MS Connection - Winter 2012 by National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Gateway Area Chapter

MOVING TOWARD A WORLD FREE OF MS | WINTER • 2011-12

L SPECIA N EDITIO

R& LENDA SED ALL CA 2012 W PORT ENCLO RE L A U ANN

GATEWAY AREA CHAPTER

CONTENTS Programs & Services.......... 3 Top Fundraisers.............4-6 Donors............................ 7 Corporate and Foundation Support.......... 8 Top Teams........................ 9 Do-It-Yourself Events........ 9 Volunteers................ 10-11 Statements of Activities...................12-13 Financial Snapshot.......... 14 2012 Calendar.......... 15-42 Happenings.............. 43-56

Dear Clients, Volunteers, Event Participants, and Friends: 2011 was another big year for the movement to create a world free of MS here in the Gateway Area Chapter. In June, the Chapter hosted its first Progressive MS Symposium, designed to serve people living with more advanced forms of the disease. Topics included bowel and bladder issues, treatment options, and a breakout session specifically for carepartners. Not only was the event well attended at our main location in St. Louis, we used streaming video technology to reach out to people living across our 90 county service area. A major goal for 2012, in fact, is to find ways to serve people better across our Chapter area. We’re hosting a series of Town Hall meetings in some of the farther corners of our Chapter, to listen to our friends in rural areas and learn how we can better serve their needs. When we launched Camp Hope MS in July 2011, we were thinking about the ways that MS affects entire families. Through no fault of the parents, children in families with MS have to grow up fast. Camp Hope combined traditional summer camp activities like swimming and canoeing with sessions to help kids connect with each other and talk about the ways that MS affects them and their parents. The National MS Society’s commitment to research was re-affirmed in 2011 with the launch of MS NOW – an ambitious campaign to raise and invest $250 million between now and 2015 to stop MS in its tracks, restore what’s been lost, and end MS forever. The

JOIN THE MOVEMENT: nationalMSsociety.org

Chapter showed its commitment to research in 2011 with an extra investment of $250,000 over and above our budget, bringing our research investment for the year to $1.16m. We were thrilled in 2011 with the response to our giant obstacle course fundraiser. The event, now rebranded across the country as MuckRuckus MS, attracted 2,000 participants and raised more than $420k. It showed us that people are always looking for new ways to join the movement and have fun! With that in mind, we have launched a new online tool and resources for people who want to design their own Do-It-Yourself Fundraising campaigns in 2012. This special edition of the MS Connection includes your 2011 Annual Report and a 2012 wall calendar. As you read through this issue, please think about all the ways you can join the movement this year to create a world free of MS! Sincerely,

Lynda Baris Phyllis Robsham Chair, Board of Trustees Chapter President 2010-2011

Helping People Living with MS Move Forward

MS stops people from moving. The National MS Society exists to help people affected by MS keep moving. The Gateway Area Chapter serves 6,800 people living with MS and their families in a 90-county region covering eastern Missouri and southwestern Illinois. The Chapter helps people affected by MS: • get educated about MS • access resources • connect with others living with MS • and stay active. Educational programs provide the latest information about symptom management, up-to-date research and tools for living well with the disease. The Chapter provides access to practical resources, referrals and emotional support through financial assistance and care management.

“My care manager is someone I can always talk to when I need assistance. She helped me through some hard stuff and I’m so thankful for her!” - John 25 people received comprehensive care management support from licensed social workers, including practical resources, referrals and emotional support in 2011.

about the national ms society The Society addresses the challenges of each person affected by MS. To fulfill this mission, the Society funds cutting-edge research, drives change through advocacy, facilitates professional education, collaborates with MS organizations around the world, and provides programs and services designed to help people living with MS and their families move forward with their lives.

The Chapter helps connect people living with MS through Talk MS programming and social and family programs.

Through our wellness program, the Chapter encourages and assists people with MS to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle while living with MS. “When you have MS you may feel kind of isolated. Just being able to talk to other people with MS makes you feel more comfortable and you can learn from each other.” - David 606 people received support, education, and opportunities for socializing and discussion with others living with MS through Talk MS, Telefriends and other peer support programs in 2011.

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our mission

We mobilize people and resources to drive research for a cure and to address the challenges of everyone affected by MS.

Top Fundraisers

We greatly appreciate all the hard work of our committed event fundraisers who raised more than $4.1 million last year. Below are fundraisers who raised at least $1,000.

Names in blue are Bike MS: Express Scripts Gateway Getaway Ride participants. Names in purple are Dean Team Automotive Challenge Walk MS participants. Names in orange are MS Corporate Achievers. Names in brown are Mud Run MS (now MuckRuckus MS) participants. Names in green are Walk MS participants. $25,000 AND MORE $25000+ Pat Dean • Steve Lipstein • Theresa Stewart $10,000 - $24,999 $10000+ Tony Adams • James Chastain • Todd Dillon • Rick Evans • Mark Fischer • Nicole Gelven • Michael Haskell • Michael Houlihan • Rodney Miller • Stephen Miller • Ellen Reilly • Charlie Ries • Becky Salacki • Michael Staenberg

3,065 cyclists, who were supported by 550 volunteers, raised $2.16 million at the Bike MS: Express Scripts Gateway Getaway Ride 2011. Bike MS fundraisers are listed in blue.

$6,600 - $9,999 $6600+ Mark Abels • Gary Chervitz • Robert Cusworth • Gene Davis • Leslie Dillow • Mark Frank • Kevin Howe • Richie Jinkerson • Michelle Keating • Jean Kienzle • Steven Lovell • Richard Mark • Patrick McNamee • Denise Pisciotta • Tim Sauer • Bud Straumann • Rick Weinstein • Alvin Wolff • Sheelah Yawitz $5,000 - $6,599 $5000+ Roger Barnes • Susan Billiot • Gerard Carmody • Mark Dana • Kenny Evans • Ann Faust in honor of Nita Quigley • Jennifer Flessner • Judy Graman • Stephen Gwinnup • Katie Heidenreich • Frank Hellwig • Philip Jozwiak • Paul Kikta • Suzan Knese • Martha Kroeger • Richard McClure • Joe McKee • Paul Ogier • Mike Phillips • Mark Rosenkranz • Patti Rosenkranz • Rick Rovak • Ellen Staples • Jeff Wiktorski • Cindy Wilson $2,500 - $4,999 $2500+ Mary Abkemeier • Nicole Armstrong • Deborah Atherton • Lynda Baris • Dennis Barnes • Daniel Bauer • Brenda Berra • Steve Blase • Tara Blunt • Judy Boland • Marianne Bouras • Jean Briggs • Larry Buchanan • R.J. Campbell • Christie Cange • James Carpenter • Leann Chilton • Marci Cradick • Lisa Crawford • Kyle Darnell • Amanda Dean • Rick Desloge • Nicholas DiCarlo • William Dowd • Terry Einig • Alan Fine • Diane Fressola • John Frost • Diana Giacalone • Terry Gloriod • James Graser • Cara Griffith • Joe Hammond • Bene Hanquet • Sarah Harrelson • Timothy Haskell • Matt Heischmidt • Gary Hemmer • Paula Hildebrand • Anne Hoerner • Carl Hogan • Robyn Hulsey • Tim Huskey • David Jinkerson • Rick Keating • Mark Kliethermes • Cory Koenemann • T.J. Kohler • John Kotovsky • Brian Lamping • Eric Lange • Pam Lewman • Tom Livingston • Alan Luvin • William Madosky • Andrew Marting • Jamie Mealey • Chuck Miller • Tony Moellman • Rick Murray • Rachael Myers • Tom O’Connell • Mark O’Donnell • Robb Osborne • Don Paddick • Robert Peterson • Brian Phillips • John Phillips • Rachel Poe • Thomas Pohlman • Michael Pratt • William Price • Mark Prouhet • Emily Rausch • Mark Reardon • Laurie Richards • James Riess • Karla Rosenblum • Christine Runge • Jennifer Ryan • Kathleen Salsman • Nancee Salyer • Billeigh Sanks • Konrad Sauer • Richard Schainker • John Seitz • Barry Singer • Gwen Sommerville • Scott Suppelsa • Clara Taylor • Kevin Tollefson • Kristin Tucker • Tim Turek • Neil Tzinberg • Lauren Wacker • Keith Walston • Zach Waltz • Carla Zeiser

“This is the place to get MS information. The MS Society clearly does a wonderful job promoting research and advocacy.” - John L. Trotter Research program participant 570 people learned about treatment options, research, and living with MS through the John L. Trotter research program, the Midwest Teleconference Series and Research MS programs in 2011.

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Top Fundraisers

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$1,000 - $2,499 $1000+ William Abkemeier • Joseph Aiello • 6,712 walkers, Greg Ancel • Dick Anderson • Lynne who were Anderson • Krista Ankrom • Taffy Arey • supported by 420 Scott Arwine • Tricia Atchison • Debbie Aumer • Jennifer Avery • Jeff Bailey • volunteers, raised Diane Bain • Rick Bain • Danna Ballard • $730,536 at 18 Brittany Ballentine • Mitch Baris • Ben Walk MS events Barnes • Pamela Bascio • Tammy Basson throughout the • Kurt Bauman • Sara Baumgartner • Chapter area. Gina Becker • Michelle Becker • Steven Walk MS Becker • Christopher Becklenberg • Julie Belzer • Mary Belzer • Michael Benack • fundraisers are Linda Berent • Josh Bergman • James listed in green. Bick • Brian Bilyeu • Jennifer Bingham • Scott Birdsong • Elisa Birnbaum • David Blackwell • Neil Blackwell • Rich Blais • Richard Blum • Kathy Blunkall • James Bone • Kenneth Bonser • Terry Bordeleau • David Borella • Ian Borella • Margarita Botta • Leona Boucher • Robert Bowen • Michael Boyle • Patrick Brangle • Linda Brauer • Michael Brennan • Susie Brent • Christy Brewer • Wayne Brinkman • Amy Broadwater • Tom Brounk • David Brown • Barry Buchman • Libby Buechler • Larry Burmeister • Mike Burns • Paul Buschmeyer • Anna Buser • Liz Cahill • Laura Caldwell • Kirsten Camardelle • Tonya Cammarata • Ronald Campbell • Mike Caputo • Jill Cardwell • Jonathan Carmody • William Carney • Paul Casserly • Todd Charow • Monica Chwascinski • Danielle Clark • John Clark • Michael Cody • Jaime Cohen • Sara Cole • Ron Coleman • Bret Collins • Jeff Comparato • Patrick Connelly • Jim Conzelman • Blaine Cooper • Edie Cornell-Smith • Joanna Cuda • Jim Cunningham • Christine Cusack • Aleksy Cybulski • Christine Cybulski • Cynthia Dalpiaz • Tracy Daniel • Robert Daniels • Frank D’Antonio • Shonda Darris • Vicki Davenport • Christina Davies • Carrie Davis • Ike Dean • Michelle Dean • Patrick Dean • Richard (Dick) Dean • Michelle deCento • Bernard DeCoster • Joe Denother • Kevin Desrosiers • Jennifer Dieken-Buchek • Donna Diener • Carol Diminnie • Antionette Dody • Todd Dohogne • Darren Doiron • Trent Donat • Keith Dorris • Erin Doughty • Sherry Dreisewerd • Thomas Drennan • Chris Drury • John Drury • Peter Drury • Mandy Dunivan • Cathy Easter • Walter Easter • Jef Ebers • Carol Edwards • Joel Efken • Richard Elias • Rosaire Elias • Brittany Ems • Jerry Ewing • Preston Fancher • Joe Fechter • William Fechter • Jerry Fields • Todd Finn • Cheryl Fisher • Sean Fitzgerald • Scott Fletcher • Alex Fox • Peggy Fox • Steve Frank • Susan Franklin • Matthew Freeman • Meghan Freeman • Dan Frey • Travis Frey • Greg Friend • Andy Fries • Denise Gaither • Thomas Gaither • George Gansner • Jennifer Gansner (Siess) • Alex Garner • Guillermo Garsed • Whitney Gartenberg • Craig Gaskill • John Gee • Bob Gerchen • Karen Gerdes • Melanie Giambeluca • Trevor Gibson • Diane Giessman • Andria Gilbert • Robert Gist • Mark Goerger • Heather Goetz • Bill Goings • Melissa Gold • Nancy Goldberg • Mae Gordon • Mary Lou Gorham • Paul Gorham • Randy Grady • Renee Gregg • Jeff Greiner • David Grenda • Don Griffith • Kathy Griffith • David Gudermuth • Erma Guise • Andrea Gulick • Steven Haenchen • Dawn Hale • Jeff Hall • Joy Hamilton • Rick Hansen • David Hardin • Jo Hardy • Renee Harms • Eric Harrelson • Paula Harris • Roel Harryvan • Steve Harting • Dave Harwood • Amanda Haught • Andrew Heap • Christi Heideman • Amanda Heidemann • John Helbing • Sarah Heller • Scot Heller • Vicki Helling • Bernadette Henrichs • Paul Henry • Erik Herzog • John Heskett • Sarah Hickey • George Hildebrand • Sandy Hinton • Jim Hodgson • Dusty Hoffman • Trey Hogan • Courtney Hollingsworth • David Hollows • Peggy Holly • Lynn Holman • Bob Holschen • Patty Holschen • Susan Holzborn • Jennifer Hope • Jacob Hopper • Amanda Hornbostel • Charla Hornbostel • Christina Horton • Christina Horton Morris • Christine Houston • Kelly Howe • Anita Hutton • Paul Hyland • Steven Izard • Steven Jacobs • Glenn Jansen • Heidi Janson • Kathryn Jennings • Rebecca Jennings • Bill Johnson • Karen Jones • Willi Jones • Mike Jorgensen • Terry Kaempfe • Rebecca Karras • Ryan Kasper • Ann Keeven • Robert Keller • Justin Kelley • Marci Kelley • Michael Kelley • Don Kelly • Peter Kelly • Robert Kelly • Todd Keske • Clark Kessler • Charles Ketterer • Joel Kichline • Bob Kienitz • Kurt Kientzle • Scott Kirchner • Drew Klein • Kathleen Klingel • Anita Klopfenstein • Julie Klubek • Paul Knoblock • David Knocke • Jim Koeger • Richard Koester • Alice Kohler • T.J. Kohler • Tim Koyn • Michael Kraemer • Barb Kraus • Amanda Krayniak • Ned Kriegshauser • Marilyn Kristoff • Beth Kuethe • Larry Kuykendall • Ron Lacy • Tina Lambert • Berkley Land • Hayley Larson 207 Challenge • Joyce Larson • Jeff Lash • Lisa Latzke • Walkers, who Carol Laure • Dennis Lazaroff • Barth Legate • Rosemary Leingang • Kathy were supported Lewis • Michael Lewis • Edward Liberty by 210 volunteers, • Joseph Liefer • Gerald Lindhorst • raised $525,016 Jerry Lis • Sylvia Longmire • John at the Dean Team Lonigro • Wayne Loos • Dorman Lough Automotive • Jim Lowary • Asa Lowe • Nicci Challenge Walk MS. Lowrey • John Luecking • Dave Luethy • Marty Lutke • Rebecca Magruder • Challenge Walk Regina Maloney • Mike Mann • Mitch MS fundraisers are Mann • Craig Marti • Diana Martin • listed in purple. Jennifer Martin • Andres Martin Perez • Dawn Matschiner • Ann Mattingly • Trisha Mayes • Glenda McCarty •

We are a driving force of MS research and treatment to stop disease progression, restore function, and end MS forever.

