MS Connection Summer 2014 by Marni Deckter

Summer 2014

Southern California & Nevada Chapter

MS Connection Newsletter

livehit theyour best life road for ms

INSIDE 04 THIS ISSUE

research

story page 8

special events

health & wellness

self-help groups

MS connection: summer 2014

letter from the president

making connections count “I want to let people who are being diagnosed know that they aren’t alone. If we fight together, we can do anything. I realize that even though there might not be a cure for MS, it doesn’t mean there isn’t hope.” —Jen, Walk MS Fundraiser

Connect with us online: www.nationalMSsociety.org/CAL Like us: facebook.com/MSsoutherncal Follow us: twitter.com/MSsoutherncal Watch us: youtube.com/MSSoCalChapter

Multiple sclerosis impacts us all. Whether you are living with the disease or care about someone who is, we offer an extensive variety of opportunities to connect you with the resources and support you need to live your best life, as well as to our community as a whole, which offers support and strength within our movement. • Care Resources: Connect with the care resources (p. 6) you need to navigate the challenges of living with MS. • Emotional Support: Connect with a support group (p. 17 - 19) or speak with a professional one-on-one through our counseling program. • Education: Attend one of our summer teleconferences (p. 15) and gain valuable tools for coping with anxiety and stress and learn to live a life of greater awareness. • Social and Recreational Events: Get connected to your community at our annual special events (p. 8 - 11). Start a team or volunteer at Walk MS, Bike MS Coastal Challenge: Santa Monica to Santa Barbara, Challenge Walk MS, MuckFest MS, The Beat MS Dance Walk, and other amazing events throughout the year. This summer, make every connection count as you commit to living your best life. To learn more about the resources and opportunities available to you and your loved ones, please contact an MS Navigator at 1-800-344-4867 or visit our newly redesigned website, www.nationalMSsociety.org/CAL. n

nationalmssociety.org/cal | 1-800-344-4867

scholarships

a brighter future Since 2003, the National MS Society’s scholarship program has been helping highly qualified students who have been diagnosed with MS or who have a parent with MS achieve their dreams of going to college. In 2014, the Southern California & Nevada Chapter awarded 18 new scholarships and 4 renewals to outstanding scholars who have been touched by MS. Taylor Archambault’s mother was diagnosed with MS when she was 12. A few years later, her father committed suicide, leaving Taylor to take over the majority of the household responsibilities.

National Multiple Sclerosis Society Southern California & Nevada Chapter WE MOVED! 5150 W. Goldleaf Circle., Ste. 400 Los Angeles, CA 90056 1-800-344-4867 Chair: Kim Phillips Chapter President: Susan Bradley Editor: Emily Hazlett © 2014 National MS Society, Southern California & Nevada Chapter; Published Quarterly—Spring 2014

Throughout high school, she has been an active leader as the Captain of her soccer team and President of DECA (a marketing, management, and entrepreneurship organization), while maintaining a 3.76 GPA and a part-time job. Her goal is to pursue a career as a Major League Baseball trainer. The future holds unlimited possibilities for our 2014 Scholars. Their interests in pursuing degrees in Nursing, Business Administration, and Kinesiology, to name a few, will prepare these bright individuals for promising careers, some of which will even impact MS research, rehabilitation, care, and more. MS shouldn’t stand in the way of an education and the National MS Society Scholarship Program exists to ensure that it doesn’t. Learn how you can support the Scholarship Program at www.nationalMSsociety.org/CAL. n 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.

4 research

Neuroprotection and MS After the Society’s webcast, Promising MS Research to Repair, Protect and Restore the Nervous System (www.nationalMSsociety. org/webcasts), we sat down with Dr. Rhonda Voskuhl, MS program director at the University of California, Los Angeles, to discuss the work her lab is doing in the area of neuroprotection. Could you explain how neuroprotective therapies would be different from the therapies we have now?

The therapies we have now were designed based on our understanding of the immune attack that occurs in multiple sclerosis, and have been successful in that they reduce relapses by half or more, but don’t halt permanent disability accumulation. Neuroprotective therapies would target cells in the brain and spinal cord to build up their resistance to our protection from an immune attack. The neuroprotective therapies may have minimal effect on relapses, but would likely have a great impact on permanent disability accumulation – and they may even cause some reversal or improvement in disability. We’ve studied several mechanisms involved in neurodegeneration (nerve destruction), as

MS connection: summer 2014

well as cells related to that process. We also have focused a lot on sex hormones. Estrogen (in females) and testosterone (in In both genders, sex hormones can directly affect brain cells. males) can be very neuroprotective and directly affect brain cells. We’d love to hear more about the research exploring sex hormones in men.

