Activities Calendar
National MS Society—Northern California Chapter
OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2010
Healthcare Reform: What it Means for People Living with MS Join us for Healthcare Reform: What it Means for People Living with MS Offered on the following dates: • • •
October 28th in Oakland 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm November 14th in Sacramento 10:00 am - 12:00 pm December 4th in San Jose 10:00 am - 12:30 pm
To register and for exact event locations, please call 1-800-344-4867 or visit us online at www.MSconnection.org. When President Obama signed healthcare reform legislation passed by the U.S. Congress, he instituted major changes in what healthcare plans will be required to provide for generations to come. It is crucial that no matter what form of insurance you have, you understand the concepts behind the Affordable Care Act. This program is designed to separate fact from fiction. During this informative program you will learn about: • Key provisions and dates of healthcare reform implementation • Pre-existing condition clauses
• How this major new law effects Medicare & Medi-Cal • Long Term Care • Lifetime Limits Top policy experts will explain how this landmark legislation will affect access to health coverage and care for persons with MS and chronic conditions. Additionally, legislative professionals will dissect how the Affordable Care Act will reduce your costs for coverage and care. Our panelists will take all your questions whether you have private or public insurance. You will learn what benefits health plans must cover and the Affordable Care Act’s impact on home and community based services. The latest and best resources will also be made available. They will include an annotated listing of top web links, summary timeline of the bill, glossary definitions and fact sheets on specific provisions. The National MS Society is on hand to answer any questions. We will be providing updates about the reforms as they are made available so that you may be able to prioritize your needs and eventually learn about details in stages. These programs are an important first step in arming yourself with the crucial information you will need to take responsibility for securing and maintaining quality and comprehensive health insurance.
JOIN THE MOVEMENT
Activities Calendar National MS Society—Northern California Chapter
Chapter Headquarters 415-230-6677 1700 Owens St. Suite 190 San Francisco, CA 94158 Modesto Office 800-344-4867 422 McHenry Ave Modesto, CA 95354
Silicon Valley Office 408-988-7557 2589 Scott Blvd. Santa Clara, CA 95050 Sacramento Office 916-927-8000 4221 Northgate Blvd. Suite 4 Sacramento, CA 95834
If you or someone you know has MS: Studies show that early and ongoing treatment with an FDA-approved therapy can reduce future disease activity and improve quality of life for many people with multiple sclerosis. Talk to your health professional or contact the National MS Society at 1.800.344.4867 or www.nationalmssociety.org to learn about ways to help manage multiple sclerosis and about current research that may one day reveal a cure. Information provided by the National MS Society is based upon professional advice, published experience and expert opinion. Information provided in response to questions does not constitute therapeutic recommendations or prescriptions. The Society recommends that all questions and information be discussed with a personal physician. The National MS 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. © 2010 National MS Society, Northern California Chapter 1-800-344-4867 www.MSconnection.org
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Self - Advocacy Skills Training: Overcoming Barriers to Getting What You Need Redding October 2nd, 10: 00 am - 12:00 pm Redding Christian Fellowship 2157 Victor Avenue, Redding, CA In collaboration with HOPE4MS
Whether you want to obtain approval for services or accommodations from your health plan, doctor, employer or favorite grocery store, many of the same principles apply. This practical “hands-on” workshop will offer you an opportunity to hear from communication and advocacy professionals about the most effective methods for presenting your factbased needs to achieve maximum results. At this workshop you will learn: • Resources to help you resolve disputes with
your health provider, employer or local business • Enlist your elected officials to help you short-circuit problems • How to file winning grievances • How to identify and prepare for potential problems before they arise About the Presenters Annan Paterson is a person living with MS who knows first hand the importance of advocating for the needs and treatment of people with chronic conditions through her own involvement in local politics. She has served
Pre-registration is required for all programs. Call 1-800-344-4867.
OCT - DEC 2010
Activities Calendar
National MS Society—Northern California Chapter
as a board member for nonprofits and government agencies, both listening to public comment and giving testimony on community issues. She uses a variety of techniques to teach individuals and small groups how to communicate effectively within the time constraints of today’s hectic environment. Representatives from congressional and statewide offices will also be at this training. They will discuss how to expedite problems with Medicare and Medi-Cal, accessibility issues, Social Security claims, and intervening with governmental issues. Community resources related to topics such as housing and discrimination will also be discussed. To register, please call 1-800-344-4867 or visit us online at www.MSconnection.org.