In 2011 the Chapter dedicated $1,165,142 to research including fellowship winners Dr. Enrique Alvarez and Dr. Laura Piccio at Washington University.

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goal 02

We develop, deliver and leverage resources to enhance care for people with MS and quality of life for those affected by the disease. When Robert, who lives with MS, needed respite care when his primary caregiver was in the hospital the Chapter was there. Robert also received a reclining wheelchair from the Chapter’s loan closet which provided him more freedom at home. Without these services, Robert’s life would be much different and he may have had to move into a long-term care facility. 6

Top Fundraisers $1,000 - $2,499 continued

Timothy McCormick • Sheila McCoy • Andrea McGrath • Kathy McHugh • In 2011, Hilarie McKinstry • Michael McLaughlin • Randy Meisner • Amy Mellon • Debbie 62 Corporate Milfelt • Douglas Milford • Jim Miller • Achievers raised Julie Miller • Rebecca Miodowski • Sheila $217,364 during Miranda • Richard Moneymaker • Teri the 15th annual Mooney • Douglas Moore • Donna MS Corporate Morgan • John Morgenthaler • David Achiever Morris • Jaime Mowers • Katie Mudd • Campaign. Amanda Mueller • David Mulkey • Jim Corporate Murphy • Kathleen Murphy • Maggie Achievers are Murphy White • Doug Murray • Michael Myers • Amy Naeger • Riley Naeger • listed in orange. Scott Naeger • Tripp Narup • Sheryl Nea • Mark Neuman • Molly Newberry • Dennis Northcott • Jane O’Donnell • Katherine Ogle • Kristina Ohse • Rose Ohse • Mark Oldenburg • John Oldham • Diana Oleskevich • Dean Olsen • Steve O’Rourke • Vic Ottenlips • Nick Overkamp • Frank Palubiak • Dawn Pansing • Greg Patterson • Alice Patton • William Paul • Maureen Pegg • Dale Peluso • Jill Peluso • Dale Pendleton • Kim Peterson • Sandi Phillips • Cynthia Pilling • Joanne Pleskovich • Stacy Poepper • Steven Poindexter • Stanley Portell • Keri Pruneau • Chris Ramirez • Angela Rechtiene • Matthew Reh • Diane Reichert • Monica Reid • Tom Reilly • Donna Reinhardt • Josh Reinhardt • Mike Reiter • Amy Reno • Chris Reno • Cindy Richards • Kelsi Richards • Rebecca Rider • Heather Rieth • Robin Ringwald • Wil Ritchie • Roni Rittenhouse • David Robbins • Shannan Robinson • Paul Robiolio • Sarah Rockwell • Tim Rockwell • Brian Rogers • John Ross • Carrie Rowlett • Aaron Rucker • Kim Rucker • Natalie Ruth • Aaron Sander • Matt Sander • Bryan Sanders • Susan Santen • Miguel Sarmiento • Robyn Satory • Audrey Saunders • Kent Schien • Jean Schillinger • Jessica Schisler • Cory Schlegel • Rob Schlumpberger • Craig Schluter • Danna Schmidt • Karen Schmidt • Mike Schmidt • Scott Schmidt • Hank Schneider • Susan Schneider • Wendy Schneider • John Schroeder • Cindy Schulte • Bruce Scott • John Scott • Shawna Scott • Don Sedlack • Debbie Selbert • Robin Selbert • Greg Selm • Mike Shaffer • Ashley Shepherd • Phil Shoulberg • Bill Sinak • Kammy Sitz • Diane Smith • Lori Smith • Tom Smoot • Keith Snavely • Craig Snethen • Michael Snow • Anne Solari • Jim Solari • Sarah Sorel • Lori Speiser • Ken Sprenger • Robin Sprenger • Julie Stanglein • Marsha Stanton • Mary Stanton • Barbara Starman • Dave Steck • Jerry Steiner • John Stewart • Mark Stika • Mike Stika • Angie Stine • Sara Stock • Patty Stockell • Marjorie Stoeker • Peggy Stolley • Steven Storgion • William Stoverink • Katie Stracke • Jeffrey Suchanek • Diana Swezy • Joe Switzer • Kathi Taylor • Scott Temkin • Tina Tennikait • Sally Terrill • Amy Thomas • Anne Thomasson • Blake Thornton • Stacey Thuerwaechter • John Thurston • Dennis Timme • Gina Timme • Lora Tindall • Charlie Toben • Eric Topp • Patrick Travers • Ja-Co-Ma Trost • Jack Turek • Scott Vasel • Vinay Vemulapalli • Tim Walsh • Sherri Waxman • Todd Weaver • Brad Weidner • Theresa Weingartz • Bonnie Weinstein • Steve Weinstein • Jennifer Wenrick • Jim Wessely • Christopher Westaby • Jeffrey Westphale • Cindy Weymouth • Melissa 1,999 Mud Run Whalen • Amber White • Garrett White • participants, who Dinah Wiegers • Brian Wies • Michael were supported by Wiese • James Wildman • Keat Wilkins • Carrie Williams • Jesica Williams • R. 156 volunteers, raised Williams • Scott Williams • William Wiltsch $432,471. • Gregory Wingert • David Winslett • Mud Run participants are Jennifer Wisdom • Suzanne Woodard • listed in brown. Sharon Woods • JoJo Worsham • Kelly Please note: Wrennick • Lisa Wright • Barby Wulff • Going forward Mud Run David Wulff • Matt Yancey • Regina Yanics MS will be known as • Terry Yuan • Jeffrey Zacks • Jim Zacks • Muckruckus MS. Gary Zenk • Emileigh Ziebka • Peter Zielinski • Beth Zimmer Carter

“The National MS Society has given me the ability to continue my training through a Wellness Grant. Now I have not only regained my strength, stability and self-confidence but I just feel so much better.” - Janet 204 people stayed active with therapeutic exercise, aquatics, yoga, in-home assessments and the Wellness Network in 2011.

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Donors

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Special thanks to all our donors, especially our Golden Circle members, who donated $1,000 or more from Oct. 1, 2010 to Sept. 30, 2011. $10,000 AND $10,000 andMORE More Jim and Anna Blair • Tim and Thy Huskey • Ivan Miller • Steven and Susan Lipstein • Pat and Michelle Dean $5,000-$9,999 $5,000 - $9,999 Theresa Berger • James Chastain • Patrick Haskell • Carl Hogan • Anita Klopfenstein • David Kodner • Mary McLaughlin • Eileen Merritt • William and Margaret Moskoff • Paul Novak • George and Melissa Paz • Mike and Kathie Phillips $2,500-$4,999 $2,500-$4,999 Jeanne Camden • Joseph Cancila • Jennifer Cole • Robert Cusworth • Yvonne Fagan • Rob and Sandra Fischer • Janet Frane • Ronald Gross • Adam Jennings • Michelle Keating • Mark Kliethermes • Richard McClure • Patrick McNamee • Steven Poindexter • Larry Repple • Lynette and Leonard Roccia • Nancy Ross • Michael Sindelar • Kristin Tucker • Thomas Tyndorf • Sheelah and Stanley Yawitz $1,000-$2,499 $1,000 - $2,499 Lynne Anderson • Kyle Andrews • Richard Arnoldy • Deborah Atherton • Sean Bannon • Gregory Bantrup • “What a lovely surprise Thomas Baranski • John Barhydt • Lynda Baris • Dennis to receive a package from Beausang • Stanley Becchetti • Daniel Berger • Brenda Berra • Deborah Blaylock • Richard Boedeker • Leona you. Truly it did make me Boucher • James Bova • Albert Briggs • Ann Brinkerhoff • John Louis Brown • Alexander Buehler • David Burmeister smile. I want to express my • Robert Byrne Jr. • Robert Cannon • Gerard Carmody gratitude to you for such a • Martin Carrow • Don Chamberlin • Leann Chilton • Bret Collins • Leslie Corey • Kathryn Corley • Ted Crew kind and uplifting program. I • Rodney Crim • Donald Damask • William Danforth • Thomas Danis • Frank D’Antonio • Gene Davis • Jo Anne play Christmas Carols in July Davis • William Davis • Daniel Bergmann and Debra and smile as I think of you Dill-Bergmann • Robert Dondero • William Dowd • Jeffrey Dowling • Dale Elrod • John Eulich • Rick Evans • and your thoughtfulness.” Carol Evers • Preston Fancher • Patricia Fechter • Roy & - Susan Connie Fischer • Allen Fishman • Jill Flowers • Timothy Fogerty • Thomas Fournie • Gregory Fox • Daniel Gaffney • Brendon Gallagher • Mark Gellman • Peter and Clare 256 homebound people received Genovese • Mike and Sherry Gibson • Carl Gilchrist • visits through the Deliver a Smile James Gill • William Gillispie • Hugh Grant • Rita Green • Christine Grewe • Gary Grewe • Michael Grewe • Herbert program in 2011. Grunde • Ed Hamilton • Mary Alice Hamilton • Philip Hanel • Gary Hartnell • James and Bonnie Hawk • Amanda Heidemann • Scott Heller • Brian Henderson • Robert Hillard • Sean Hogan • Sarah Hollo • Gerald Holschen • Kristen Gulley Holton • Charla Hornbostel • Michael and Mary Houlihan • Christine Houston • Connie Huck • Jim and Karen Imler • Deborah and Steve Intagliata • Glenn Jansen • Richard Jaudes • Mary Jinkerson • Kay Johnson • Victoria Johnson • Jacquelyn Jones • Dennis Jorgensen • Anthony Kasper • Michael Kaufman • Robert Kelly • Thomas Kelly • David and Karen Keske • Kurt Kientzle • Joanne Kirberg • Ward Klein • Julie Klubek • Sandra Knight • Chris Koenemann • Michael Korotkin • Michael Lechwar • Melvyn Lefkowitz • Dave Levitt • Edward Liberty • Steve and Michelle Lovell • Connie Lowe • Ruth Malvern • David Marshall • Dale Martin • Jennifer Martin • Trisha Mayes • Dan Mercurio • Christopher Michalak • Phillip Mills • Paul Mitchell • Dunard Morris • Stanley Musial • Michael Neidorf • Michael Nohren • Joann Nowotny • Susan Orr • Juli Paddick • Matthew Paradis • Catherine Party • Carolyn Phelps • Michael Phillips • Denise Pisciotta • Judith Prather • Paul Quigley • Karen Rafter • Deborah Ramsey • Ron Raskin • Matthew Reh • Ellen Reilly • Justin Rhyneer • John and Cynthia Richards • Rhonda Ries-Aguilar • Shelley Ringhofer • Paul Robiolio • Phyllis Robsham • Lucia Rodriguez • Melvin Roman • Arthur Santen • Karen Sauer • John Schene • Kent Schien • Barbara Schmitz • Pamela Schneider • Craig Schnuck • Buford and Laura Seabolt • Steve Seifert • David and Laura Sewall • Jean Shaver • Marny Sherman • Jeffrey and Marnie Shifrin • John Sigmund • Barry Singer • Robert Smith • Karen Snethen • Mary Speichinger and Ron Schaefer • Michael Staenberg • Jamie Stanley • Helmut Starr • Harry Strachan • Paul Strom • Kathi Taylor • Greg Teeters • Scott Temkin • Ellen Thomas • Andrew Thome • Anthony Thompson • Karl Tinney • Maxine Tourville • Timothy Trout • Judith Tungett • Tim Turek • Joe Vitale • Steve Walli • Zach Waltz • Bonnie Weinstein • James Wildman • Alicia Withers • Lawrence Wolff • Alvin Wolff Jr. • Gary Zenk • Emileigh Ziebka • Rudolf Zimmermann

We are leaders in the worldwide MS movement, mobilizing millions of people to do something about MS now.

Michelle Ludwig Lovell (left) is one of the more than 700 volunteers who supported 3,065 cyclists at the Bike MS: Express Scripts Gateway Getaway Ride 2011. In 2011, 1,336 event volunteers helped 11,983 participants complete Bike MS, Challenge Walk MS, Mud Run MS (now MuckRuckus MS) and Walk MS.

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We are activists.

Corporate and Foundation support Without the generosity of these organizations, we would not be able to provide programs and services, hold fundraising events and fund research. We would especially like to thank our Bike MS and Challenge Walk MS title sponsors: Express Scripts, Inc. and the Dean Team Automotive Group. $50,000 AND MORE $50,000 ACW Alliance • Dean Team Automotive • EMD Serono, Inc. • Express Scripts Inc • Missouri Foundation For Health • United Way of Greater St. Louis $25,000 - $49,999 $25,000 Biogen Idec • BJC HealthCare • Sam’s Club • Teva Neuroscience, Inc.

In 2011, Chapter staff and volunteers were well represented in Jefferson City, MO, Springfield, IL and Washington, D.C. On behalf of the more than 400,000 people living with MS nationwide, the Society boldly champions issues at the local, state, and federal levels. We address barriers to accessing health care, expensive and complicated insurance coverage, high-cost prescription drugs, or lack of resources for care at home and in the community.

