CAN MS Connection Winter 2016/2017 by Marni Deckter

WINTER 2016/2017

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA CHAPTER

MS CONNECTION NEWSLETTER

INSIDE 04 THIS ISSUE

WELLNESS

PROGRAMS CONNECTION

LIVING WITH MS

SPECIAL EVENTS

MS CONNECTION: WINTER 2016/2017

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

HOLIDAY GREETINGS!

This time of year can be full of introspection, of glances backwards to see how far we’ve come and get an idea of where we want to go in the New Year. Here at the MS Society, it can sometimes be difficult to stop in the middle of our busy schedules of events and support to become cognizant of all of that, but during the holiday season, I make it a point to quiet myself—if just for a moment—and let it all soak in. In these quiet moments, the meaning of our work that otherwise often gets squashed under to-do lists and meetings rings out. I want to take this moment to pause, reflect, and say thank YOU. We have made remarkable progress towards a world free of MS in 2016. Whether you are a volunteer leader, committed donor, event participant, corporate sponsor, or MS activist, you are part of our MS community, and each of you has made an impact on the Society’s work this year and on people living with MS. A few major achievements in 2016 that you made possible were: • The first-ever potential treatment for Progressive MS was granted a “Breakthrough Therapy” status by the FDA to expedite its approval and get it to market. • A new treatment available for Relapsing Remitting MS was discovered. • The Society approved--for the first time--funding of a large-scale study on diet & MS, awarding a $1M grant to test effects on fatigue. • The Society helped over 4,500 people navigate living with MS via the national Navigator program. • The Society served over 1,000 people with MS through 85 educational programs in Northern California. • The Society gave financial assistance to 260 individuals to reduce the hardship of MS on their families. While each of us plays a different role, we are connected by one common goal: to end MS forever. Thank you for your countless contributions. Wishing you a warm holiday season and a happy New Year. Gratefully, Janelle Del Carlo Chapter President

CONNECT WITH US ONLINE: www.nationalMSsociety.org/CAN

MSNorthernCal MSnortherncal NorCalNMSS

NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG/CAN | 1-800-344-4867

VOLUNTEERS

VOLUNTEER HEROES OF THE MONTH “Volunteering for the National MS Society is the best way for me to give back to the MS community. The first week after I was diagnosed, I was terrified, but I found out rather quickly that we all know someone who has been affected by it. I was amazed at how rapidly my support group grew. Now I am able to help others by using my construction company to build ramps and install handrails for those in need.” RC Banjanin

Carmen & Dean Lauerman

“We volunteer because we CAN volunteer. Since Dean was diagnosed with MS in 2003, there have been many advances in the fight to cure the disease that have greatly improved his quality of life. When we volunteer at events that raise money for MS research such as Waves to Wine or Walk MS, we feel like we are able to give back to help those with MS have a better quality of life. There is no end to our gratitude to everyone who has ever worked, volunteered, or researched to find a cure for MS.”

Eric McHenry

“This was the third consecutive year I’ve volunteered with the National MS Society. Every year, I am increasingly impressed by the support and services provided by the Society, coupled with the quality and professionalism of the staff. I don’t have the professional or medical skills for direct assistance to those affected by MS, but I can give my time, energy and enthusiasm during your special events. Kudos to the work and thanks again for all you do.”

NATIONAL MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY

Northern California Chapter 1700 Owens Street, Suite 190 San Francisco, CA 94158 1-800-344-4867 Chair: Jay Thayer Chapter President: Janelle Del Carlo Editor & Designer: Nare Ovsepian Copywriter: Sarah Sypniewski © 2016 National MS Society, Northern California Chapter; Published Quarterly—Winter 2016

Information provided by the Society is based upon professional advice, published experience, and expert opinion. Information provided in response to questions does not constitute therapeutic recommendations or prescriptions. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society recommends that all questions and information be discussed with a personal physician. The Society does not endorse products, services, or manufacturers. Such names appear here solely because they are considered valuable information. The Society assumes no liability for the use or contents of any product or service mentioned.

MS CONNECTION: WINTER 2016/2017

WELLNESS

EMOTIONAL WELLNESS AND MS BY BRIAN HUTCHINSON, PT, MSCS AND TIFFANY MALONE, MSW, MSCS Living with MS can be emotionally draining and learning to find a balance is a skill that needs to be learned and practiced just like other wellness skills. It is well documented that depression and anxiety are more common in people living with MS than the general population, and if you are experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety, please talk to your doctor or mental health professional. For the purposes of this article, we will explore different skills that can be helpful in managing stress and finding an emotional balance in dealing with the uncertainties of everyday life.

