Programs Connection, Aug/Sept 2008

Programs

August — September 2008 • Vol. 7 No. 5

CONNECTION

Healthy Living with MS Integrate wellness into your MS management.

Housing and Independence Workshop Maximize your independence.

Plus 2008 award nominations Family Getaway and much, much more

JOIN THE MOVEMENT

MOVING IS WHO WE ARE “When told, each story holds the potential to foster relationships and inspire movement.”

Programs Connection Programs Connection is a free publication of the National MS Society, Minnesota Chapter 200 12th Ave. S. Minneapolis, MN 55415-1255 1-800-582-5296 proconnect@MSsociety.org

Multiple sclerosis is an unpredictable disease that affects no two people in the exact same way. Each person Timothy Holtz (right) touched by MS has a unique story. with Julie Power on As the Minnesota Chapter’s manager an MS Society cruise. of education programs, getaways and travel opportunities, I am privileged to hear your stories of how you move forward while living with MS.

Editors Timothy Holtz Emily Wilson

When told, each story holds the potential to foster relationships and inspire movement, which is why this year’s MS Annual Convention, Nov. 21 to 23, will highlight the importance of storytelling.

Vice President of Programs Linda Munson

Throughout the weekend, attendees will hear stories from people affected by MS through a series of videos. In the videos, people with MS and their loved ones will share their personal experiences with MS, fears and joys and how they cope. The convention also will highlight the five winning films of last year’s Moving Forward Film Festival. The short films show that life with MS can be bold, meaningful and inspirational.

At this year’s convention, you’ll not only hear the inspiring stories of people affected by MS, but you’ll learn about all the accomplishments that health care professionals, researchers, activists, care partners, volunteers, donors and Learn more fundraisers have made over the last year. I look For more information about forward to hearing your the 2008 MS Annual Convention, stories in November. visit www.MSsociety.org.

Sponsorship of society programs or events does not connote that the National Multiple Sclerosis Society recognizes superiority in products or services provided by the sponsoring entity over other entities providing like or similar products or services.

MS Navigators Sarah Danen Jaclyn Groneberg Jill Parkinson Heather Svenson

Chapter President Maureen Reeder To obtain an audio tape of Programs Connection, call Timothy Holtz at the Minnesota Chapter.

Promising treatments for 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. National MS Society medical advisors recommend that people with MS talk with their health care professional about using one of these medications and about strategies and effective treatments to manage symptoms. If you or someone you know has MS, please contact the Society today at www.nationalMSsociety.org or 1-800-582-5296 to learn about ways to help manage multiple sclerosis and about current research that may one day reveal a cure.

Table of Contents

Programs by topic

Personal connections

Family and youth

Clubs and Groups Family Getaway 2008 award nominations Mentor Program What’s online?

“Why Women?”

2008 award nominations Family Getaway

10 11

Healthy living Exercise Healthy Living with MS

24 13

Housing Housing and Independence Workshop

Inspiration 2008 National Conference “Why Women?”

17 18

Managing MS symptoms Healthy Living with MS Face Time with Your Local Neurologist Solving Cognitive Issues

13 21 7 20

Newly diagnosed Clubs and Groups Mentor Program Moving Forward with MS Newly Diagnosed Counseling Groups

23

Programs by location Alexandria Family Getaway

11

Chicago 2008 National Conference

17

Mankato Newly Diagnosed Counseling Groups

9

St. Cloud

Money matters Personal Financial Counseling

Technology What’s online?

5

26 11 10 19 23 18

26 19 15 9

Housing and Independence Workshop Solving Cognitive Issues

5 7

Twin Cities – Metro programs Housing and Independence Workshop Healthy Living with MS Moving Forward with MS Newly Diagnosed Counseling Groups

5 13 15 9

JOIN THE MOVEMENT

Families learning to cope with the impact of MS “This is the one time of year that I know we can come together as a family, have fun and talk about how MS impacts our lives.”

– Tammy Artley, diagnosed in 1997 Being a single mom is a difficult job to begin with, but living with multiple sclerosis can make it even more challenging. Tammy Artley knows firsthand about these challenges and is thankful for the Family Getaway (see Page 11).

“This is the one time of year that I know we can come together as a family, have fun and talk about how MS impacts our lives,” Tammy said. “The great thing about the getaway is that I know the activities and speakers will facilitate good discussion with my children in a safe and fun-filled environment.”

The Family Getaway is for families with a parent or guardian who has MS. This includes two-parent families, single-parent families or domestic-partner families. This year’s getaway theme is “wild, wild west,” featuring a chuck wagon dinner and western show hosted by T. Texas Terry. The weekend also includes speakers, activities designed to help families live more positively with MS, and free time for family activities at the water park and hayride.

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From left to right, Tammy Artley and her children, Kameron, Paul and Sara “At the getaway, we know people understand MS and there is no need to explain the disease or be embarrassed about it,” she said. “The getaway feels like one big family, and my children learn so much by interacting with others and learning about how they cope.”

Your family will not want to miss this wonderful opportunity to come together for a variety of fun and educational activities.

Additional resources Learn more For more details about the Family Getaway, see Page 11 or visit www.MSsociety.org.

National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Minnesota Chapter

Housing and Independence Workshop Maximize your independence.

Sept. 6 n Minneapolis Sept. 27 n St. Cloud Are you thinking about remodeling your home — or building new — to remain independent?

Do you want to learn more about the latest assistive technology available to enhance your mobility and communications and keep you active in your community?

Learn about options to help maximize your independence and keep you living in your home.

Hear insights from these experts and ask them your questions: your home: Randy Behling, AccessAbility Options

Learn more Visit www.MSsociety.org. Click on Client Programs, then Housing and Independent living.

n Remodeling

n Stair

and ceiling lifts, ramps and elevators: Bruce Stevenson, Ability Solutions n Building

a new accessible home: Dave Regel, DRC, Inc. n Assistive

Technology and Independent Living Grants: Scott Ahlgren, National MS Society, Minnesota Chapter

phone 612-335-7900 or 1-800-582-5296 (v/tdd) • fax 612-335-7997 • www.MSsociety.org

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Housing and Independence Workshop Space is limited. Registration form must be received five days before the program date.