Eventually, there may be a common theme between women and men in the sense that testosterone is naturally converted to estrogen in the brain. Therefore, if you treat women with estrogen and men with testosterone, you could end up in the same place – binding to estrogen receptors in brain cells to cause protective effects. Specifically related to testosterone in men, we’ve done extensive preclinical work and have seen much improvement in both walking and cognitive outcomes, which included neuroprotective mechanisms. In a small pilot clinical trial, we gave testosterone to men with MS and found a 67 percent reduction in the whole brain atrophy rate, as well as an improvement in their cognitive testing. We are now hoping to follow that study with a larger study we just submitted to the National Institutes of Health and will be looking for improvements in outcomes that are very important for disability and cognition in men with MS.

nationalmssociety.org/cal | 1-800-344-4867

Testosterone may have several other positive sideeffects in men with MS – it’s known to improve muscle mass and muscle strength, improve bone density, decrease fatigue, and improve cognition in older men going through andropause. In addition, this trial will provide valuable information about the safety of testosterone supplementation for men with MS. Are you seeing similar results related to cognition in women with estrogen supplementation?

We have an ongoing trial of estriol, the safest of the estrogens, which is present during pregnancy. We are still enrolling participants in this trial at UCLA and other sites. We also have another study exploring estrogen’s potential effect on relapses in women with MS. Preclinical data has shown that, in addition to being neuroprotective, estriol is also anti-inflammatory. On the other hand, testosterone appears to be

Looking Forward

5 only modestly anti-inflammatory, but appears to be more dramatically neuroprotective. What excites you most about this area of research?

We know that pregnancy is good for MS, and that estrogen is high during pregnancy. We also know that men don’t get MS as often, and when they do, it is often later in life when their testosterone has begun to drop. So we’re taking something that we know is clinically significant and relevant to people with MS, and then trying to figure that out. It’s a different approach that starts with people with MS and then asks, “What phenomena are going on here that we don’t understand? Can we figure it out? And can we capitalize on it?” It will involve many molecules and many mechanisms because it’s a dramatic clinical effect that we’re trying to understand. And I think that’s why treatments using this approach will work – they’ll work through many mechanisms rather than one. n

In my opinion, other than all the new drugs in development or early trials, I think some of the most exciting news in MS concerns modifiable factors. We are learning more every day about the roles of obesity and other co-morbidities in worsening MS, and lifestyle choices such as smoking (very bad) and exercise (very good) that can impact the course of MS. We are just beginning to explain the role of the gut microbiome in the development of MS, and this might represent another potentially modifiable risk factor or treatment strategy. —Dr. Barbara Giesser, M.D., Medical Director of The Marilyn Hilton MS Achievement Center at UCLA

MS connection: summer 2014

living with ms

navigating new challenges Multiple sclerosis is a difficult disease to diagnose, with unpredictable symptoms that often mimic those of other diseases. For Brian Thompson, the symptoms came on gradually. Between 2007 and 2009, he experienced two cases of optic neuritis, an inflammation of the optic nerve that can cause a complete or partial loss of vision. However, after treatment, he regained his vision completely. “I went far too long before getting a diagnosis,” said Brian. His symptoms slowly progressed over the next three years, and he experienced issues with balance, endurance, strength, and heat intolerance. “During the summer of 2012, I was at a point where I could not think these symptoms were something to disregard,” said Brian. Shortly thereafter, he was diagnosed with MS.

Audrey, who helped him navigate through the process of getting the care he needed. “Over time, Audrey has been an amazing resource. She has helped me with everything from filling out paperwork to making sure I ask my neurologist the right questions and get the answers I need,” said Brian.