MINDFULNESS

Trunk stretch and upper body bike Mindfulness means maintaining awareness of present thoughts, emotions, physical feelings, and current environment. While this sounds relatively simple, it is amazing how often our minds will drift

toward activities in the past or future. Mindfulness, as a practice, focuses on what is happening “in the moment”. Meditation and visualization are two practices that can help individuals be more present and mindful. Exercise, particularly activities such as yoga, can serve as a mindfulness activity.

OPTIMISM AND GRATITUDES It is often easier to focus on negative things than positive things. In our 24/7 world, we are often overwhelmed with “bad news” which perpetuates negative thoughts. One of the best ways to overcome those negative thoughts is to ‘practice optimism’ by spending time thinking about why and for what you are grateful. Acknowledging these gratitudes can be a very powerful way of creating more optimism.

JOURNALING Journaling can also be a useful tool for achieving or maintaining balanced emotional wellness. Gratitudes can be journaled, which allows you to remember the many positive things you have experienced over time. In addition, journaling can offer an opportunity for you to write down concerns, worries, or stressors. By doing this, you are putting them in a safe place, removing them as a distraction, and allowing yourself to revisit them, if needed, at a more appropriate time. Mindfulness, gratitudes, and journaling can be helpful in managing the uncertainties of living with MS. If you need help getting started, contact the National MS Society to see about programs and services in your area. n

NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG/CAN | 1-800-344-4867

RESEARCH

NEW EVIDENCE ON GUT BACTERIA Researchers in multiple sclerosis have uncovered new evidence that gut bacteria, also called the “microbiome,” may play a role in MS. In a study published in Nature Communications (June 28, 2016), Harvard researchers found significant differences between the gut bacteria of people with MS and people without MS. Even more intriguingly, they found differences between the bacteria in treated and untreated people with MS.

PROMISING POSSIBILITIES The investigators, led by Drs. Sushrut Jangi and Howard L. Weiner, with colleagues from Harvard’s Brigham & Women’s Hospital in Boston, used advanced genetic tools to look at gut bacteria in 60 people with MS and 43 people without MS. In the group with MS, 32 were treated — that is, they had received interferon or glatiramer acetate for at least six months —while 28 were untreated, meaning they had not received steroids (for one month), interferon or glatiramer acetate (for three months), or other treatments (for six months). The results of the study showed increases in bacteria associated with inflammation in people with MS. These correlated with differences in the activity of genes related to the key pathways related to immune activity in MS. Also, the differences in certain types of gut bacteria between treated and untreated people with MS suggested

that treatment may help normalize some of the MS-related changes seen in gut bacteria. The National MS Society continues to support research in this area, most recently The MS Microbiome Consortium, a comprehensive analysis of gut bacteria in people with MS to determine factors that may drive progression and develop probiotic strategies for stopping progression. To learn more, visit imsms.org. n A breakthrough therapy In exciting news for people living with a progressive form of MS, the experimental therapy ocrelizumab has been granted Priority Review Designation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, with a decision target of December 28, 2016. Genentech, a member of the Roche Group, filed for approval of ocrelizumab to treat primary progressive and relapsing MS in June 2016. The designation was granted based on phase III trial results presented at the European Committee for Treatment and Research in MS in 2015. Compared to placebo, ocrelizumab significantly reduced the risk of progression of clinical disability by 24 percent in 732 people with primary progressive MS.

MS CONNECTION: WINTER 2016/2017

PROGRAMS CONNECTION To register for a program, visit nationalMSsociety.org/CAN and select the Calendar, or call (800) 344-4867.

LIVING WELL WITH MS

WHY DO I HURT? PAIN AND MS

Contact Tiffany Malone at 916-453-7966 or Tiffany.Malone@dignityhealth.org to register or for additional information.

January 11 | 6:30pm Mercy Medical Center McKinley Room 3000 Q Street Sacramento, CA

The MS Achievement Center is now offering a weekly 2½ hour wellness program, providing a variety of activities facilitated by MS Specialists and certified instructors. Similar to the 5 hour program, it includes individualized exercise, cognitive stimulation, MS symptom management education, Yoga, Pilates, Nutrition, and introduction to community resources.

