Spring 2016
Southern California & Nevada Chapter
MS Connection Newsletter dedication. generosity. talent. thank you volunteers!
INSIDE 04 THIS ISSUE
research
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bike ms: vegas is back
programs connection
Community groups
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MS connection: spring 2016
letter from the President
together, we are stronger
2016 is in full swing and spring is already on the horizon. As the seasons change we will begin to see more green, and that includes the green and orange you have come to associate with Walk MS! Excitement is growing as we approach Walk season. This April, we offer 12 different Walk MS events throughout Southern California and Nevada, and two more in the fall. To find the Walk MS location nearest you, please visit WalkMS.org. Register today and join over 550,000 people across the country who walk to raise funds to fight MS. More opportunities to connect begin March 7-13 with MS Awareness Week. Use the hashtag #WeAreStrongerThanMS on social media and share your experiences and solutions to inspire others and help everyone affected by MS become more powerful than the challenges of this disease. Visit MSConnection.org to learn more. Beginning April 10-16, we celebrate National Volunteer Week! Join me in thanking our thousands of volunteers who selflessly give their time and energy to support millions of people affected by MS worldwide. You may read a few of their stories in this issue. Each person makes a difference, and together we are stronger. Each step you take and every dollar you raise brings us all closer to a world free of MS. Invite your friends, family members, and colleagues to join you and start a Walk MS team today!
connect with us online:
Gratefully,
www.nationalMSsociety.org/CAL
Julie Kaufer, Chapter President
MSSouthernCal
MSSoCalNev
MSSoCalChapter
Welcome to the Board, Paul Huether! Paul Huether is the Chief Financial Officer of GoWireless, Inc. Paul has over thirty years of diversified management experience, including ten in the wireless area. Paul is a Certified Public Accountant, and an honors graduate of Seton Hall University. Paul spearheaded our inaugural Dinner of Champions Las Vegas event in 2015 and as Dinner Chair, principally was responsible for raising over $145,000 for people affected by MS in Southern Nevada. Paul and his wife Denise, who lives with MS, reside in Las Vegas, Nevada. We are thrilled to welcome Paul to the Southern California & Nevada Chapter Board of Trustees!
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nationalmssociety.org/cal | 1-800-344-4867
annual meeting of members
new in research
On January 23, 2016, the Southern California & Nevada Chapter held its Annual Meeting of Members at the Sheraton Fairplex in Pomona, CA. Chapter President Julie Kaufer, Board Chair Kim Phillips, and Finance Chair-Elect Larry McEwen updated the members on the Chapter’s 2015 fundraising activities and program and services delivery. Following these remarks, Dr. Daniel Pelletier, Vice-Chair of Research and Chief of the NeuroImmunology and MS Division of the Keck School of Medicine of USC, described his research on single gene analysis and its influence in diagnosing MS earlier. He also updated the members on new initiatives at the USC MS Comprehensive Care Center to expand clinical services and standardize assessments. To read more about Dr. Pelletier’s research update, please visit nationalMSsociety.org/CAL and click on “NEWS.”
National Multiple Sclerosis Society Southern California & Nevada Chapter 5150 W. Goldleaf Circle, Suite 400 Los Angeles, CA 90056 1-800-344-4867 Chair: Kim Phillips Editor: Emily Hazlett Designer: Nare Ovsepian Copywriter: Jenna Tucker © 2016 National MS Society, Southern California & Nevada Chapter; Published Quarterly—Spring 2016
Have You Been Diagnosed with MS? The Living with MS program is new in 2016 and honors those who are diagnosed with MS and participate in Walk MS. Receive a Living with MS shirt and other special recognition during the event. Connect with others. Inspire others. And let those who are newly diagnosed know that they aren’t alone. Simply designate on your registration form that you have MS. We’re Stronger Together. Register today! walkms.org | 1-800-344-4867
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.
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MS connection: spring 2016
research
on the horizon By Mark Allegretta
There was a lot of excitement at the annual meeting of the European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis, or ECTRIMS, in October 2015, about the emergence of new treatment approaches for all forms of MS — including progressive MS.
Making a buzz Perhaps the biggest “buzz” was around results presented on studies of the monoclonal antibody ocrelizumab in relapsing-remitting and progressive MS. Ocrelizumab targets a protein that appears on immune B cells during specific stages of their life cycle. B cells make antibodies to help fight infection and perform other functions to stimulate the immune system. Scientists believe ocrelizumab destroys the group of B cells that include those that contribute to MS, but leaves other B cells intact that are fighting infections or are prepared to fight new ones. A highly anticipated presentation described the results of a clinical trial of ocrelizumab involving 732 people with primary-progressive MS. Results showed that compared to placebo, ocrelizumab significantly reduced the risk of progression of clinical disability by 24 percent, and had other positive outcomes. This is the first large-scale clinical trial to show positive results in people with primary-progressive MS.
