Consult with the attorney about LIVING WITH topics: the following MS

Courtesy of Moore, Ink.

MS LEARN ONLINE

WHERE TOintimacy and symptom research, FIND

MS Learn Online programs address

Divorce/Child Custody Job READDiscrimination ALL ABOUT IT IN Employee Benefits SOCIETY Planning Financial BROCHURES Power of Attorney Whether youre recently diagnosed, or managing Social Security Disability an Insurance: a symptom, the Society offers old friend of Medicaid & Medicare brochures on a range of issues related to MS. Clinics are scheduled six times a experts in These brochures are reviewed byyear on the first Saturday of revised for the most accurate MS and regularlyevery even numbered month. Future Clinics in 2011 information possible. will take place April 2nd, June 4th, August 6th, October 1st and Some brochures updated into schedule your December 3rd. Call ahead 2009 include Living with MS; Multiple Sclerosis and session at 1-800-344-4867, option 1. Your Emotions; Research Directions in MS; Win-Win Approach to Reasonable Accommodations; Food for Thought: MS and Nutrition; A Guide for Caregivers; Solving Cognitive Problems; and Depression and Multiple Sclerosis. In addition, a number of brochures are now available in Spanish. Adems, tenemos disponibles folletos en espaol.
4 | JOIN THE MOVEMENT: nationalMSsociety.org

You management. They are all accessible can read or download PDFs of Society brochures at nationalMSsociety.org/brochures. any time of the day or night. Or call 1-800-344-4867 for printGo to For No registration is required. copies. easynationalMSsociety.org/mslearnonline. searching, brochures are divided into eight categories: General Information, Newly Diagnosed, Employment Issues, Staying Well, Managing Specic Issues, Managing Major Changes, For Children & Teenagers and Informacin en Espaol. You can also download WELCOMES a PDF catalog with brief descriptions of all the YOUR WORK publications the Society offers clients.

EXTRA! EXTRA!
MSWorld, the Societys online partner, One brochure regularly updated with breaking newsinvites you to share your stories, poems is Disease-Modifying Drugs. The online and artwork, and to meet your peers version (nationalMSsociety.org/DMD) through message boards and chat includes the most recent information possible on the disease-modifying drugs this global online rooms. Membership in Avonex, Betaseron, Copaxone, Novantrone,and confidential. Join community is free Rebif and Tysabri. The booklet covers how they are taken, their today at msworld.org. benets, side effects, and how to pay for them. Check back regularly for new reports on DMDs.
TOLL FREE NUMBER 1 800 344 4867 | 11

WAYS TO GIVE

CREATE A FUNDRAISER TO REMEMBER

Did you know there are literally thousands of ways you can help? People who want to contribute to the mission to end MS are invited to dream up and produce original events that raise money for research and care. Every year, all over the country, volunteers organize and host golf, billiards and bowling tournaments, auctions and raffles, dinners, concerts, rummage sales, wine tastings, barbecues, motorcycle fun rides, skiing days and dances. Other events that raise thousands of dollars in Michigan include a martial arts fighting competition, fashion shows, recitals, a Wii Bowling Tournament, the Thrilla at the Villa boxing event, and the L. Barge Golf Outing. Holiday themes are also popular, such as Easter egg hunts or Halloween parties with a pay-to-enter costume contest. The types of

benefits to create are limited only by the imagination. The idea is to turn someones passion into a fundraiser, said Betty Ross, the Societys associate vice president for Campaign Development. These events may raise anything from a few hundred to tens of thousands of dollars. Theres no minimum required and certainly no maximum, Ross said. And you dont even have to create a brand-new event, she added. You can add a fundraising element to pretty much any existing occasion. How much time it takes to prepare depends on how elaborate the plans are. They can be as simple as asking friends to pay a few dollars at the door to attend a private party. On the other hand, a large-scale gala might take four to six months, or even longer, to plan. We have a lot of cool Society events, but people have their own interests, said Ross. Community events reflect how you want to be involved. Have a great idea? Call us and ask for the Community Event Organizer Guidelines and the Community Event Information Form, or enter as a search term at www.nationalMSsociety.org/mig.