$10,000 - $24,999 $10,000 Accenture LLP • Acorda Therapeutics, Inc. • AEP River Operations • American Direct • Anheuser-Busch InBev • Centene Corporation • City of Columbia, Missouri • Covidien • Dula Foundation • Emerson • Enterprise Holdings • Fox Family Foundation • Genzyme • Hardee’s Food Systems, Inc. • Herman & Phenie Pott Foundation • Lee’s Chicken • McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. • MEMC Foundation • Moneta Group • Monsanto • Paric Corp. • Pfizer, Inc. • Polsinelli Shughart • Professional Firefighters of West St. Louis County • Souers Charitable Trust • The G.J. Grewe Family Foundation • UPS • Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC $5,000 - $9,999 $5,000 ARCO Construction Co • Big Shark Bicycle Company • Boone Hospital Center • Bunzl • Castle Contracting • Cepia • Edward Jones • Elsevier Foundation • Employee Community Fund of Boeing • Guarantee Electric Company • Lion’s Choice • Mastercard • Mortgage Research Center LLC • Sharp Packaging Systems • Sprinkler Fitters Local 268 • SSM Health Care • St. Louis Auto Dealers Charitable Foundation • St. Louis Philanthropic Organization • Suddenlink Communication • Teamgreen Outdoor • The Dana Brown Charitable Trust • The Meadows Development Group LLC • The Treasurer of the Columbia School District • United HealthCare Services, Inc. $2,500 - $4,999 $2,500 Alliance Data • Cassidy Turley Midwest, Inc • Credit Suisse • EMC Corporation • Fru-Con Foundation • Genentech Inc. • Genzyme Corp. • Hartog Oil Company • Hays Companies • HOK, INC • KBM Group • Kohler City Real Estate, Inc • Mississippi River Eagles Aerie #4341 • Nestle Purina Petcare • Price Family Foundation • Questcor Pharmaceuticals, Inc • Scott Credit Union • Sears, Roebuck & Company • Sigma-Aldrich • Synergy Events on behalf of “Refuel with Chocolate Milk” • T.G.I. Fridays • Truist Altruism Connected • United Access • Williams Lea $1,000 - $2,499 $1,000 17th Street Bar & Grill • Advanced Health Media • A Friends Foundation • Alliance Water Resources, Inc. • Alton Gaming Company • Ameren UE • American Endowment Foundation • Anna Lodge NO. 1346 • Aon Foundation • Bank of America • BayerHealthcare Pharmaceuticals • Beaver Tools Inc. • Belle Midwest Furniture Co. • BKD Foundation • Bommarito • Bric Partnership LLC • Brown Smith Wallace LLC • Bryan Cave LLP • Bryanmark Financial Group, Inc. • Busy B Lumber Co • Caerus Operating, LLC • Capaha Bank • CHE Consulting, Inc • Cognizant • Collins & Hermann, Inc. • Component Bar Products • Corrigan Company • Danis Charitable Trust • Deloitte Services LP • Ed & H Pillsbury Foundation • Eliza Corporation • Enterprise Rent-A-Car • Epic Systems Corporation • Equifax Inc • Excel • Feet for Life Centers, Inc. • First Community Credit Union • Gateway EDI • GE Consulting Inc. • Ghisallo Running • Gifts in Kind International • GKN Aerospace North America • Globe Motors, Inc • Graybar Electric Company • Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale P.C. • Grey Fox LLC • Group Health Plan • Harman International • Healthsouth • Hogrock Inc • Holtkamp, Liese, Schultz & Hilliker, P.C. • Husch Blackwell Sanders LLP • Illinois Tool Works Foundation • Independent Hardee’s Franchisee Association • J.W. Terrill, Inc. • JM Family Enterprises, Inc. • John Goodall Charitable Trust • John S. Swift Family Charitable Trust • Johnson & Johnson • Kaldi’s Inc • Laclede Gas • Lilly Christy Charitable Foundation • Maly Commercial Realty • Maritz Inc • Marshall & Ilsley Bank • MC Industrial • MCI Cores • MDU Resources Group, Inc. • MedAssets Supply Chain Systems • Meramec Lake Golf Course • Midwest Sinus-Allergy Specialists • Mixing 10 • Novartis • Novus International • Patterson Companies, Inc. • Pearl Foster Hayward Trust • Pinsonault Associates • Questcor • Red Bud C. U. High School • Red Hat Ltd • Regal Entertainment Group • Rexam Plastic Services Company • Safety National • Schmale Insurance Agency • Scottrade • SNR Denton • Specialty Textile Services • SoutheastHealth • State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company • Steve Miller & Associates • Suntrup • The American Equity Mortgage Charitable Foundation • The Bayou Bar and Grill • The Orthopedic Center of St. Louis • Thrivent Financial for Lutherans - Cape Girardeau Chapter • Todd Appraisal Service • Todd Real Estate Service • Truck Centers • UniGroup, Inc. • Unisource Worldwide Inc. • USA Underwear LLC • Von Gontard Family Foundation • Walmart • Washington University in St. Louis

JOIN THE MOVEMENT: nationalMSsociety.org

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Top Teams

Our great team atmosphere at our fundraising events truly makes them special. We would like to thank all of our teams, especially those that raised $3,000 or more.

Names in blue are Bike MS: Express Scripts Gateway Getaway Ride teams. Names in purple are Dean Team Automotive Challenge Walk MS teams. Names in brown are Mud Run MS (now MuckRuckus MS) teams. Names in green are Walk MS teams. $100,000 $100,000 andAND more MORE Team Kaldi’s Coffee • Team THF

$50,000 - $99,999 $50,000 - $99,999 Cannonball Express • Dean Team• Team Express Scripts $30,000 - $49,999 $30,000 - $49,999 Boeing • Team Christner • The E Team• Team Hogan • Team Maritz • Team Mich Ultra • Mighty Movers • Monsanto Mavericks • MS Ramblers $20,000 - $29,999 $20,000 - $29,999 The Go Go’s• Hairy Toads Cycling • Team Howe • Jeremy Juggernauts • Lucky 13• MEMC Electronic Materials, Inc. • MHW Milers • Mission Max• Muds Mob • Team Possible• Team PWC • Team Sirius • Tech Electronics • Wells Fargo Advisors Pioneers $10,000 - $19,999 $10,000 - $19,999 Big Crank Cycling • Blisters for Sister • Team Boonslick • Team Bo’z Up • Bunge • Team Copaxone • Country Cruisers • Diana’s Divas (and Dudes)!• Team DNR • Team Edward Jones • Elsevier Medical Test Subjects • EMC • Team GKN • Granada Cyclery • Heart and Sole• Heavy Pedal Band • Team Kendra • Team LSS • McCarthy Hammerheads • Myelin Hunter • Paric Corporation • River Riders • Team Rosenkranz• Sense Corp • Sole Sisters• Terrill Trekkers • Transplant Team • United By Design • VAMC Loan Riders • Wally’s Walkers• Wild Horse Creek Crusaders • Wilson’s Warriors • Yawitz/Phelps Team • $5,000 - $9,999 $5,000 - $9,999 Team Accenture • AMD • Arcturis • Bene and the Jets• Brendies B-Bops • Brown Shoe Company • Buckingham Asset Management • Cape Crusaders • Cardiac Cycles • Centene Cyclones • Team Covidien • Crash Test Dummies • Crossroads • Cutters • The Defectors • Team EDWARD • Enterprise • Filthy Five• Fred Racers • Gears & Beers • Team Green Machine • IAFF 2665 • Investors Class • Team Jawz • Jeannie Weenie and Her Hot Dogs • Jefferson Regional Medical • Team Jennifer (Mueller) • Team Kaos • Ken’s Angels• Knese Family • Laurie’s Champions • Leslie’s Lungers • Team McClure • Team Melodie • Mighty Steppers • Team Moneta • Team MSHP • RMHC Ride Team STL • Rooster - Crepe Sandwich Cafe • Rum Runners • Team Save-A-Lot • Schneider Electric (APC) • Team Shelter Insurance • Sigma-Aldrich • Slow Spokes • Team SSM • Staggering Peddlers • Suddenlink Cycling Team • Sweatin’ for a Cure• Unigroup • Washington University Bear Bikers • Team Webster Works • We’re A Big Deal• Team Whole Foods • Wild Hogs $3,000 - $4,999 $3,000 – $4,999 The 99ers • Ameren Pure Power Bike MS Team • Anne’s Army • April’s Army • Asleep at the Wheel • Baker’s Dozen • Bang Bang • Team Bootcamp Challenge - Run Like a Mudder • Briggs Bunch • Carol’s Crew • Cathyscure • CBC Easy Riders • Charlie Horse Riders • Team Charter Communications • Crossing Cyclists • Cruisin’ Robinsons • Team CSL • CVG • Dawn Patrol • Dirty by Association • Dirty Monkeys • Donna’s Babblin’ Babes • The Down and Dirty Dolphins • Eagle Mud Gals • F.U.M.S. • Team Frazier • Team Gaither • Glitter Gals • The Good, The Bad, The Muddy • Jeremy’s Juggernauts• Just for the fun of it!!! • The Kinetic Chain Gang - SLU Phycycle Therapy • Lisa’s Crew • Local Harvest • Loess Locos • LuAnn’s Angels • Make Mud, Not War • Mandy’s Mighty Mutts • Marching Schleppers • Michael’s Ramp • MiSfit • Mississippi Mud Cats • Team MoBap • Team Morris • MS is BS • MU Veterinary Cycling Team • Mud Cans • The Mud Dauber Maniacs • Mudflaps• New Dawn • Orange Lightning • Outside Outfitters • Oz Cycles • Pamela’s Team • Pam’s Pedlars • Team PedNet • Team Red Hat • Team Riess • Rocketbikers • Run-a-muck • Team Sante’ • Sassy MSfits • ShamRock’N Rollers • The S’myelin Gang • Speed Racer • Stacy’s Quest • Steph’s Steppers • SunRise UMC/HS Tri Club • Swamp Ass • Tammi’s Trotters • Thomson Reuters • Team Toni • Triple Trost • The Wee Team • What The Muck (WTM) • Wingnut Rollers

We develop and align human, business and financial resources to achieve breakthrough results. In 2011, the Gateway Area Chapter partnered with other NMSS chapters to deliver the Midwest Teleconference Series to people affected by MS. This collaboration allows constituents to access a wide variety of experts on issues important to people living with MS.

DIY Events

The Chapter would like to thank the volunteers who led these Do It Yourself Events that raised $1,000 or more.

Anna Lodge Poker Run • Bert’s Family & Friends Helping Fight MS • Crehan’s Irish Pub UGLY Bartender Event • Dance Fest • MS 10K Run • Gateway Area Chapter Young Professionals Night on the Greens • Grip It & Rip It Golf Tournament • Hickman High School Fundraiser • Rock Out! for MS • Schnucks eScrip • Steelville Polar Plunge • Sears Give With Your Heart Event • Teamster 688 Golf Tournament in Honor of Dana Repple

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core values COMMITMENT

We are passionate in our commitment to people affected by MS. We strive to improve quality of life while searching for the cure.

Volunteers

FY2011 OF- UPDATED TRUSTEES BOARD OFBOARD TRUSTEES Lynda Baris • Michael E. Burns • Robert W. Cannon • Gerard T. Carmody • Leann Chilton • Rodney Crim • Dr. Anne Cross* • Patrick Dean • Bill Dowd • Alan J. Fine • J. Brendon Gallagher • Mark Gellman • Lyle F. Gulley Jr. • Sean J. Hogan • Kristen Gulley Holton • E. Michael Houlihan • Christine A. Houston • Dr. Thy N. Huskey • Timothy M. Huskey • Michelle Keating • Kurt N. Kientzle • David M. Kodner • Patrick Larmon • John Merten • Mike Phillips • Denise M. Pisciotta • Steven S. Poindexter • Rhonda Ries-Aguilar • Lynette Roccia • Michael Sindelar • Helmut Starr • Dr. Florian P. Thomas • Anthony (Tony) Thompson • Steve Walli • Sheelah R. Yawitz HONORARY TRUSTEE: Mark Dow * Ex-Officio Physician Trustees BIKEMS MS LOGISTICS, RECRUITMENT AND STEERING COMMITTEES BIKE LOGISTICS COMMITTEE - UPDATED Betty Bohan • Aaron Boone • Bill Carroll • Rebecca Carroll • Bill Chase • Rosemary Christensen • Jeff Comparato • Gary Deabler • Rich Edsell • Kim Evans • James Gray • Al Guise • Anne Heine • Christine Houston • Peter Laguna • Jamie Mealey • Karen Miller • Erik Morse • Douglas Moore • Scott Naeger • Patricia Pelaccio • Len Schulte • Dave Steckel • Laura Veremakis • Gene Weber CHALLENGE WALK MS COMMITTEE CHALLENGE WALK COMMITTEE - UPDATED Danna Ballard • Julie Belzer • Tonya Cammarata • Leann Chilton • Michelle Dean • Patrick Dean • Meghan Freeman • Diana Giacalone • Bene Hanquet • Alice Kohler • Tom O’Connell • Amy Reno • Julie Stanglein • Nicci Thornton-Lowrey • Gina Timme • Jessica Walker • Wendy Schneider CLIENTPROGRAM PROGRAM & SERVICES COMMITTEE CLIENT & SERVICES COMMITTEE Chris Crouch • Debbie Emmelkamp • Debbie Morrissey • Jennifer Hope • Robert Naismith • Stephen Kinstler CLINICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE CLINICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE - UPDATED METRO ST. LOUIS: Dr. Gerard Erker • Dr. Barbara Green • Elissa Held Bradford • Penny James • Michelle Keating • Dr. Robert Naismith • Dr. Barry Singer • Dr. Florian P. Thomas • Karen Tripp CENTRAL MISSOURI: Dr. Sudhir Batchu • Dr. Robert Burger • Rebecca Dykhouse • Dr. Myles Goble • Deanna Harper • Giulianne Krug • Jennifer Richards • Amy Vieth • SOUTHEAST MISSOURI: Chris Byrd • Dr. David Lee • Steve Logel • Donna Miller • April Ostendorf-Morris • Ute Smith COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE - UPDATED Mark Abels • Susan Evans • Molly Higgins • Bruce Hoskins • Aaron Hyland • Beth Norviel • Joe Pollack • Steve Richardson • Rhonda Ries-Aguilar • Heidi Suppelsa • Missy Slay COMMUNITY GRANTS COMMITTEE COMMUNITY GRANTS COMMITTEE Debbie Emmelkamp • Richard Greene • Angela L. Pearson • Lucy McCalpin • Beth Norviel • Sandy Howell CORPORATE ACHIEVERS ADVISORY COUNCIL CORPORATE ACHIEVER ADVISORY - UPDATED Jim Blair • Tim Brown • Gerard Carmody • Bill Churchill • Jeanne Churchill • Ashley Duerst • Alan Fine • Sandy Hoffman • Jack Mannebach • Jennifer Marler • Erin McWilliams • Anne Nativi • Kevin Priester • Joseph Sivewright • Steve Walli • Jeffery Yorg DONOR DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE DONOR DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE Jim Blair • Randall Beuckendorf • Gerard Carmody • Brendon Gallagher • Michael Houlihan • Tim Huskey • Mike Phillips • Lynette Roccia • Rick Rovak GATEWAY AREA CHAPTER YOUNG PROFESSIONALS ADVISORY GATEWAY AREA CHAPTER YOUNG PROFESSIONALS ADVISORY COUNCIL COUNCIL Karen Dabrowski • Chariti Hoven • Terry Kitzmiller • Jaime Patterson • Steve Poindexter • Jonathan Reeder • Kate Smith GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COMMITTEE GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COMMITTEE ACHIEVER ADVISORY - UPDATED Amelia Brummitt • Dr. James Brasfield • Marsha Campbell • Leann Chilton • Marty Exline • James Foil • Sean Hogan • Kay Holmes • Meredith Johnston • Stephen Kinstler • Chris Lepper • Rick Rovak • Nancy Schnoebelen • Amy Thomas • Dr. Florian Thomas • Buck Van Hooser • Steve Walli • Walter Wildman • Sheelah Yawitz INTERNS INTERNS - UPDATED with summer Daphne Benzaquen • Miriam Brinley • Angela Brown • Emily Brown • Brooke Brunett • Maggie Burrus • Carrie Choules • Linda Church • Heather Cowden • Danielle DeWoskin • Carla Eversole • Jenna Fusinatto • Jordana Geller • DaTiana Guerrero • Kacy Hall • Brian Held • Jeffery Hendricks • Jacqueline Hoffman • Tom Jenkins • Meghan Kinnison • Tyanna Lemmitt • LaGail Lenoir • Carmen Lieneke • Nicole McCarthy • Lindsay Miller • Heather Neff-Jones • Anna Nickles • Bhumi Patel • Vlada ‘Victoria’ Pavlichenko • Alexandra Rutkowski • Charlotte Sableman • Olivia Schram • Olivia Schram • Shannon Scott • Corey Sokol • Meaghan Steuber • Whitney Stovall • Katharina Tomalak • Amy Webster • Drevon Wright MS SERVICE DAY VOLUNTEERS MAKE A DIFFERENCE DAY VOLUNTEERS Alpha Delta Pi at Saint Louis University • Alpha Delta Gamma at Saint Louis University • Alex Alameda • Cindy Laboube • Claire Casler • Conner Casler • Doug Casler • David Compton • Samantha Curry • Jay Conderman • Jack Dabrowski • Karen Dabrowski • Patrick Dannegger • Joe Ellerson • Gateway Area Chapter Young Professionals • Thomas Gant •Danny Greeves • David Henderson • Nicholas Henderson • Nick Heidenreich • Rudy Hubert • Sally Kalisha • Sandra Kelley • Kevin Kronk • Joe Lauer • Mike McCorkell • Robyn McCorkell • Jeffery Oberman • Vlada ‘Victoria’ Pavlichenko • Kathy Radzom • Charlotte Sableman • Natalie Shedd • Jennifer Stevens • Dennis Suitak PEERSUPPORT SUPPORT LEADER COUNCIL PEER LEADER COUNCIL - UPDATED Robyn Hulsey • Toni Kodner • Debbie Morrissey • Debby Rhodes • Joe Salacki PEERSUPPORT SUPPORT VOLUNTEERS PEER VOLUNTEERS - UPDATED Tony Adams • Amy Anderson • Susan Aubuchon • Sharon Bradley • Victoria Buchheit • Joyce Clark • Lacy Cole • Lynelle David • Rebecca Dykhouse • Diane Earhart • Michelle Forst-Wingier • Dawn Franzen • Eileen Gandt • Kevin Gunn • Cathy Harre • Jeanette Hazen • Gwen Heard • David Hemphill • Lisa Hemphill • Debbie Hill • Robyn Hulsey • Linda Jackson • Penny James • Meredith Johnston • Michelle Keating • Marlene Keiser • Toni Kodner • Anne Konieczny • Dorothy Kurtz • Carol Lacini • Susan Leach • Chris Lepper • Sharon Loesch • Mary McCabe • Debbie Morrissey • Walter Olszewski • Lois Pastori-Rood • Marcia Pederson • Sally Pittman • Anne Reiser • Debby Rhodes • Diana Ross • Rosemary Rychlewski • Joe Salacki • Wendy Schneider • Stacey Schufford • Norma Shahan • Sandy Sherman • Charline Sherrill • Carol Smith • Edna Smith • Sharon Snell • Ruth Spickerman • Kelly Tovar • Cheryl Vaughn • Jim Walker • Sherri Waxman • Robert Williams