A generic possibility Another intriguing trial result came from a group of investigators led by Dr. Luanne Metz (University of Calgary) who conducted a Phase III trial of a relatively inexpensive oral antibiotic called minocycline. Minocycline has been on the market for decades and is often prescribed to treat acne, and in addition to its bacteria-killing action, it reduces inflammation. Results from the trial showed that over six months, those taking twice daily minocycline had a 44.6 percent reduced risk of developing definite MS, compared to those taking placebo. There were no unexpected side effects reported from the trial — the most common include potential for diarrhea, dizziness or lightheadedness, grey discoloration of the skin or tissue in the mouth or teeth, sun sensitivity, and secondary infection due to fungi.
More to come These are only a few of many new approaches being explored to stop the MS process and restore function. Visit ectrims-congress.eu to learn more about these and other reports. Please note: everything presented at a meeting such as ECTRIMS is considered preliminary until it has been thoroughly peer-reviewed for publication in a respected journal.
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volunteer spotlight
making change
Since her daughter Alison was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1998, Pat Thomas has kept herself, as she describes it, at “the forefront of change.” She advocates for Alison and other people who live with MS, telling her family’s story to legislators. “Advocacy gave me something really meaningful to do about MS,” says Pat, who lives with her husband Leon. Each year, the family heads to Capitol Hill as part of the Society’s annual Public Policy Conference to raise crucial awareness. “A lot of [legislators] really didn’t know that much about MS. We changed that,” she says. After she stopped working three years ago, Alison joined her parents on their visits to legislators, making it a family activity. “She’s been able to come and see what her parents were doing all these years,” says Pat. “It has been eye-opening for her.” But the impact is mutual. When Alison shares what it’s like to live with MS every day, Pat says the legislators also have their eyes opened. “To put a face to their policy is so important for them,” she says. Visit www.nationalMSsociety.org/MSactivist to get involved in MS activism. n
volunteer spotlight: kathy san martino, pt, ncs A healthy lifestyle is important for everyone, especially those who live with MS. The National MS Society strives to offer programs that promote wellness. Thanks to passionate volunteers like Kathy San Martino, innovative courses such as Free from Falls (Kathy’s favorite MS program) have been implemented around the country, helping people with MS live their best lives. Kathy San Martino, PT, NCS has helped
create and deliver many of the Society’s flagship programs, including Living Well, Optimal Living, and Beyond Diagnosis. She also lends her expertise to Can Do MS and other wellness related webinars. Furthermore, Kathy has participated in Bike MS, riding and fundraising with a team. Thank you, Kathy, for all that you have done and continue to do for people affected by MS.
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MS connection: spring 2016
golden circle
Thanks to the generosity of the following donors, more than $2.3 million was contributed to Golden Circle during the 2015 campaign.
CIrcle of distinction ($1 million+) Stephen & Caroline Kaufer Family
Angel ($500,000 - $999,999) Benefactor ($250,000 - $499,999) Kenrose Kitchen Table Foundation Joan & J. David Power, III
patron ($50,000 - $249,999) Sponsor ($10,000 - $49,999)
Anonymous (3) • Jennifer Berkley & Alan Jones • Bloomingdale’s • Elaine & Jack Bock • Samuel De Luca • John A. Duran, John Amado Duran, Jr. & Austin Ryan Fuentes • Elerding Family Foundation • Julie Kaufer & Frank Reddick • Pamela & Stanley E. Maron • Foundations of the Milken Families • Sandra Milken • Nadine N. Moseley Foundation • National Association of Fraternal Insurance Counsellors • Jerome & Faith Pearlman Foundation • Conrad Schlum Charitable Trust, Joan & Arnold Seidel • Shirley & Burt Harris Family Foundation • Janice & Timur Tecimer • The Susanne & Gary Tobey Family Foundation • The Warren/ Soden/Hopkins Family Foundation, Bob Warren • Stephen B. Yoken