There are many “what if ’s” that can accompany an MS diagnosis. “What do I do now?” and “How will my life change?” are just a few thoughts that ran through Brian’s mind after he received the news. The National MS Society connected Brian with a care manager named

A few months ago, Brian broke his leg after an unexpected fall and required in-patient care. Audrey connected Brian with a local rehabilitation facility for his initial recovery, and set him up with 72 hours of support for his recovery time at home, which included light

brian, diagnosed in 2012

ConneCt with the Care you need 1-800-FIGHT-MS

nationalMSsociety.org/CALservices

nationalmssociety.org/cal | 1-800-344-4867

housekeeping, transportation to appointments, and other help as needed. The extra support at home was a relief for Brian and his girlfriend, Shelli. “Having the extra help took the burden off of me and Shelli. Sometimes MS becomes the third person in the room. It’s nice to not have to focus on it,” said Brian. Shelli added, “You always want to think you can do it all, but our lifestyle was so much calmer having the extra help at home. When I came home, Brian and I were able to enjoy our life together rather than focusing on MS.” From navigating through the very first symptoms and continuing throughout life with the disease, the National MS Society can connect people, like Brian, with the care they need.

• Connect with MS Specialty Care—doctors, counselors, social workers, physical therapists and more! • Ask an MS Navigator for help to navigate the challenges of MS. Find personalized answers to your unique needs, up-to-date information, referrals, and practical resources. • Learn more about research and clinical trials. • Advocate for better health care, research funding, and policy initiatives that are important to you. Find support and get connected! Visit www.nationalMSsociety.org/CALservices or call 1.800.FIGHT.MS (1.800.344.4867). n

Featured Research Studies Incontinence Research Study Doctorate of Physical Therapy students at California State University, Long Beach, are looking for participants with MS and incontinence to participate in a 12-week study using electrical stimulation at home every day to evaluate changes in control of incontinence, improvements in walking, decreasing spasticity, and increasing flexibility of the ankle joint. Please email csulbmsresearch@gmail.com for more information. Depression in MS Research Study Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Thalians Mental Health Center in Los Angeles, CA, are seeking to determine if similar patterns of brain changes are found in people with depression alone and people with depression in combination with MS to help target therapies to address depressive symptoms of MS. They are recruiting and studying a total of 120 individuals over a three-year period. There will be four groups, each with 30 subjects: major depressive disorder (MDD) alone, MS alone, MS+MDD, and health controls. To participate, please contact Julie Pham at 310-423-8041. Stay tuned for more Clinical Trials and Research Studies in the Fall 2014 edition of MS Connection.

8 bike ms

achieving milestones People who ride in Bike MS may do so to support family members, friends, or coworkers who have been diagnosed with MS. But, there are also legions of participants who live—and ride—with the disease, despite challenges such as fatigue or weakness. Toni was diagnosed with MS in 2004 and formed her team, “Mighty Striders,” in 2012, she has been fundraising and participating since. Determined not to let her MS bring her down, Toni pushes herself to try new things and accomplish goals on her bucket list, including running six half marathons and riding three century bike rides. “Bike MS makes me feel better and more like I’m doing something to help eliminate MS eventually,” said Toni. But MS is not just a personal challenge; Toni’s daughter also lives with the

MS connection: summer 2014

disease. “My symptoms are different than my daughter’s but I feel like I need to do everything I can to be an encouragement for her,” said Toni, who will be participating in “I Ride with MS,” a special Society program that celebrates Bike MS participants who are also living with multiple sclerosis. Anyone living with MS who is interested in cycling to support the MS movement can join the program, enjoy special day-of-event benefits, and receive a complimentary “I Ride with MS” jersey. Genzyme and MS One to One, and Primal Wear are proud supporters of the “I Ride with MS” program, available through all 100 Bike MS events nationwide. But cycling is not the only way to get involved! Diane was diagnosed with progressive MS in 1995 and uses a wheelchair full time. But that doesn’t stop her from being a Virtual Rider and the Team Captain of Anacapa Brewing Cyclists. “I’m not the one doing the leg work, but I’m doing the brain work,” said

Be a Virtual Rider Enjoy all that Bike MS Coastal Challenge: Santa Monica to Santa Barbara has to offer without riding. If you cannot be at the ride or you are unable to participate, you can still join the movement towards a world free of MS by fundraising through our online Virtual Rider program. Virtual Riders can be members of teams, participate in fundraising contests, and can become Top Fundraisers. You will also receive a personal fundraising web page and have access to all of our online fundraising tools.

nationalmssociety.org/cal | 1-800-344-4867

Diane. “Besides raising money for this event, I’m helping spread awareness on what MS is and its multilayered effects on people diagnosed with it.” This will be Diane’s second Bike MS event. Mile after mile, Bike MS is a ride like no other. Together we build lifelong connections, achieve individual and collective milestones, and help those living with MS move their lives forward. Every mile we ride and every dollar we raise make a difference to the 19,000 people living with MS in Southern California and Nevada. n

endless summer Summer has just begun but we’re making it last with our 2014 “Endless Summer” theme! Join us on the beach as we journey north from Santa Monica to Santa Barbara, in search of the perfect ride and a cure for MS!