Please print ID# (from mailing panel) ________

Various dates and locations

9–10 a.m.

10–11:45 a.m.

11:45 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

12:30–1:30 p.m.

Check-in and exhibits Workshop begins Lunch and exhibits Workshop resumes

Locations

Name________________________ Address_____________________ City_________________________ State________ ZIP_____________ Home phone _____-_____-_____ Work phone _____-_____-______ E-mail_______________________

Sept. 6 Minneapolis Radisson Plaza Hotel 35 S. 7th St. Minneapolis, MN 55402 612-339-4900

Complete names of others attending: _____________________________ _____________________________ _____________________________ _____________________________

There is no fee for this workshop.

Please select location: q Minneapolis MNM0CLTO20080906MPL q St. Cloud MNM0CLTO20080927STC Special accommodations: If you need any special accommodations such as an ASL interpreter or a vegetarian meal, please call 612-335-7970 to make arrangements.

Requests must be received by the registration deadline date.

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10 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Sept. 27 St. Cloud Michael’s Restaurant 510 S. Highway 10 St. Cloud, MN 56304 320-252-7100

Program fee Register Online or by phone Visit www.MSsociety.org or call 612-335-7970.

By mail Mail registration form to the National MS Society.

National MS Society, Minnesota Chapter 200 12th Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55415

Questions For more information, contact Steve Korngable at 612-335-7974 or skorngable@MSsociety.org.

Solving Cognitive Issues Learn how to successfully deal with cognitive problems.

Sept. 9 n St. Cloud The brain holds what we call the mind. It is the home of personality, emotions and cognition — the attributes that make us unique. Cognition refers to all high-level functions carried out by the human brain including attention, memory, planning and problem solving, visual perception and comprehension and use of speech.

Multiple sclerosis has the potential to affect mood, personality and cognition either directly or indirectly. But encouraging new research shows that while mild to moderate problems are relatively common, severe damage to these aspects of the self are not.

The first step in successfully managing MS-related cognitive problems is to learn the

Additional resources Check out these books from the Lending Library. Visit www.MSsociety.org and click on Library and Literature. n

n

“Facing the Cognitive Challenges of Multiple Sclerosis,” by Jeffrey N. Gingold “Multiple Sclerosis: Understanding the Cognitive Challenges,” by Nicholas LaRocca, Ph.D., and Rosalind Kalb, Ph.D.

basic facts and ways to manage these problems.

Join Dr. Allen Ingenito from the Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology for a presentation about cognition and ways to manage this common MS symptom.

phone 612-335-7900 or 1-800-582-5296 (v/tdd) • fax 612-335-7997 • www.MSsociety.org

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Solving Cognitive Issues Space is limited. Registration form must be received by Sept. 2.

Please print ID# (from mailing panel) ________ Name________________________ Address_____________________ City_________________________ State________ ZIP_____________ Home phone _____-_____-_____ Work phone _____-_____-______ E-mail_______________________ Complete names of others attending: _____________________________ _____________________________ _____________________________ _____________________________ Special accommodations: If you need any special accommodations such as an ASL interpreter or a vegetarian meal, please call 612-335-7970 to make arrangements.

Requests must be received by the registration deadline date.

Tuesday, Sept. 9 5:30 p.m.

6 p.m.

7–8 p.m.

8–8:30 p.m.

6–8:30 p.m.

Check-in begins Dinner Solving Cognitive Issues — Dr. Ingenito Questions and answers

Location Holiday Inn Division St. and 37th Ave. St. Cloud, MN 56301 320-253-9000 www.ichotelsgroup.com

Program fee There is no fee for this workshop.

Register Online or by phone Visit www.MSsociety.org or call 612-335-7970.

By mail Mail registration form to the National MS Society.

National MS Society, Minnesota Chapter 200 12th Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55415

Questions For more information, contact Timothy Holtz at 612-335-7930 or tholtz@MSsociety.org.

Made possible with a restricted educational grant from

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Newly Diagnosed Counseling Groups Navigate the new, sometimes frightening, surroundings after an MS diagnosis.

Sept. 17–Nov. 5 n Golden Valley Sept. 17–Nov. 5 n Mankato Newly Diagnosed Counseling Groups provide an opportunity to obtain accurate information about MS, thoughtfully consider ways to more effectively manage living with a chronic disease and receive and lend support to others. The group meets weekly for eight weeks, allowing time and multiple opportunities to ask questions and discuss concerns while interacting with others facing similar challenges.

Group facilitators are licensed professionals knowledgeable about MS and related issues.

A neurologist specializing in MS will attend one session to field questions. Family and friends are encouraged to attend this session.

The groups meet Wednesdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Registration is required for this program. The chapter does not allow non-registered people to attend this group. If you are interested in the Newly Diagnosed Counseling Group, contact Jeff Fisher at 612-335-7951 or jfisher@MSsociety.org

by Sept. 10.

Discussion topics throughout the group course include: n

Balancing MS and relationships with family and friends

n

Basic MS education

n

Disclosure and employment issues

n

Emotional health

n

Looking to the future

n

National MS Society programs and services

n

Strategies for living with chronic illness

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

For other counseling needs, contact an MS Navigator at the Minnesota Chapter.

MS Navigators can answer questions about living with MS and connect you to resources.

Heather, Jaclyn, Jill and Sarah, 612-335-7900

phone 612-335-7900 or 1-800-582-5296 (v/tdd) • fax 612-335-7997 • www.MSsociety.org

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2008 Award nominations Recognize people who care.

Care Partner of the Year Luminary Award Care partners — through support, guidance and compassion — illuminate the lives of people with multiple sclerosis.

