SPRING 2016 | National Multiple Sclerosis Society-Wisconsin Chapter
National Multiple Sclerosis SocietyWisconsin Chapter Board of Trustees Tom Golden, Chair M3 Insurance Solutions, Inc. Kenneth Minor, Vice Chair Sonic Foundry, Inc. James Rose, Vice Chair Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP Michael Lutze, Treasurer Ernst & Young Robert Sowinski, Secretary Diversified Insurance Solutions David Rodgers, Past Chair Briggs & Stratton Corporation Colleen Kalt, President & CEO National MS SocietyWisconsin Chapter
Robert Buhler Open Pantry Food Marts of Wisconsin, Inc. Dennis Christiansen Secured Retirement Strategies Group, LLC Robert deJong Rose & deJong, S.C. Robert Engel Retired, M&I Bank Pamela Evason, Windermere Wealth Advisors, LLC Josh Hoesch First Business Bank Paul Jones Harley-Davidson, Inc. Fr. James Kaestner Retired Wayne Larsen Ladish Company Foundation Martin McLaughlin Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren, s.c.
Anne Brouwer Jeffrey Steren McMillianDoolittle, LLP Steren Management/ McDonald’s
Together, We’ll Go Further Every year, thousands of individuals gather together in communities throughout Wisconsin for Walk MS. They team up, joining family, friends and co-workers for one purpose, to create a world free of MS. They fundraise, bringing critical funds to research and services for those impacted by MS. They raise awareness, creating a ribbon of orange along our city streets and parks. I hope you plan to join us this year at Walk MS, because, together, we become a powerful force. And with every step we take, every dollar we raise … we’re that much closer. Together we are stronger. And together we will end MS forever. With gratitude and joy,
Colleen G. Kalt President & CEO
If you or someone you know has MS: Studies show that early and ongoing treatment with an FDA-approved therapy can reduce future disease activity and improve quality of life for many people with multiple sclerosis. Talk to your health care professional or contact the National MS Society at nationalmssociety.org or 1-800-344-4867 to learn about ways to help manage multiple sclerosis and about current research that may one day reveal a cure. The National MS Society does not endorse products, services or manufacturers. Such names appear here solely because they are considered valuable information. The National MS Society assumes no liability for the use of contents of any product or service mentioned. Information provided by the Society is based upon professional advice, published, experience and expert opinion. Information provided in response to questions does not constitute therapeutic recommendations or prescriptions. The National MS Society recommends that all questions and information be discussed with a personal physician.
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The National MS Society is committed to creating a world free of MS.
We’re Stronger Together Walk MS gives family and friends a way to show their support
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oms have a way of getting to the point where their kids are concerned.
“Kathleen is such a lovely person and never complains about anything,” explained Marti O’Leary about her 47-year-old daughter Kathleen Schauder, the namesake of Madison’s largest Walk MS team, Team Kathleen. “To see all these people come out to Walk MS to support her is wonderful. It’s a happy time. It’s a happy day.” While the exact number of members on Team Kathleen varies year-to-year, it’s always more than 100. They don’t all know each other but they all know Kathleen, and they all wear a specially designed team T-shirt that lists their names. They start the walk together and then form one cheering, high-fiving tunnel at the finish line for Schauder to walk through. “It’s a big gathering. The money is going to a good cause, and it’s a great feeling,” said Schauder, who was diagnosed with MS eight years ago after her second child was born. She added that her favorite thing is to look at the T-shirts with all the team members’ names. “It’s like a love letter signed by all of them.”
Although Team Kathleen is one of the top fundraising teams at Walk MS: Madison (they raised $8,400 last year), it’s the time people give that has the most value for Schauder. “I get it. People have other commitments. One of the most precious things is time,” she said. “That they all take the time on that Sunday is incredible and humbling.”
“ To see all these people come out to Walk MS to support her is wonderful. It’s a happy time. It’s a happy day.”
– Marti O’Leary
And while she adds that her mom is her Number One fan and her husband “is my biggest source of encouragement and support on a daily basis,” Schauder said each person who turns out as part of her Walk MS team makes her feel special. Sarah Hwang feels that same kind of love about two months before Walk MS: Milwaukee. That’s Continued on Page 4
Walk MS For All Ages Team Kathleen has been part of Walk MS: Madison for so long that members are now bringing mini-members of their own, and those who were babies or toddlers in the beginning are now understanding what the day is about. For Kathleen Schauder, there’s huge value in that and what her own sons take away from the event. “It’s scary to think that you’re mom isn’t feeling well,” she said. “As they get older, kids understand MS more and the walk means a lot to them. It’s fun and there’s a huge group, and they’re starting to realize the impact the walk has on those diagnosed with the disease.”