JOIN THE MOVEMENT: nationalMSsociety.org

Volunteers

core values LEADERSHIP

PROGRAMS & SERVICES PLANNING AND EVALUATION PROGRAMS & SERVICES PLANNING & EVALUATION COMMITTEE -COMMITTEE UPDATED Shelby Dersch • Debbie Emmelkamp • Jennifer Hope • Dr. Thy Huskey • Dr. Amy Rauchway LONG-TERM CARE COMMITTEE LONG-TERM CARE COMMITTEE - UPDATED Wendy Apgar • Melissa Campbell • Chris Crouch • Carla Cook • Sandy Howell • Marquita Meyer • Peggy Neufeld • Cathy Phillips • Duana C. Russell-Thomas • Pam Shipman • Jody Wagner • Sharon Wooten MSAMBASSADORS AMBASSADORS STEERING COMMITTEE MS STEERING COMMITTEE Lynna Heathman • Tony Moellman • Michelle Lowe • Jennifer Luner • Tim Roccia MSAMBASSADORS AMBASSADORS MS Joel Achtenberg • Jagannadha Avasarala • Pamela Bascio • Jean Beausang • G. Beck • Lisa Beck • Julie Belzer • Susan Billiot • Susan Brewer • Amelia Brummitt • Andy Burmeister • Gail Cameron • Michele Campbell • Matthew Cleek • Charlotte Cloutier • Christy Connoyer • James Dean • Leslie Deckard • Ashley Duerst • Diane Earhart • Carol Edwards • Joanne Elizondo • Kristina Finney • Sean Fogerty • Aimee Haas • Shelice Harris • Karen Heath • Lynna Heathman • Terry Heathman • Sandy Hoffman • Robyn Hulsey • Meredith Johnston • Cary Jordan • David Kirk • Tara Kirk • Anna Lehrke • Janice Levine • Sylvia Longmire • Michelle Lowe • Jennifer Luner • Leah Martinez • Julie Miller • Tony Moellman • Louis Monken • Missy Morrison • Debbie Morrissey • Rachel Myers • Linda Osborne • Jaime Patterson • Marsha Peabody • Jean Phillips • Denise Pisciotta • Joe Pisciotta • Dwayne Powell • Tim Roccia • Rick Ross • Jonathan Sandheinrich • Karen Schubert • Stacey Schufford • Lisa Sedlak • Mary Sita • Diane Smith • Ty Smith • Kimberly Stephenson • Stephanie Tate • Steve Tate • Kathleen Wallace • Philip White • Walter Wildman • Barri Wiseman WALKMSMS RECRUITMENT AND COMMUNITY WALK COMMITTEES WALK COMMITTEE Phillip Amato • Brenda Bender • Lisa Bennett • Mike Bennett • Brenda Blackman • Catherine Buchanan • Pamela Clanahan • Bryan Daniels • Ashley Duerst • Courtney Goodman • Jim Grant • Chrissy Hill • Jon Hinton • Sandy Hinton • Sean Hogan • Kurt Kientzle • Jean Kienzle • Amy J. Klueter-Thomas • David M. Kodner • Shayla Leibovitz • Leah Martinez • Mary Meyer • Donna Morgan • Joanna Pack • Teresa Ramage • Will Richardson • Melissa Rider • Terri Roach • Laura Robinson • Robyn Satory • Sam Schaal • Keith Snavely • Carol Suhling • Todd Suhling • Barbara Taylor • Tamra Terry • Lana Temples • Amy Thomas • Pat Venditti • Barb Walgren • Brian Waldrop • Walter Wildman • Sheelah R. Yawitz WOMEN ON MOVE COMMITTEE WOMEN ON THETHE MOVE COMMITTEE - UPDATED Pauline Cella • Sherry Gibson • Cathy Inkley • Jana Inman • Michelle Keating • Donna Maynes • Donna McLain • Margie Moskoff • Kathie Phillips • Lynette Roccia • Carmen Walker VOLUNTEER DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE VOLUNTEER DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE Jack Dabrowski • Karen Dabrowski • Kari Gillespie • Lisa Hemphill • Penny James • Toni Kodner • Michael Lechwar • Michelle Ludwig-Lovell SPECIAL THANKS TO DEDICATED THESE DEDICATED VOLUNTEERS SPECIAL THANKS THESE VOLUNTEERS Angela Agrippino-Glover • Christine Albin • Kim Armstrong • Eric Bacon • Danny Baird • Teresa Baldwin • Eric Bauche • Jennifer Benestante • Jennifer Berend • Richard Berman • Kyle Berry • Amy Berthel • Corey Betker • Paul Biggs • Chante Bolden • Eleanor Borelli • Mary Brautigam • Janey Brewen • Valarie Britton • The Brothers Band • Cindy Brown • Latashia Brown • Melvyn Brown • Peggy Brown • Andy Burmeister • Gail Cameron • Leslie Caplan • Gwen Carl • John Carney • Tammy Carter • Kathy Caveny • Renu Chandra • Deborah Chiodini • Maria Chiriboga • Christopher Chylsta • Emily Church • Ashley Clapp • Ruby Clark • Angela Conlon • Everlyne Connor • Richard Conoway • Stephen Cooper • Angie Couvion • Sherri Crider • Samantha Curry • Sarah Davis • Susan Dayton • James Dean • Roberta Diehl • Terrence Dobson • Scott Douglass • Alice Douthit • Brittany Dowell • Megan Doyle • John Droste • Carol Edwards • Joanne Elizondo • Mary Engelkemeyer • Karen Erickson • Jessica Essex • Martina Faenger • Andrey Feygin • Kristina Finney • Barbara Fisher • Sean Fogerty • Arthur Ford • Vanessa Froelich • Don Fruhwirth • Victor Gail • Jennifer Ganser (Siess) • Veronica Garcia • Lee George • Sharon Gibbs • Josh Giesing • Patty Gilpin • Fred Glover • Jody Gorder • Shirley Gram • Reneta Grant-King • John Greenlee • Dortha Grouse • Tina Grubbs • Aimee Haas • Kim Hairston • Donna Sue Hampp • Stephanie Hanson • Catherine Harre • Shelice Harris • Joy Hathaway • Lynna Heathman • David Henderson • Christine Hickman • Jordan Hildebrand • Barbara Hill • Shaun Hill • Kelsey Hoffman • Jeffrey Huang • Adam Kallal • Sandra Heller • Peggy Kitchen • Richard Kossmeyer • Paul Kuhn • Amy Levin • Janice Levine • Becky Lily • Jacqueline Lindsey • Nancy Linneman • Kathy Lynn • Dede Madjiley • Jerry Mann • Sandra Maxwell • Mary McCabe • Donna McCarrison • Chris McCurdy • Peggy Mohan • Chris Morehead • Marvin Muchnick • Sandy Muchnick • Annie Mundloch • Elaine Murphy • Jessica Nation • Heather Neff Jones • Rebecca Neu • Michelle Nguyen • Patricia Ocasek • Dillon Ohlemiller • Brian O’Neal • Linda Osborne • Sharon Owens • Julie Pallardy • Jean Parmeley • Paul Parmeley • Tina Pellerito • Dwayne Powell • Katie Price • Linda Provow • Kathy Quach • Brindha Ravi • Deronda Reid • Arthur Robles • Eric Rosenberg • Nicholas Rosinis • Paty Ryan • Audry Saunders • Suzanne Schaeffer • James Schmittgens • Anna Schneider • Suzanne Schneider • Judi Schoen • Natalie Shedd • Tara Shipley • Kiandrea Singleton • Amanda Stephens • Rita Stevenson • Annette Stiff • Michele Stokes • Charles Smallwood • Jeannine Stuart • Miranda Summers • Terry Swalley • Charlotte Thorton • Amber Tobiasz • Marcia Tolcou • Anne Tomlinson • Ramachar Vaidyanathan • Kenn Vattathara • Lynn Vattathara • Rachel Vertrees • Amy Vandergriff • Stanley Viglione • Kevin Volner • Hau Vu • Aaron Vyas • Christine Wang • Willie Watkins • Greta Weatherly • Richard Wendel • Mike Whitney • Scott Wibbenmeyer • Norman Wildman • Jenna Willis • Jeffery Wilson • Barri Wiseman • Lisa Wolk • Dennis Wright • Ariana Young • Milena Zheleva • Linda Zurfluh • Natalie Zurfluh

We are leaders in the vision of a world free of MS. Through creativity and hard work, we accelerate the pace of scientific discovery, promote quality health care, stimulate community resources and services, advocate for favorable government policies, and are the world’s best source of information about multiple sclerosis.

“It was a nice setting for camp and a great way for kids to better understand MS from someone besides Mom and Dad.” - Camp Hope MS Participant Parent 1,042 people connected with others through family and social programs such as family evenings, Camp Hope MS, Take Me Out to the Ballgame, Relationship Matters and Spring Rendezvous in 2011.

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core values INTEGRITY

We are honest and straightforward in all that we do. We treat everyone with dignity and respect. We act responsibly with resources entrusted to us. We are accountable and act in accordance with these values.

2011 Financial Statements NATIONAL MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY GATEWAY AREA CHAPTER STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION

Current Assets Cash and cash equivalents Contributions and pledges receivable Contributions receivable from NMSS Grant receivable Interest receivable Prepaid expenses Investments Total Current Assets

ASSETS

Non Current Assets Property and equipment, at cost, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization Due from NMSS Total Noncurrent Assets Total Assets

Years Ended September 30 2011 2010 $903,595 $1,082,325 668,770 840,179 - 628 150,000 2,600 10,227 27,550 26,060 1,645,005 2,021,067 $3,397,520 $ 3,980,486

154,886 175,634 3,555 4,091 $158,441 $ 179,725 $3,555,961

$4,160,211

Liabilities and Net Assets Current Liabilities Due to the NMSS Remittance due to National Headquarters $547,972 $513,850 Other payables to National Headquarters 13,728 15,734 Accounts payable and accrued expenses 307,904 361,091 Deferred sponsorship and underwriting revenue 32,065 35,244 Total Current Liabilities $901,669 $925,919 Net Assets Unrestricted Designated by the Board: Walter Christen fund Undesignated Total Unrestricted Net Assets

1,645,005 2,021,067 799,356 1,157,593 2,444,361 3,178,660 209,931 55,632

Temporarily restricted net assets Total Net Assets

2,654,292 3,234,292

Total Liabilities and Net Assets

$3,555,961 $4,160,211

â&#x20AC;&#x153;My choreworker is such a huge help to me! Thank you MS Society for helping me get someone to help around my home. It helps to keep me independent.â&#x20AC;? - Carol 335 people received financial assistance for home and vehicle modifications or emergency utility, rent or mortgage payments, chore assistance, respite care, or incontinence products in 2011.

JOIN THE MOVEMENT: nationalMSsociety.org 12 | JOIN THE MOVEMENT: nationalMSsociety.org

2011 Financial Statements NATIONAL MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY GATEWAY AREA CHAPTER STATEMENTS OF ACTIVITIES

Years Ended September 30, 2011 2010

Unrestricted and Temporarily Restricted Net Asset Activity Public Support and Revenue Public Support Special events (including in-kind donations of $69,548) Less benefit to donor costs and in-kind Membership and contributions (including in-kind donations of $46,378) Legacies Received at National Headquarters Total received directly Received indirectly Combined Federal Service Campaign Total Public Support

16,032 16,072 $4,826,966 $5,049,157

Other Support and Revenue Investment Income Net realized and unrealized losses on investments Service fees Miscellaneous income Total Other Support and Revenue Total Support and Revenue

24,838 59,342 (11,439) 106,660 57,482 32,672 2,140 14,729 $73,021 $213,403 $4,899,987 $5,262,560

Expenses Program Services Research Public support to National Headquarters Client programs Community programs Professional education and training Public education Total Program Services Expenses

1,165,142 795,025 694,445 682,810 1,236,708 1,271,894 699,474 687,829 202,312 230,603 521,942 539,680 $4,520,023 $4,207,841

Support Services Fundraising Management and general Total Support Services Expense Total Expenses Increase (decrease) in Unrestricted Net Assets

769,544 800,865 190,420 179,756 $959,964 $980,621 $5,479,987 $5,188,462 (580,000) 74,098

Net Assets, Beginning of Year Net Assets, End of Year

3,234,292 $2,654,292

$4,220,025 $4,272,007 (452,405) (371,750) 918,799 $976,158 84,598 115,155 39,917 41,515 4,810,934 5,033,085

core values EXCELLENCE

We set high standards of performance and service delivery, and work toward excellence in everything we do.

3,160,194 $3,234,292

*In FY2011, $478,000 of reserves were used to support research efforts, research fellowships, awareness efforts, and the expansion of progressive MS programming.

“Thursday afternoons have been greatly enhanced for us at the NHC Town and Country by the addition of a Tai Chi Class. Since starting Tai Chi I have experienced greater feeling and movement in my lower right leg. I’m not ready to start walking again, but a gain is a gain. It is also nice to meet with fellow class members and our instructor for a quiet 30 minutes of exercise and relaxation during a busy day .”