In one study, 55 percent of people with MS had “clinically significant pain” at some time; almost half (48 percent) were troubled by chronic pain. Join us as Kenneth Rogado, MSN, CRNA helps us understand pain when living with multiple sclerosis. Light Dinner will be served.

NEWLY DIAGNOSED ORIENTATIONS AVAILABLE IN-PERSON OR ONLINE

Hearing the words “you have multiple sclerosis” can set off a flood of emotions, fears, and questions. Join Society staff and MS health professionals in an open conversation about the disease and discover how wellness practices can help you live your best life with MS.

ONLINE ORIENTATION:

January 12 & March 9 Online and over the phone. Presented by Dr. Elizabeth Crabtree-Hartman, Associate Clinical Professor of Neurology at UCSF and Director of Patient Program Development at UCSF’s MS Center.

SCHEDULE AN IN-PERSON ORIENTATION: Napa, North Bay, North State, Sonoma Counties, Bay Area or Greater Sacramento Area: Zoe at 916-927-9113 ext. 75201 Central Valley and South Bay: Andrea at 209214-6022

NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG/CAN | 1-800-344-4867

LAGUNITAS WALK MS SANTA ROSA FUNDRAISER: BREWS AND BLUES TO CREATE A WORLD FREE OF MS

Mark your calendar! Lagunitas Brewing Company has joined the movement to create a world free of MS by donating 100% of the beer proceeds to the National MS Society for this one night. We will have a buffet dinner and feature Petaluma Blues Band Favorite Randy and the Special Agents. Bring the family, friends, and fun to this event celebrating MS Awareness month! Ticket sales at the door and proceeds go back to supporting Walk MS Santa Rosa teams and Walk MS Goal 2017! Walk MS Santa Rosa, bring it on! Santa Rosa Walk MS Team Captains who have the most ticket sales in support of their team will win the night’s beer proceeds towards their team’s fundraising! Tickets are $10 at the door. Haven’t signed up for Walk MS? Visit www. walkms.org. Petaluma |March 27 | 5:30pm Lagunitas Brewing Company 1280 North McDowell Blvd

RALLY IN THE VALLEY

Join us as we come together in support of Walk MS Central Valley. Bring your family, friends, and teammates out for a night of celebration and FUN! Tickets to this event are $10 per person and can be purchased online. The Central Valley Team Captain that brings the most guests in support of their team will win the night’s ticket proceeds towards their team’s Walk MS Fundraising! Oakdale | April 1 | 6:00pm Oakdale Golf & Country Club 243 N Stearns Rd

HOLD THAT THOUGHT: COGNITION AND MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

Approximately half of all people with MS will develop problems with cognition. Loss of myelin around nerve fibers can cause difficulty with transporting memories to storage areas of the brain or retrieving them from storage areas. Light dinner will be served. Carmichael | March 8 | 6:30pm Mercy San Juan Medical Center Lukens Auditorium, 6555 Coyle Ave

8 COFFEE CONNECTIONS

Looking to connect to others in the area living with MS in a relaxed setting? Come to one of our upcoming Coffee Connections to grab some coffee, get questions answered and make connections. Davis | 2nd Monday of the Month | 10:00am Panera Bread, 609 3rd St Dublin | 2nd Wednesday of the Month | 10:00am Tous les Jours, 7151 Amador Plaza Rd Modesto | February 16 | 10:00am Greens Table, 501 Bangs Ave Palo Alto | 2nd Tuesday of the Month | 11:30am Printer’s Café, 320 S. California Ave Sonora |1st Thursday of the Month | 11:00am Schnoog’s Cafe, 1005 Mono Way

CRAFTING CONNECTIONS

Find your creative side with crafting events in your community. No experience is required and all ability levels are encouraged to attend. 1st Wednesday of the Month | 10:00am National MS Society, 422 McHenry Ave, Modesto

MS CONNECTION: WINTER 2016/2017

WALK MS: MIX & MINGLE KICK-OFFS

Join us as we meet others in the community who are living with MS or who love someone living with MS! It’ll be the perfect opportunity to get ready for Walk MS, or to simply make some new friends. We’ll have light appetizers available and great conversation. Come & bring your friends & family. Together We Are Stronger! San Francisco | February 16 | 5:00-8:00PM Oda Restaurant 1500 Owens Street San Francisco, CA Sacramento | February 23 | 6:00-8:00PM Track 7 Brewing Company 826 Professor Ln #100 Sacramento, CA East Bay | February 28 | 6:00-8:00PM Buffalo Bill’s Brewery 1082 B St Hayward, CA Santa Clara | March 5 | 2:00-4:00PM Golden State Brewing 1252 Memorex Dr Santa Clara, CA Petaluma | March 27 | 5:30pm Lagunitas Brewing Company 1280 North McDowell Blvd Petaluma, CA

To register for a program, visit nationalMSsociety.org/CAN and select the Calendar, or call (800) 344-4867.

NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG/CAN | 1-800-344-4867

PROGRAMS

FREE FROM FALLS

Studies indicate that falls are quite common among people with MS and are often associated with injuries and negative impact on quality of life. The National MS Society has developed a fall prevention program designed for people living with MS and may be at risk for falling. Discussion, exercise, group and individual activities are elements of this engaging format where participants will learn about: fall risks, tips and strategies to reduce risk for falling and exercises to enhance balance and safety. A supportive group atmosphere and expert instructors in the field of rehabilitation, health and wellness will help each participant develop a personal plan to maximize safety. Each session’s 2 hour program has two parts: a lecture and discussion component. The class runs every Monday starting February 20th from 11:15 am – 1:15 pm, ending on April 10th. Healthy snacks will be provied. Palo Alto | 8 weeks | Mondays February 20 - April 10 11:15am - 1:15pm Stanford Neuroscience Health Center 1st Floor Wellness Center 213 Quarry Road, Palo Alto, CA 94304 Registration deadline is Friday, February 17th, 2017. Space is limited. Please register online or by calling 800-344-4867.

GENTLE YOGA FOR MS Add a weekly gentle yoga class to your routine and stay active! Manteca | Thursdays | 11:00am – 12:00pm Brain & Body Yoga & Tai Chi Studio 1236 N. Main St, Suite B, Manteca Contact: Kamal at 209-824-9642 Modesto | Tuesdays | 10:30am – 11:30am National MS Society Office 422 McHenry Ave, Modesto Contact: Richard at 209-380-5955 Oakland | Thursdays | 10:00am – 11:00am Redwood Heights Recreation Center, 3883 Aliso Ave, Oakland Saratoga | Thursdays | 10:30am – 12:00pm Prince of Peace Lutheran Church Wellness Center 12270 Saratoga Ave, Rooms 5 & 6, Saratoga Contact: Thea at 408-489-9436 Turlock | Thursdays | 11:00am – 12:30pm I Am Yoga Wellness Studio 2031 Geer Rd, Turlock Contact: 209-667-8100 (Studio) Lodi | Sundays | 9:00am – 10:00am Now and Zen 617 S. Lower Sacramento Rd., Suite C-1 Lodi Contact:Wendy at (209) 369-7841

10 LIVING WELL WITH MS DURING THE MENOPAUSAL TRANSITION

During the menopausal transition, the challenges of living with MS can be compounded by menopause symptoms (like hot flashes, or changes in mood or bladder function), changes in family or work structure, and sometimes progression of MS. This is a great time to reevaluate MS care in the context of a woman’s journey. Join us as Dr. Riley Bove, Faculty in the UCSF MS Clinic Gender-Based Care programs, discusses whole-person approaches to wellness during the menopausal transition. San Francisco | February 9 | 6:00pm National MS Society, 1700 Owens St, Fifth Floor

MANAGING MS BEFORE, DURING, AND AFTER A PREGNANCY: 2016 UPDATES

With the right care, most women with multiple sclerosis can achieve their goals of a safe and healthy pregnancy. Join us as a Faculty Member from the UCSF MS Clinic Gender-Based Care programs helps us understand how best to prepare for a pregnancy. This will include whether to keep or stop medications, whether to breastfeed, and common medical and emotional considerations for MS women in the postpartum period.

