Programs
August — September 2009 • Vol. 8 No. 5
CONNECTION
Family Retreat A day at camp.
2009 award nominations Recognize people who care.
Plus Managing MS Symptoms and much, much more
JOIN THE MOVEMENT
Programs Connection MOVING IS WHO WE ARE “We recognize care partners who support people they love and fuel the MS movement.” (left)Chuck Grui, 2008 Care Partner of the Year, adult (right) Amirah Muwahid, 2008 Care Partner of the Year, youth The Minnesota Chapter recognizes how vital care partners are to people living with multiple sclerosis. Care partners can be spouses, children, parents, friends, and they can provide care in a number of different ways. That’s why we offer education and support to all care partners. The Mentor Program can connect care partners who share similar experiences and challenges (see Page 14). The Family Retreat provides families an opportunity for team building and to learn ways to cope (see Page 7). The chapter is also working on legislation to help provide a tax credit to family caregivers to recognize the savings they provide to the state by caring for their loved one at home. We also like to recognize care partners for all they do to support people they love and help fuel the MS movement. That’s why every year, people with MS have the opportunity to nominate family care partners and health Know someone who cares? care professionals for special chapter awards. Nominate someone who cares, for a Luminary or Starfish award (see Page 4). 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.
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 Editor Emily Wilson MS Navigators Sarah Danen Jill Parkinson Heather Svenson Vice President of Programs Linda Munson Chapter President Maureen Reeder To obtain an audio tape of Programs Connection, call Kari Harju 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
Mentor Program What’s online?
Programs by topic Care partners Family Retreat
7
Family Retreat
7
Healthy living Clubs and groups Connect Locally Exercise
18 9 16 14 9 9 12 5
Newly diagnosed Clubs and groups
7 5 14 15
Alexandria 5
Annandale 7
Duluth Connect Locally Face Time with Your Local Neurologist
9 12
St. Cloud 18
Personal connections Connect Locally Clubs and groups
Family Retreat Managing MS Mentor Program What’s online?
Family Retreat
Managing MS symptoms Connect Locally Face Time with Your Local Neurologist Managing MS
Young adults
Managing MS
Living with advanced MS Connect Locally
15
Programs by location
Join the movement Mentor Program
Technology What’s online?
Families
14 15
Managing MS
5
Twin Cities — Metro programs 9 18
Connect Locally Face Time with Your Local Neurologist
9 12
JOIN THE MOVEMENT
2009 award nominations Recognize people who care.
Submit your nominations now Winners will be honored at the Sylvies awards, Nov. 21. The deadline for nominations is Sept. 15. Questions? Contact Emily at 612-335-7931 or ewilson@MSsociety.org.
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 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
Megan Frost, 2008 Health Professional of the Year
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 cannot 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 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. 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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National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Minnesota Chapter
Managing MS Learn strategies to enhance your life. Sept. 10 n Alexandria Sept. 29 n St. Cloud Symptoms of multiple sclerosis vary from person to person and from time to time in the same person. While the severity of symptoms can range from mild to severe, people with MS can successfully manage most symptoms with strategies such as medication, self-care, rehabilitation and the use of assistive devices. Join Dr. Iris Brossard from CentraCare Clinic in St. Cloud as she discusses symptom management, current treatment options and ways to manage exacerbations.
Additional resources Living with MS www.MSsociety.org (click on Living with MS).
phone 612-335-7900 or 1-800-582-5296 (v/tdd) • fax 612-335-7997 • www.MSsociety.org
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Managing MS Symptoms
Various times, dates and locations
Space is limited. Registration form must be received five business days before program date.
Register online at www.MSsociety.org. Please print ID# (from mailing panel) ________ Name________________________ Address_____________________ City_________________________ State________ ZIP_____________ Home phone _____-_____-_____ Work phone _____-_____-______ E-mail_______________________ Please check location: q Alexandria MNM0CEDW20090910ALE q St. Cloud MNM0CEDW20090929STC
5:30 p.m. Check-in begins 6 p.m. Dinner 7 p.m. Managing MS Symptoms — Dr. Brossard
Location Alexandria n Sept, 10 Holiday Inn Alexandria 5637 Highway 29 S. Alexandria, MN 56308 320-763-6577 www.hialexandria.com St. Cloud n Sept 29 Mulligans Event Center 601 Pine Cone Road Sartell, MN 56377 320-656-9000 www.mulligansevents.com
Program fee
_____ # of people attending
There is no fee for this program.