- Chet, NHC of Town & Country Resident

19 people living in the specialized MS long-term care community at NHC of Town & Country received ongoing support and resources in 2011.

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core values TEAMWORK

We advance the interests of people affected by multiple sclerosis through individual and team achievements. We recognize our volunteers and staff as our most valued resources. We encourage collaboration across organizational boundaries.

Fundraising: $769,544

Financial Snapshot

Below is a look at the Chapterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s revenue and expenses for fiscal year 2011, which ran from October 1, 2010 to September 30, 2011. FY2011 REVENUE Other Revenue: $73,021 Women on the Move: $83,934 Do-it-Youself Events: $23,495

Corporate Achievers: $217,364 Workplace Giving: $256,251 Individual giving: $313,460 Corporations and Foundations: $419,918

Bike MS: $2,161,000

Mud Run MS (now MuckRuckus MS): $432,471 Walk MS: $730,536

Challenge Walk MS: $525,016

FY2011 EXPENSES

Professional education and training: $202,312

Management and general: $190,420

Public education: $521,942

Local Client Programs: $1,236,708

National Programming and Organizational Development: $694,445

Local Community Programs: $699,474 Fundraising: $769,544

JOIN THE MOVEMENT: nationalMSsociety.org

Research: $1,165,142

Gateway Area Chapter Calendar

201

“Other than my family, I’ve never been as passionate about anything in my life as I am about Challenge Walk.The people who do the walk are the most amazing people I’ve come across in my life.” - Rick, diagnosed in 1997

“We fell in love with Challenge Walk MS. It’s great because it is so intimate. It’s like a retreat. ” - Heather, diagnosed in 2009

“I’ve met some wonderful and inspiring people over the years at Challenge Walk MS. I never thought that walking 50 miles would be fun, year after year, but it truly is.” - Randy, walking for his dad

DEAN TEAM AUTOMOTIVE CHALLENGE WALK MS | JUNE 1-3 | ST. LOUIS, MO | GATEWAYMSCHALLENGE.ORG | 800 344 4867

“It was incredible. The fact that I have MS and I was going to do this walk was amazing. The biggest thing is you get a real sense of community.” - Susan, diagnosed in 2010

THE WALK WILL CHALLENGE YOU. THE EXPERIENCE WILL CHANGE YOU. 3 DAYS. 50 MILES. COUNTLESS MEMORIES. YOU CAN BE A PART OF CHALLENGE WALK MS.

JOIN U

www.gatewayMSsociety.org

JUNE 1-3 St. Louis, MO

Walk 2012

APRIL 21 Arnold, MO Carbondale, IL Clayton, MO Edwardsville, IL Eureka, MO St. Peters, MO Troy, MO APRIL 22 Gateway Area Millstadt, IL Walk 2012 APRIL 22 Cape Girardeau, MO Godfrey, IL Moberly, MO APRIL 26 gatewayMSwalk.org Steppin’ Out for MS Night Walk St. Louis, MO APRIL 28 Columbia, MO MAY 12 Jefferson City, MO

2012 FUNDRAISING EVENTS

800-344-4867

SEPTEMBER 8-9 Columbia, MO

2012

Columbia, MO - TBD

St. Louis, MO - MAY 19

MuckRuckus MS

DO SOMETHING ABOUT MS NOW

“Because I sit in this wheelchair all the time I don’t get a lot of opportunities to move my hips anymore,” Valarie said. “To have them move and to reconnect them to my brain was a pretty neat experience. I felt really unstable about 15 minutes into it until my hips kind of loosened

Not only did Valarie get to experience the hourlong trail ride with her 8-year-old daughter Maya, she also felt more connected to her body.

“I was terrified at first and really dubious of how these people were going to put me on a horse,” Valarie said.

Valarie Brunjes, who has lived with MS since 2003, had been to Family Weekend at Touch of Nature before, but had never been on a horse before last fall.

www.gatewayMSsociety.org | 800-344-4867

The Chapter offers financial assistance to qualified candidates for therapeutic horsemanship. Go to gatewaymssociety.org g Staying Healthy With MS g Therapeutic Horsemanship.

“It gave me a completely different understanding about what my hips are doing,” Valarie said. “To actually move with that rhythm and the gait of a horse has changed the way I feel when I stand up. It’s given me an increased sense of security in daily tasks. I’ve got a different understanding of my body because of it.”

The benefit of the therapeutic horsemanship experience didn’t end when Valarie left Touch of Nature.

up and I felt like I was walking. It was pretty incredible.”

Back in the Saddle

Valarie Brunjes and daughter Maya enjoyed horseback riding together at Family Weekend at Touch of Nature in Carbondale.

New Years Day

Sunday

CarePartner Tele-Chat

Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday

Kickoff Rally Marion, IL

Monday

Kickoff Rally O’Fallon, MO O’Fallon, IL Cape Girardeau, MO Columbia, MO

Kickoff Rally Edwardsville, IL Fenton, MO Chesterfield, MO

Thursday

Wellness Network

Chapter Annual Meeting

Volunteer Orientation

Kickoff Rally Clayton, MO

Chapter Open House

Wednesday

Do you want to learn more about the Chapter or want to get more involved? Join us for a one hour open house, see how the Chapter is helping people move forward and learn how you can join the movement! Open houses are the first Thursday of every month at noon or 6 p.m. at our St. Louis office at 1867 Lackland Hill Parkway, 63146. Please RSVP through our website at gatewaymssociety.org g Chapter Calendar, or call 800-344-4867.

Tuesday

January

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4 11 18 25

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DECEMBER 2011

College Scholarship Application Deadline

Friday

6 13 20 27

19 26

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FEBRUARY 2012 T

Saturday

“It takes a long time, but if you feel like your rights are being violated then stick with it and do whatever it takes,” Robert said. “It didn’t cost a dime.”

Robert advocated for himself and it took a little research and a lot of time and patience, but it’s worth it.

Robert Williams and wife Diane finally got an accessible parking spot in their apartment complex, after some persistence.

www.gatewayMSsociety.org | 800-344-4867

Persistence paid off for Robert Williams. Robert, After about a year and jumping through all sorts who has MS, lives with his wife in a low-income of hoops including numerous requests to the Williamson County Housing Authority apartment Williamson County Housing Authority, contacting in Johnston City, IL. Both he and his wife are the Southern Illinois Center for Independent Living disabled, yet his requests for a handicapped and finally filing a complaint through the U.S. parking space to be installed at his complex were Department of Human Rights, the Williamson denied. After some County Housing research, Robert learned “(Getting the accessible parking spot Authority finally agreed that not only was he install a handicapped installed) takes a long time, but if you to eligible for a space, but parking space reserved it was illegal to not have feel like your rights are being violated, for him. one. than stick with it and do whatever it “I was surprised, happy takes. It didn’t cost a dime.” “At the time I was and elated because it thinking they need a took almost an entire — Robert Williams year,” Robert said. spot not just for me but for others,” Robert said. “I decided to start pushing for it and I took it as far The new spot means that Robert and his wife will and as high as I could. I kept with it because I knew have a safe spot to get in and out of their vehicle what they were doing and saying was illegal.” and won’t have to park along a ditch near the parking lot.

Persistence, Patience Pay off for Self-Advocate

Monday

Tuesday

Lincoln’s Birthday

President’s Day

Town Hall Meeting Mt. Vernon, IL

Mardi Gras

Valentine’s Day

Leap Day

Meet & Greet St. Louis, MO

Washington’s Birthday

Ash Wednesday

Wellness Network

New Connections Cape Girardeau, MO

Volunteer Orientation

Groundhog Day

M 2 9 16 23 30

S 1 8 15 22 29

Thursday

Chapter Open House

Wednesday

MS Action Day Jefferson City, MO Town Hall Meeting Columbia, MO Carepartner & Family Young Professionals Group Meet & Greet

Interested in special MS licence plates AND helping the Gateway Area Chapter? Contact the Chapter at 314.781.9020. Sign up at www.nationalMSsociety.org/MSactivist to receive Action Alerts from the National MS Society.

Sunday

February

JANUARY 2012

Friday

5 12 19 26

18 25

F 2

MARCH 2012

Saturday

Wendy, diagnosed in 1998 On top of Mt. McKinley in Denali

Wendy Booker, who has lived with MS since 1998, has stood on top of six of the world’s Seven Summits, as well as the North Pole. She will help us kick off MS Awareness week at a special thank you rally on Sunday, March 11.

Get the latest news on Booker’s adventures at www.wendybooker.net.

“We often have to try a little harder and take a little longer,” she said. “I challenge those with MS to go out and find that special thing, that activity, that passion that will take them away from their MS, if only for awhile, and from that they will see that anything is possible.”

we all face in life — especially if life includes an unpredictable illness.

www.gatewayMSsociety.org | 800-344-4867

Booker has said from the start of her Seven Summits journey that the physical peaks she climbs are metaphors for the ups and downs

“Taking on a physical challenge or goal is always a great way to engage your brain and move forward, but a challenge doesn’t always have to be physical,” the 57-year-old mother of three said. “Perhaps it is learning to paint, or a foreign language, or music. It doesn’t matter what it is. But during the time your mind is engaged you get back a piece of what you were before you had MS, and that is where empowerment will come from.”

If she couldn’t reach the highest peak on earth, she decided she would reach the geographical “top of the world” instead.

After her diagnosis with MS in 1998, Booker had made it her quest to climb the world’s Seven Summits. She succeeded at six: Mt. McKinley, Mt. Kilimanjaro, Mt. Elbrus, Mt. Aconcagua, Mt. Vinson Massif and Mt. Kosciuszko. But after two attempts in 2009 and 2010, she realized that summiting Mt. Everest was simply beyond her reach.

On April 23, 2011, Wendy Booker became the first person with MS to stand at the North Pole. And that was just the beginning.

Mountain Climber/Adventurer with MS to Kick-Off Awareness Week March 11

Town Hall Meeting Marion, IL

Daylight Saving Time Begins

APRIL 2012

Free From Falls St. Louis, MO

First Day of Spring

Free From Falls St. Louis, MO

Meet & Greet Kirksville, MO

Wellness Network

New Connections Columbia, MO

Volunteer Orientation

MS AWARENESS WEEK

Town Hall Meeting Kennett, MO Meet & Greet Kennett, MO

Carepartner & Family Group

Thursday

Chapter Open House

Wednesday

MARCH 11-17 IS MS AWARENESS WEEK.

Tuesday

• Start a Walk MS team, or ask someone to start a team in your honor. • Mention MS Awareness Week on Facebook. • Mention the MS Society in your email signature. • Sign up to volunteer for a Chapter event. • Wear orange during MS Awareness Week

Monday

Appreciation Rally St. Louis, MO

FEBRUARY 2012

Sunday

March

National Doctor’s Day

Friday

Research MS Collinsville, IL

St. Patrick’s Day

MS Wellness Fair Columbia, MO St. Louis, MO

Saturday

“I never once asked for a donation,” Tim said. “I told my story and pointed them to where they could go to donate.”

In Tim Sauer’s first Walk MS fundraising campaign, he had an interesting concept.

“The fact that they were willing to donate on my behalf really motivated me to do more and to be more active,” Tim said.

Tim’s team the Mylein Hunters grew to about 30 people and raised about $13,000. While Tim’s messages inspired people to donate, their donations in turn inspired Tim.

www.gatewayMSsociety.org | 800-344-4867

“I don’t do much small,” Tim said. “So I figured if I’ve got MS, I’m going to deal with it. I started going through all of my contacts and started putting out the emails and it progressed from there and before I knew it, my email distribution was up above 500-600 people. I had people from multiple states making donations online.”

While Tim initially hesitated in telling people he had MS, once he decided to disclose it and once he decided to raise money for Walk MS – it was out there.

Tim decided to tell people he had MS on his 40th birthday in February.

Tim Sauer, who says he never does anything “People were starting to not see me but something ‘small’, raised different,” Tim said. “It was because I wasn’t sharing with them what was going on. Keeping it about $13,000 in his first year quiet generated more questions.” at Walk MS.

“Sending those emails was something I would not typically do,” Tim said. “I’m usually more private; my feelings are my feelings. From that standpoint this was a big thing.”

Tim, who was diagnosed in September of 2010, used his Walk MS campaign as an opportunity to tell people he had MS. Tim sent out a series of emails describing living with MS and how it not only affects him, but his wife and two sons.

Myelin Hunter Makes Big Impact in First Walk MS

Palm Sunday

Spring Rendezvous, Grafton, IL

Cape Girardeau, MO Godfrey, IL Moberly, MO

Internship Application Deadline

Easter Sunday

April Fool’s Day

Sunday

Carepartner Tele-Chat

Monday

Young Professionals Meet & Greet

Thursday

26 Wellness Network Steppin’ Out for MS Night Walk Downtown, St. Louis, MO

Volunteer Orientation

Chapter Open House

Wednesday

Connect with others living with MS. Visit gatewaymssociety.org g “Meet Others with MS” to learn about social programs and events like Family Evening and Weekend, carepartner resources and Talk MS programs.

Free From Falls St. Louis, MO

Carepartner & Family Group

Tuesday

April

12 19 26

18 25

4 11

1 8

MARCH 2012

Good Friday

Friday

7 14 21 28

20 27

MAY 2012

Spring Rendezvous, Grafton, IL

Arnold, MO Eureka, MO Carbondale, IL Millstadt, IL Clayton, MO Columbia, MO St. Peters, MO Edwardsville, IL Troy, MO

Passover Begins

Saturday

When Keri, who enjoys physical challenges,

“This is good for my girlfriends to really show their support,” Keri said.

Keri’s team, the Mudflaps, were 11 strong last year and raised nearly $4,000. “Every person on my team tried to fundraise really hard,” Keri said. “Me having MS really gave them a reason to get involved and it opened our eyes to what charity events are all about. It’s truly

The fact that money raised through the event benefits the 6,800 people in our area like Keri who live with MS was just the icing on the cake.

“It seems like something I would want to check off my bucket list,” Keri said.

heard about the obstacle course (now known as MuckRuckus MS) and it definitely interested her.

Keri Pruneau, her husband and a group of friends known as the Mudflaps raised nearly $4,000 last year.

“It was a really good experience and I’m glad I did it and will definitely tell others about it,” Keri said. “I do it because I can. I want to move while I can. Because my leg gives me so many issues, I fear that I’m going to have mobility issues and it scares me. So I want to do the best I can and move as much as I can and fundraise as much as I can.”

Keri will also definitely be back in 2012 for MuckRuckus MS.

meaningful to people. It makes you want to be a better citizen and to be empathetic towards people.”

www.gatewayMSsociety.org | 800-344-4867

When someone living with MS tells their friends about their diagnosis, friends wonder and ask ‘what can I do?’ Keri Pruneau, who was diagnosed a couple of years ago, found an answer for her friends – ‘get dirty with me at this fundraiser for the National MS Society.’