Friend ($5,000 - $9,999)
Anonymous (3) • AEGON Transamerica Foundation • Claudia Barski & Peter Carian • Kappy K. Bristol & James D. Bristol • Buchanan High School MS Bowl • Sam & Rena Given Foundation, Cristine & David Card • Julie & Barry Engelman • Sandra & Bernard Fischbach • Sandy & Mitch Francis • 20th Century Fox, Jim Gianopulos • Elvie & Yale Gieszl • Lisa & Michael Gragnani • Kathleen & Dr. Del Henninger • Linda G. & Roger H. Howard • Jacob Best Foundation, Patty & Pete Best • Tatiana & Todd James • Corie & Michael Koss • Pamela & Dr. Andrew Lewin • Cynthia & Michael Malone • Nancy Mauro • Rope for MS, Tara Maxeiner •
Eugenia Riordan Mulé • Ronald L. Olson Foundation, Joan & Ronald Olson • Oarsmen Foundation, Dee & George Schuler • Eleanor Hutchinson Parker Foundation • Julie & James D. Power, IV • Fern & Bob Seizer • Golden State Steel, Erin & Brandon Shollenbarger • Dina Tecimer & Masood Sohaili • Linda & Dennis Vaughn • Barbara Wilson & John Phillips • Anne Woodyard • Annette & Gilbert A. Yanuck
Leader ($2,500 - $4,999)
Anonymous • Joanne Beckwith • Mindy & Adam Beechen • Debbie Bolsky • Vicki & Robert Bond • Lynn & Bradley Califf • Eileen & Gary Caris • The Corgel Family • Stacie & Philip D. D’Amour • Ann & Dave Gooding • Denise & Paul Huether • Charlotte & Stanley Kandel • Donald C. & Diane S. Lake Family • Sharon A. & Hal Lampert • Carole & Richard Lieberman • Betsy & Robert Manger • Geneva P. McCaron • The Craig & Susan McCaw Foundation • Helena & Judge Richard Neidorf • Jeff Peterson • Phi Alpha Kappa Sorority • Helena Wood Pietro • Tamara & Bill Pullman • Strawn Rosenthal • Jane & Charles Schneider • Marcia & Mark J. Smith • Ruth Lynn & Hank Sobel • Arlene Sorkin & Christopher Lloyd • Irene V. Steinman • Gail & John Thomason • Lester & Jane Trachman • Ingrid Van Eckert & John Blumenthal • Anne & Larry Wayne • Terry Weeks & Kenney Jeffreys • Whitney Young Children’s Foundation • Carolyn & Gary Youngberg
Member ($1,000 - $2,499)
Anonymous (4) • Agarwal Family Foundation, Avadhesh Agarwal • Fotini & Steve Alfieris • Bonnie & Richard Bell • Michael Bernhardt • Barbara & Morton Bowman • Camilla & Arnold Bramlett • Judith Bronowski • Nicholas Bruyer • Margaret Budd • Sheila & Martin Bunker • Randi BurkeAguiar & James Aguiar • Julia & James Burge • Michele Cates & Michael Yeaman • John Chang • David Clark • Alfred Contarino • Col. John S. Costello • Kathleen Crane & Milan Smith • David Creal • Anita DeFrantz • Linda Ellman & Gary Mandinach • Katherine R. Enright • Betty G. Filippin • Cynthia & Ralph Finerman • Scott K. Flood • Margaret Gage • James Gallagher • Donna Garber • Kelly A. Gilmore • Cynthia Glazar & Mark Cendrowski • Ellen & Rick Gleitman • Judy & David Goldstein • Edith Grady • Andrea Gross • Nancy & William Hammond • The Wilbur C. Grosse Trust, Maria E. Muňos • Arlene & Richard Havel • Michael R. Hencel • Carol Ireland & Benjamin Dent • Karen & Don Karl • Allison & Ian
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Kennedy • Jessica L. Ledbetter • Pauline & Samuel Li • Michael Lichner • Ronda & Barry Lippman • Thelma Maltz • Tzviah & David Mayman • S. Patrick Mellier • Irene Mendon • Dr. Eileen May & Steve Meuris • Susan & Paul Michael • Sheryl Miller & Dr. Robert Schilling • Daniel Monick • Claudette Nevins & Benjamin Pick • Barbara A. & Paul T. Norton • The Oberfeld Charitable Foundation, Ber Oberfeld • Janet Offel & Michael Nebenzahl • Gail & Haim Pekelis • Ed & H. Pillsbury Foundation, John Pillsbury • Janet & Wayne Quillin • Allane & Jeffery Quirk • Haryeen & Nishen Radia • Karen Randall & Henry Hines • Pam & Josh Reims • Meryl Rizzotti • Phyllis Robsham • Fred R. Salisbury • Dr. Loren Sanchez • Richard & Ellen Sandler Family Foundation • Danielle & Michael Schmit • Priscilla & Harold Schroeder • Susan Schroeder • Patrick Shields • Robert Siegel • Sally & Dr. Robert Smith • Karin & Steven Stoller • Electro Rent Corp., Susan Steinhauser & Daniel Greenberg • Claudette L. & Henry L. Taylor, Jr. • Evelyn & Jeffrey Tolin • James S. Tyre • Lorna & Dr. Shelby Wagner • Susan & William Weintraub • Andrew Wexler • Mary & Richard Whiting • Diana & Chester Widom • Judy & Philip T. Winik • Jane Lee & Larry Winter • Ella Zarky
We also gratefully acknowledge all of the donors who contributed more than $40,000 to the 2015 Golden Circle campaign with gifts up to $999. Thank You!