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because the Do-It-Yourself fundraiser she and her husband, Milt, hold to raise money for Walk MS happens during MS Awareness Week in March. Called “Fight MS … Eggroll Style,” the night includes an authentic, freshly made, all-you-can-eat Chinese dinner hand-prepared by Milt for friends, family and acquaintances who fill the couple’s Bayside home.
There are Different Types of Support
“Walk MS had become that ‘thing’ that we did every year after I was diagnosed,” Hwang said. “Two years ago we were heading into r our 15th year To register fo o t d n a – of the walk and Walk MS – m a e t my husband said a start or join -1331 we needed to do call 855-372 something big, or go to he suggested in.org and s n o c is w S the dinner.” M walk Between 60 and 70 people accepted the invitation that first year, a number that doubled last year. This year the Hwangs are planning to convert their garage into extra party space to accommodate what is expected to be an even larger crowd. “What’s great is how personal it is for us. It’s at our house and combines two things that are pretty big in our family: my husband’s Chinese heritage and my MS.”
“ Anytime you’re part of a community and feel supported, it’s an amazing thing.”
– S arah Hwang
And there’s also the generosity of those who attend. Knowing it is a fundraiser for Hwang’s Walk MS team (aptly named Hwang’s Wok-ers), everyone who comes to the dinner makes a donation. The minimum suggested amount is $25, but as Hwang said, “We’re very forthcoming that we are happy if people give more.” And people do. Last year Hwang was the top individual Walk MS fundraiser in Wisconsin and Hwang’s Wok-ers was the top fundraising team with $24,617 and $31,140 raised, respectively. MS Connection | 4
Milt, Ethan and Sarah Hwang participate in Walk MS: Milwaukee as a family.
“Anytime you’re part of a community and feel supported, it’s an amazing thing,” she said of those who donate as well as those who make up her team – about 20 people on average. “It’s very important to have a group walking with me,” Hwang said. “As my mom always said, ‘Never underestimate the importance of showing up.’ When you’re suffering from a disease like this, the best feeling is to not be alone.” n
DO YOU LIVE WITH MS? The “Living with MS” program (formerly known as “I Walk with MS” and “I Roll with MS”) honors those who are diagnosed with MS and participating in Walk MS. Be an inspiration to others and let those who are newly diagnosed know they aren’t alone: designate on your registration form that you have MS. You’ll receive a special T-shirt and other recognition during the morning of the walk. For more information, call 855-372-1331 or visit wisMS.org.
Working Together to Change Lives Neuropsychologist and Nurse Practitioner partner at MS Clinic
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hen discussing their work at the Multiple Sclerosis Clinic at the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Neuropsychologist Laura Hancock, PhD, and Nurse Practitioner Jocelyn Wilke, MSN, RN, APNP, MSCS, emphasize teamwork.
Dr. Hancock is experienced in working with patients diagnosed with MS. Her mentor in graduate school had a strong focus on MS. After she graduated, she said, “I was definitely looking to work with MS patients and do MS research.”
“We problem-solve together,” Dr. Hancock said. “We help address issues together.”
In addition to working with patients on their cognitive function, Dr. Hancock is interested in research and plans to do a project on studying the aging MS brain. She is also getting involved in a project looking at the relationship between MS lesions in the gray matter of the brain and cognition. She said, “For a long time we always thought about MS being a white matter disease of the myelin, which gives the white matter its color. However, there is myelin in the gray matter as well and our current imaging techniques can’t adequately capture the amount and nature of those lesions. We’re trying to understand that better.”
They do this at a multidisciplinary clinic, started last November, which they run together once a week.
Continued on Page 6
From left: Amy Scharmer, Dr. Laura Hancock, Jocelyn Wilke and Natasha Frost, MD.
Addressing Cognitive Issues
When patients arrive at the multidisciplinary clinic, they complete screening paperwork before doing an hour’s worth of paper and pencil testing, looking at cognitive function such as attention, memory and the ability to process information. Dr. Hancock said, “The literature suggests up to 65 percent of MS patients will have cognitive deficits because of the disease.” Jocelyn added, “I feel like many patients are not aware of the cognitive challenges MS can cause until it starts to impact them.” After their patients finish the testing, they meet with Dr. Hancock and Jocelyn, and sometimes with social worker Amy Scharmer as well, to discuss the results and what the patient can do to address any cognitive changes they have experienced. A caregiver or family member will also meet with the social worker to discuss how the patient is doing at home.