Nominate a spouse, partner, child, parent, friend or anyone who goes above and beyond in supporting you, or someone you know, while living with MS, for the first annual Care Partner of the Year Luminary Award.

To nominate a care partner, visit www.MSsociety.org and complete the online form or mail a 250-word written submission describing why your care partner deserves the award and what brings your care partner joy. Please send a photo with your submission.

Health Care Professional of the Year Starfish Award Loren Eiseley’s famous essay, “The Star Thrower,” tells the story of a man who walks along the beach throwing starfish, one by one, back into the ocean. A bystander — observing the miles and miles of beach and hundreds of starfish washed ashore — tells the man he can’t possibly make a difference to all the starfish. As the man picks up another starfish and throws it back to sea, he replies, “I made a difference to that one.”

Nominate a neurologist, physician, nurse, physical therapist, occupational therapist, family counselor or any health care professional who goes above and beyond in making a difference for people living with MS for the second annual Health Care Professional of the Year Starfish Award. Nominees will be judged on their dedication to the MS movement, passion for providing personalized care to people affected by MS, and innovation in disease management and treatment. Dr. Schapiro, recipient of the 2007 Starfish Award, will present the award to the 2008 winner.

To nominate a health care professional, visit www.MSsociety.org and complete the online form or mail a 250-word written submission describing why your health care professional deserves this award.

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Submit your nominations now Winners of each award will be honored at the Care Partner Appreciation Dinner Nov. 21. The deadline for nominations is Sept. 15. Questions? Contact Timothy at 612-335-7930 or tholtz@MSsociety.org.

National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Minnesota Chapter

Family Getaway Wild, wild west.

Oct. 10–12 n Alexandria Your family will not want to miss this wonderful opportunity to come together for a variety of fun and educational activities.

The Family Getaway is for families with a parent or guardian who has multiple sclerosis.

This includes two-parent families, single-parent families or domestic-partner families.

This year’s getaway theme is “wild, wild west,” featuring a chuck wagon dinner and western show hosted by T. Texas Terry. The weekend also includes speakers and family activities designed to help families live more positively with MS and time for family activities at the water park and a hayride.

Getaway includes:

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Through the Looking Glass

n

Two nights lodging with meals

n

Family workshops and activities

n

Weekend water park pass

This nationally-recognized center has pioneered research, training and services for families living with disability. Visit www.lookingglass.org.

n

Hayride

MSWorld®

n

Western show

MSWorld® includes a bulletin board to help parents connect and gain resources. Visit www.msworld.org.

Timmy’s Journey An animated program on DVD that explains MS to children. Visit the Lending Library.

phone 612-335-7900 or 1-800-582-5296 (v/tdd) • fax 612-335-7997 • www.MSsociety.org

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Family Getaway

Oct. 10–12

Space is limited. Interest form must be received by Sept. 19.

Friday, Oct. 10

Please print ID# (from mailing panel) ________

Saturday, Oct. 11

Name________________________ Address_____________________ City_________________________ State________ ZIP_____________ Home phone _____-_____-_____ Work phone _____-_____-______ E-mail_______________________

Sunday, Oct. 14

Do not send payment with this form.

Alexandria

Check in and enjoy dinner and water park activities.

Day includes breakfast, a family round-up activity and presentation, afternoon family activities such as the water park and hayride, and a chuck wagon dinner and western show.

Participate in family brunch hosted by Ross Bernstein who asks the question, “Do you believe in miracles?”

Location Arrowwood Resort 2100 Arrowwood Lane N.W. Alexandria, MN 56308 320-762-1124 www.arrowwoodresort.com

Program fee $250 per family. $150 per single-parent family. Fee adjustments available upon request.

Register If you are interested in participating, complete the interest form.

Do not mail a check with the form. You will receive a detailed packet of program information and a billing invoice.

Online or by phone Visit www.MSsociety.org or call 612-335-7970.

By mail Mail interest form to the National MS Society.

National MS Society, Minnesota Chapter 200 12th Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55415

Questions For more information, contact Timothy Holtz at 612-335-7930 or tholtz@MSsociety.org.

Made possible with a restricted educational grant from

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INTEREST FORM

Healthy Living with MS Integrate wellness into your MS management.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Healthy Living with MS

Oct. 18 n Minneapolis Wellness is a dynamic state of physical, emotional, spiritual and social well-being that you may achieve even in the presence of a chronic illness or disability.

For a person living with multiple sclerosis, wellness involves more than treatment of the disease.

Join national experts on wellness to learn how to integrate wellness into your MS management. Brian Hutchinson, president of The Heuga Center for MS in Edwards, Colo., will provide insight into wellness and maintaining motivation for physical activity.

You also will learn how to manage injection site skin care, cognition and fatigue. Smokers will not want to miss the smoking cessation workshop.

www.MSsociety.org (click on Living with MS) QUITPLAN® www.quitplan.com Minnesotans have free access to this service, which provides tools and information to help you quit smoking.

Exercise for Everyday Life A booklet that explains how physical activity can be a regular part of staying healthy for people with MS. Includes tips on handling MS symptoms. Contact the chapter for a free copy.

phone 612-335-7900 or 1-800-582-5296 (v/tdd) • fax 612-335-7997 • www.MSsociety.org

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Healthy Living with MS Space is limited. Registration form must be received by Oct. 10.

Please print ID# (from mailing panel) ________ Name________________________ Address_____________________ City_________________________ State________ ZIP_____________ Home phone _____-_____-_____ Work phone _____-_____-______ E-mail_______________________ _____ # of people attending @ $10 per person

Saturday, Oct. 18

8:30 a.m.–4 p.m.