Getting Down and Dirty for Keri

Monday

Tuesday

Memorial Day

Mother’s Day

Kickoff Ride St. Louis, MO 2012

Free From Falls St. Louis, MO

Aren’t sure what to give mom or dad for Mother’s Day or Father’s Day? A donation to the National MS Society in Carepartner & Family Group their honor is sure to fit. Free From Falls Go to gatewaymssociety.org g “Donate.” St. Louis, MO

Sunday

New Connections Mt. Vernon, IL

Wellness Network

Talk MS Meet & Greet St. Charles, MO

Volunteer Orientation

23 29

9 16

APRIL 2012 M

Friday

World MS Day

Thursday

Chapter Open House

Wednesday

May

17 24

4 11

JUNE 2012

S 2

F 1

St. Louis, MO

Jefferson City, Kickoff Ride Columbia, MO MO 2012

Family Evening at Grant’s Farm

Saturday

“It was incredible. I didn’t think I’d be able to do it,” Susan said. “The fact that I have MS and I was going to do this walk was amazing. When you’re diagnosed with MS you come up with a list of things that you may not be able to do anymore, like walking. This gave me the opportunity to do something that I had never done before. I feel like I’m in better shape and I work harder because there is nothing to motivate you more to walk than to think you may not be able to.”

Those three days in June were also overwhelming to Susan.

“I just thought I’d send out a link to my fundraising site on my facebook page,” Susan said. “I couldn’t believe it. I got such an overwhelming response from people – people I hadn’t seen since high school.”

Susan accepted the challenge and joined the MS Ramblers team . She used Challenge Walk MS as a way to tell people that she had MS, and to raise more than $5,000.

www.gatewayMSsociety.org | 800-344-4867

“I didn’t think it was physically possible to walk 50 miles in three days,” Susan said. “My husband said yeah that’s crazy, you can’t walk 50 miles, you’ll be stumbling all over the place. But then I thought why not? I didn’t know what the course of MS was going to take and this would be my best shot at doing Challenge Walk MS.”

Then some friends who also live with MS told Susan about the Dean Team Automotive Challenge Walk MS and walking 50 miles in three days.

A couple months later, when Susan was out on her daily walk with her husband, her leg felt stiff and was dragging. That’s when it hit that she may actually have MS.

“I wasn’t having any problems,” Susan said. “I didn’t feel bad so I thought nothing was wrong.”

When Susan Billiot first heard that she may have MS, she didn’t believe it.

Susan Billiot had a memorable experience at her first Challenge Walk MS with the MS Ramblers.

Up for the Challenge - In for the Experience

Walk 2012

MAY 2012

Family Program Cape Girardeau, MO

Town Hall Meeting West Plains, MO

Father’s Day

Family Evening Columbia, MO

Sunday

JULY 2012 T

Carepartner Tele-Chat

Monday

Wednesday

Thursday

Carepartner & Family Group

First Day of Summer

Young Professionals Meet & Greet

Wellness Network

Sylvia Lawry’s Birthday (NMSS Founder)

Flag Day

Volunteer Orientation

Chapter Open House

Don’t forget you can access Chapter programs like the monthly Midwest Teleconference series or the Wellness Network from your home phone and computer at gatewaymssociety.org.

Tuesday

June

Walk 2012

Friday

Research MS Carbondale, IL

Family Evening Carlyle Lake, IL

Walk 2012

Saturday

“I thought this would be very good because if I do have a major relapse, it would be good for her to build friends who understand what it’s like to have a parent with MS,” Wendy said. “The staff did a phenomenal job making her and all the kids

Wendy, who has been living with MS since 1996, thought that the five-day summer camp would be a great opportunity for Lelah to just get away and have some fun, as well as meet other children affected by MS.

“The first thing she said to me was ‘I am so coming back next year,’” Wendy said.

Wendy Schneider knew everything she needed to know about her daughter’s experience at Camp Hope MS when Wendy picked up 10-year-old Lelah from the camp in Makanda, Illinois.

The inaugural Camp Hope MS was a tremendous success last July. Campers include (from left): MarLee Halfley, Lelah Schneider, Madeline Oxendine, and Carly Cottingham. www.gatewayMSsociety.org | 800-344-4867

“Lelah didn’t know anybody going to the camp but she seemed very comfortable with all the kids,” Wendy said. “I’m very glad she went. I don’t know what it was that the staff and volunteers did, but she just seemed to come more out of her shell and I want that for her. For her just to forget about serious stuff and be a kid was great.”

In July, the Chapter held its inaugural Camp Hope MS at Touch of Nature, just outside of Carbondale, and included swimming, canoeing, pontoon boat rides, adventure hikes, fishing, campfires, hay rides, arts and crafts, horseback riding and MS education and sharing groups. Wendy said the staff and volunteers created a very comfortable environment for her daughter.

feel comfortable, more so than any other camp experience. The staff really shined bright.”

Kids Find Comfort Zone at Inaugural Camp Hope MS

Internship Application Deadline

Canada Day

Monday

Sunday

Wellness Network

Volunteer Orientation

Chapter Open House

18 25

17 24

4 11

1 8

Friday

JUNE 2012 M

Thursday

Get inspired by the Tour de France and start your own Bike MS team! With 40, 75 and 100-mile route options each day, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got a route for every cyclist. Go to gatewaymsbikeride.org.

Independence Day

Wednesday

Camp Hope MS Makanda, IL

Carepartner & Family Group

Tuesday

July

AUGUST 2012 T

Saturday

www.gatewayMSsociety.org | 800-344-4867

Presidential Scholar Award Winner

— Rebecca Merlenbach

“Before I was diagnosed with MS, I took life for granted. Now I try to stay healthy, listen to my body, and strive to succeed. Sometimes jewels are hidden in the rough. MS was the rough that helped to reveal a more optimistic, caring me.”

2011. When Rebecca was diagnosed with MS as a teenager, her parents were unable to care for her and she was homeless. Due to financial hardships, her MS went untreated for a year causing her grades to suffer due to depression, migraines and blackouts. Through it all, Rebecca gained a new perspective on life. She considered MS the diamond in the rough that helped her become a more optimistic caring person with a drive to succeed. She is now studying public relations management and international business to learn how to run a nonprofit organization helping children in need.

The road has never been easy for Rebecca Merlenbach, who won the National MS Society’s Presidential Scholar award in

Funding The Future

JULY 2012

SEPTEMBER 2012

Monday

Sunday

Wellness Network

Volunteer Orientation

Young Professionals Summer Social

Carepartner & Family Group

New Connections Belleville, IL

Chapter Open House

Thursday

Wednesday

In 2011, the Chapter awarded $40,000 to 21 new college students through it scholarship program.

Tuesday

August

Friday

Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Fallon, IL

Research MS Cape Girardeau, MO

Saturday

“We have a catered dinner and party on Friday and Saturday night and it has become a mini-family reunion

It all started with Jack Turek and his brother riding for their cousin, Liz Mullen, who has MS. The next year another cousin and Jack’s son-inlaw joined. A couple of years later, the family members who came to Columbia to cheer on the riders decided to volunteer and now they sponsor a rest stop every year. The 20-25 person contingent that makes the trip to Columbia includes about 6-7 riders each year and enough volunteers to staff a rest stop.

For the MHW Milers team, Bike MS is a family affair – in fact it’s more like an annual family reunion.

together and sharing stories – it’s also about raising money, and lots of it. Since 2004, the team has raised more than $240,000 simply through personal solicitation. “We started out our first year and raised $4,500 and thought that was great,” Jack said. “With more people riding or volunteering we’ve expanded the network. Everybody

gets a tremendous amount of satisfaction that not only are we able to have fun, but we’re doing something really meaningful not only for our own relatives but for others living with MS. It’s a way to give back. Many of us are awfully fortunate, so for me it’s become my primary way of giving back.”

The MHW Milers Bike team has raised more than $240,000 since 2004.

www.gatewayMSsociety.org | 800-344-4867

Bike MS isn’t just about getting

The team name, MHW Milers, is of course a family name – in fact it’s a three-family name. The team rides for five people who live with MS, one Mullen, three Haskells and one Williams. The families are actually connected through another family name, the Connells, the namesake of the rest stop Connells’ Crossing.

as well as riding for the cause,” Jack said. “We wanted to keep our team just family. It makes it what it is for us and it keeps us all involved. We’ve got all kinds of cousins who live across the country. We have had people come from San Francisco, New York, Kentucky, Connecticut, Colorado and Texas.”

Bike MS a family affair for MHW Milers

2012

Southernmost, IL

Grandparentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day

AUGUST 2012

Sunday

Labor Day

OCTOBER 2012

Rosh Hashanah

Patriot Day

Carepartner & Family Group

Tuesday

Yom Kippur

Thursday

Wellness Network

Volunteer Orientation

Chapter Open House

Wednesday

Friday

Bootheel Area, MO Mt. Vernon, IL Washington, MO

Research MS Columbia, MO

2012

Saturday

Do you know about the MS Ambassadors program? Become an MS Ambassadors and discuss MS with friends and family, tell your stories at MS Society events, speak to community groups, talk to your doctors and other health professionals, reach out through your church or synagogue, visit with sponsors, share information online and represent the MS Society through media outreach. If interested call 314-781-9020.

Monday

September

The study actually looks at children and trying to differentiate pediatric MS from Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM).

“Our hypothesis is that we can see the difference between myelin injury vs. nerve injury using a special type of MRI called diffusion tensor imaging,” said Dr. Bensinger, a neuroradiologist.

Dr. Tammie Bensinger and Dr. Soe Mar hope that their research in special MRI techniques will be a step forward. The research at Washington University is funded by the Gateway Area Chapter of the National MS Society.

One of the most difficult and frustrating things about multiple sclerosis is simply diagnosing it.

If the diffusion tensor imaging is effective then it could help with diagnosing MS and also determining how effective treatments for MS are.

“We are hoping in the long run that we can use the technique in people with MS to differentiate between the axonal damage and myelin damage and how damage correlates with disability,” Dr. Mar said.

Dr. Soe Mar and Dr. Tammie Bensinger are working on a special type of MRI technique that could benefit people living with MS.

www.gatewayMSsociety.org | 800-344-4867

“Right now we don’t give immune therapies to children until we’re positive what they have is MS,” Bensinger said. “We’re worried that in kids we’re delaying treatment because we can’t tell the difference between the different diseases.”

Being able to diagnose children with MS has been particularly challenging, and delays or misdiagnosis could be potentially harmful to children.

“Sometimes we have a problem differentiating children with ADEM and MS,” said Dr. Soe Mar, a pediatric neurologist at Children’s Hospital in St. Louis. “Usually it’s a clinical judgment to determine what it is. So we’re hoping directional diffusivity can potentially measure the axonal damage.”

New MRI research could spell earlier diagnosis in MS

Columbus Day

Family Weekend at Touch of Nature Carbondale, IL

2013 NMSS College Scholarship Application Period Opens

Monday

Sunday

Carepartner & Family Group

Tuesday

Halloween

Young Professionals Meet & Greet

Thursday

Volunteer Orientation

Chapter Open House

Wednesday

October

17 24

9 16 23 30

3 10

SEPTEMBER 2012

Family Weekend at Touch of Nature Carbondale, IL

Friday

NOVEMBER 2012

MS Service Day

Family Weekend at Touch of Nature Carbondale, IL

6 John L. Trotter Research Program St. Louis, MO

Saturday

“The weekend was nice because you hear other couple’s stories and things resonate with things that we are struggling with,” Kathy said. “It was very valuable talking to others about different stages of the disease and different resources. We didn’t know there were this many resources available!”

“My husband is my hero with MS because he never complains,” Kathy said. “The first time it really affected us is when we went to the zoo with the kids and he was really struggling and he just kept walking and never complained. That was very brave on his part and he tried to protect us from how he was feeling. As his wife it upsets me to

“I try to be so independent and she is a natural caregiver, Dennis said. “I could see that it was creating some stress for her not being able to do things for me like she would like to. I thought the program would be a really good fit for us and for where we’re at in our relationship.”

Dennis is used to going 110 miles an hour. He has worked multiple jobs, been a community coordinator, a church pastor as well as a father and grandfather. Kathy has to walk a fine line on when to help and when to let Dennis be independent. Learning strategies to walk that fine line was one of the reasons the Murphys attended Relationship Matters.

see him struggling or know he’s in pain, but at the same time I really see how brave he is and he keeps on going. That’s why he’s my hero.”

Kathy calls her husband Dennis, who was diagnosed in 2008, her hero for how he handles living with MS.

www.gatewayMSsociety.org | 800-344-4867

With that in mind Dennis and his wife Kathy attended the Chapter’s Relationship Matters program in Cape Girardeau designed for couples living with MS and carepartners. The Murphys learned they aren’t alone and they face issues other people face every day.

“Education is everything,” Dennis said. “The more educated you can be the more proactive you can be and the more prepared you can be for whatever happens when it comes around the corner.”

When Dennis Murphy was diagnosed with MS in 2008, he looked for answers.

Relationship Matters: Couples Living with MS

20 28

Monday

DECEMBER 2012

Daylight Saving Time Ends

OCTOBER 2012

Sunday

Election Day

Thursday

Thanksgiving Day

Wellness Network

Volunteer Orientation

All Saints Day

Chapter Open House

Wednesday

November is National Caregiver’s month. Check out resources at gatewaymssocity.org g “Learn about MS” g “For Caregivers.”

Tuesday

November

Veteran’s Day

Friday

Saturday

KATE SMITH YOUNG PROFESSIONALS VOLUNTEER For me, volunteering is an opportunity to make a positive impact. At the same time, I get the benefit of meeting amazing people and learning team work and persistence, so it’s a win win! Getting the Young Professionals Group off the ground has had its ups and downs and sticking with it while the group grows has taught me invaluable lessons. I am constantly amazed by the number of people and programs working to cure this disease! I’ve also learned a lot about leadership, team work, networking, and community building. These are all invaluable skills and its pretty neat that I’ve been able to learn all of this while giving something back to my community.

www.gatewayMSsociety.org | 800-344-4867

KYLE ANDREWS DO IT YOURSELF VOLUNTEER I volunteer my time to organize Do-ItYourself events with 100% of proceeds benefiting the Gateway Area Chapter because my mom was diagnosed with MS when I was 3. The disease has always hit us literally close to home. It is my way of fighting back after watching my mom suffer all these years. I always dedicate these events to my mom. I’ve learned how many of your friends and family are willing to support you and your cause. People just seem to be happy when they are able to help out. It makes me feel good and adds smiles to other people’s faces, especially my mom’s.

JOYCE CLARK TELEFRIEND VOLUNTEER I have lived with MS for 40 years and have been a Telefriend Volunteer for more than 20. I enjoy hearing and talking to people with MS as they are trying to live a better life. Everybody needs a chance to be able to help themselves. The people I call inspire me and it is interesting to learn things from them that I can apply to my life. When I was diagnosed with MS, my children were small and I did everything anyone would have done with small children and it was tough at times, but I had to keep doing it. I hope in some small way, my volunteer calls help keep people moving.

We couldn’t do it without you!

Thank You Volunteers

23 31

24 31

New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve

1 8

JANUARY 2013

Monday

Hanukkah Begins

NOVEMBER 2012

Sunday

Kwanzaa Begins

Thursday

Wellness Network

Volunteer Orientation

Awards Party St. Louis, MO 2012 Chapter Open House

Wednesday

Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day

Friday

First Day of Winter

Saturday

Thank you for Joining the Movement with us. Remember we have something for everyone at the National MS Society. If you want to volunteer for a couple of hours, a day, or throughout the year, we have a fulfilling volunteer project for you. Go to gatewaymssociety.org g Volunteer for more.