Have Fun with Your Family on Behalf of the Northern California Chapter! The Family Recreation and Support program provides one-time awards to families, ensuring that the high costs of MS do not pose a barrier to the quality of life for children living in families who experience MS. Examples may include helping send a family on a weekend outing to a sporting event, paying for school pictures, back to school supplies, school uniforms, driving lessons, Little League fees, etc. Limit: $400 annually. If you are interested in learning more about the program, please call Jacki at 800.344.4867, option 2, ext. 73002. 1-800-344-4867
www.MSconnection.org
WHAT’S INSIDE? Find programs in your area Greater Bay Area Healthcare Reform: What it Means for People Living with MS 1 CogniFitness - Keep the Mind Moving 4 Symptom Management in MS 5 Orientation for Newly Diagnosed 8 Sacramento Area Self-Advocacy Skills Training 2 Northern California Chapter’s Annual Meeting 4 Symptom Management in MS 5 Orientation for Newly Diagnosed 8 Musings of an MS Mind 7 Central Valley Making Your Home Accessible 4 It’s a Wonderful Life 5 Access these programs from the comfort of your home Emotional Wellness Teleconference Series 9 The Art of Getting Things Done, Making the Holidays Happy, & Assertive Communication Skills Additional Programs and Groups Community & Pharmaceutical Programs 6 Self-Help Groups 10 – 11
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Northern California Chapter’s Annual Meeting: Celebrating a Year of Accomplishments Sunday, November 14th 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm Sacramento, CA
Come celebrate a year of progress. Join members of the Northern California Chapter for a research luncheon and celebration of our 2009 fundraisers and volunteers. Attendees will learn about the research successes in 2010 and our chapter will honor volunteers and event participants who have gone above and beyond to move the chapter closer to a world free of MS. Join other members, volunteers, and staff to commemorate the Chapter’s accomplishments in the past year and to elect the 2011 Board of Trustees. Cost of program is $25. Preregistration is required by Friday, November 5th. To register, please call 1-800-344-4867 or visit us online at www.MSconnection.org.
Increasing Access in the Home
Saturday, October 30th 10:30 am to 12:30 pm, light breakfast served Medical Alert Bldg. 2323 Colorado Ave, Turlock, CA Having an accessible home and the right assistive technology or equipment can make a significant quality-of-life difference for someone with MS. Look at the home you are in now and ask yourself how can you improve your home to reduce fatigue and eliminate barriers that compromise your safety. Come learn about access solutions and local Stanislaus County resources for funding home
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modifications so you can plan and make needed changes for quality living. Speaker: Steve Weaver, owner of Eagle Accessibility Solutions & Equipment (EASE). To register, please call 1-800-344-4867 or visit us online at www.MSconnection.org.
CogniFitness Keep the Mind Moving 8 week course starting Monday, October 18th 9:30 am - 11:30 am Santa Clara, CA
• Do you find it difficult to focus on a task without getting distracted? • Do you have difficulty finding words or finishing your sentences? • Do you often have a hard time keeping track of activities & appointments? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then this program is for you. CogniFitness is a fun and educational 8 week series that will help you keep the mind moving and develop new techniques to strengthen your cognitive skills. Realize your optimal thinking skills utilizing techniques that have everyday applications. Learn to: • Facilitate focus and concentration • Improve memory using new strategies • Improve organization, problem solving & critical thinking skills • Manage cognitive fatigue Cost: $25.00 per person. Please call Susan Mattison at 408.988.7587 ext.74102 to register.
Pre-registration is required for all programs. Call 1-800-344-4867.
OCT - DEC 2010
Symptom Management in MS; Conventional and Complimentary Strategies Dr. Eric Hassid, a neurologist and founder of The Institute for Restorative Health in Davis will discuss common MS symptoms and how you can integrate a holistic treatment plan with traditional prescription medications to improve your body’s disease fighting ability and overall wellness. Whether you have been diagnosed with MS for years or are newly diagnosed, come learn about what more you can do to empower yourself in managing your MS symptoms. Thursday, October 14th 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm Courtyard by Marriott Fairfield 1350 Holiday Lane, Fairfield, CA Light appetizers served Saturday, October 30th 9:30 am to Noon Larkspur Room (North) 4444 East Avenue, Livermore, CA Light breakfast and beverages served
It’s a Wonderful Life The Radio Play
Get Involved with Walk MS Walk MS is the rallying point of the MS movement, a community coming together to raise funds and hope for a future free of MS. In 2010, Walk MS Northern California was a huge success and raised $1.28 million, money that went to fund innovative programs and services and groundbreaking research for the 20,000 Northern Californians living with MS. Volunteers are an integral part of Walk MS and the success of Walk MS 2010 is in large part due to the support of our volunteers. We’re currently looking for individuals who would like to be part of the planning process for 2011 Northern California walks and help us continue to plan successful, fun events. Please contact Nicole LiaBraaten at Nicole.LiaBraaten@nmss.org or 800.344.4867, option 2, ext. 73018 to get involved.