volunteer spotlight: fern seizer “When our daughter was diagnosed with MS 24 years ago, I joined the Board to better understand the disease and how we could help fight it. We know that the research to develop effective treatments that will ultimately stop and reverse MS takes both commitment and money. Bob and I are committed to support and fundraise through both our annual MS Bridge Tournament (14 years so far) and Golden Circle—including co-hosting the Golden Circle research salon for the past 5 years.” - Fern Seizer
Challenge accepted. Challenge met. We are thrilled to announce that, for the 9th year in a row, Golden Circle donors rose to the challenge posed by the Kenrose Kitchen Table Foundation and the Steve & Caroline Kaufer Family. With the generosity of hundreds of individuals, family foundations and corporations, the Golden Circle campaign met and surpassed the $575,000 goal, raising nearly $600,000 in the final quarter of the year. As a result, Golden Circle raised more than $2.3 million in 2015!
The Chapter extends its deepest appreciation to the Kenrose Kitchen Table Foundation and the Steve & Caroline Kaufer family for their passion, leadership and tremendous support to help create a world free of multiple sclerosis. If you are interested in learning more about becoming a member of Golden Circle, please contact Elicia Lopez at 310-481-1111 or elicia.lopez@nmss.org.
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2015 research reception
On December 2, 2015 Golden Circle members and top event fundraisers met at the Brentwood Country Club to learn from world renowned MS researcher, clinician, and recent Barancik Prize winner Philip De Jager, MD, PhD, Associate Professor of Neurology at Harvard Medical School and Associate Neurologist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Dr. De Jager discussed his continuing work through the International MS Genetics Consortium to create a definitive genetic map of MS susceptibility and how he is using the findings from this map to understand the functional consequences of MS genetic risk factors to create potential personalized approaches to predict, treat and ultimately prevent MS. The Chapter would like to thank Stan and Pam Maron and Fern and Bob Seizer for generously co-hosting and underwriting this reception for the past five years.
volunteer spotlight: stan maron “We originally became involved with the National MS Society after Pam was diagnosed with MS 15 years ago. We both found the Society to be extremely welcoming and a wonderful resource for all sorts of important information. We met many brilliant neurologists and scientists dedicating their careers to developing therapies for stopping MS progression and finding a cure,
MS connection: spring 2016
generous grantmakers We are grateful to the foundation and corporate supporters who granted awards October 1, 2015 – January 31, 2016. • $14,000 from Friends of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society in general operating support for the Northern Nevada office and to support Free From Falls in Reno • $6,467 from Change a Life Foundation to support direct financial assistance for an individual with MS • $1,000 from the Carl E. Wynn Foundation to support the Chapter’s Educational Scholarship Program for Students Affected by MS • $1,000 from Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) to support programs and services in Kern County but who needed funding to keep their efforts going. Our involvement in Golden Circle was a logical extension. It has been our great pleasure to cohost with Fern and Bob Seizer the annual Golden Circle reception for the past several years and to help in the fund raising efforts benefiting so many people living with MS.” - Stan Maron
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nationalmssociety.org/cal | 1-800-344-4867
walk ms
leaving a legacy When two important women in Wayne Parker’s life were diagnosed with MS, he knew he had to do something. A resident of a lovely mountain town in Big Bear, CA, Wayne founded Walk MS: Big Bear in 2005. Leading the Walk MS committee for over 11 years, Wayne rallied the Big Bear community around the event each year. With his wife Emily by his side, he led a committee of passionate, committed, and driven individuals dedicated to creating a world free of MS. Since 2005, Walk MS: Big Bear has raised over $700,000 all from community-driven support. Anyone Wayne came in contact with would know about Walk MS. He was a great ambassador for the National MS Society and wanted to make a difference in his community. He recruited over 75 participants for his “Big Bear Moose Lodge” team, and he loved creating the design for his team t-shirts each year. Sadly, Wayne passed away on January 1, 2016. His legacy of leadership and dedication to creating a world free of MS will continue at Walk MS: Big Bear on May 7. Our Walk MS community grieves a great loss and Wayne will surely be missed.
community spotlight:
,
For the last four years, Stamoules Produce Company in Mendota, CA has been a part of the movement, spreading critical MS awareness across the country with their orange broccoli bands. Each vegetable gets a bright rubber band with the words “MS - Join the Movement” and is shipped in boxes bearing the same logo. Stamoules’ produce sales and annual Walk MS sponsorship support programs and direct services for people with MS and their families, as well as cutting-edge research. They have a long history of charity work, but this partnership has been the biggest charity sponsorship made by Stamoules to date. The National MS Society would like to thank Stamoules Produce Company for their continued commitment to raising funds and awareness to help people with MS live their best lives.