Christmas Day

Carepartner & Family Group

Tuesday

December

youtube.com/gatewaymssociety

twitter.com/gatewayms

www.gatewayMSsociety.org | 800-344-4867

Gateway Area Chapter | 1867 Lackland Hill Parkway | St. Louis, MO 63146

Have a very safe and Happy New Year!

For the most up-to-date information go to gatewaymssociety.org g Chapter Calendar or follow us online.

We hope you find it useful and will join us this year by trying a program you haven’t before or inspiring our event participants through the Champions program.

We hope you enjoy the Gateway Area Chapter’s 2012 calendar.

facebook.com/gatewaymssociety facebook.com/gatewaymsbikeride facebook.com/gatewaymschallenge facebook.com/gatewaymswalk facebook.com/gatewaymuckms

happenings Meet & Greet Programs

St. Louis, MO Kennett, MO February 29, 6 p.m. March 13, 6 p.m. Ginger Bistro First Christian Church 6665 Delmar, 1st Floor 105 W. Washington St. University City, MO Kennett, MO 63130 63857 Dinner provided Light refreshments provided Kirksville, MO March 7, 6 p.m. Adair County Annex Building 302 N. Franklin St. Kirksville, MO 63501 Light refreshments provided

Research MS COLLINSVILLE, IL

Saturday, March 24, 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Collinsville, IL

GUEST SPEAKER:

Dr. Robert Naismith

OBJECTIVES:

MS specialists will provide information on: • Research & new therapies • New data on disease modifying medication for MS

COST:

FREE PROGRAM INCLUDES BRUNCH

Carepartner Family & Friends Group

This group covers a series of topics important to carepartners or to anyone who provides care for a loved one with MS. David C. Pratt Cancer Center St. John’s Mercy Medical Center 607 South New Ballas Rd. St. Louis, MO 63141 First Tuesday of the month, 6:15 p.m. Next Meeting is February 7 RSVP required. Contact Debra at the Chapter at 800-344-4867. Group is facilitated by Karen Tripp, Marriage & Family Counselor.

MSTogether (for couples)

This couples social group provides an informal social opportunity to meet and talk. Events are organized by the couples themselves, Carole, diagnosed in 2005 including potlucks and ballgames. Expect to actively participate in planning and organizing, as well as having fun! Meets quarterly, location changes but is generally in the St. Louis area. If interested email Joe Salacki at jsalacki2@gmail.com.

Telephone Groups

The Carepartner Tele-chat program connects carepartners of people living with MS to other carepartners through a free call-in chat service where people can share time, interests, coping techniques, experiences and information. RSVP required. Dates (all Mondays): 1/23/12, 4/2/12, 6/18/12 at 7 pm. Facilitated by Karen Tripp, Marriage & Family Counselor

www.gatewaymssociety.org

HAPPENINGS

Chapter staff will be attending to share information about programs, services and volunteer opportunities available to you. This is also a great way to meet other people living with MS. There is no fee to attend but you must register, so RSVP today at 1-800-344-4867. Feel free to tell a friend or bring a guest.

Programs for Carepartners

Gateway Area Chapter

HAPPENINGS

MS Wellness Fair PROGRAM INCLUDES: g Individual screening appointments with a physical and occupational therapist g Strength assessment g Balance assessment g Activity assessment g Mobility device assessment g Range of motion tests g Various health screenings g Opportunity to meet with a variety of healthcare disciplines, i.e. social worker, speech therapist, registered nurse, nutritionist g Opportunity to ask specific health and wellness questions g A continental breakfast or afternoon snacks g Information on the Chapterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wellness programs and community wellness resources LOCATIONS: St. Louis, MO Saturday, March 10, 2012 9 a.m. Missouri Baptist Outpatient Rehab 3009 N. Ballas Road Building B., Ste. 110 St. Louis, MO Columbia, MO Saturday, March 10, 2012 9 a.m. Rusk Rehab 315 Business Loop 70 West Columbia, MO 65203

Mark Your Calendar for Spring Rendezvous! Take one weekend to relax and have fun with other couples living with MS. April 28-29, 2012 Pere Marquette Lodge Grafton, Illinois

COST: Early registration (before April 13) is $60 per person. Regular registration is $70 per person. Please note this is a weekend for adults. The Pere Marquette Lodge is located in the 8,000acre Pere Marquette State Park, overlooking the Illinois River. Built in the 1930s and continually maintained, the lodge combines rustic charm with modern amenities, all just 45 minutes from St. Louis. Guests may choose to enjoy a variety of activities including: g Games g Swimming g Arts & Crafts g Massage g Guest Speakers g Carepartner Group A limited number of fee waivers are available for the program and/or accessible transportation. For details, please call Debra at 314-446-4184. For more information, questions, or to RSVP, contact the Chapterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office at 314-781-9020 or 1-800-344-4867. This program fills up quickly, so be sure to register early!

1.800.344.4867

happenings Get Online for Self-Employment with New Course The Midwest Region of the National MS Society is presenting Self-Employment for Individuals with Disabilities, a five-week online course beginning January 23, 2012. The cost is $50 per person.

Weekly, web-based lessons include an online discussion forum, audio lectures, and selected readings. Each person is required to have an individual e-mail account to register. Information for a specific lesson will be available by 10 a.m. on the first date listed for any given lesson. You will be able to log on to the course at any time of the day and access the audio lectures. The course includes five weekly lessons and each lesson should

All participants will be assigned to a small group. These groups will be asked Ray, diagnosed in 2003 to correspond with each other on the course bulletin boards. In addition, participants will have the opportunity to ask questions of nationally known experts in self-employment. A certificate of completion will be issued to those who participate in the discussion boards and complete a final essay on the course materials. Participants must finish all required assignments within the specified time frame in order to receive the certificate of completion from Virginia Commonwealth University. There is a $50 fee for this course. More information is available on our Chapter website gatewaymssociety.org or by calling 1-800-344-4867.

Town Hall Meetings

We want to hear from you! Please join us for a Town Hall Meeting in your community. Share your opinions about the National MS Society and our programs, give us your suggestions, and let us know how we can serve you better. Feb. 8: Columbia, MO Feb. 26: Kirksville, MO Feb. 18: Marion, IL Feb. 12: Mt.Vernon, IL Feb. 13: Kennett, MO Jun. 24: West Plains, MO Please check gatewaymssociety.org g Chapter Calendar for Town Hall Meeting locations and other details. www.gatewaymssociety.org

HAPPENINGS

If you are interested in starting a business or exploring opportunities as an entrepreneur, this five-week online course may be just what you need. The course will teach you how to: create a business plan. conduct a feasibility study. access community support. identify funding. use work incentives.

take approximately four to five hours to complete.

Gateway Area Chapter

Free From Falls - A Comprehensive Fall Prevention Program

HAPPENINGS

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 new 8-week fall prevention program, designed for people living with MS who are ambulatory but who may be at risk of falling. You 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.

St. Louis City, MO (South City) Tuesdays March 20 – May 8 4-6 p.m.

COST: $50 per

person. Scholarships are available. Call to learn more about this program and determine if it is right for you. If you attend all 8 sessions you will receive $25 of your registration back. An application and other registration materials will be provided.

PROGRAM FACILITATORS:

Each week’s 2-hour program will have two parts; a discussion component focused on awareness of issues related to falls and an exercise component directed to improving postural alignment, balance, endurance and mobility.

Elissa C. Held Bradford, PT, MPT, NCS Instructor Saint Louis University Department of Physical Therapy and Athletic Training

Through this course, participants will: • Increase awareness of the prevalence of falls among people with MS and the risk factors that may contribute to falls. • Identify strategies they can employ to prevent falls and develop a fall prevention action plan. • Engage in and develop a home fitness plan that addresses balance, endurance, and strength, aimed at reducing fall risk. • Increase their confidence in minimizing fall risk and in managing falls if they do occur. • Identify additional community resources to implement a fall prevention action plan

Joanne M. Wagner, PT, PhD Assistant Professor Saint Louis University Department of Physical Therapy and Athletic Training

1.800.344.4867 42

happenings MS Education Link Join us for this opportunity to learn more about MS and prescription treatment options. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 7 COLUMBIA, MO Location: Courtyard by Marriott 3301 LeMone Industrial Blvd. Columbia, MO 65201 Speaker: Myles Goble, MD Time: 6 p.m. Register: By February 3 by calling 800-973-0362

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 18 FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS, IL Location: Lotawata Creek Restaurant 311 Salem Place Fairview Heights, IL 62208 Speaker: Barbara Green, MD Time: 6 p.m. Register: By January 16 by calling 800-973-0362

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 28 MARION, IL Location: Sao Asian Bistro 2800 17th St. Marion, IL 62959 Speaker: Mark Tullman, MD Time: 6 p.m. Register: By February 24 by calling 800-973-0362

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1 CHESTERFIELD, MO Location: Old Spaghetti Factory 17384 Chesterfield Airport Rd. Chesterfield, MO 63005 Speaker: Mark Tullman, MD Time: 6 p.m. Register: By January 30 by calling 800-973-0362

SATURDAY, MARCH 3 CREVE COEUR, MO Location: Courtyard by Marriott 828 N. New Ballas Rd. Creve Coeur, MO 63146 Speaker: Mary Kay Fink, MSN, RN Time: 10 a.m. Register: By February 29 by calling 800-973-0362

HAPPENINGS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 7 WASHINGTON, MO Location: Cowanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restaurant 114 Elm St. Washington, MO 63090 Speaker: Barbara Green, MD Time: 6 p.m. Register: By December 5 by calling 800-973-0362

PA I D A D V E R T I S E M E N T

Gateway Area Chapter

TALK MS GROUPS

Talk MS Groups bring together people who share a common life experience for support, education, and mutual aid. They are led by trained volunteers who also have a connection to MS.

MISSOURI St. Francis Health & Wellness Center Cape Girardeau Healing Arts Building, Conference Room 150 S. Auburn, Cape Girardeau, MO 63703 Rusk Rehabilitation Center 3rd Wednesday Columbia 315 Business Loop 70 West 6 p.m. Columbia, MO 65203 2nd Tuesday Disability Resource Association Crystal City/Festus 1 p.m. 420B S. Truman Bl., Crystal City, MO 63019 1st Monday Coca-Cola Bottling, Meeting Room Jefferson City 6 p.m. 605 Washington, Jefferson City, MO 65109 2nd Tuesday Ralls County Health Department Building New London 7 p.m. 405 W. 1st Street, New London, MO 63459 January 8 and Conference Room A/B Barnes-Jewish NEW O’Fallon GROUP! March 11, 2 p.m. Hospital, St. Peters, MO 63376 3rd Sunday Hardee’s Restaurant, 501 Mid Rivers Mall St. Charles 3 p.m. Dr., St. Peters, MO 63376 3rd Monday St. Peter’s United Church of Christ, Washington 6 p.m. 20 East 5th St., Washington, MO 63090 3rd Wednesday Ozark Medical Ctr. Shaw Medical Bldg. 2nd West Plains 5 p.m. Fl. 909 Kentucky St., West Plains, MO 65775 ST. LOUIS METRO 3rd Wednesday Weber Road Library Affton 7 p.m. 4444 Weber Rd, St. Louis, MO 63123 Jan. 14, March 10, St. John’s Rehab Hospital, 14561 North Mid-St. Louis County May 12, 1:30 p.m. Outer Hwy 40, St. Louis, MO 63017 Generation OptiMiStic for 1st Saturday NMSS Office Gateway Area Chapter people in their 20s, 30s & 40s 10 a.m. 1867 Lackland Hill Pkwy, St. Louis, MO 63146 25 Feb. 22, Sachs Library 16400 Burkhardt Place West County NEW Jan. March Prayer & Health GROUP! 6:30-8 24 Chesterfield, MO 63017 p.m.

HAPPENINGS

3rd Saturday 10 a.m.

1.800.344.4867

Sharon (573) 332-8148 Rebecca Dykhouse, LSW (573) 817-4697 rebecca.dykhouse@healthsouth.com Marlene (636) 464-2533 Sharon webradleys@yahoo.com Chris (573) 645-0130 clepper@mobankers.com Debby (573) 267-3365 mlrdsr@att.net debtalkms@yahoo.com Jim (314) 602-4578 Anne (636) 359-6037 Charline (417) 469-1068 Sally (417) 469-4842 Linda (314) 544-5623 Kevin (314) 841-3755 Michelle (636) 447-5407 Rose Marie sqsace@sbcglobal.net

happenings TALK MS GROUPS ILLINOIS

Southern Illinois

2nd Monday 6 p.m.

The United Presbyterian Church, 2550 Rock Hill Rd., Wood River, IL 62095 First United Methodist Church 504 East Highway 50, O’Fallon, IL 62269 Richland Memorial Hospital 800 East Locust St., Olney IL 62450 Christian Church of Litchfield 131 Yaeger Lake Trail, Litchfield, IL 62056 LINC, Inc. #1 Emerald Terrace, Swansea, IL 62226 Heartland Regional-Medical Center Classroom #1, 3333 West DeYoung, Marion, IL 62959

Lisa (618) 258-0615 Amy (618) 235-4226 HAPPENINGS

3rd Tuesday 7-9 p.m. 2nd Sunday Belleville/ O’Fallon 2:30 p.m. 4th Monday Central Illinois 7 p.m. Tuesday S’myelin Gang of Litchfield 4th 6:30 p.m. Dec. 21, 7 p.m. Metro East Feb. 22, 7 p.m. Alton/River Bend

Tony (628) 302-1333 tmadmz@frontier.com Meredith (217) 556-4418 Diane (618) 235-8823 Earhart500@aol.com Robert (618) 983-0321

SPECIALIZED GROUPS Couples Group Creative Art Experience

Varies, contact for Varies, contact for information information NMSS Office 3rd Saturday NEW 1867 Lackland Hill Parkway GROUP! 10 a.m. St. Louis, MO 63146

jsalacki2@gmail.com laurapieczysnki@yahoo.com michellekeating@juno.com

Men’s Chat

Last Tuesday 7 p.m.

Telephone group

jsalacki2@gmail.com

MS Fun, Friends & Food Potluck

February 7 6 p.m.

Michelle (314) 251-6400 Debbie (636) 579-0264 debrafriends@hotmail.com

Veterans with MS

2nd Wednesday 10 a.m.

David C. Pratt Cancer Center St. John’s Mercy Medical Center 607 S. New Ballas Rd., St. Louis, MO 63147 Veterans Admin. Medical Center 1 Jefferson Barracks Dr., St. Louis, MO 63125

CarePartner and Family Group Progressive MS Chat

1st Tuesday (starting in January) 6:15 p.m. 1st Thursday starting in March, 2012 2 p.m.

Penny (314) 652-4100 ext. 63274

David C. Pratt Cancer Center Debra (800) 344-4867 St. John’s Mercy Medical Center debra.preston@nmss.org 607 S. New Ballas Rd., St. Louis, MO 63147 Groups meet via a facilitated telephone conference, please call for details.

www.gatewaymssociety.org

Debra (800) 344-4867 debra.preston@nmss.org

Gateway Area Chapter

STAY HEALTHY WITH MS Studies show exercise not only improves your overall health and well-being, but also helps manage

HAPPENINGS

many MS symptoms. Move forward through exercise and find an exercise program in your community or become an expert in using a healthy lifestyle to help manage MS.