MS CONNECTION: WINTER 2016/2017

NORTH AMERICAN EDUCATION PROGRAM (NAEP) ON RESILIENCE

People with multiple sclerosis may find that the physical, emotional, cognitive, psychological, and spiritual challenges of living with the disease can be overwhelming. Some may feel that the challenges of living with a chronic disease are very hard to face day after day, but many people living with chronic diseases, including MS, have learned that practicing behaviors that promote resilience is the secret to not just coping with the disease, but thriving with it. Resilience helps create a mindset of growth and opportunities, of seeing obstacles as challenges rather than threats. Some people have a natural tendency to be resilient; it’s part of their makeup to be optimistic and to look for solutions to problems. But even if that’s not the case for you, strategies to build resilience can be learned and practiced. Please join us to watch a video and discuss “Resilience” and how it relates to your MS journey. This promises to be an uplifting and interesting discussion. Don’t miss it! Corte Madera | March 11 | 11:50am Aegis of Corte Madera 555 Paradise Dr. Corte Madera

San Francisco | March 9 | 6:00pm UCSF Women’s Health Resource Center UCSF Betty Irene Moore Women’s Hospital 1855 4th Suite A3473, Mission Bay

To register for a program, visit nationalMSsociety.org/CAN and select the Calendar, or call (800) 344-4867.

NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG/CAN | 1-800-344-4867

SELF-HELP GROUPS

CONNECT WITH OTHERS PLEASE CONTACT THE GROUP’S FACILITATOR(S) TO LEARN MORE ABOUT A SPECIFIC SELF-HELP GROUP LISTED BELOW OR CONTACT THE CHAPTER AT 800.344.4867.

BAY AREA • Alameda - Sharon: 510-521-6260, Ray: 510-522-5210 • Antioch - Sue: 925-813-9069 • Berkeley: Lunch Group (meets periodically) - Toni: 510-653-4534 • Brentwood: MS Lunch Bunch - Kathy: 925-286-7674, Julie: 925-513-4686 • Corte Madera - Vicki: 415-892-7370, Anita: 415-892-5548 • Dublin - Sunshine: 925-216-3255 • East Bay Community Group: MS Fight Club - Stacey: 510-332-7393 • East Bay: Lesbians - eastbaymsgroup@gmail. com • El Cerrito - Thad: 510-528-8540

• San Francisco: UCSF MS Self-Help Group – Andrew: 415-230-6678, ext. 73004 • San Francisco: Young at Heart Group George: 415-724-0064, Ann: 415-573-8949 • Walnut Creek - Jodi: 925-708-9387, Ché: 216-225-6508 NEW GROUP!

AT-HOME TELEPHONE GROUP

CENTRAL VALLEY • Manteca - Rebecca: 209-505-6438 • Merced: MS Challengers - Susan: 209631-7279 • Modesto - Marti or Jane: 209-521-8956 • Stockton (AM) – Laurie: 209-915-1730, Velma: 209-951-2264 • Stockton (PM) – Brenda: 209-951-0536, Mary: 209-334-5670 • Tracy – Linda: 209-833-6882

• Foster City - Eli: 650-377-1970

• Turlock – Frances: 209-883-3526

• Fremont - Marie: 510-520-7276

GREATER SACRAMENTO

• Mt. Diablo (Concord) - Cindy: 925-2653184, Jan: 925-372-0859 • Oakland - Katrina: 510-523-1891 • Oakland: African Americans - Karen: 510-757-3290 • Oakland: Latinos Bilingual Group (Se habla español) - Elsa: 510-777-1414

• Auburn - Loreen: 530-320-1711, Ruth: 530-888-8388 New Self-Help Groups coming soon in Napa, Yreka and Redding! Contact Amy Clark at amy.clark@nmss.org or 415-230-6678, ext 75207 for more information!

MS CONNECTION: WINTER 2016/2017

SELF-HELP GROUPS • Carmichael: Moving on with MS Michelle: 916-600-1958, Kara: 916-3909480, Denise: 916-771-4413

• Redding - HOPE4MS: Robyn: 530-2462980; Patricia: 530-222-7277; Christa: 530-209-4758 or info@hope4ms.org

• Elk Grove - Letitia: 916-896-7764, Dorothy: 916-684-6849, Willie: 916-6841677, Pamela: 916-685-6662

• Yuba City - Evon: 530-701-2189

• Grass Valley - Erica: 530-559-4517 • Jackson - Joanne: 209-304-1480 • Lincoln - Jeri: 916-408-7565 • Placerville - Doris: 530-622-5673 • Sacramento: MS Adapters - Kim: 916821-6133, Stephanie: 916-215-5356, Debbie: 916-837-2019 • Sacramento: MS Musings of the Mind Writing Group - Irene: 916-993-6778 • Sacramento: Yoga and Tai Chi Support Group - Cynthia: 916-682-9030, Evelyn: 916-391-1365 • Vacaville - Marian: 707-580-0112 • Woodland - Shannon: 916-821-3576

NORTH STATE • Chico - Amy: 530-863-7818, Tracy: 530343-3623 • Eureka - Ann Louise: 707-839-0177, Kim: 707-445-9803 • Guerneville - Kristina: 707-217-0289 or 707-604-6199 • Napa - Stacee: 707-363-8453 or winelady9458@gmail.com; Lisa: 707-3635448 NEW GROUP!