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MS connection: spring 2016
bike ms
viva, las vegas!
Las Vegas saw the return of Bike MS in 2015 and the ride is coming back again this year! Presented locally by Interbike, Bike MS: Vegas promises to be an exciting journey for cyclists 12 years of age and older. Join us on September 24, 2016 for the route of your choice; either 30, 50, or 100 miles across the Southern Nevada landscape. Bike MS: Vegas is excited to return to the beautiful Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health where you’ll start your ride and celebrate your accomplishments at the finish line. We are also excited to welcome back Interbike as our presenting sponsor. “MS has touched so many of us through friends and family, that when the MS Society approached us about supporting a ride in and around Interbike, we just knew we had to get involved,” said Pat Hus, Vice President of Interbike. I hope we’re able to make a significant impact in the battle against this horrible disease.” Through events like Bike MS and with your commitment to the cause, we can continue to move closer to a world free of MS. The money you raise through Bike MS: Las Vegas, including the $200
volunteer spotlight: Marty Brees has been cycling in Las Vegas for Bike MS over 20 years. He has been a part of the Bike MS planning committee most of those years, contributing support and always recruiting for Team Juicebar. Always focused on fundraising to help people with MS, Marty is the first to encourage other cyclists in the area to join what he describes as “the most supported, organized and funpacked ride in the community!” fundraising minimum, will help the National MS Society continue to provide life changing programs and services for those in Southern California and Nevada who are affected by MS. These funds also continue to support ground breaking research and the ultimate goal of finding a cure. Mark your calendar for September 24, 2016 and register or start a team today at BikeMSVegas.org.
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challenge walk ms
take the challenge
New this year! Challenge Walk MS is still in San Diego, but the date has changed. Thanks to YOUR feedback, the event will take place November 4 – 6, 2016! We hope that you are as excited as we are to take the 50 mile journey in a cooler climate.
Challenge Walk MS is back and better than ever in 2016! When you take on the challenge, you commit to walking 50 miles over the course of three days. If it sounds tough, that’s because it is. But, it’s also one of the most rewarding experiences you could ask for.
Registration for Challenge Walk MS is now open! Visit www.myMSchallenge.com to get started today! You can also follow along on social media – facebook.com/ChallengeWalkMS.
Your strength and your spirit will be tested, but you will also walk away with new friends, great stories, and the satisfaction that you talked the talk and walked the walk to help people in your community who are living with MS.
volunteer spotlight: Renee and Scott Limpus have been medical volunteers at Challenge Walk MS for four years; ever since their son was diagnosed with MS at age 10. Because of their commitment to the cause, they are both on the Extra Mile Committee for Challenge Walk MS and love the group’s passion to always go the extra mile to aid event participants. “We support the National MS Society because we will only find solutions for people affected by MS, including our son and countless others who we have come to know and love, through our collective efforts.”
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MS connection: spring 2016
programs connection NEWLY DIAGNOSED ORIENTATION
webinar & telelearning series
Join Dr. Elizabeth Crabtree-Hartman, Associate Clinical Professor of Neurology at UCSF and Director of Patient Program Development at UCSF’s MS Center, to learn about some of the most common concerns for people who have been diagnosed with MS in the last three years. The Newly Diagnosed Orientation provides you with the information and support you need most in a convenient setting.
A collaboration of MS experts will help you build strategies to live your best life with MS. Each free program features two presenters with time for Q&A. Join us online or by phone!
Thursday, March 10 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm Online or Telephone
Calls are held on the second Tuesday of each month from 5pm - 6:15pm. All calls are recorded and available for playback. Visit nationalMSsociety.org/telelearning or call 800-344-4867 to register for an upcoming session today!
RSVP today at nationalMSsociety.org/ calendar/norcal or call 800-344-4867.
beyond diagnosis: Moving forward with MS Hearing the words “you have multiple sclerosis” can set off a flood of emotions and questions, but the information and support you need most can be found in Beyond Diagnosis. This program designed for people diagnosed with MS in the last three years allows you to engage with MS health and wellness professionals. You will gain a better understanding of MS treatments, discover the wealth of available resources through the Society, connect with others who share similar experiences, and more.
Los Angeles (en español) Thursday, March 24 | 12:00pm - 2:00pm The Wellness Center Reno Saturday, June 18, 2016 Call Linda at 775-329-7180 for location. Register online at nationalMSsociety.org/CAL or call 800-344-4867.