8 a.m. Check-in begins, continental breakfast 8:30–9:30 a.m. Introducing wellness into your MS management — Brian Hutchinson 9:45–10:45 a.m. Managing cognition and fatigue — Dr. Dee Nerem 11 a.m.–noon Injection site and skin care — Denice Wax 12:15–1:15 p.m. Lunch, Maintaining motivation for physical activity — Brian Hutchinson 1:15–2 p.m. Smoking cessation — Dr. Frank Abuzzahab

Location Radisson Plaza Hotel 35 S. Seventh St., Minneapolis, MN 55402 612-339-4900 • www.radisson.com/hotels/mpls_dt Free parking is available in the Radisson ramp.

$_______ enclosed

Program fee

Complete names of others attending: _____________________________ _____________________________ _____________________________ _____________________________

$10 per person. Fee adjustments are available upon request.

Make checks payable to MS Society. Do not send cash.

Special accommodations: If you need any special accommodations such as an ASL interpreter or a vegetarian meal, please call 612-335-7970 to make arrangements.

Requests must be received by the registration deadline date.

By mail Mail registration form to the National MS Society.

National MS Society, Minnesota Chapter 200 12th Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55415

Register Online or by phone Visit www.MSsociety.org or call 612-335-7970.

DVD or video A DVD or video of this program is available in the chapter’s Lending Library. Visit www.MSsociety.org and click on Library and Literature or call 612-335-7947.

Questions For more information, contact Timothy Holtz at 612-335-7930 or tholtz@MSsociety.org.

Made possible with a restricted educational grant from

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Moving Forward with MS Move forward together with family, friends, health care providers and others affected by MS. Oct. 25 n Shakopee If you or someone close to you has multiple sclerosis, you probably have a lot of questions and concerns.

You may also feel overwhelmed and unsure of what questions to ask. This program gives you the information and support you need to live comfortably and confidently with this change in your life and help you make medical decisions about all aspects of your health. n

Learn about MS from an expert neurologist

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Team up with your health care providers

n

Navigate the medication maze

n

Consider clinical trials

n

Understand how to talk about MS with your friends and family

n

Gain information about resources available to you

n

Learn how to cope with the anxiety MS may bring to your life

n

Connect with other people whose lives are affected by MS

n

Achieve optimal wellness

“Life is unpredictable.

Control is an illusion, especially when dealing with MS. I can only control my attitude when facing an uncertain future with this disease. I choose to see myself winning the fight over MS, not just living with it.’”

– Shannon Hoelzel, diagnosed in 2004

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Information for people newly diagnosed with MS www.MSsociety.org (click on Living with MS) New Hope Newly Diagnosed Self Help Group Meets the third Saturday of the month at 10 a.m. at Parish Community Center of St. Joseph (8701 36th Ave. N., New Hope). For more information, contact Paul at 763-360-6077.

phone 612-335-7900 or 1-800-582-5296 (v/tdd) • fax 612-335-7997 • www.MSsociety.org

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Moving Forward with MS Space is limited. Registration form must be received by Oct. 17.

Please print ID# (from mailing panel) ________ Name________________________ Address_____________________ City_________________________ State________ ZIP_____________ Home phone _____-_____-_____ Work phone _____-_____-______ E-mail_______________________ _____ # of people attending @ $10 per person $_______ enclosed Complete names of others attending: _____________________________ _____________________________ _____________________________ _____________________________ Special accommodations: If you need any special accommodations such as an ASL interpreter or a vegetarian meal, please call 612-335-7970 to make arrangements.

Requests must be received by the registration deadline date.

Saturday, Oct. 25

9 a.m.– 4:30 p.m.

8:30 a.m. Check-in begins with continental breakfast 9–10:30 a.m. My life, my MS, my decisions — Timothy Holtz 10:45 a.m.–noon Understanding MS in your life — Sara Judson Noon–1 p.m. Networking lunch 1– 2:30 p.m. Learning about MS — Dr. Parry 2:45–3:45 p.m. Connecting with others discussion groups 4–4:30 p.m. Conquering the anxiety and fear of MS — Sara Judson

Location Canterbury Inn 1244 Canterbury Road Shakopee, MN 55379 952-445-3644 www.canterburyinnshakopee.com

Program fee $10 per person. Fee adjustments are available upon request.

Make checks payable to MS Society. Do not send cash.

Register Online or by phone Visit www.MSsociety.org or call 612-335-7970.

By mail Mail registration form to the National MS Society.

National MS Society, Minnesota Chapter 200 12th Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55415

DVD or video A DVD or video of the program is available in the chapter’s Lending Library. Visit www.MSsociety.org and click on Library and Literature or call 612-335-7947.

Questions For more information, contact Timothy Holtz at 612-335-7930 or tholtz@MSsociety.org.

Made possible with a restricted educational grant from

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MNM0CNDW20081025SHA

2008 National Conference Join hundreds of other people passionate about creating a world free of MS.

Nov. 5–7 n Chicago

Two routes available

Join the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and hundreds of other people passionate about creating a world free of MS at the 2008 National Conference. The National Conference is an annual event to celebrate our progress in moving closer to a world free of MS and look ahead to the future. This year’s conference promises inspiration, networking, entertainment, training and recognition.

Route one: Departs Tuesday, Nov. 4, from St. Cloud and Minneapolis. Cost is $790 per person.

The Minnesota Chapter, in collaboration with the North Central States Chapter, provides an all-inclusive motorcoach package to the 2008 National Conference.

To make reservations or learn more about the 2008 National Conference, contact Timothy Holtz at 612-335-7930 or tholtz@MSsociety.org.

Deadline for reservations is Oct. 15.

Route two: Departs Tuesday, Nov. 4, from Albert Lea and Rochester. Cost is $790 per person. *Cost covers conference fees, meals in Chicago, motorcoach transportation and double occupancy hotel room.

phone 612-335-7900 or 1-800-582-5296 (v/tdd) • fax 612-335-7997 • www.MSsociety.org

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“Why Women?”

Why are women affected by MS two to three times more than men?

Why does pregnancy tend to reduce MS symptoms?

How do hormones play a role in tissue damage and repair?