Bike M Coastal Challenge: anta Monica to anta Barbara october 11 & 12, 2014 2 days » 30 - 150 miles

On October 11th and 12th, over 1,000 cyclists will hit the road for two days and 150 miles. Cyclists can choose to ride 30, 65, or 100 miles on Day 1 and 35 or 50 miles on Day 2. Experience sweeping ocean views, rolling foothills, and some challenging, but rewarding, hill climbing. The ride is fully supported with rest stops every 15 to 20 miles, Support and Gear (SAG) vehicles, bike technicians, route safety marshals, and medics will be available at every rest stop. All meals are provided and fun is guaranteed. n

Visit www.bikeMSsocal.org or call 310-479-4456 for more information.

MS connection: summer 2014

the beat ms dance walk

get ready to dance walk! Courtney is back at it again this year and wants YOU to join her and some of your favorite stars from So You Think You Can Dance, Hit The Floor, Dancing with the Stars, and more at the 2nd annual The Beat MS Dance Walk on September 13, 2014 at Palisades Charter High School. Enjoy dance walking to awesome music, lessons from professional dancers, great performances, and a fabulous raffle.

When Courtney Galiano was diagnosed with MS in 2012, the young dancer’s whole life was turned upside down. But Courtney chose to focus her energy on spreading awareness and raising funds for a cure, introducing The Beat MS Dance Walk in 2013, which raised over $62,000 in its first year.

www.TheBeatMS.com

The Beat MS Dance Walk represents progress for Courtney and many participants. “MS may stop people from moving, but our movement works hard to prevent that. I will use the platform I have been given to raise awareness and find a cure for this debilitating disease,” said Courtney. n

September 13, 2014 palisades charter high school

nationalmssociety.org/cal | 1-800-344-4867

challenge walk ms

heart & soul By Virginia Marshall

There’s more than one way to join the fun of Challenge Walk MS! No matter how you choose to join, we promise you won’t regret doing your part to help people living with MS. I started participating in Challenge Walk MS in 2003. At the time, I was just looking for the personal challenge; I had no connection to multiple sclerosis. I called my sister, JoAnn to see if she would join me. JoAnn had a friend who had recently been diagnosed with MS, which sealed the deal. We were off and training!

11 The first year was exciting; walking from Carlsbad to San Diego was definitely something to be proud of. By year two, we had seven girlfriends that accepted the challenge. As I continued to fundraise, I found that I was connected to MS in many ways – a girlfriend’s mom, another’s sister, a daughter and many more. Since 2003, Sole Sisters (now Heart & Sole Sisters) has raised in excess of $150,000. I have personally logged 750 Challenge Walk miles. We are committed to walking until we can put an end to this disease. When that day comes, we will continue to walk to celebrate those “who can.” Join team Heart & Sole Sisters and others on this three-day, fifty-mile journey along the Southern California coast September 5-7 for a weekend you’ll never forget. n To learn more or register as a walker or volunteer, call 800-486-6762 or visit www.myMSchallenge.com.

walk ms This spring, more than 19,000 people in our local communities joined together at 12 Walk MS events to show their support of friends, family, and neighbors living with MS. Walk MS has already raised over $2.1 million. THANK YOU to everyone who participated, donated, and volunteered! Step by step. Dollar by dollar.

We are moving closer toward a world free of multiple sclerosis! Keep up the great fundraising or make a donation to support the 2014 event at www.WalkToEndMS.org to help us reach our $2.375 million goal. You can also join one of our terrific fall Walk MS events: SEPTember 13, 2014 South Lake Tahoe, Camp Richardson October 25, 2014 Bakersfield, The Park at River Walk

12 giving

committed to the cause The Golden Circle campaign was created in 1993 as the Southern California & Nevada Chapter’s elite annual gift campaign. Since that time, individuals, foundations and corporations have contributed millions of dollars to accelerate the development of more effective MS treatments, search for the cause and cure of the disease, and expand the Chapter’s local programming for people with MS. Members of Golden Circle carry on a tradition from the Society’s founder, Sylvia Lawry, who raised $100,000 in 1946 from friends and family members in her community to try to find an answer to the puzzle of this unpredictable disease. Golden Circle donors lead by example, making a powerful statement that their commitment to finding a cure for MS and to improving the lives of those with MS is persistent and passionate. In fact, these local donors contribute approximately $1 million annually to support MS research. Please consider joining Golden Circle with a membership gift of $1,000 and help us continue moving this important work forward. All gifts to Golden Circle directly support the MS community and can be paid annually or by monthly installment.