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programs
Increase your knowledge about the foundational teachings of positive psychology and how to apply these tenets to the everyday challenges of living with MS. Among other things, this interactive course will help you increase your knowledge of positive psychology, apply strategies to challenges in your life, and develop an action plan. Share and connect with others while you increase your confidence in approaching challenges. Los Angeles Saturdays, April 23 - May 21, 2016 10:00am - 12:00pm Marilyn Hilton MS Achievement Center at UCLA Register online at nationalMSsociety.org/CAL or call 800-344-4867.
free from falls Falls are common among people with MS, and the National MS Society’s Free From Falls: Level 1 program is designed to help people with MS gain increased awareness of fall contributors and strategies to avoid them. Level 1 is designed for people who are able to walk but may be at risk for falling. This workshop will help improve your balance and endurance, as well as improve your confidence to avoid and manage falls.
You can also access the Everyday Matters program online! Our website provides access to videos, guides, and resources to facilitate the program in your community group. You can also follow along on your own! Visit nationalMSsociety.org/EverydayMatters to get started today. Coming soon to Las Vegas! Please contact Angela VanBrackle at 702-736-7272 for more information.
upcoming one day workshops Reno Saturday, May 21, 2016 | 10am - 2pm Renown Rehab Visalia Saturday, May 21, 2016 Sequoia Regional Cancer Center Register online at nationalMSsociety.org/CAL or call 800-344-4867.
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MS connection: spring 2016
programs
cognifitness If you live with MS, you may find it difficult to focus on a task without getting distracted, to find words or finish a sentence, or to keep track of activities and appointments. CogniFitness aims to help you realize your optimal thinking skills by utilizing techniques that have everyday applications. This program will teach you how to facilitate focus, improve your memory, and better your organizational, problem solving, and critical thinking skills.
exercise & MS
an integrated approach to fitness Exercise is important to general health and wellbeing, and it can also be helpful in managing symptoms associated with MS! The National MS Society is offering a new 12 week program to help you understand how exercise can positively impact the effect of MS, learn how to overcome obstacles to exercising, create an action plan to reach personal goals, and more. This program is specially designed for those who easily walk a minimum of 25 feet with or without a cane or walker.
Carson City Saturday, April 2 | 10:00am - 2:00pm Carson Tahoe Hospital Valencia Saturday, May 14 | 10:00am - 2:00pm Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital Register online at nationalMSsociety.org/CAL or call 800-344-4867.
Los Angeles Mondays, Mar. 7 - May 23 | 10am - 12pm Marilyn Hilton MS Achievement Center at UCLA To register, contact Nicole Stoltzfus for an application at nicole.stoltzfus@nmss.org or call 310-481-1113. Exercise & MS is also coming this summer to Bakersfield! Please contact Christine Grontkowski at 661321-9512 for more information.
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community 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. PLEASE NOTE: Sometimes group meeting locations, times, and dates change. We highly suggest calling the leader at the number listed on the group before attending to confirm the meeting details.
at-home telephone group 3rd Wednesday, 1:00 pm Toll-free dial-in number: 1-888-279-3775, entry code 4001#
Los Angeles County Antelope Valley 3rd Wednesday, 5:30 pm, Greenhouse Café Leader: Christine, 661-321-9512 Boyle Heights/USC Wellness Center--Spanish speaking group 2nd Saturday, 10:00 am, The Wellness Center at the Historic General Hospital Leader: Nicole, 213-261-3685 Central LA 4th Saturday, 12:00 pm, Hawthorne Library Leader: Brenda, 310-628-6771, bnlane1@aol.com
Downey - The Force MS Self-Help Group Thursdays, 10:00 am Rancho Los Amigos Rehabilitation Center Leader: Staci, 213-343-9962, peersms@aol.com Downey - Young Professionals Group for people in 20s - 40s. 2nd Saturday, 10:00 am, Rancho Los Amigos Rehabilitation Center Leaders: Sarah, 310-909-9272 or Beth, ypg@nmss.org Lakewood/Long Beach 3rd Sunday, 1:00 pm, May Boyer Park Leader: Fran, 562-925-4405, franitkoff@cs.com Los Angeles 3rd Thursday, 6:00 pm, Fairfax Branch Library Leader: Michael, 323-939-9598 & Alison, 323816-7606 Please call first to confirm meeting details. Monrovia/Pasadena 2nd Monday, 10:00 am, First Presbyterian Church Leader: Aynn, 626-303-4343 North Hollywood - Drumming Group Learn a unique way to express yourself. No musical experience needed.