The Minnesota Chapter’s new “Why Women?” education campaign investigates these and other unique differences between men and women with multiple sclerosis and shares stories of women living with the disease.

Nine extraordinary women shared their stories with the Minnesota Chapter to help others understand the experience of being a woman and living with MS. Read their stories, watch their interviews and learn about research and other topics at www.MSsociety.org.

The three women will be featured at the “Why Women?” exhibit at the 2008 MS Annual Convention, Nov. 21 to 23. The contest deadline is Friday, Sept. 19.

Complete the nomination form at www.MSsociety.org or answer the following questions and mail your response to Attn: Jenna Washnieski, National MS Society, Minnesota Chapter, 200 12th Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55415. n

Nominate a strong woman to be the next face of “Why Women?”

Your name, phone number and/or e-mail address

n

Nominate yourself or another woman living with MS to be one of three new faces of the “Why Women?” campaign.

Nominee’s name, phone number and/or e-mail address

n

Relationship to nominee

n

What makes this woman strong?

n

What makes this woman unique?

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National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Minnesota Chapter

Mentor Program Connect with someone who understands.

“I enjoy giving back to the MS Society because they have given me so much. It makes me feel proud that I am able to do that. I enjoy helping people and I am able to do that as a mentor.”

– Denny Dahlien, diagnosed in 1979

Enjoy a one-on-one connection over the telephone, e-mail or in person with someone who understands the challenges of multiple sclerosis

Should you be a mentor?

You will: n

Share experiences

n

Provide support and companionship

n

Listen

You don’t have to have MS to participate, just a desire to connect and share with others.

Should you be a mentee?

You will: n

Connect with someone one-on-one

n

Receive support

n

Share experiences

n

Develop an important bond with someone who understands

The Mentor Program is for anyone at any time throughout the course of MS, including care partners of people with MS. Mentor relationships are short-term, generally lasting three to four months, but may last longer.

Training is provided to all mentors. The need is great for mentors who are willing to do face-to-face visits, especially in Blackduck, Burnsville, Eden Prairie, Golden Valley, Maple Grove, Minneapolis, Roseville, St. Paul and White Bear Lake.

To learn more or sign up to be a mentor or mentee, contact Cathy Stang at 612-335-7964 or cstang@MSsociety.org.

phone 612-335-7900 or 1-800-582-5296 (v/tdd) • fax 612-335-7997 • www.MSsociety.org

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Personal Financial Counseling Free counseling sessions with financial experts to help you navigate the complex world of money.

Financial planning can be an intimidating subject but there are experts who can provide guidance and support. The Minnesota Chapter, in collaboration with the Financial Education Partners Program (FEP), offers free personal financial counseling to people with MS.

If you are interested in financial counseling, please contact Steve Korngable at 612-335-7974 or skorngable@MSsociety.org.

Participants should not expect an FEP advisor to act as their long-term financial advisor or sell them financial products.

Volunteers from the Twin Cities Chapter of The Society of Financial Service Professionals provide this program. Individual counseling sessions are over the telephone and last less than one hour.

These free professional consultations may help you address a variety of financial topics, including: n

Basic budgeting

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Savings vehicles: pros and cons

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Insurance analysis, claims assistance

n

Investment review and planning

n

Employee benefits analysis: medical plans, disability coverage and life insurance

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Retirement planning: analysis and tax planning/effectiveness

n

Estate planning: strategies to maximize inheritances

Additional resources For information about financial and life planning, visit www.MSsociety.org (click on Living with MS, then Insurance and Money Matters).

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National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Minnesota Chapter

Face Time with Your Local Neurologist Get answers straight from the source. Neurologists from local MS clinics host these informal, question-and-answer style sessions about living with MS and research.

MS Treatment and Research Center at the Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology Join Dr. Gary Birnbaum and Jane Iverson, R.N. Monthly at 6 p.m.

Perpich Center for Arts Education, Glass Box Conference Room 6105 Hwy. 55, Golden Valley, MN 55422, 763-591-4700 Topics: Aug. 20 The neurologic exam: Why and how it is done

Sept. 10 Exercise basics: Jump start your exercise program

Oct. 15 Dr. Gary Birnbaum

Symptom management: Information and options to manage cognition, memory, mood and depression

Please R.S.V.P. at 763-302-8282, ext. 4823.

St. Mary’s Duluth Clinic MS Center Join Dr. Gary Beaver and Missy Rosin, MS-certified nurse Every other Wednesday at 6 p.m.

Radisson Hotel Duluth Harborview 505 W. Superior St., Duluth, MN 55802, 218-727-8981 Topics: Aug. 27 MS complimentary therapies

Dr. Gary Beaver

Sept. 10 MS and emotions and cognition

Sept. 24 Use of assistive devices to walk

Oct. 8

Overview of current MS therapies

For more information, contact St. Mary’s Duluth Clinic MS Center at 218-786-8270. phone 612-335-7900 or 1-800-582-5296 (v/tdd) • fax 612-335-7997 • www.MSsociety.org

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Face Time with Your Local Neurologist The Schapiro Center for MS at the Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology Join Dr. Randy Schapiro and Dr. Jonathan Calkwood Every Wednesday from 1 to 2:30 p.m.

Regency Hospital, 4101 Golden Valley Road, Golden Valley, MN 55422, 763-588-2750 Topics:

Aug. 20 Dealing with your skin and injection site problems

Aug. 27 The answer to disability is mobility

Sept. 10 What is the difference between M.D., D.O., Dr. Randy Schapiro Ph.D., D.C., and N.P.?

Dr. Jonathan Calkwood

Sept. 17 Music and art MS therapy

Sept. 24 Stem cells and MS research

Oct. 1

Using immune modulating drugs in MS

Oct. 8

MS helping dogs

Oct. 15

Managing all the repeating symptoms of MS

For more information, contact the Schapiro Center for MS at 763-302-4199.