MS connection: summer 2014

For more information on supporting Golden Circle or to make a gift online, please visit the Chapter website at nationalMSsociety.org/cal or contact Elicia Lopez, Development Director, at 310-481-1111. People with MS count on the Society and in turn, we count on you! n

Benevolent backers We are grateful to the foundation and corporate supporters who contributed $41,862 in grant awards between March 1–May 31, 2014: • $30,000 from the AEGON Transamerica Foundation to support the Centers for Optimal Living with MS. • $7,500 from the Friends of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society in general operating support for the Northern Nevada Regional Office. • $1,500 from the Friends of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society to support the delivery of the Jumpstart in Motion program in Northern Nevada this fall. • $1,500 from the Friends of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society to support the Dinner of Champions Northern Nevada event, slated to be held in Reno on August 21, 2014. • $1,362 from the Waterman Foundation/ Rotary Club of Bakersfield to support the purchase of needed capital equipment and furniture for the Regional Office in Bakersfield. n

nationalmssociety.org/cal | 1-800-344-4867

volunteers

service is for every body by D.M. Taylor

13 volunteer projects. This year, we helped Lennie and his wife Karen, who needed weeds cleaned in their backyard. We started in the morning with a big dump truck, a forklift, and a skip-loader – all borrowed from a generous business associate! We cleaned out the weeds, trimmed a Mulberry bush, removed trees that

Each year, as MS Awareness Week approaches, I look forward to the service projects organized by the Southern California and Nevada Chapter. As a volunteer, I help plan local MS Service Days by assessing requests for assistance and making a list of needs. I also am actively involved in at least one project a year. Over the years, I have participated in neighborhood, backyard, and street-side cleanups, but my favorite projects have involved carpentry and construction. I have learned how to construct walls, repair roofs, widen and install doors, hang drywall, and renovate bathrooms. Today, I can no longer strike a nail hard enough to sink it, nor can I count on my legs not to fail me when I work on projects. I have MS. I’ve had symptoms since high school, but it wasn’t until my 50th birthday that I was officially diagnosed.

“MS may have taken away my strength, but it can’t change the joy I feel helping people.” Each year, members of my church group assist the National MS Society with various

Debbie and friends volunteering at a backyard cleanup had sprouted up along his fence, and hauled off trash that had accumulated over the years. I may not be able to rake or chop or lift, but I can talk, and Lennie and I got to know one another and discovered that we have a lot in common! Although Lennie can no longer work as a Radiology Technician, he still volunteers at his church. Having MS does mean that we give up some things, but it doesn’t mean we want to sit and do nothing. I’m very grateful for the wonderful and generous people who volunteer their time and skills to MS Service Days, and whom I have the priviledge of calling my friends. n My name is Debbie. I’m in my late 50’s and I am a National MS Society volunteer.

14 health & wellness

beat the heat!

MS connection: summer 2014

• A simple damp towel can be helpful, too. • Try “pre-cooling” to decrease the heating effects of exercise. • Get into a bathtub of cool water (comfortably lukewarm to start). A cool bath or shower can also help reduce core body temperature following activity or exposure to heat.

Many people with MS experience a temporary worsening of their symptoms as a result of elevations in core body temperature. Elevated temperature further impairs the ability of a demyelinated nerve to conduct electrical impulses. Overheating can aggravate a multitude of symptoms. Increased fatigue, weakness, and visual disturbances are just a few of the problems that may occur when the body’s interior temperature rises. Some ideas to help you beat the heat: • Drink plenty of cool fluids. Water is best. • Avoid caffeine as this acts as a diuretic. • Air-conditioners can be tax-deductible with a document from your physician. • Exercise in a cool environment. • Wear commercial cooling garments such as vests, headbands, and neckbands.