Complete names and addresses of others attending:
Register
Name________________________ Address_____________________ City_________________________ State________ ZIP_____________ Name________________________ Address_____________________ City_________________________ State________ ZIP_____________ Special accommodations: If you need any special accommodations, please call 612-335-7970 to make arrangements. Requests must be received by the registration deadline date. 6
6–8 p.m.
Online or by phone Visit www.MSsociety.org or call 612-335-7970. Please register in advance. If registration is low, this program may be cancelled. 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 Kari Harju at 612-335-7968 or kharju@MSsociety.org.
Made possible with a restricted educational grant from
Family Retreat A day at camp.
Sept. 26 n Annandale Your family will not want to miss this wonderful opportunity to come together for a variety of fun and educational activities. The Family Retreat is for families with a parent or guardian who has multiple sclerosis with children under age 18. This includes two-parent families, single-parent families or domestic-partner families. This year’s getaway theme is “A day at camp,” featuring a campfire and teambuilding activities. The day also includes speakers and family activities designed to help families live more positively with MS.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Through the Looking Glass This nationally-recognized center has pioneered research, training and services for families living with disability. Visit www.lookingglass.org. MSWorld® 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 www.MSsociety.org and click on Library. phone 612-335-7900 or 1-800-582-5296 (v/tdd) • fax 612-335-7997 • www.MSsociety.org
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Family Retreat Space is limited. Registration form must be received by Sept. 11. Register online at www.MSsociety.org. Please print ID# (from mailing panel) ________ Name________________________ Address_____________________ City_________________________ State________ ZIP_____________ Home phone _____-_____-_____ Work phone _____-_____-______ E-mail_______________________ _____ # of people attending @ $10 per family $_______ enclosed Complete names of others attending: Name________________________
Saturday, Sept. 26
10–11 a.m. 11a.m.–noon Noon–1 p.m. 1–4 p.m. 4–5 p.m. 5–6 p.m. 6–7 p.m.
10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Welcome and family activity Family team building Lunch Choose your own activity Family team building Dinner Family campfire
Location Camp Friendship 10509 108th St. N.W. Annandale, MN 55302-2912 320-274-8376 www.friendshipventures.org
Program fee $10 per family. 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.
Name________________________
By mail Mail registration form to the National MS Society. National MS Society, Minnesota Chapter 200 12th Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55415
Name________________________
Questions
Name________________________
For more information, contact Rachel Ring at 612-335-7937 or rring@MSsociety.org.
Name________________________
Name________________________ Special accommodations: If you need any special accommodations, please call 612-335-7970 to make arrangements. Requests must be received by the registration deadline date. MNM0CFPW20090919ANN
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Connect Locally Connect with people in your community and learn about MS-related research, symptom management and ways to cope with MS.
MSWorld® Chaska n Sept. 15, 12:30 p.m. Chaska City Hall, Council Chambers One City Hall Plaza Chaska, MN 55318 With chat rooms, message boards, a resource center and online magazine — MSWorld® is a worldwide community of people living with MS who share support, information, personal strengths and experiences. MSWorld® is a unique patient-to-patient organization committed to helping people live well with MS. Join Dave Anderson, MSWorld® vice president, to learn more about this vibrant MS community. Anderson has been a key contributor to MSWorld® and has also served on the National MS Society’s National Programs Advisory Committee as well as several Minnesota Chapter committees. Visit www.MSworld.org to learn more.
phone 612-335-7900 or 1-800-582-5296 (v/tdd) • fax 612-335-7997 • www.MSsociety.org
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Connect Locally Exercise and MS Burnsville n Sept. 30, 6:30 p.m. Jo Jo’s Rise & Wine 12501 Nicollet Ave. Burnsville, MN 55337 Studies show exercise not only improves overall health and well-being, but can also help people with MS manage symptoms and boost mood and energy levels. However, exercising with MS may require adaptations. Join Marie Sherwood, M.S., Ed., an exercise physiologist with the Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology’s Back to Fitness Center, to learn what exercise routine is right for you. Sherwood provides personalized evaluations and designs individualized therapeutic exercise programs for people with MS.