University of Minnesota MS Center Join Dr. Gareth Parry and Denice Wax, MS-certified nurse Every other month at 6 p.m.

Kingsley Commons, 4550 Humboldt Ave. N. Minneapolis, MN 55412 Topics:

Sept 15

Cognition

For more information, contact the University of Minnesota MS Center at 612-626-2675.

Dr. Gareth Parry

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National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Minnesota Chapter

What’s online?

Join the online community There are many ways to connect online with other people whose lives are affected by multiple sclerosis, whether they are living with MS, caring for a loved one or supporting the MS movement.

Read personal stories of trials and triumphs, share experiences and know that you are not alone.

I’m making a difference Every time you use Windows Live™ Hotmail® or Windows Live Messenger, Microsoft shares a portion of its advertising revenue with the society.

The more messages you send, the more you help.

Visit im.live.com to join now.

MSWorld®

MSWorld® maintains a well-trained staff of volunteers who moderate live chats, message boards and other resources to provide a safe and useful online community. The Web site’s message boards and chat rooms are tailored to a variety of specific groups and needs: n

People newly diagnosed

n

People with primary/secondary progressive MS

n

Partners, family and friends

n

Teens

n

Young adults

n

Employment

n Medications and MS MSWorld® provides a virtual global community n Social Security benefits of support for people living with MS. The site’s mission is to create a safe, informative, useful and fun place for people to meet, share ideas and gain Visit www.msworld.org. useful resources to help manage and cope with the disease. MSWorld® is the official chat room and message board site for the National MS Society.

The National MS Society and MSWorld® have been collaborative partners since 2001.

phone 612-335-7900 or 1-800-582-5296 (v/tdd) • fax 612-335-7997 • www.MSsociety.org

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Exercise Studies show exercise not only improves your overall health and well-being, but can also help to manage many MS symptoms. Read about people with MS who are moving forward through exercise and find an exercise program in your community.

Featured group

New Hope water exercise

What is your exercise group doing to move forward with MS? If you want to be the next featured group, e-mail your stories and photos to Emily at ewilson@MSsociety.org.

The New Hope water exercise class provides a great opportunity for people with multiple sclerosis to focus on coordination, exibility and balance and increase endurance and muscle strength.

Many class members have attended the class for six or more years twice a week.

With the help of swim aids, everyone leaves class feeling reenergized.

WATER EXERCISE Albert Lea

Andover

Detroit Lakes

Family YMCA Bill Villarreal, 507-373-8228 T/R, 1-2 p.m.

YMCA Delores Smith, 763-230-6546 R, 11 a.m.-noon

Alexandria

Burnsville

Detroit Lakes Community & Cultural Center Kim Bettcher, 218-844-4221 Call for details.

Lakes Area Recreation held at Arrowwood Resort Pool Kelly Wencl, 320-762-2868 M/W 4:30-5:30 p.m.

T/R 9-10 a.m.

Minnesota Valley, YMCA Nanette Denk, 952-435-9022 T/R, 9-9:45 a.m.

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Coon Rapids Emma B. Howe Northtown YMCA Joel Giedlinski, 763-717-1859 T/R, 11 a.m.-noon

Duluth Duluth Clinic, Fitness & Therapy Center Erica Strage Fruehling, 218-786-5400 Low impact M/W, 10-11 a.m., Water exercise F, 10-11 a.m.

National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Minnesota Chapter

Eagan

Perham

Eden Prairie

Southwest Area YMCA Trenne Fields, 651-456-9622 T, 9-10 a.m.

Community Center Marie Hanson, 218-346-7222 T/R, 8:30-9:30 a.m., W, 11-11: 45 a.m.

Eden Prairie Community Center Beth Witt, 952-949-8447 Fridays, 10:30-11:15

St. Cloud

Kingsley Commons Jeanine Farrell, 612-925-8478 F, 2:30

Eden Prairie Community Center Beth Witt, 952-949-8447 M/W, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Golden Valley Courage Center Kaari Hilgert, 763-520-0385 T/R, 1-2 p.m.

Grand Rapids Itasca County Family YMCA Sue Beer, 218-327-1161 T, 9:30-10:30 a.m.

Inver Grove Heights The Grove Amy Crary, 651-554-3420 M/W, 10:10-11 a.m.

Mankato Mankato Family YMCA Joy Leafblad, 507-345-9813 Sept. 15 – Dec. 3 W, 5-6 p.m.

Mankato East High School Pam Schreiner 507-388-7652 M, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.

New Hope Northwest YMCA Laura Kueny, 763-592-5515 T/R, 11 a.m.-noon

Family YMCA Will Hurst, 320-253-2664 M/W/F, 9:30-10:30 a.m.

St. Paul Humboldt Senior High School Pam Weiss, 651-632-6020 M/R, 5:30-6:20 p.m.

S, 8:30-9:20 a.m.

Staples Staples Community Center Kevin Grondahl, 218-894-2553 W/F, 11 a.m.-noon

Stillwater Courage St. Croix Joanie Kiminski, 651-439-8283 T/R, 10-11 a.m.

Virginia Mesabi Family YMCA Becky Zubich, 218-749-8020 T/R, 1-2 p.m.

Waconia Safari Island Sara Johnson, 952-442-0695 M-F, 8:30 a.m.

Minneapolis

Uptown YWCA Lisa First 612-822-3504 F, Noon

New Hope Northwest YMCA Amy Bakken, 763-592-5570 W, 11:25 a.m.-12:25 p.m.

Roseville Fairview Community Center Donna Anderson 651-604-3770 Sept. 18 – Nov. 20 R, 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Stillwater Courage St. Croix Joanie Kiminski, 651-439-8283 W, 10:00, Thursday 6:30-7:30

GROUP EXERCISE Shoreview Harbor Suites Megan Frost, 651-766-0080 M/W, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

YOGA Bemidji Dionne’s OM Yoga Studio Dionne Daly, 218-766-9262 S, 10-11:30 a.m.