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JOIN THE MOVEMENT: nationalMSsociety.org

FUNDRAISING

JOIN THE
MOVEMENT
Circle of Friends team, Bike MS Mid Michigan Ride 2010

IN 2011
Walk MS is a simple, but incredibly powerful way for you to share in the hope for the future.
In 2010 over 8,000 people came together at thirteen Walk MS sites across the state and raised more than $1.1 million! The events were the rallying point of the MS 2011 Movement in Michigan, a time and a place for us to stand together and to be together to help raise critical funds that support cutting edge research, drive change through advocacy, facilitate professional education and provide programs and services to help people with MS move their lives forward. Has anyone ever asked you if there is something that they can do to help you? The answer is YES! Please invite them to join you at one of the Walk MS sites in 2011. Whether its walking, volunteering or simply being there to raise awareness about MS, everyone plays an important role. Believe that you can help because every movement you make and every dollar raised supports the mission of the National MS Society. 2011 Walk MS Dates & Locations April 30 I Midland I Lansing I Troy May 7 I Ann Arbor I Detroit I Kalamazoo May 14 I Frankenmuth I St. Clair I Wyandotte May 21 I Grand Rapids June 25 I Traverse City September 10 I Grand Haven I Milford September 17 I West Branch For more information or to register today, visit our website: walkMSmi.org or call 248-936-0343.

Four Rides. One Destination. A World Free of MS.

Last year 1,300 cyclists and Ride 2011 volunteers gathered over four weekends to conquer the challenge of cycling up to 100 miles a day, enjoyed entertainment at overnights and built camaraderie with team members. Together their efforts raised close to $800,000 in the fight against multiple sclerosis. 2011 will be the 26th anniversary of the Bike MS Ride in Michigan, and during that time more Continued on page 14
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FUNDRAISING

JOIN THE MOVEMENT IN 2011 continued from page 13 than $16 million has been raised by thousands of people from across our great state. We strive to offer riders of all experience levels an excellent cycling experience with fully supported routes. With a choice of four extraordinary rides in Michigan, the Bike MS experience is the ride of your life. We invite you to join us and choose your ride today! 2011 BIKE MS Ride Dates & Locations West Michigan I June 11-12 Mid Michigan I July 16-17 Fall Breakaway I September 17 Bavarian Breakaway I September 24-25 For more information or to register today visit our website: bikeMSmi.org or call 248-936-0343.

2010 Top Teams and Fundraisers

Top 5 2010 Walk MS Fundraisers: Tracy Tanis ............................... $20,281 Rosalind Nadeau ................... $15,520 Christine Davis....................... $13,050 Justin Champion .....................$11,801 Amanda Palmer .........................$8,155 Top 5 2010 Bike MS Fundraisers: Bruce Kantor............................$26,467 Ely Tama ....................................$20,461 Anne Coursey ......................... $10,870 Lawrence Chockley .................$8,637 Ed Rightor....................................$8,195 Top 5 2010 MS Longest Day of Golf Fundraisers: Dean Munger ............................$6,515 Jim Gismondi ............................. $4,445 Bill Pikarski .................................$4,088 Carl Kandilian .............................$3,108 Beth Rose ....................................$2,885 Top 10 2010 Teams: Team Ford..............................$140,361 Dow/TCC ............................... $109,957 Team GM ................................. $70,522 Circle of Friends..................... $36,221 Comerica Bank ....................... $26,379 Pats Parade of Champions . $24,802 Real Estate One...................... $24,201 Team AAA ................................$22,131 Team AOSE ............................. $22,045 Rozs Rangers ...........................$21,916

GOLF

to golf and raise funds for the National MS Society? This summer you will be able to do just that! Create a team and commit to raising $100 or more per golfer. Then choose one of our partner golf courses where your team will play 36 holes of FREE golf or choose a course of your own. Either way people with MS win. Continue fundraising through September 30th and be eligible for great prizes. Register today at golfMSmi.org! For more information about Golf MS, or if you are interested in hosting your own golf related event or activity such as a company golf outing, call Bill Pikarski at 248.936.0350 or email golf@mig.nmss.org. Join us at the 2011 International da Vinci Awards celebrating innovative assistive and adaptive technologies. This gala awards presentation will be held on September 22nd at the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan. Nominations will be accepted online starting April 1st at davinciawards.org.