• Santa Rosa - Debbie: 707-548-8437; Bettina: 707-528-2019

SOUTH BAY • Capitola - Jon: 831-332-5265, Estefana: 831-406-9127 • Hollister Group - Joann and Andrew: 831-630-0266 • Monterey - Veronica: 831-869-1684 • Monterey: Young, Strong & Fighting On (under 40) - Nikki: 760-902-2431 NEW GROUP! • Palo Alto - Kathy: 408-921-9888 • San Jose - Marie: 510-520-7276 • Santa Clara - Susan: 408-253-4489, Bruce: 408-978-9648 • Santa Clara Living Well Group - Elise: 408-314-1261

ONLINE • Online: Second Life - John: 916-708-9708

Are you interested in volunteering with the Northern California Chapter of the National MS Society? Becoming a Self-Help Group leader is a great way to get involved and give back to your community! If you have never led a group, that’s okay - training and guidance will be provided. We are currently seeking leaders in Lodi and Calaveras. If you are interested in the Lodi or Calaveras groups, please contact Andrea Covolo at 209-214-6022 or andrea.covolo@nmss.org

NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG/CAN | 1-800-344-4867

GOLDEN CIRCLE

$1 MILLION GOLDEN CIRCLE YEAR-END LEADERSHIP CHALLENGE This year, several Golden Circle members have created an unprecedented $1 million Golden Circle Year-End Leadership Challenge Fund to ensure that vital advances in research and treatments not only continue, but accelerate. These individuals have pledged $1 million in matching funds, and are challenging those committed to the MS movement to make an extraordinary impact this year with monetary gifts to Golden Circle. If Golden Circle donors contribute $1 million by December 31st, these members will match it with an additional $1 million. That’s $2 million in total funds before the year’s even over to help fuel incredible progress towards the cure and care of those living with MS! Our utmost thanks goes to the Steve and Caroline Kaufer family, the Kenrose Kitchen Table Foundation, William and Linda Monahan, the L.P. Brown Foundation - Special Fund, the Yellow Rose Gala Foundation, and Bill and Cathy Onufrychuk for their bold challenge and inspirational commitment. We hope that you will

13 join the rest of the MS community in rising to meet this challenge that will surely end 2016 and start 2017 off with a bang! Your investment today will be a force for change. Whether it’s a breakthrough in research, or a personal breakthrough that helps someone overcome the challenges of this disease, together we can and will do whatever it takes to change the world for people with MS. We have made remarkable progress, but there is still great urgency to find more and better solutions. n Your gift of $1,000, when combined with the Challenge Fund, has the impact of $2,000 to provide urgently needed programs and services to those with MS. n Your gift of $2,500, when combined with the Challenge Fund, has the impact of $5,000 to help uncover promising new treatments to help people with MS live better lives. n Your gift of $5,000, when combined with the Challenge Fund, has the impact of $10,000 to fund cutting edge research that has the potential to end MS forever. Please visit the Golden Circle web page at www.norcal-goldencircle.org to make a gift online or contact Laura Milewski at 415.230.6678 ext. 73007 or laura.milewski@nmss.org with questions or to make a gift by phone. n

MS CONNECTION: WINTER 2016/2017

LIVING WITH MS

FIVE WAYS TO HEALTHIER HOLIDAYS BY MARCELLA DURAND

Staying on a diet can be tough even under the best of conditions—which holiday gatherings of family and friends definitely aren’t. But there are ways to stay strong. Following are some tips that may help you steer toward healthier holiday eating. 1. Plan ahead. Look at your schedule for the next month or so, and identify where you’d most like to be and what you’d most like to do, keeping in mind what will be easiest on you and your eating needs. If you’re hosting, plan a simple menu that includes fruits and vegetables—which can be easier to prepare than other dishes. For instance, prewashed salad can just be put in a bowl with some olive oil and vinegar on the side, while grapes make a sweet and easy after-dinner treat. 2. Control your environment. Try skipping that large holiday party in favor of a small potluck gathering of friends and family. That way, you’ll have more control over what food will be in front of you. Bring a salad or plate of raw-vegetable crudités to ensure that a healthy and delicious option will be available. Fill your own plate to ensure you’re not overserved. If you