Connect with an MS Navigator for more information on obtaining a commercial cooling garmet and learn more ways to beat the heat. Call today! 1.800.344.4867 n

cool ideas for summer eating

Heat not only zaps your energy, but also your appetite. But skipping a meal can only add to the fatigue the hot days of summer can bring. Try these sizzling strategies to help you keep your cool, and your good health, in the months to come. Look to Mother Nature for help ‒ Turn fresh seasonal vegetables and fruits into crisp salads, refreshing desserts, and easy sandwiches. No stove or oven required! Use everything but the oven ‒ Rely on the microwave, slow cooker, rice steamer, or outdoor grill to help keep the heat out of the kitchen. Drink, drink, drink! ‒ It’s easy to get dehydrated in the hot weather. Freeze a water bottle the night before. Pour your favorite drink over ice. Or make a smoothie with your favorite fresh choices. Be creative!

nationalmssociety.org/cal | 1-800-344-4867

dial, listen & learn Join us from the comfort of your own phone for one or more of these free conference call programs on a diverse range of topics. Preregistration is required for each program. Prior to the teleconference, you will receive a toll-free dial-in number. Sign me up! 800.344.4867 www.nationalMSsociety.org/CALcalendar

The Worry Trap, with Chad LeJeune, Licensed Psychologist Tuesday, July 1, 12:00pm

Wondering what the future will hold is one of the most difficult aspects of living with a chronic illness that follows a highly variable course. This can make it hard to notice what today has to offer. This talk will provide strategies for changing how we respond to “what if ” thinking, through a 5-step model for shifting toward a greater appreciation of “what is”.

Living a Life of Awareness with Don Miguel Ruiz, Jr.

Tuesday, August 5, 12:00pm

The Ruiz Family offers the guidance and inspiration of ancient Toltec wisdom through workshops and multiple books including “The Four Agreements.” Join Don Miguel Ruiz, Jr. for this engaging call, and explore the transformational path of re-painting the canvas of your life with MS in the picture.

Stress & MS

Thursday, August 7, 6:30pm Dr. Louisa Lavy, neurologist from Kootenai Medical Center in Coeur D Alene, ID, will teach you steps to recognize the signs of stress, learn new strategies to help reduce stress, distinguish the difference between stress and depression, and gain a better understanding of how high levels of stress may impact MS.

Unlocking Your Resilience with Sherry Johnson, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

Tuesday, September 2, 12:00pm

Join this call to increase your understanding of resiliency, recognize your stressors and learn constructive ways to cope. We will identify tools to avoid resiliency roadblocks and develop a personal plan for achieving a more resilient life.

16 Financial Assistance We offer Direct Financial Assistance to people with MS and their families to help access needed services that are not available using other resources or insurance. The program is based on financial need and offers funding for the following services. Checks are made out and sent directly to the vendor. For more information, call 800.344.4867 or 310.479.4456.

MEDICAL CARE

MS Physician Consult program: Funding for one-time consult with an MS specialty neurologist. Must have limited geographic and/ or insurance resources. Physical/Occupational/Speech Therapy: Inhome evaluation and five to six follow-up visits for a person who cannot leave home. Individual counseling/telecounseling sessions: 6–10 visits per year with a licensed therapist who is experienced in MS.

MS connection: summer 2014

SUPPORT SERVICES

Sherak Emergency Fund: Funding for unexpected one-time situations (food, rent, utilities). Official documentation demonstrating proof of emergency is required. Limit: up to $300 within an 18-month period. Durable Medical Equipment: Share of cost for durable medical equipment (wheelchairs, hand rails, etc.). Limit: up to $400/year. Rhoda Goetz Home Assistance Fund: Provided through a licensed home care agency for a person experiencing an exacerbation or post-hospital visit who does not have a caregiver. Limit: Up to 72 hours per year. Rhoda Goetz Personal Care Fund: • Beauty/Wellness: A fund to assist individuals who face barriers to maintaining healthy personal hygiene and care. Gain access to services such as hair, skin and nail care. Limit up to $120/year. • Chore Service Program: Light housekeeping only for those unable to manage these tasks. Limit: up to $300/year.

SUPPORT FOR FAMILY MEMBERS

Grisanti Respite Fund: Provided through a licensed home care agency for the family member who is a full-time care partner and needs time off. Limit: up to 50 hours/year. Supporting the Family: A fund to take care of special out of the ordinary family needs (i.e. school pictures, sports uniforms, etc.) Limit: up to $300/year.

nationalmssociety.org/cal | 1-800-344-4867

self help groups

Connect Community Self-Help Groups

17 Los Angeles 3rd Thursday, 6:00 pm, Fairfax Branch Library Call Michael at 213.804.1249 or Allison at 323.876.7606

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.