M= Monday R = Thursday T = Tuesday F = Friday W= Wednesday S = Saturday

phone 612-335-7900 or 1-800-582-5296 (v/tdd) • fax 612-335-7997 • www.MSsociety.org

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Featured group

Southwest Metro MS group for mildly affected

Clubs and Groups Join an MS club or group to

“Our group is special

connect with other people

because participants

affected by MS, enjoy lively

all experience MS

discussions, learn valuable

somewhere along

information and ways to cope

the continuum that

with challenges, have fun and

is considered mildly

be inspired. Read about groups

affected. This means something

and clubs that are moving

different for each of us, yet is

forward together and find a

definitely common ground for

club or group in your community

sharing resources, information and

that’s right for you.

sometimes just good old-fashioned support and social time.”

— Nancy Vest, group facilitator, diagnosed in 2000

BOOK CLUBS

Eden Prairie

Maplewood

Apple Valley

Last Monday of the month 10 a.m.

Barnes & Noble

Fourth Tuesday of the month 6:30 p.m.

Bakers Square

Maple Grove

Minneapolis

Fourth Tuesday of the month 10 a.m.

Barnes & Noble

Third Tuesday of the month 7 p.m.

Kingsley Commons

First Friday of the month 10 a.m.

Barnes & Noble

Duluth Fourth Tuesday of the month 11 a.m.

Barnes & Noble 26

National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Minnesota Chapter

Rochester Fourth Tuesday of the month 7 p.m.

Barnes & Noble Apache Mall

Roseville First Tuesday of the month 10 a.m.

Barnes & Noble Har Mar

SELF-HELP GROUPS New group Men’s Care Partner Breakfast Third Saturday of the month 10 a.m.

Different restaurant each month Contact Dan for location at 651-779-9435 or dbr@danielrude.com

For care partners Bemidji Care Partners Third Saturday of the month 10 a.m.

North Country Regional Hospital

Elk River Care Partners First Wednesday of the month, 6:30 p.m., Senior Center

Perham Care Partners Last Tuesday of the month 1 p.m.

Calvary Lutheran Church

St. Louis Park Care Partners Third Tuesday of the month 6:30 p.m.

St. Louis Park City Hall

St. Paul Care Partners at MSAC Second Tuesday of every other month 7 p.m.

MS Achievement Center

For couples Stillwater Couples Second Saturday of the month Noon Courage Center

For GLBT St. Paul GLBT: Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Living with Chronic Illnesses and Disability First Tuesday of the month 6 p.m.

Metropolitan Center for Independent Living

For men Metro Area It’s Just Breakfast (with the guys) Various Saturdays of the month 10 a.m.

Different restaurant each month Contact Rick for location at 763-208-8741 or rleaf@msnet.org

For newly diagnosed New Hope Newly Diagnosed Third Saturday of the month 10 a.m.

Parish Community of St. Joseph

For people of color Metro Area MS Group for People of Color Second Saturday of the month 10 a.m.

Wayman AME Church in Minneapolis

For people mildly affected

by MS Southwest Metro MS group for mildly affected Third Saturday of the month 10 a.m.

United Methodist Church in Eden Prairie

For professionals Let’s Lunch: professionals living with MS Third Saturday of the month 11 a.m.

Chatterbox Pub in St. Paul

For singles St. Paul Maximize Being Single Second Saturday of the month 10 a.m.

Fairview MS Achievement Center

For women Maplewood Peer Emotional Support Women’s Group Third Thursday of the month 6:30 p.m.

Gustavus Adolphus Lutheran Church

phone 612-335-7900 or 1-800-582-5296 (v/tdd) • fax 612-335-7997 • www.MSsociety.org

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General self-help groups

Benson

Chaska

Aitkin

Fourth Tuesday of the month 7 p.m.

Westwood Manor Apartments No meetings Dec.–Feb.

Third Tuesday of the month 12:30 p.m.

Chaska Library

First Wednesday of the month, 7 p.m., and third Monday of the month, 1 p.m.

Access North

Albert Lea Second Monday of the month 7 p.m.

Grace Lutheran Church

Alexandria Second Monday of the month 5 p.m.

St. Mary’s Office Building

Apple Valley First Thursday of the month 9:30 a.m.

Christ Church

Arrowhead region Second Friday of the month 1 p.m.

Babbitt Municipal Building

Austin First Monday of the month 6:30 p.m.

Grace Lutheran Church

Belview Third Thursday of the month 7:30 p.m.

Parkview Home No meetings Nov. - Feb.

Bemidji Third Saturday of the month 10 a.m.

North Country Regional Hospital 28

Bloomington

Coon Rapids North Suburban

First Wednesday of the month 7 p.m.

Nativity of Mary Church No meetings July - Aug.

Second Wednesday of the month 7 p.m.

Coon Rapids City Center

Blue Earth

Detroit Lakes

Fourth Monday of the month 7:30 p.m.

Senior Citizen’s Center

Second Monday of the month 6 p.m.

Lincoln Park Assisted Living

Brainerd MS Breakfast at the Mill

Duluth

Third Monday of the month 9:30 a.m.

Sawmill Inn

Burnsville/Apple Valley First Tuesday of the month 7 p.m.

Fairview Education Center in Burnsville

Cambridge Third Thursday of the month 7 p.m.

Cambridge Medical Center

Canby Second Thursday every other Month, April through December 4 p.m.

Sanford Canby Medical Center

First Tuesday of the month 11:30 a.m. (bring a bag lunch) Bethany Baptist Church

Eden Prairie Third Tuesday of the month 7 p.m.

Wooddale Church

Fergus Falls Second Wednesday of the month 11:30 a.m.

United Church of Christ

Forest Lake Area Second Thursday of the month 6:30 p.m.

The Meadows for Assisted Living

Gaylord First Sunday of the month 7 p.m.