must go to the large party, snack on something healthy ahead of time so you don’t arrive starving. 3. Say no. It’s OK to say no to second servings, desserts, another glass of wine or even staying too long. If you find yourself sticking close to the food table and stuffing yourself because a party is too loud and conversations too difficult to follow, don’t feel bad about leaving early—your hosts will appreciate the time you were there. 4. Manage expectations (and be easy on yourself ). If you eat something you shouldn’t, it’s not the end of the world— everyone lapses occasionally. Take control by selecting special treats that you’ll really enjoy, such as a bit of cheese or a special dessert. And then balance them out with more salad or other healthy options. 5. Substitute. Swap olive oil for butter, fish for meat, vegetables for stuffing, and fruit and nuts instead of dessert. The possibilities are endless for healthy and delicious alternatives! To learn more about healthy eating and MS, visit nationalMSsociety.org/diet. n Marcella Durand is a writer and editor who lives in New York City.

NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG/CAN | 1-800-344-4867

BIKE MS

MAKING WAVES Riders embarked on 3 new route courses this year that incorporated the feedback we got from participants about wanting more scenic and safer road conditions (see, we really DO listen!). The response was overwhelmingly positive, and we are excited to announce that these improved routes will be offered again in 2017!

2,200 riders covered over 162 miles of sweeping vistas and rolling vineyards. After the ride, riders and their families enjoyed a celebratory wine festival with live music, dance performance by Bollywood dance troupe, and great food. This year marked the 33rd year of Waves to Wine, during which we raised over $2.155 million. n

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

Special thanks to: Dignity Health, Charles Schwab, Red Hat, Genentech, and Kara’s Cupcakes.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2016 TOP FUNRAISERS!

Registration is open for Bike MS: Waves to Wine 2017 on September 23 & 24. Register today at www.wavestowine.org!

TOP FUNDRAISING INDIVIDUALS

1. Jay Thayer 2. Kate Aks 3. Tom Galizia 4. Sheri Smith 5. Artie DelNegro 6. Kelly Carroll-Kleiman 7. Jon Richards 8. Lisa Ghuman 9. Susie Cohen 10. Jim Forni

TOP FUNDRAISING TEAMS

1. Salesforce & Friends 2. Team Menstrual Cycles 3. Cruisin’ with Susan 4. Mitzvah Milers 5. Team Google & Friends 6. Kara’s Cupcakes 7. Dignity Health Neurological Institute 8. Deloitte Difference 9. Team Cisco 10. Barreling Up the Coast

MS CONNECTION: WINTER 2016/2017

WALK MS

WALK TO CREATE A WORLD FREE OF MS

Walk MS brings together people living with MS and those who care about them to raise awareness and funds for MS. We’ve been walking since 1988 and to date, have raised more than $920 million to support life-changing services and cutting-edge research. Ending MS forever will take all of us. This is why Walk MS matters so much--and it’s why you matter so much. Walk MS challenges you to team up with friends, loved ones, and co-workers to change the world for everyone

Last year in Northern California, more than 8,700 Walk MS participants raised over $1.7 million for education, advocacy, research, and local programs that enhance the quality of life for people with MS and their families.

. S M K L A W . RONGER

E TO G E T H E R W

affected by MS. And with every step we take, and every dollar we raise, we’re that much closer. Together, we are stronger. Together, we will end MS forever.

ARE

4.22.17

EAST BAY Lake Merritt, Oakland SACRAMENTO South Steps State Capitol

4.23.17

MONTEREY BAY Lover’s Point Park WALNUT CREEK Heather Farm Park SANTA ROSA Maria Carrillo High School

4.29.17

5.6.17

SOLANO COUNTY Old Town Plaza Suisun City

5.7.17

4.30.17

5.13.17

SAN FRANCISCO Justin Herman Plaza

CENTRAL VALLEY (MODESTO) Beyer Park

NORTH STATE (CHICO) Bidwell Park

TRI-VALLEY (PLEASANTON) Alameda County Fairgrounds

SILICON VALLEY Vasona Lake County Park Los Gatos FOLSOM Sutter St. Plaza

EUREKA Eureka High School

Participate, start a team, or volunteer! Visit WalkMS.org to register today, or call 855-372-1331.

NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG/CAN | 1-800-344-4867

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Until I became involved with the National MS Society through Walk MS, I didn’t fully understand all the ways the National MS Society helps those of us with MS and helps fund the research for new treatments. As a result of the walk this year, I have met many great people and have found support from them and the National MS Society programs. I want to help make sure those resources are there to help all of us with MS in the future. It’s a great opportunity to meet and connect with people who understand life with MS. It opened up my eyes to opportunities and resources out there for us. —Suzanne C.

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It is important for me to participate in Walk MS because it helps turn something negative in my life into something positive. It makes me feel like I am in control of this disease and that I am strong enough to conquer it. It gives me a sense of strength and empowerment. If I can push through the struggles of this 3 mile walk then I can push through the struggles of daily life with MS. The walk, in many ways, has become a metaphor for my life and for my future. It would be easy to give up and stop walking. It would be easy to say “I can’t keep going”. It would be easy to give up hope. Living with MS, it would be easy to say all of these things every day. But instead, I keep pushing. —Jen K.

18 MUCKFEST MS

MUCKY FUN, SF!

They came. They Mucked. They raised money for the programs & services of the National MS Society. On October 1, 2016, we hosted the 3rd annual MuckFest MS San Francisco, a 5K mud obstacle run we bill as “The FUN Mud Run with the Best Obstacles that are Built for Laughs.” And boy, did it live up to the hype. 2,408 muckers and 145 volunteers mucked it up on a gorgeous, sunny-butnot-too-hot day, and raised over $160,000 to help create a world free of MS. Families, companies, friends, schools, and military units were among those who came together as teams to raise money and awareness for MS. It was inspiring to watch them help each other overcome the muddy obstacles of the day-just like they do in life, no doubt--and make a real difference. After the event, we received a wonderful email from a participant that perfectly sums up the sentiment. George writes: “I wanted to thank you so much for putting together such an amazing event. All of my team had an amazing time [sic] can’t wait to do it again next year! It makes the whole process of having MS a lot easier knowing the National MS Society is always there!” You’re welcome, George--we can’t wait to do it again next year, either! Be sure to save the date for 2017 MuckFest MS Bay Area: Sunday, October 1, 2017. Register today at muckfestms.com

MS CONNECTION: WINTER 2016/2017

“We had such a blast and are so looking forward to coming back next year - with an even mightier and muckier team! I’m so glad I got to meet you at the start line, seeing your smiling face was the perfect start to our race! I am still so amazed at all of the support I had from your team, and the genuine thanks I received once I got to the event. What an awesome community. I’m so happy to be a part of it! Thank you again, and I can’t wait for many more years of fundraising and Muckfest runs!!” —Emma, team Mud, Sweat & Beers, Sent to Kyra, Development Manager, MuckFest MS. n

NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG/CAN | 1-800-344-4867

DIY FUNDRAISING

SEASON OF CHALLENGE

The Equestrian Challenge for MS has kicked off recruitment for our 3rd benefit ride for MS. Our “Season of Challenge” is underway, and we’re inviting a maximum of 50 riders to join us this year, with each horse and rider partnership riding up to 25 miles for the awareness of and cure for Multiple Sclerosis. Each rider will be working to collectively raise a team goal of $25,000. We are excited to have so many original riders returning for the 3rd MS Challenge Ride! The NorCal Equestrian Challenge Ride for MS 2017 is one of two DIY NMSS Fundraisers in the country utilizing our equine friends to focus

awareness and resources on MS, and will take place on May 20, 2017 at Folsom Lake SRA.

A big part of living with MS is learning to cope with what seem to be ever-changing symptoms. Since horses are each a thousand pounds or more of flight animal, they require great core muscle control, and a calmness, and confidence from their riders. Skills such as these can be useful to all, and riding especially helps those with MS build and keep strong their minds and muscles. Help us reach our fundraising goal of $25,000 for those with MS. For more information about the event, donations to for the team, or individual team members, please refer to: www.ec4ms.org.. n

Northern California Chapter 1700 Owens Street, Suite 190 San Francisco, CA 94158

Bay Area | Sunday, October 1, 2017

Solano County Fairgrounds, 900 Fairgrounds Dr., Vallejo, CA 94589