Monrovia/Pasadena 2nd Monday, 10:00 am, First Presbyterian Church Call Aynn at 626.303.4343

at-home Telephone Group

North Hollywood - Drumming Group Learn a unique way to express yourself. No musical experience needed. 2nd Saturday, 12:00 pm, Remo Drum Center. Call Beth at 818.219.1715

3rd Wednesday, 1:00 pm Toll-free dial-in number: 1-888-279-3775, entry code 4001#

Los Angeles County Antelope Valley 3rd Thursday, 6:30 pm, Robertson Honda Call Missy 661.406.0741 Central LA 4th Saturday, 12:00 pm, Bilbrew Library Call Alva at 323.233.5413 Downey - The Force MS Self-Help Group Thursdays, 10:00 am Rancho Los Amigos Rehabilitation Center Call Staci at 310.603.6853 or 310.918.8977 Downey - Young Professionals Group for people in 20s - 40s. 2nd Saturday, 10:00 am, Rancho Los Amigos Rehabilitation Center. Contact Sarah at 562.401.7622 or Beth at ypg@nmss.org Lakewood/Long Beach 3rd Sunday, 1:00 pm, May Boyer Park Call Fran at 562.925.4405

Santa Clarita 2nd Thursday, 6:30 pm, Saint Kateri Catholic Church. Call Eire at 661.297.6887 South Bay/Harbor City 3rd Thursday, 4:00 pm, Gardena Mayme Dear Library. Call Pattie at 310.769.0694 Tarzana/Northridge – Spanish Speaking Group 2nd Saturday, 9:00 am, Tarzana Community & Cultural Center. Call Maria at 818.370.8073 Tarzana – Let’s Play social group 3rd Saturday, 12:00 pm, Tarzana Community Center. Call Linda at 818.222.7678 West Covina 2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 11:00 am, Senior Center North Building. Call Tadd at 626.962.7909 West LA Last Monday, 6:30 pm, Location TBD Contact Mary Ann at 310.479.4456 ext. 66121 West LA – Men’s Group 3rd Tuesday, 6:00 pm, Fraser Communications Call Larry at 310.926.1641

18 Channel Islands Arroyo Grande 2nd Tuesday, 6:00 pm, United Methodist Church Call Ellen at 805.343.6094 Morro Bay Last Saturday, 10:30 am, St. Peters by the Sea Church. Call Jeanette at 805.682.8783 ext. 68103 Ojai Valley Wallwalkers 2nd Thursday, 7:00 pm, Oak View Community Center. Call Tammy at 805.648.6402

MS connection: summer 2014

Lake Arrowhead 1st Friday, 4:00 pm, Location varies Call Joyce at 909.337.7573 Ontario 1st Saturday, 10:00 am, Redeemer Lutheran Christian Church. Call Emily at 909.851.6204 or Kathy at 909.621.3519 Palm Springs 2nd Sunday, 12:00 pm, Billy Reed’s Restaurant Contact Tony at 760.831.6365.

Ojai Valley Wallwalkers Lunch Meeting 4th Tuesday, 12:30 pm, Eggs N Potatoes. Call Donna at 805.646.3750 or Tammy at 805.648.6402

Rancho Cucamonga - Moms with MS 2nd Tuesday, 12:00 pm, Rancho Cucamonga Resource Center. Call AnaMaria at 909.463.0334 or Kim at 909.904.0352

Santa Maria 3rd Saturday, 10:30 am, Café Noir Call Jeanette at 805.682.8783 ext. 68103

Palm Desert 2nd Thursday, 11:00 am, Buffalo Wild Wings Call Richard at 760.899.4174

Simi Valley 1st Monday, 10:00 am, Cornerstone Church. Call Dennis at 805.584.2526 or Tina at 805.581.2264

Riverside 1st Saturday, 10:00 am, Tucker Medical Building Call Gilbert at 951.544.1441 or Katrina at 951.906.1752

Thousand Oaks 2nd Monday, 9:30 am, Goebel Senior Adult Center Call Tina at 805.581.2264 or Ken at 818.518.4226 Ventura Last Friday, 11:30 am, Carrow’s. Contact Vincy at 805.340.9627 or vincyntha@hotmail.com

Inland Empire/Coachella Valley Apple Valley/Victorville 1st Thursday, 10:00 am, Senior Select Advocate Apple Bear Center. No meetings in July or August. Call Roseanne at 435.630.7572 Hemet 2nd Friday, 10:00 am, Hemet Public Library No meetings in July or August. Call Tammy at 909.792.6518