Lakeview Home

National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Minnesota Chapter

Gibbon

Mankato

Perham

Third Saturday of the month 9:30 a.m.

Gibbon Community Center

Second Thursday of the month 7 p.m.

ISJ Physical Medicine, Madison East Center

Last Tuesday of the month 1 p.m.

Calvary Lutheran Church

Maple Grove

First Wednesday of the month 1 p.m.

Bethel Lutheran Church

Golden Valley Second Monday of the month 7 p.m.

Golden Valley Lutheran Church

Grand Rapids Second Thursday of the month 12:30 p.m.

Grand Rapids Public Library

Hibbing Last Thursday of the month 1 p.m.

Open Door Church

Hutchinson Second Monday of the month 6:45 p.m.

Christ the King Lutheran Church

Lake Elmo Third Wednesday of the month 11:30 a.m.

Christ Lutheran Church

Litchfield Fourth Tuesday of the month 7 p.m.

Meeker County Memorial Hospital

Luverne Third Thursday of the month 7:30 p.m.

Rock County Family Services

Second Saturday of the month 10 a.m.

St. Joseph the Worker Church

Maple Lake/Annandale Third Monday of the month Noon Maple Manor East in Maple Lake

Minneapolis

Pierz/Little Falls

Princeton Third Saturday of the month 10 a.m.

Fairview Northland Regional Hospital

Rochester

Last Saturday of the month 10 a.m.

Kingsley Commons

Second Wednesday of the month 7 p.m.

Meadow Lake Senior Living

Mora

Roseville

Second Monday of the month 7p.m.

Kenebec Hospital

Second Wednesday of the month 6:45 p.m.

Roseville City Hall

New Ulm Third Tuesday of the month 7 p.m.

Oak Hills Living Center

Oakdale First Saturday of the month 10:30 a.m.

Oakdale Library

Paynesville Second Thursday of the month 6 p.m.

Rose Community Center

St. Anthony/New Brighton Fourth Tuesday of the month 6 p.m.

Christ the King Lutheran Church in New Brighton

Staples Second Wednesday of the month 3:30 p.m.

Lakewood Care Center No meetings June–August

phone 612-335-7900 or 1-800-582-5296 (v/tdd) • fax 612-335-7997 • www.MSsociety.org

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St. Cloud

Superior

Second Wednesday of the month 7 p.m.

Easter Seals Office

Second Tuesday of the month 6 to 8 p.m.

Superior Public Library

St. Cloud-Granite City

Waseca

First Tuesday of the month 4 p.m.

Whitney Center

Third Tuesday of the month 7 p.m.

Waseca Medical Center

St. Croix Falls

Wayzata-Suburban West Hennepin

Third Saturday of the month 2 p.m.

Good Samaritan Nursing Home

St. Paul Care to Share

First Thursday of the month 1 p.m.

Wayzata Community Church

Second Wednesday of the month 7 p.m.

Macalester Plymouth Church Contact Mary Lynn at 651-644-1429 to verify location

West St. Paul/Inver Grove Heights

Stillwater

Willmar

Third Wednesday of the month 6 p.m.

Courage Center

First Tuesday of the month 7 p.m.

Bethesda Pleasant View Nursing Home

Windom/Cottonwood County Third Tuesday of the month 7 p.m.

ALC Lutheran Church

Woodbury A.M. Second Thursday of the month 9:30 a.m.

King of Kings Lutheran Church

Woodbury P.M. Fourth Tuesday of the month 7 p.m.

St. Ambrose of Woodbury

First Monday of the month 7:30 p.m.

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church

Additional resources

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Book clubs

Self-help groups

For more information about book clubs, visit www.MSsociety.org. Click on Client Programs, Clubs and Groups and then Book Clubs. If you would like to start a book club in your area, contact Jeannie Zank at 612-335-7939 or jzank@MSsociety.org.

For more information about self-help groups, visit www.MSsociety.org. Click on Client Programs, Clubs and Groups and then Self-help Groups. If you would like more information about a group or would like to start one in your area, contact Jeff Fisher at 612-335-7951 or jfisher@MSsociety.org.

National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Minnesota Chapter

Didn’t find what you’re looking for?

Use this all-in-one directory to find the programs, services and resources that are right for you.

Advocacy Joel, 612-335-7933

Emergency assistance Scott, 612-335-7967

Information and Referral Center MS Navigators can answer questions about living with MS and connect you to resources.

Heather, Jaclyn, Jill and Sarah, 612-335-7900

Equipment programs Camps and getaways Getaways for care partners, couples, Equipment Loan families, men and women Equipment Exchange Timothy, 612-335-7930 Scott, 612-335-7967 MS Camp Inservices for companies and Exercise programs organizations Jeannie, 612-335-7939 Jeannie, 612-335-7939 Steve, 612-335-7974 Youth Camp Family, youth and care Nancy Dawn, 612-335-7936 Lending Library partner programs Heather, 612-335-7947 Champions Nancy Dawn, 612-335-7936 Jill, 612-335-7938 Rachel Ring, 612-335-7937 Giving to the MS Society Mentor Program Chore services Shannon, 612-335-7928 Cathy, 612-335-7964 Kari, 612-335-7968 Rachel Hughes, 612-335-7965 Clubs and groups Book clubs Jeannie, 612-335-7939 Self-help groups Jeff, 612-335-7951 Education programs Timothy, 612-335-7930

Professional education Megan, 612-335-7955

Housing Steve, 612-335-7974 Independent Living Grants Grants are available for care partner relief, aids for daily living, adaptive equipment and home modification.

Scott, 612-335-7967

Volunteer opportunities Timothy (Programs), 612-335-7930 Will (Events), 612-335-7992 Walk MS, Bike MS and motorsport events Cortney, 612-335-7971

Calling from Greater Minnesota?

Call 1-800-582-5296. phone 612-335-7900 or 1-800-582-5296 (v/tdd) • fax 612-335-7997 • www.MSsociety.org

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