Acupuncture and oriental medicine Oakdale n Oct. 3, 11 a.m. Oakdale Library 1010 Heron Ave. N. Oakdale, MN 55128 Acupuncture, a form of traditional Chinese medicine, has been used for centuries to treat a variety of conditions. There have been no controlled clinical trials to evaluate the safety and efficacy of acupuncture in people with MS, but studies show it may provide relief for some MS symptoms including pain, spasticity, numbness and tingling, bladder problems 10
and depression. However, there is no evidence that acupuncture reduces the frequency of exacerbations or slows the progression of disability and the National Institutes of health suggests it be used in addition to, rather than as a substitute for, standard medical treatments. Learn more about acupuncture from John Walters, L.Ac., founder of HealthPoint Oriental Medicine in St. Paul, Minn. National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Minnesota Chapter
Connect Locally Home assessment for functionality and personal safety Duluth n Oct. 6, 11:30 a.m. Bethany Baptist Church 6700 Grand Ave. Duluth, MN 55807 Do you need expert guidance to help you maximize your independence and improve safety at home? The Minnesota Chapter’s Home Assessment program provides an occupational therapist who can evaluate your home, discuss mobility concerns and recommend modifications and equipment. Come learn about this and other chapter programs and resources from Scott Ahlgren, Equipment and Financial Assistance Program Coordinator.
Harnessed Walking and Exercise with MS St. Paul n Oct. 14, 7 p.m. Macalester Plymouth Church 1658 Lincoln Ave. St. Paul 55105 People with MS may experience walking and balance difficulties. Contributing factors may include muscle weakness and abnormal compensatory patterns of movement — or problems with coordination of the muscles in areas such as the hip, knee and ankle. New treatments using specialized equipment may help improve abnormal muscle movement patterns. Harnessed walking is a functional
treatment option that may help people with MS improve their balance, walking and endurance. The Bloomington MS self-help group invites you to join them for this informative program featuring Megan Frost, physical therapist and recipient of the Minnesota Chapter’s 2008 Health Care Professional of the Year Starfish Award. For information and to R.S.V.P. contact Beth at 612-825-7990 or Mary Lynn at 651-644-1429.
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 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, MS-certified nurse 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: Sept. 16 Defining, managing and treating MS relapses
Oct. 14
Genes in MS
Please R.S.V.P. at 763-302-8282, ext. 4823. Dr. Gary Birnbaum
St. Mary’s Duluth Clinic MS Center Every other Wednesday at 6 p.m. Radisson Hotel Duluth Harborview 505 W. Superior St., Duluth, MN 55802, 218-727-8981
Dr. Gary Beaver
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Topics:
Aug. 26 MS and driving
Sept. 9
Sept. 23 Preventative health: not everything is MS
Oct. 14
Depression and MS What is a neurological examination?
For more information, contact St. Mary’s Duluth Clinic MS Center at 218-786-8270.
National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Minnesota Chapter
The Schapiro Center for MS at the Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology Join 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
Dr. Jonathan Calkwood
Topics:
Aug. 19 Osteoporosis
Aug. 26 Speech and swallowing problems in MS
Sept. 2
Strategies for bladder management
Sept. 9
Labor Day holiday week, no program
Sept.16
Making the most of your neurology appointment
Sept. 23 Cognitive issues in MS
Sept. 30 Group appointment — by invitation only
Oct. 7
Helping dogs
Oct. 14
Balancing your body through the Alexander Technique
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. 14 The rehab team and MS
For more information, contact the University of Minnesota MS Center at 612-626-2675. Dr. Gareth Parry
phone 612-335-7900 or 1-800-582-5296 (v/tdd) • fax 612-335-7997 • www.MSsociety.org
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Mentor Program Join the movement.
“I feel a bit selfish, but when I originally made the decision to mentor, it was more for my personal benefit — to try to better understand and accept the diagnosis of multiple – Rebecca Olson sclerosis I was slapped with in 2006.” When she first got involved with the Minnesota Chapter Mentor Program, Rebecca Olson admits she was focused on what the program could bring to her own life, not to other people’s lives.
According to Kandee Gripp, activity director at the center, Rebecca has made a significant impact on Art and Diana.
“They love being with her. A visit might include watching a hunting movie with Art or talking about family photos and creating jewelry with Diana,” Kandee said. “She has a positive attitude and is always smiling. Rebecca has MS — she’s But like many program participants, mentoring in the same boat.” became much more than that. After learning For Rebecca, the Mentor Program is not just more about the Mentor Program — which about connecting with others who understand pairs together people affected by multiple the disease, it’s about making a difference in sclerosis to form a mutually-supportive other people’s lives and doing her part in the relationship — Rebecca completed training MS movement. and was paired with her new mentees: Art and Diana, residents of the Northern Pines Good Samaritan Center in Blackduck, Minn. Additional resources
The match has worked out well for all three participants. “Genuine compassion and understanding are gifts that can help heal and even prevent a person’s spirit from wilting,” Rebecca said. “We each have one life to live, love and learn from one another.”