16 community groups 2nd Saturday, 12:00 pm, Remo Drum Center. Leader: Beth, 818-219-1715 Please call first to confirm meeting details. Santa Clarita 2nd Thursday, 6:30 pm, Saint Kateri Catholic Church Leader: Eire, 661-297-6887 South Bay/Harbor City 3rd Tuesday, 4:15 pm, Gardena Mayme Dear Library. Leader: Pattie, 310-769-0694 Please call first to confirm meeting details. Tarzana/Northridge – Spanish Speaking Group 2nd Saturday, 9:00 am, Tarzana Community & Cultural Center Leader: Maria, 818-370-8073 Tarzana – Let’s Play social group 3rd Saturday, 12:00 pm, Tarzana Community Center Leader: Linda, 818-222-7678 West Covina 2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 11:00 am, Senior Center (North Building) Leader: Tadd, 626-962-7909 West LA 2nd Wednesday, 7:00 pm, Veteran’s Memorial Building Leader: Nancy, 310-999-8335 If you are interested in leading, please call Nancy! West LA – Men’s Group 3rd Wednesday, 6:30 pm, Veteran’s Memorial Building, Leader: Larry, 310-926-1641
MS connection: spring 2016
CHANNEL ISLANDS Arroyo Grande 2nd Tuesday, 6:00 pm, United Methodist Church Leader: Ellen, 805-343-6094
At-home telephone group
Ojai Valley Wallwalkers Lunch Meeting 4th Tuesday, 12:30 pm, Eggs N Potatoes Leader: Donna, 805-646-3750 & Tammy, 805-648-6402 Santa Barbara 2nd Wednesday, 12:30pm, Cody’s Cafe Leader: Michael, 805-886-3000 Simi Valley 1st Monday, 11:00 am, Cornerstone Church Leader: Dennis, 805-584-2526 & Tina, 805-581-2264 Thousand Oaks 2nd Monday, 9:30 am, Goebel Senior Adult Center Leader: Tina, 805-581-2264 & Ken, 818-518-4226 Ventura Last Friday, 11:30 am, Carrow’s Leader: Tammy, 805-648-6402 Ventura Social Group 3rd Thursday, 3:00 pm, Panera Bread in Ventura Leader: Tammy, 805-648-6402
INLAND EMPIRE & COACHELLA VALLEY Apple Valley/Victorville 1st Thursday, 10:00 am, Senior Select Advocate Apple Bear Center, Room #103 Leader: Katrina, 951-906-1752 Colton 3rd Wednesday, Inland Empire Caregiver Association Leader: Sheila, stores@csusb.edu
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community groups Hemet 1st Wednesday, 10:00 am, Hemet Public Library Leader: Sarah, 760-580-0658 Lake Arrowhead 1st Friday, 4:00 pm, Mountains Comm. Center Leader: Joyce, 909-337-7573 No meetings Dec-April due to winter weather. Murrieta - So Cal MS Outlaws 4th Wednesday, 10:00 am, Trinity Lutheran Church Leaders: TBD Ontario 1st Saturday, 10:00 am, Redeemer Lutheran Christian Church Leaders: Emily, 909-851-6204 & Kathy, 909-621-3519
Temecula - Men’s Group Last Monday of every other month at 1:00 pm Location TBD Leader: Ric, 619-985-5736 Please call first to confirm meeting details. Upland Last Wednesday, 10:00 am, Calvary Chapel Leaders: Denise, 909-519-4410. Yucaipa 3rd Tuesday, 2:00 pm, Good Shepherd Church Leaders: Clare, 909-795-5128 & Tom, 909-795-1717
nevada & northeastern california
Palm Desert - No meetings until April 2nd Thursday, 11:00 am, TBD Leader: Richard, 760-899-4174
Las Vegas/Henderson - Oasis Group 1st Saturday, 11:00 am, Hope Church Leader: Mike, 313-310-1439
Palm Springs 2nd Sunday, 12:00 pm, Billy Reed’s Restaurant Leader: Tony, 760-831-6365
Las Vegas - MS Lunch Club 1st Tuesday, 11:30 am, Town Center Lounge & Restaurant, must RSVP Leader: Carol, 702-480-1339 or mslunchclub@yahoo.com
Rancho Cucamonga - Moms with MS 2nd Tuesday, 10:00 am, Rancho Cucamonga Resource Center, Leader: Kim, 909-904-0352 Riverside 1st Saturday, 10:00 am, Riverside Medical Clinic (lower level) Leader: Gilbert, 951-544-1441 Temecula 1st Monday, 10:00 am, Mary Phillips Senior Center Leaders: Maby, 760-562-4533 & Jacqueline (Spanish), 951-302-3529
Las Vegas - Westside Stories 3rd Wednesday, 6:00 pm, HealthSouth Center Leader: Gaby, 702-328-6989 Las Vegas - Young People with MS Email msunder40group@yahoo.com for details or visit the MS Under 40 Group Facebook page. Leader: Cecilia Reno/Sparks 3rd Thursday, 2:30 pm, Renown Rehabilitation Center, Sierra Tower Leader: Christine, 775-560-1215
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MS connection: spring 2016
community groups Reno/Sparks 2nd Tuesday, 10:00 am, The Continuum Leader: Mary, 775-772-3404
Bakersfield Spanish Speakers TBD Leader: Alfredo, 661-699-4171
Reno – Caregiver Support Group 2nd Thursday, 6:00 pm, The Village at Iron Blossom Fitness Center Leader: Fred, 513-703-3306
Bakersfield - Young Professionals Group 4th Tuesday, 5:30pm Leader: Christine, 661-321-9512 Clovis/Fresno 3rd Saturday, 9:30 am, San Joaquin Rehab Hospital Leaders: Yolanda, 559-908-4644 & Doris, 559-299-2072
The first MS Caregiver Support Group meeting in Reno was held on January 14. Fred, the caregiver support group leader, shared helpful resources to support families and caregivers of people with MS, and welcomed other caregivers to share their experiences with one another. Connect with others with similar life experiences at the next Caregiver Support Group.