Do you or someone you know love the game of golf? Have you ever wanted

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JOIN THE MOVEMENT: nationalMSsociety.org

FUNDRAISING

in the movement towards a world free of MS. Over 18,000 people in Michigan live with multiple sclerosis. MS is most often diagnosed between the ages of 20 & 50 and two-thirds of those diagnosed are women.
2010 da Vinci Award winners

For more information contact Bill Pikarski at (248) 936-0350 or davinciawards@nmss.org. To see last years da Vinci Awards winners go to youtube.com/davinciawards.

The 1st Annual Women on the Move event will take place on Tuesday, August 30th in Detroit. The First Lady of Detroit, Yvette Bing, is the Honorary Chairperson of this luncheon that will bring women together to learn more about multiple sclerosis and raise funds to help those affected by MS. For more information about how you can be involved with Women on the Move, contact Patti Radzik at (248) 936-0342 or patti. radzik@nmss.org. To purchase tickets, visit nationalmssociety.org/mig. honors individuals in Southeast Michigan who are on the rise in the workplace and in the community. Nominated by their peers, the members of the MS Leadership Class will conduct a special gifts campaign that will raise funds for MS research and for programs & services in Michigan. The program kicks off in May and the Class of 2011 will be honored at a special cocktail reception when the campaign concludes in September. Do you know someone who would be a good candidate for the MS Leadership Class of 2011? To nominate someone, call (248) 936-0342 or email Patti Radzik at patti.radzik@nmss.org. For more information, visit nationalMSsociety.org/mig.
TOLL FREE NUMBER 1 800 344 4867 | 15

is a group of dedicated runners whose single cause is to help 2011 create a world free of MS through awareness and fundraising. You can participate in any running event held anywhere in the country, including marathons, 5Ks, relays, etc. The funds you raise help support research programs, education and services for clients and family members throughout Michigan. Most of all, you will be moving us closer to a world free of MS! For more information, please visit our website at nationalmssociety.org/mig or contact Bris Roberts at 248-936-0365 or via email at bris.roberts@nmss.org.

Making Strides Against Multiple Sclerosis (MSAMS)

MS Leadership Class

NEW WAYS TO JOIN THE MOVEMENT IN 2011!

Women on the Move, one of the National
MS Societys premier fundraising events, is an empowering way for women to support women

21311 Civic Center Drive Southfield, MI 48076-3911

Mailing Label Changes

Please check the appropriate box below, correct the label then return to National MS Society, MI Chapter q Name change or misspelled q Address change q Remove from mailing list q Received more than one copy q Please send me my MS Connection via e-mail. My e-mail address is: ____________________________

EQUIPMENT CLASSIFIEDS:
Future ads for medical equipment will be placed on our website instead of MS Connection. If you are interested in placing a free ad to sell your medical equipment send a detailed description of the item, along with the price and your phone number or other contact information. Send the ads to: MS Connection, National MS Society Michigan Chapter, 21311 Civic Center Dr, Southfield, MI 48076 or e-mail melissa.ryan@nmss.org.

Host Your Own Fundraising Event!

From carwashes, lacrosse tournaments, bake sales to martial arts tournaments, people put an impressive amount of time, resources and imagination into fundraising to create a world free of MS. By coordinating your groups very own event, you help bring research and programs to the more than 18,000 people living with MS in Michigan. Join the Movement today! For more information, please visit our website at nationalMSsociety.org/mig or contact us at (248) 351-2190

If You or Someone You Know Has MS

Early and ongoing treatment with an FDA-approved therapy can make a difference for people with multiple sclerosis. Learn about your options by talking to your health care professional and contacting the National MS Society at nationalMSsociety.org or 1.800.344.4867, option 1.