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Mentor program To learn more about the Mentor Program, contact Connie Gunderson Warner at 612-335-7964 or cgunderson@MSsociety.org.
National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Minnesota Chapter
What’s online? Online games to exercise your brain.
The National MS Society’s MS Technology Collaborative recently unveiled a first-of-its-kind suite of online games designed specifically to help people with multiple sclerosis exercise cognitive function.
The MS Technology Collaborative is a partnership between the National MS Society, Microsoft and Bayer HealthCare. At www.myMSmyWAY.com, people with MS can also access information about accessible technology, tips, monthly columns MyBrainGames was created to address MS-related and Snapshot — a tool that provides customized technology solutions based on a person’s cognitive dysfunction, which affects about 50 to individual needs. 65 percent of people living with the disease and can impact attention, information processing, memory, planning, insight or problem solving. Play MyBrainGames The games — available on the MS Technology Collaborative’s Web site www.myMSmyWAY.com — were developed in consultation with health care professionals and people living with MS.
Check out the new games at myMSmyWAY.com.
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
Living Fit with MS At MS Camp, physical therapist Tom Holtackers leads Living Fit with MS — a weeklong exercise program that includes a morning stretch, water exercise activities and in-home exercise training.
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.
WATER EXERCISE Albert Lea
Andover
Coon Rapids
Family YMCA Bill Vilarreal, 507-373-8228 T/W/R, 1-1:45 p.m.
YMCA Delores Smith, 763-230-6546 R, 11 a.m.-noon
Alexandria
Burnsville
Emma B. Howe Northtown YMCA Lisa Whitcomb, 763-717-1837 T/R, 11 a.m.-noon
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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Detroit Lakes Detroit Lakes Community & Cultural Center Kim Bettcher, 218-844-4221 W/F, 8:30 a.m.
National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Minnesota Chapter
Duluth
New Hope
YOGA
Duluth Clinic, Fitness & Therapy Center Kelly Fugere, 218-786-5400 Low impact M/W, 10-11 a.m., Water exercise F, 10-11 a.m.
Northwest YMCA Erin Thune, 763-592-5515 T/R, 11 a.m.-noon
Bemidji
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 Shallow water T/R 10 a.m. Deep water M/W 7:15 p.m. Call for more options
Mankato Mankato Family YMCA Joy Leafblad, 507-345-9813 W, 5-6 p.m.
Marshall Marshall Area YMCA Cindy Rosa 507-532-9622 M, 4:30-6 p.m.
Perham Community Center Marie Hanson, 218-346-7222 T/R, 8:30-9:30 a.m., W, 11-11:45 a.m.
St. Cloud Family YMCA Will Hurst, 320-253-2664 M/W/F, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Staples Staples Community Center Kevin Grondahl, 218-894-2553 M/W/F, 9-10a.m.
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 Foley, 952-442-0695 M/W/F, 8:30 a.m.
Woodbury Southeast Area YMCA Lisa Kovac 651-739-6589 M/W 12:15-1 p.m.
Dionne’s OM Yoga Studio Dionne Daly, 218-766-9262 S, 10-11:30 a.m.
Eden Prairie Eden Prairie Community Center Beth Witt, 952-949-8447 F, 10:30-11:15 a.m.
Minneapolis Kingsley Commons Jeannie Zank 612-335-7939 F, 10:30 a.m. 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.
Stillwater Courage St. Croix Joanie Kiminski, 651-439-8283 W, 10 a.m., R, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
GROUP EXERCISE Shoreview Harbor Suites Megan Frost, 651-766-0080 M/W, 10:30-11:30 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
Wayzata/Plymouth
Clubs and Groups Join an MS club or group to connect with other people affected by MS, enjoy lively discussions, learn valuable information and ways to cope with challenges, have fun and be inspired. Read about groups
“The cozy atmosphere of the Original Pancake House in Wayzata is the perfect setting for sharing friendships, information, concerns and gossip. Laughter and togetherness are always the best medicines. Please come join us
and clubs that are moving forward together and find a club or group in your community that’s right for you.