Fresno – Newly Diagnosed/Working Professionals Group 3rd Tuesday, 6:00 pm, Sal’s Mexican Restaurant Leaders: Myrna, 559-349-0423 & Cherish, 559-287-3042
Reno – Young People with MS Under 40 3rd Wednesday, 5:30 pm, Swill Coffee House Leader: Dana, 775-843-0784
Fresno – Spanish Speaking Group 3rd Saturday, 12:00pm, TBD Leader: Sharon, 559-579-4096
Truckee 2nd Thursday, 5:30 pm, Tahoe Forest Hospital Cafeteria Leader: Rick, 530-550-0654
Hanford 1st Saturday, 10:00 am, First Christian Church Leaders: Debra, 559-585-8054
San joaquin valley
Tehachapi 2nd Thursday, 5:00 pm, Kelcy’s Restaurant Leader: Linda, 661-822-7440
Bakersfield 1st Thursday, 7:00 pm, HealthSouth Rehab Hospital Leader: JoAnn, 661-872-1973
Tehachapi – Wheels in Motion 3rd Thursday, 10:00 am, Kelcy’s Restaurant Leader: Linda, 661-822-7440
Bakersfield - Breakfast Group 2nd Wednesday, 10:00 am Lorene’s Coffee Shop Leader: Ron, 661-833-0388
Visalia 2nd Saturday, 10:00 am, Kaweah Delta Rehab Leader: Mary Ann, 559-936-3960
Bakersfield - Lunch Group 4th Wednesday, 12:00pm Lorene’s Coffee Shop Leader: Ron, 661-833-0388
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nationalmssociety.org/cal | 1-800-344-4867
meet the staff! Chapter President Julie Kaufer, Esq.
Development
Kari Boatner Marni Deckter Bernice Detig Amy Dittmore Joseph Grubbs Debra Gruen Sarah Hanson Laura Kanellos Elicia Lopez Katie LoBianco Kate McIntosh Nathan Micinski Jennifer Parkinson Diane Sant Garrett Vander Leun
Community Development Fotini Alfieris, MA (San Joaquin Valley) Christine Grontkowski (Kern County) Ana Hernandez (San Joaquin Valley) Audra Hindes, MSEd, MHC (Los Angeles) Reeza Kang (Northern Nevada) Katherine Lee (Inland Empire) Linda Lott (Northern Nevada) Elizabeth Spurbeck (Channel Islands) Angela VanBrackle, MSEd, MHC (Southern Nevada)
Marketing & Communication Emily Hazlett Nare Ovsepian Jenna Tucker
Operations
Espie Malanche Jessica Orozco
Programs & Services Roxanna Flores, MA Sarah Kirwan, MSPA Nicole Stoltzfus Francine Sullivan
our offices Los Angeles 5150 W. Goldleaf Circle, Ste 400, Los Angeles, CA 90056, 310-479-4456 Channel Islands 1921 State Street, Suite A Santa Barbara, CA 93101 805-682-8783
Kern County 1800 30th Street, Suite 105 Bakersfield, CA 93301 661-321-9512
San Joaquin Valley 7472 N. Fresno Street Fresno, CA 93720 559-439-2154
Inland Empire 3110 E. Guasti Road, Suite 320 Ontario, CA 91761 909-949-1363
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Southern Nevada 2110 E. Flamingo, Suite 203 Las Vegas, NV 89119 702-736-7272
Southern California Chapter & Nevada Chapter 5150 W. Goldleaf Circle, Suite 400 Los Angeles, CA 90056
Saturday, MayNovember 14 | Sunday, May 2016 Saturday, 12,15,2016 REGISTER AT MUCKFESTMS.COM 100% of fundraising dollars go to the National MS Society.
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