Saturday, December 11th 2:00 pm matinee Gallo Center for the Arts Modesto, CA
This beautiful rendering of the classic Frank Capra movie is performed in the style of a 1940’s radio show. The play faithfully captures the passion, simplicity, and melancholy of a man’s view of how the world would have existed without him.
1-800-344-4867
www.MSconnection.org
Members the Modesto Walk MS committee visit of walk.msconnection.org
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Community and Pharmaceutical Programs NOTE: Community and Pharmaceutical sponsored programs are not offered or endorsed by the National MS Society. This information is offered as a courtesy to our clients. MS AND YOU: UNDERSTANDING AND TREATING RELAPSING MS presented by EMD Serono ‘Knowledge is power!’ Come join us for a live, interactive meeting where you can ask questions of a physician that specializes in the treatment and management of MS. Empower yourself to learn about the latest treatment options and connect with others who are living well with relapsing MS. Speaker: Dr. Gareth Parry, MD, Director of the University of Minnesota MS Center, Clinical Professor of Neurology at University of Minnesota Friday, October 22, 2010 12:00 pm-1:30 pm Complimentary lunch and parking provided. Location: Woodfin Suites 5200 Shellmound Dr Emeryville, CA
Friday, October 22, 2010 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Complimentary dinner and parking provided. Location: Scott’s Seafood Restaurant 1333 N. California St. @ Bonanza St. Walnut Creek, CA 94596 *complimentary valet parking entrance off of Bonanza St.
MS UNPLUGGED: REAL TALK ABOUT TREATING YOUR MS presented by EMD Serono Come join a fun evening of dinner and discussion about how to treat your relapsing MS, connect with others living well with MS and ask questions of MS experts! Thursday, November 11, 2010 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Complimentary dinner and parking provided Location: Sinbad’s Pier 2 Restaurant 141 The Embarcadero @ Mission St. (next to the Ferry Bldg.) San Francisco, CA 94111 *complimentary valet parking immediately in front of restaurant Speakers: Dr. Elizabeth Crabtree-Hartman, MD, Assistant Professor of Neurology, MS Center at UCSF and Dr. Lilyana Amezcua, MD, Assistant Professor, Chief Investigator Hispanic MS, MS Center at Keck School of Medicine at USC
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Pre-registration is required for all programs. Call 1-800-344-4867.
OCT - DEC 2010
More Community and Pharmaceutical Programs NOTE: Community and Pharmaceutical sponsored programs are not offered or endorsed by the National MS Society. This information is offered as a courtesy to our clients. Musings of an MS Mind Ongoing - please call for more information Come and put pen to paper and find how the freedom to write, whatever needs to be written, opens new doors to living with MS. Participants write and if they choose, read their writing in a safe, supportive environment. Writers become part of a community supporting and being supported by others. Studies have shown that self-expression through writing has a measurable, positive effect on both healthy people and patients suffering from illness.* This group will meet Wednesdays from 1 pm to 3 pm at Carlton Plaza, 1075 Fulton Ave, Sacramento, 3rd floor Craft room. Please contact: Annette at 916-715-4973 / annettemorehouse@sbcglobal.net, Irene 916-536-9116 / hibeans@att.net, or John 916-708-9708 / john@fireartsofsacramento.com to register. *Excerpts from Sutter Medical Centers’, Library News, Summer 2010 Volume 25- issue 1. Sutterwriters-Writing and Self Expression
Connect with us on Facebook! The Northern California Chapter of the National MS Society has 1,545 fans on Facebook - are you one of them? If not, become a fan today! The page offers a unique forum for people to connect, network and discuss everything from symptom managment to ways they’re supporting the movement. With 175 million members, Facebook is the largest social-networking website and one of the fastest-growing internet sites in the world. Become a fan of the National MS Society, Northern California Chapter and suggest us to your friends. Connect with us today at www.facebook.com/msnortherncal 1-800-344-4867
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Activities Calendar National MS Society—Northern California Chapter
Orientation for Newly Diagnosed This informative program, conducted by trained National MS Society staff and a registered nurse specializing in MS, will address the most common concerns for people who are newly diagnosed. Persons diagnosed within the past two years and their family and friends are welcome. Santa Clara Office San Francisco Office Sacramento Tuesday, November 2nd Wednesday, November 3rd Thursday, November 4th 6:30–8:30pm 6:30–8:30pm 6:30–8:30pm 2589 Scott Blvd. 1700 Owens St., Suite 190 Mercy Medical Center Santa Clara, CA San Francisco, CA 6555 Coyle Avenue Medical Offices, Room 140 Carmichael, CA
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Pre-registration is required for all programs. Call 1-800-344-4867.