The Chapter offers financial assistance for attendance and transportation to therapeutic recreation programs. Financial assistance is available to help you pay for therapeutic recreation classes and memberships. In some cases, assistance with transportation may also be available. To apply, a completed financial assistance application and confirmation of MS diagnosis from your doctor is required. Amount of financial assistance is derived from a sliding scale based on the information from the financial assistance application. Applications are accepted year-round, however completed applications will only be approved during January, April, July and October. For more information go to www.gatewaymssociety.org g Stay Healthy with MS.

AQUATICS PILATES

TAI CHI

YOGA

ZUMBA

THERAPEUTIC RECREATION SITES ST. LOUIS Adiva Dance Center

ADDRESS 943 South Kirkwood Road Kirkwood, MO 63122 Bridgeton Community 4201 Fee Fee Road Center Bridgeton, MO 63044 Carondelet Park Rec 930 Holly Hills Ave Plex St. Louis MO 63111 Center of Clayton 50 Gay Avenue Clayton , MO 63105 Chesterfield JCC 2 Millstone Campus Drive St. Louis, MO 63146 Downtown YMCA 1528 Locust Street St. Louis, MO 63103 Dragonfly Health Spa 1272 A Jungermann & Yoga St. Peters, MO 63376 Edward Jones Family 12521 Marine Avenue YMCA St. Louis, MO 63146 Emerson Family YMCA 3390 Pershall Road St. Louis, MO 63135 Hazelwood 1186 Teson Road Community Center Hazelwood, MO 63042 Jefferson College 1000 Viking Drive Hillsboro, MO 63050 Kirkwood Family YMCA 325 N. Taylor St. Louis, MO 63122 Marquette YMCA 314 North Broadway St. Louis, MO 63102 Maryland Heights 2344 McKelvey Road Centre Maryland Heights, MO 63043 50

CONTACT Theresa 314-822-7113 Cole 314-739-5599 Shannon 314-768-9622 Diane 314-353-4960 Sheena 314-442-3495 314-436-1177 636-598-5544 314-439-9622 Georgia/Chris 314-521-1822 Jill 314-731-0980 Christina 636-942-3000 314-965-9622 314-436-7070 636-699-8508

1.800.344.4867

ACTIVITIES OFFERED

happenings THERAPEUTIC RECREATION SITES ST. LOUIS CONT. Mascoutah Senior Center Mid-County YMCA

AQUATICS PILATES

TAI CHI

YOGA

CONTACT 618-566-8758

ACTIVITIES OFFERED

Sandi 314-962-9450 314-781-9020 800-344-4867 Linda 314-729-0181 Carolyn 636-896-0999 Rich 314-644-3100 314-843-6703

HAPPENINGS

ADDRESS 227 N. Market Mascoutah, IL 62258 1900 Urban Drive St. Louis, MO 63144 Olivette Community 9723 Grandview Drive Center St. Louis, MO 63132 Saint Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mercy 615 S. New Ballas Rd., Medical Building St. Louis, MO, 63141 Show Me Aquatics 2085 Bluestone Drive St. Charles, MO 63303 South City Family 3150 Sublette Avenue YMCA St. Louis, MO 63139 South County Family 12736 Southfork Road YMCA St. Louis, MO 63128 St. Charles County 3456 Harry S. Truman Blvd. YMCA St. Charles, MO 63301 The Cancer Support 1058 Old Des Peres Rd Community St. Louis, MO 63131 The Lodge in Des Peres 1050 Des Peres Road St. Louis, MO 63131 The Pointe at Ballwin 1 Ballwin Commons Circle Commons Ballwin, MO 63021 Tri-County Family 1105 E South Service Rd YMCA Wentzville, MO 63385 Riverchase 990 Horan Dr Fenton, MO 63026 Washington Four 400 Grand Avenue Rivers Family YMCA Washington, MO 63090 Webster Groves Family 226 East Lockwood Avenue YMCA Webster Groves, MO 63119 Wellbridge Athletic 7620 Forsyth Boulevard Club Clayton , MO Wellbridge Athletic 998 Woods Mill Road Club Town & Country, MO 63131 West County Family 16464 Burkhardt Pl YMCA Chesterfield, MO 63017 Yoga Saint Louis 3305 Jamieson Ave. St. Louis, MO 63139 Z Power Fitness 233 Lamp & Lantern Village Town & Country, MO 63017

636-928-1928 Kathryn 314-238-2000 314-221-8454 Leslie or Adam 636-227-8950 636-332-5574 Phyllis 618-482-9140 Ann 636-239-5704 314-962-9622 Trudy C 314-746-1500 Abby 636-207-3000 636-532-3100 Bruce 314-645-9785 Nancy 314-221-8454

ZUMBA

www.gatewaymssociety.org

United Way of Greater St. Louis

Gateway Area Chapter

THERAPEUTIC RECREATION SITES MID-MISSOURI Columbia Activity and Rec. Center Elm Street Yoga

HAPPENINGS

Jefferson City YMCA Mexico Family YMCA Pilates of Columbia ILLINOIS Edwardsville YMCA Jerseyville Wellness Center John A. Logan College Maryville YMCA O’Fallon Community YMCA One-O-One Yoga Sukha Yoga Center SOUTHEAST MISSOURI Black River Coliseum Cape Girardeau Municipal Pool PARC Fitness Center Yoga at the Firm Xtreme Gymnastics Cheer and Dance

ADDRESS 1701 W. Ash Street Columbia, MO 904 Elm St. Suite 210. Columbia, MO 424 Stadium Boulevard Jefferson City, MO 65101 1127 Adams Street Mexico, MO 65265 11 N College Ave # 101 Columbia, MO 65201 ADDRESS 1200 Esic Drive Edwardsville, IL 62025 400 Maple Summit Rd Jerseyville, IL. 62052 700 Logan College Road Carterville, IL 62918 1 Town Center Drive Maryville, IL 62062 284 North 7 Hills Road O’Fallon, IL 62269

CONTACT Janel 573-874-7460 Linda 573-441-8566 Erica 573-761-9021 Consuelo 573-581-1540 Robin 573-443-2062 CONTACT Pam 618-656-0436 Jennifer 618-498-3500 Chris 618-985-2828 Julie 618-346-5600 618-628-7701

101 S Graham Ave # 1 Carbondale, IL 62901 18 South High Street Belleville, IL 62220 ADDRESS

Sarah 618-457-8186 Sarah 618-236-9642 CONTACT

301 South 5th Street Poplar Bluff, MO 63901 1920 Whitener Street Cape Girardeau, MO 63701 2620 N. Westwood Blvd. Poplar Bluff, MO 63901 2620 N. Westwood Blvd. Poplar Bluff, MO 63901 422 West Pine Street Poplar Bluff, MO 63901

Mandi 573-686-8009 Pat 573-335-4040 Mindy 573-686-5985 Vicki 417-293-1184 Christi 573-785-3780

AQUATICS PILATES 52

TAI CHI

YOGA

1.800.344.4867

ZUMBA

ACTIVITIES OFFERED

happenings Dial. Listen. Learn.

Upcoming topics include: Dec. 15, 7-8 p.m. Personal Training and MS

Midwest Teleconference Series Mark your calendars on every second Monday of the month for the Midwest Teleconference Series. The series topics from September Midwest Teleconference through December are: Series

The Wellness Network connects people who have an interest in or who are actively participating in exercise programs through a monthly teleconference. These monthly calls are an opportunity to share ideas and encouragement about exercise and include special guest speakers.

Jan. 26, 7-8 p.m.

Weight Watchers and MS

Feb. 23, 7-8 p.m.

Fear of Falling: Common Exercise Mishaps

March 22, 7-8 p.m.

Therapeutic Horsemanship and MS

The Wellness Network is free and provides resources to a wide variety of people with MS of all abilities. It is also helpful to those who are new to seeking out wellness opportunities and need some guidance and direction. If you are interested in becoming a member of the Wellness Network, please call 1-800-344-4867 or visit our website to register for the monthly calls.

You are Not Alone

Speaker: A.S. Aniskiewicz, PhD Date/Time: December 12, 7-8 p.m. Midwest Teleconference Series Social Making Connections Through

Networking

Speaker: Erin Bickus Date/Time: January 9, 7-8Midwest p.m. Teleconference Series

What about Progressive MS?

Speaker: Dorothy Northrop Date/Time: February 13, 7-8 p.m.

Research: Where are we now? Where are we going? Speaker: Dr. Rana Zabad Date/Time: March 12, 7-8 p.m.

United Way of Greater St. Louis

New Connections

Thursday, February 16, 6 p.m. My Daddyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cheesecake 265 South Broadview Street Cape Girardeau, MO 63703 Registration Deadline: February 9

Come meet other people who have been newly diagnosed with MS or who have recently moved to the area. This program will feature guest speaker Dr. Robert Naismith. Space is limited so make your reservation today! Please RSVP by calling 1-800-344-4867.

www.gatewaymssociety.org

HAPPENINGS

Wellness Network

Gateway Area Chapter

Chapter Calendar

HAPPENINGS

DATE Dec. 12 Dec. 15 Jan. 9 Jan. 23 Jan. 26 Feb. 13 Feb. 16 Feb. 23 Feb. 29 March 7 March 10 March 12 March 13 March 15 March 15 March 20 March 22 March 24 March 27

P Program located in this area.

Available via telephone

Available via live-stream

PROGRAM/EVENT

PG. ST. LOUIS ILLINOIS SOUTHERN MIDSE# METRO ILLINOIS MISSOURI MISSOURI Teleconference 53 Wellness Network 53 Teleconference 53 Carepartener Tele-Chat 43 Wellness Network 53 Teleconference 53 P New Connections 53 Wellness Network 53 P Meet & Greet 43 P Meet & Greet 43 P P MS Wellness Fair 53 Teleconference 53 P Meet & Greet 43 Wellness Network 53 P New Connections P Free From Falls 46 Wellness Network 53 P Research MS 43 P Free From Falls 46

Open Houses Do you want to learn more about the National MS Society or get more involved? Join us for a one hour open house, hear stories about ways the Chapter helps people in our community, and learn how you can join the movement!

OF THE NATIONAL MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY PUBLICATION

Contact Us at National MS Society Gateway Area Chapter 1867 Lackland Hill Parkway St. Louis, MO 63146 314-781-9020 or 1-800-344-4867 www.gatewaymssociety.org

First Thursday of every month Noon or 6 p.m. 1867 Lackland Hill Parkway, St. Louis, MO 63146 RSVP at gatewaymssociety.org g Chapter Calendar, or call 800-344-4867 for more information.

MS Connection © 2011 A quarterly magazine published by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Gateway Area Chapter. Chapter President • Phyllis Robsham Newsletter Editor • Joe Cavato Cover Art • Dan Ford

1.800.344.4867

NOTICE: The Gateway Area Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society is proud to be a source of information about multiple sclerosis. Our comments are based on professional advice, published experience, and expert opinion, but do not represent therapeutic recommendations or prescriptions. For specific information and advice, consult a qualified physician. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society does not endorse products, services, or manufacturers. Such names appear here solely because they are considered valuable as information. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society assumes no liability whatsoever for the contents or use of any product or service mentioned.

happenings Program Registration ] You Are Not Alone Teleconference December 12 COST: FREE PROGRAM ] Wellness Network - Personal Training and MS December 15 COST: FREE PROGRAM ] Making Connections Through Social Networking Teleconference January 9 COST: FREE PROGRAM ] Carepartner Tele-Chat January 23 COST: FREE PROGRAM ] Wellness Network - Weight Watchers and MS January 26 COST: FREE PROGRAM ] What about Progressive MS Teleconference February 13 COST: FREE PROGRAM ] New Connections, Cape Girardeau, MO February 16 COST: FREE PROGRAM ] Meet & Greet, St. Louis, MO February 21 COST: FREE PROGRAM ] Wellness Network - Fear of Falling: Common Exercise Mishaps February 23 COST: FREE PROGRAM ] Meet & Greet, Kirksville, MO March 7 COST: FREE PROGRAM ] MS Wellness Fair, Columbia, MO March 10 COST: $10 ] MS Wellness Fair, St. Louis, MO March 10 COST: $10 ] Research: Where are we now? Where are we going? Teleconference March 12 COST: FREE PROGRAM ] Meet & Greet, Kennett, MO March 13 COST: FREE PROGRAM ] New Connections, Columbia, MO March 15 COST: FREE PROGRAM ] Free From Falls March 20 COST: $50 ] Wellness Network - Therapeutic Horsemanship and MS March 22 COST: FREE PROGRAM ] Research MS, Collinsville, IL March 24 COST: FREE PROGRAM ] Free From Falls March 27 COST: $50

Annual Meeting The Gateway Area Chapter’s Annual Meeting will be held on Thursday, January 19 at the Frontenac Hilton, located at 1335 South Lindbergh Blvd., St. Louis, MO, 63131, at which time the attendees will vote on membership on the Chapter’s Board of Trustees. To submit a name for consideration for Board membership to the Governance Committee, please contact kathi.taylor@nmss.org.

Name________________________________ Address_______________________________ ___________________________________ City/State/Zip___________________________ Home phone____________________________ Work phone____________________________ E-mail_______________________________ Guest Names and Ages______________________ ___________________________________ Does anyone in your party use a mobility device?_______ Would you like to request a fee waiver?____________ Do you prefer a vegetarian meal?________________ Date of Diagnosis_________________________ Payment Information ( ) Fee waiver requested ( ) Check enclosed payable to MS Society ( ) Visa ( ) MasterCard ( ) Discover ( ) Am. Express Card # ____________________________ Expiration Date:_______________________ Send to: National Multiple Sclerosis Society 1867 Lackland Hill Parkway St. Louis, MO 63146 or Fax to 314-781-1440 To register online go to www.gatewaymssociety.org, g “Chapter Calendar” to choose the program you would like to attend.

www.gatewaymssociety.org

HAPPENINGS

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID Permit No. 3914 St. Louis, MO

Gateway Area Chapter 1867 Lackland Hill Parkway St. Louis, MO 63146

Gateway Area Chapter Gateway Area Chapter 1867 Lackland Hill Parkway

happenings St. Louis, MO 63146

making the most

of life and the least of MS

In this issue Meet & Greets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Research MS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Programs for Carepartners. . . . . . 44 MS Wellness Fair. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Spring Rendezvous. . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Online Employment Course. . . . . 45 Free From Falls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Talk MS Group Listings. . . . . . 48-49 Therapeutic Recreation. . . . . . 50-52 Midwest Teleconference Series. . 53 Wellness Network. . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 New Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Chapter Calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Registration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

National Multiple Sclerosis Society

Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!

Chapter and to register for programs.

Please enjoy this special edition of the MS Connection that includes the 2011 annual report and 2012 Chapter Calendar.

Check out some new programs this year like the Online Self-Employment Course (pg. 45) and the Free from Falls program (pg. 46).

We are always adding programs and events so please check gatewaymssociety.org g Chapter Calendar to see what’s happening at the

You can also access resources and learn about MS from an expert monthly through the Midwest Teleconference Series and the Wellness Network (see page 46).

United Way of Greater St. Louis

Your Source for Knowledge, Wellness, and Support

Winter 2011-2012