every first Thursday at 1 p.m.” — Richie Thacker, group leader
BOOK CLUBS
Duluth
Mahtomedi
Apple Valley
Fourth Tuesday of the month 11 a.m. Barnes & Noble Betsy 218-724-9075
Fourth Tuesday of the month 6:30 p.m., Betty’s Pies Donna 651-762-4084
Maple Grove
Third Wednesday of the month 7 p.m. Kingsley Commons Pat 612-521-4654
First Friday of the month 10 a.m. Barnes & Noble Cindy 952-891-5249
Fourth Monday of the month 10 a.m. Barnes & Noble Mary 763-420-4562 18
Minneapolis
National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Minnesota Chapter
Rochester
For care partners
For GLBT
Fourth Tuesday of the month 7 p.m. Barnes & Noble Apache Mall Larry 507-281-2447
Bemidji Care Partners
St. Paul GLBT: Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Living with Chronic Illnesses and Disability
Roseville First Tuesday of the month 10 a.m. Barnes & Noble Har Mar Carol 763-571-2290
Fitness clubs Duluth Third Saturday of the month 3 p.m. Lutheran Church of Christ the King
Minneapolis Third Saturday of the month 10 a.m. Chapter Office
Rochester Fourth Saturday of the month 10 a.m. Rochester Athletic Club
SELF-HELP GROUPS For artists, crafters and writers with MS MS Art Support Group Third Saturday of the month 11 a.m. Contact Donna for location at 651-762-4084 or birchwild@aol.com
Third Saturday of the month 10 a.m. North Country Regional Hospital
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
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
For couples Stillwater Couples Second Saturday of the month Noon Courage Center
First Tuesday of the month 6 p.m. Goodwill/Easter Seals and third Thursday at 2:30 p.m. MCIL, St. Paul No meetings July–Aug.
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 612-791-6473 or rleaf@msnet.org
For newly diagnosed South Metro for Newly Diagnosed Last Wednesday of the month 6:30 p.m. Jo Jo’s Rise & Wine
For people of color Metro MS group for people of color Second Saturday of the month 10 a.m. Wayman AME Church in Minneapolis
phone 612-335-7900 or 1-800-582-5296 (v/tdd) • fax 612-335-7997 • www.MSsociety.org
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For people mildly affected by MS Southwest Metro MS group for mildly affected
Alexandria Second Monday of the month 5 p.m. St. Mary’s Office Building
Third Saturday of the month 10 a.m. United Methodist Church in Eden Prairie
Apple Valley
For professionals
Arrowhead region
Let’s Lunch: professionals living with MS
Second Friday of the month 1 p.m. Babbitt Municipal Building
Third Saturday of the month 11 a.m. Chatterbox Pub in St. Paul
For women Maplewood Peer Emotional Support Women’s Group Third Thursday of the month 6:30 p.m. Gustavus Adolphus Lutheran Church
General self-help groups Aitkin First Wednesday of the month, 7 p.m., and third Monday of the month, 1 p.m. Hope Drop-In Center
Albert Lea Second Monday of the month 7 p.m. Grace Lutheran Church
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First Thursday of the month 9:30 a.m. Christ Church
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
Benson Fourth Tuesday of the month 7 p.m. Westwood Manor Apartments
Bloomington First Wednesday of the month 7 p.m. Nativity of Mary Church No meetings July–Aug.