OCT - DEC 2010
Activities Calendar
National MS Society窶年orthern California Chapter
Emotional Wellness Monthly Teleconference The Northern California Chapter is excited to present an on-going Emotional Wellness Teleconference with a new topic offered every month. Life Coach and Psychotherapist Catherine Freemire, LCSW will lead the discussion on these exciting upcoming topics.
ourselves to do too much and lose the joy and connection that is possible during different holidays. Our intentions are well-meaning but our actions are often out of balance. Come hear ways to make sure you create a nurturing balance for yourself.
Please note: each monthly topic has two separate call times and dates, allowing you to choose a time and date which works best for your schedule. Each monthly topic call is exactly the same, so you only need to register for one time/date per topic.
Assertive Communication Skills Tuesday, December 7th at 12:00 pm OR Tuesday, December 14th at 2:00 pm
The Art of Getting Things Done Tuesday, October 12th at 2:00 pm OR Tuesday, October 19th at 12:00 pm So often, we are faced with tasks or projects that loom over us and never get done. This can be particularly frustrating when we are also limited by a chronic health condition. In this workshop we will look at creative and effective ways to cross those items off your list and feel emotionally lighter in the process. Making the Holidays Happy Tuesday, November 9th at 2:00 pm OR Tuesday, November 16th at 12:00 pm
Come to this workshop and learn ways to communicate assertively with spouses, friends, family and healthcare professionals. We are often taught not to make waves, yet this can lead to not getting our needs met. You will learn the philosophy behind assertive communication and the skills that will help you be assertive without being aggressive. For more information or to register for any or all portions of this teleconference, please call 1-800-344-4867 or visit us online at www.msconnection.org.
JOIN OUR TELEPHONE SUPPORT GROUP FOR CAREGIVERS Call Nancy at 530-898-5925
In this workshop, we will explore ways to take the stress out of the upcoming holidays and put the meaning back in. So often, we push 1-800-344-4867
www.MSconnection.org
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Activities Calendar National MS Society—Northern California Chapter
Northern California Self-Help Groups Do you ever wish you could talk to others who understand what it’s like to live with MS and the challenges the disease brings? The Northern California Chapter sponsors a network of selfhelp groups for people with MS and their loved ones. The groups are peer-facilitated and meet regularly for educational and social purposes, allowing members to express feelings, provide support, and connect with one another. Please contact the group facilitator to learn more. ALAMEDA COUNTY Alameda, Sharon 510-521-6260 or Ray 510-522-5210 Berkeley Estelle or Brooke 510-2044407 Berkeley Lunch Group (meets periodically), Toni 510-653-4534 East Bay Lesbians, Nora 510-837-4166 Fremont, Kim 510-793-0765 Oakland, Katrina 510-568-2301 Oakland: African Americans, Tracy 510-670-8633 and Karen 510-7573290 Oakland: Latinos, Elsa 510-777-1414
EL DORADO COUNTY Placerville, Doris 530-622-5673
NEVADA COUNTY Grass Valley, Phyllis 530-432-3504
HUMBOLDT COUNTY Eureka, Ann Louise 707-839-0177 or Kim 707-445-9803
PLACER COUNTY Auburn, Ruth 530-888-8388 Roseville: Minimal Symptoms Group, Peter 916989-1364 Lincoln, Marcia or Jerry 916-408-7899
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Brentwood MS for lunch bunch, Kathy 925-286-7674 or Julie 925-513-4686 Mt. Diablo (Concord), John and Janis at 925-372-0859 El Cerrito, Elizabeth 510-549-2154 Richmond, Vanda 510-559-1898
MONTEREY COUNTY Monterey, Susan 831-659-1354 or MaryLee 831-373-2450
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MARIN COUNTY Corte Madera, Vicki 415-892-7370 or Anita 415-892-5548 MENDOCINO Mendocino, Joanne 707-937-4929 MERCED COUNTY Merced: MS Challengers, Susan 209-384-6534
NAPA COUNTY Napa, Penelope 707-265-9680
SACRAMENTO COUNTY Elk Grove, Willie 916-684-1677 or Dorothy 916-684-6849 Sacramento: Moving on with MS, Sylvia 916-349-1324 or Irene 916-536-9116 Sacramento: MS Sisters (men welcome too), Kimberley 916821-6133 SAN BENITO COUNTY Hollister Group, Gina 831-636-3241, Joann and Andrew 831-630-0266 SAN FRANCISCO COUNTY San Francisco 20’s–30’s Group, George 415-724-0064
Pre-registration is required for all programs. Call 1-800-344-4867.