Temecula 1st Monday, 10:00 am, Mary Phillips Senior Center. Call Denise at 909.519.4410, Tammy at 909.792-6518, or Jacqueline (Spanish-speaking) at 951.302.3529 Temecula - Men’s Group 4th Monday of every other month at 1:00 pm Location TBD Call Ric at 619.985.5736 Upland Last Wednesday, 10:00 am, Calvary Chapel. No meetings in July or August. Contact Tammy at 909.792.6518 or Denise at 909.519.4410.

nationalmssociety.org/cal | 1-800-344-4867

Yucaipa 3rd Tuesday, 1:00 pm, Good Shepherd Church Call Clare at 909.795.5128 or Tom at 909.795.1717

Nevada & N.e. california

San Joaquin Valley Bakersfield 1st Thursday, 7:00 pm, HealthSouth Rehab Hospital. Call JoAnn at 661,872.1973.

Las Vegas/Henderson - Oasis group 1st Saturday, 11:00 am. Call Ed at 702.271.3007 or Jerry at 702.285.6479

Bakersfield - Breakfast & Lunch Groups 2nd Wednesday, noon or 4th Wednesday, 9:30 am Lorene’s Coffee Shop. Call Ron at 661.833.0388 or Sarah at 661.865.6238

Las Vegas - MS Lunch Club 1st Tuesday, 11:30 am, Los Prados Country Club Call Darlene at 702.240.3210. Must RSVP and purchase lunch for $10/person

Bishop 3rd Saturday, 10:00 am, Calvary Baptist Church Call Danice at 360.690.6012 or Brad at 360.690.5712

Las Vegas - Westside Stories 3rd Wednesday, 6:00 pm, HealthSouth Call Darlene & Maria at 702.240.3210

Clovis/Fresno 3rd Saturday, 9:30 am, San Joaquin Rehab Hospital. Call Yolanda at 559.908.4644 or Doris at 559.299.2072

Loyalton Rural Outreach to Wellness Call Bonni Sue at 530.993.4499 for details 213 Main Street/HWY. 49, Ste. 1

Fresno – Spanish Speaking Group Call Sharon at 559.579.4096 for details.

Mesquite 1st Thursday, 10:00 am, Virgin Valley Home Care Call Erica at 702.346.7565

Hanford 1st Saturday, 10:00 am, First Christian Church Call Judy at 559.585.1198 or Debra at 559.585.8054

Reno/Sparks - “Live Life with Passion with MS” 4th Thursday, 5:30 pm, The Continuum-Reno 2nd Thursday, 5:30 pm, More To Life-Sparks Call Heidi at 775.240.1085

Tehachapi 2nd Thursday, 5:00 pm, Tehachapi Moose Lodge Optional “Dinner on the Grill” $3.50 & up Call Linda at 661.822.7440

Reno/Sparks 3rd Thursday, 10:00 am Northern Nevada Center for Independent Living Call Mary at 775.772.3404

Visalia 2nd Saturday, 10:00 am, Kaweah Delta Rehab Call Mary Ann at 559.936.3960

Truckee 2nd Thursday, 5:30 pm, Tahoe Forest Hospital Cafeteria. Call Rick at 530.550.0654 or Bonni Sue at 530.993.4499

5150 W. Goldleaf Circle, Suite 400 Los Angeles, CA 90056

Southern California & Nevada Chapter 5150 W. Goldleaf Circle Suite 400 Los Angeles, CA 90056 310.479.4456 800.344.4867

CALIFORNIA OFFICES Channel Islands

WE MOVED!

1921 State Street, Suite A Santa Barbara, CA 93101 805.682.8783

Inland Empire

3110 E. Guasti Road Suite 320 Ontario, CA 91761 909.949.1363

Kern County

1800 30th Street Suite 105 Bakersfield, CA 93301 661.321.9512

San Joaquin Valley

7472 N. Fresno St., #210 Fresno, CA 93720 559.439.2154

NEVADA OFFICES Northern Nevada

4600 Kietzke Ln., #K-225 Reno, NV 89502 775.329.7180

Southern Nevada

2110 East Flamingo, #203 Las Vegas, NV 89119 702.736.7272

8th annual Dinner of Champions Northern Nevada

honoring The Dolan Family Thursday, August 21, 2014 The Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno Call Linda at 775.827.4257 for details and tickets.