Brainerd MS Breakfast at the Mill Third Monday of the month 9:30 a.m. Sawmill Inn
Burnsville/Apple Valley First Tuesday of the month 6:30 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-Dec. 4 p.m. Sanford Canby Medical Center
Chaska Third Tuesday of the month 12:30 p.m. Chaska City Hall
Coon Rapids North Suburban Second Wednesday of the month 7 p.m. Coon Rapids City Center
Detroit Lakes Second Monday of the month 6 p.m. Lincoln Park Assisted Living
National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Minnesota Chapter
Duluth
Hutchinson
Minneapolis
First Tuesday of the month 11:30 a.m. (bring a bag lunch) Bethany Baptist Church
Second Monday of the month 6:45 p.m. Christ the King Lutheran Church
Last Saturday of the month 10 a.m. Kingsley Commons
Eden Prairie
Inver Grove Heights/ West St. Paul
New Ulm
Third Tuesday of the month 7 p.m. Wooddale Church
Excelsior/Minnetonka Second and fourth Saturdays of the month, 10 a.m. Dunn Bros. in Excelsior
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
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
First Monday of the month 7:30 p.m. Good Shepherd Lutheran Church
Lake Elmo Third Wednesday of the month Noon Christ Lutheran Church
Litchfield Fourth Tuesday of the month 3 p.m. Meeker County Memorial Hospital
Luverne Third Thursday of the month 7:30 p.m. Rock County Family Services
Mankato Second Thursday of the month 7 p.m. ISJ Physical Medicine, Madison East Center
Maple Grove 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
Third Tuesday of the month 7 p.m. Oak Hills Living Center
Oakdale First Saturday of the month 10:30 a.m. Oakdale Library
Park Rapids Third Wednesday of the month 6:30 p.m. St. Joseph’s Area Health Services
Perham Last Tuesday of the month 1 p.m. Calvary Lutheran Church
Pierz/Little Falls First Wednesday of the month 1 p.m. Bethel Lutheran Church
Princeton Third Saturday of the month 10 a.m. Fairview Northland Regional Hospital
Rochester Second Wednesday of the month 7 p.m. Meadow Lake Senior Living
phone 612-335-7900 or 1-800-582-5296 (v/tdd) • fax 612-335-7997 • www.MSsociety.org
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Roseville
St. Paul Care to Share
Second Wednesday of the month 6:45 p.m. Roseville City Hall
Second Wednesday of the month 7 p.m. Macalester Plymouth Church Contact Mary Lynn at 651-644-1429 to verify location
St. Anthony/New Brighton Fourth Tuesday of the month 6 p.m. Christ the King Lutheran Church in New Brighton
Staples
Wayzata-Suburban West Hennepin First Thursday of the month 1 p.m. Original Pancake House, Wayzata
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
Second Thursday of the month 4 p.m. Lakewood Care Center No meetings June–Aug.
Superior
St. Cloud
Thief River Falls
Second Wednesday of the month 7 p.m. St. Cloud Public Library
Third Saturday of the month 4 p.m. Riverside Terrace
St. Paul
Waseca
Third Wednesday of the month 6:45 p.m. Fairview MS Achievement Center
Third Tuesday of the month 7 p.m. Waseca Medical Center
Second Tuesday of the month 6 p.m. Superior Public Library
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
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 Kari, 612-335-7968 Camps MS Camp Jeannie, 612-335-7939 Youth Camp Rachel Ring, 612-335-7937 Care partner programs Jeff, 612-335-7951 Chore services Kari, 612-335-7968 Clubs and groups Book clubs Jeannie, 612-335-7939 Self-help groups Jeff, 612-335-7951 Education programs Steve, 612-335-7974 Emergency assistance Heather, Jill or Sarah, 612-335-7900
Equipment programs Equipment Loan Equipment Exchange Scott, 612-335-7967 Exercise programs Jeannie, 612-335-7939 Rachel Ring, 612-335-7937 Family programs Rachel Ring, 612-335-7937 Giving to the MS Society Shannon, 612-335-7928 Rachel Hughes, 612-335-7965
Information and Referral Center MS Navigators can connect you to resources. Heather, Jill and Sarah, 612-335-7900 Inservices for companies Steve, 612-335-7974 Lending Library Heather, 612-335-7947 Jill, 612-335-7938 Mentor Program Connie, 612-335-7964
Housing Steve, 612-335-7974
Professional education 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 Megan (Programs), 612-335-7955 Will (Events), 612-335-7992 Walk MS, Bike MS and motorsport events Cortney, 612-335-7971 Youth and teen programs Rachel Ring, 612-335-7937
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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In a complex world, it helps to have a guide. Financial planning can be intimidating, but you don’t have to do it alone. The Minnesota Chapter, in collaboration with the Financial Education Partners Program, offers free personal financial counseling to help people with MS navigate the complex world of money.
Let an expert be your guide. During free, one-hour phone sessions, experts address topics that matter to you — ranging from basic budgeting to retirement planning. To learn more, contact Steve Korngable at 612-335-7974 or skornkable@MSsociety.org.
WE CARE ABOUT A CURE…THIS IS WHY WE GIVE
Because we care. Our daughter has MS. Of course we care about a cure! That’s the reason we included a bequest to the National MS Society in our wills. It’s easy to provide for causes you care about, and the society can help you learn how. And it helps the MS community move forward. Join the movement in a powerful way. Contact Shannon at 612-335-7928 or swolkerstorfer@MSsociety.org.
Kim, diagnosed in 1986