OCT - DEC 2010
Activities Calendar
National MS Society窶年orthern California Chapter
San Francisco Forum (on hold), Hose 415-587-7491 SF Potluck Luncheon, Karen 415-584-6115 (Meets periodically) SF Inner/Outer Sunset District, Disability Advocacy Group Now Forming Tatiana 415-665-1178 SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY Stockton PM, Brenda 209-951-0536 or Mary 209-334-5670 Stockton AM, Betty 209-368-6026 Tracy, Linda 209-833-6882 SAN MATEO Foster City, Eli 650-377-1970 San Mateo, George 650-281-7646 SANTA CLARA COUNTY Milpitas, Indu 510-656-3408 or Phyllis 408-264-7522 Palo Alto, Luanne 650-328-0179 or George 650-281-7646 Palo Alto: MS Caregivers Group Bob 650-826-0300 San Jose, Cor 408-270-8922 or David 408-578-3752 1-800-344-4867
Santa Clara, Brian 408-739-9445 or Susan 408-253-4489
Turlock, Bill 209-664-1427 or Frances 209-667-2184
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY Capitola, Tom 831-684-2252 or Ada 831-440-1211
SUTTER COUNTY Yuba City, Evon 530-701-2189
SHASTA COUNTY Hope 4 MS, Beth 530-246-8404 or Patricia 530-222-7277 or Robin 530-246-2980 or Sally 378-2961 or Doug & Heidi 357-3796 SOLANO COUNTY Vacaville, Marian 707-422-7515 or Debrah 707-447-9603 (before 7:00 pm) SONOMA COUNTY Santa Rosa, Susan 707-544-9654 or Debbie 707-548-8437 or Spencer 707-586-3811 Healdsburg, Kate 707-433-9194 Sonoma Noreen 707-933-9500 STANISLAUS COUNTY Modesto, Linda 209-574-0121
www.MSconnection.org
TEHAMA COUNTY Red Bluff, Teresa 530-529-4412 or Jodine 530-528-8767 TUOLUMNE COUNTY Sonora, Steven or Gloria, 209-532-5646 TALK TO SOMEONE LIVING WITH MS Chat one-on-one with someone living with MS. In our Peer Support Program you are matched with a trained volunteer who has MS and is dedicated to help you navigate the challenges of the disease. This long running program has successfully paired hundreds of clients with a peer who can truly understand what it means to live with MS. All peer support takes place over the phone, so there is no need to travel to get the support you desire and deserve. To request a peer support call, please call 1-800344-4867, and ask to participate in the Peer Support Program.
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1700 Owens Street, Suite 190 San Francisco, CA 94158
FREE MATTER FOR THE BLIND OR HANDICAPPED
Forwarding Address Requested
Wellness Update
For current class listings, please visit www.MSconnection.org/wellness The Northern California Chapter recognizes and values the importance of connecting people living with MS with instructors who understand MS; the symptoms, courses of the disease and how movement and stretching can improve quality of life. We are currently referring our members to: • • • • • • •
Aquatics: 22 sites Dance: 3 sites Community Colleges: 9 sites Horseback Riding (Hippotherapy): 4 sites Yoga: 50 sites Tone, Stretch and Balance: 10 sites Feldenkrais: 8 sites
• • • • • •
Karate: 1 site Meditation: 15 sites Recreation and Sports: 2 sites Personal Training: 4 sites Pilates: 7 sites Tai Chi: 15 sites