Programs Connection, Aug/Sept 2009

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.

4

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

5

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

8

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

9

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

11

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

12

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

13

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.

16

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