Jocelyn Wilke (left), works with Shirley Peper, RN, Lisa Okon-Lowndes, RN and Christopher Luzzio, MD, at the MS Clinic at UW Hospital and Clinics. MS Connection | 5
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“I spend a lot of time fundraising, doing Walk MS and Bike MS,” explained Joceyln, who counts several people diagnosed with MS among her friends. “It not only helps to get to know other providers and other leaders in MS, but to get to know those patients.”
Connecting Resources
The team works diligently to address other impacts of the disease as well, connecting them to specialists and resources. Jocelyn, who has worked at the clinic for a year and a half, also does additional teaching on bowel and bladder dysfunction in MS. She explained, “I think bowel and bladder issues are underappreciated in terms of the impact that can have on someone’s quality of life.” She added, “I may not be able to affect your disease progression or your disease pathology, but what can I do to make your quality of life better and to optimize the function that you have, right in this moment.” One of the ways she does this is by connecting patients to specialists who can help with their symptoms. Dr. Hancock said, “I think Jocelyn is really good about connecting patients with services and providers who understand MS, such as rehab physician Dr. Caldera, who can help patients with mobility and hip flexor strength, so that they can still walk and be as independent as possible.” The clinic has access to many specialists who have a background or an understanding of treating patients with MS. Joceyln said, “We are pretty lucky here at UW.” The team extends their commitment to those with MS outside the clinic at National MS Society events.
“ I may not be able to affect your disease progression or your disease pathology, but what can I do to make your quality of life better and to optimize the function that you have ... .”
– Jocelyn Wilke
Joceyln was co-captain of the Bike MS team UW Health Red’s Riders, which raised more than $30,000 at the 2015 event. She also acts as captain to the UW Health Walk Team at Walk MS: Madison. She shared, “There was one time last year at Bike MS, where I really wanted to quit riding, but a lady with MS totally blew past me on a bike. I said, ‘All right, I guess I can do it too!’” Dr. Hancock has participated and fundraised at Walk MS in previous communities she’s lived in and has a family member and a close friend living with MS. She said, “I’m looking forward to my first time being able to be on the Walk MS team here at the clinic.” The UW Health Walk Team will be at Walk MS: Madison on May 1. “We genuinely care about each other and genuinely care about what we’re doing,” Dr. Hancock said. “I think that goes a long way.” n
What exactly does a neuropsychologist do? “I evaluate people who are concerned about their thinking abilities or whose memories are not as good as they used to be,” explained Laura Hancock, PhD, neuropsychologist at the Multiple Sclerosis Clinic at the University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics. “They might be worried that they are not thinking as quickly as they used to or they can’t come up with the right word they want to say when they want to say it.”
Laura Hancock, PhD
She does these evaluations with objective paper and pencil testing. “It’s one-on-one. If there are problems, then I can figure out why you are having those problems, what we can do about those problems, how we can work around those problems.”
She can also make recommendations for workplace and classroom accommodations. The bottom line? “How can I help you live a better quality of life? I think there is a lot of room for us to be able to intervene, with medications, strategies and accommodations.”
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Take Action During MS Awareness Month Get involved by bringing attention to multiple sclerosis in March
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arch is MS Awareness Month and March 7-13 is MS Awareness Week – a time to generate awareness for multiple sclerosis and encourage everyone with a connection to the disease to get involved in the MS Movement.
Governor Scott Walker and Mayors Paul R. Soglin and Tom Barrett have already signed proclamations for Wisconsin, Madison and Milwaukee, bringing even greater attention to multiple sclerosis and the impact it has in our communities. (Contact the National MS Society-Wisconsin Chapter at info.wisMS@nmss.org for information on requesting a proclamation in your city, town or village.) Elsewhere in the state, individuals and businesses are getting involved in their own unique and creative ways. A few examples include:
• In Baraboo, Christin Harding and Angela
McMurray are partnering with local businesses throughout March for “Paint the Town Orange.” The city-wide campaign aims to raise MS awareness through various initiatives including
MS Awareness FACT: Women are two to three times more likely to be diagnosed with MS than men. selling orange circle pin-ups, providing volunteers to bus tables at restaurants in return for tip donations and hosting a painting class where a portion of the fee is donated. A specialty drink called the Myelin Sheath
(Cherry Pie, peach schnapps and orange juice) will also be available at participating restaurants and bars.
• I n Madison, Steve and Jane Schmieding
helped co-found the Charity Jamboree, Madison’s largest one-day indoor music festival that benefits three charities including the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. The March 5 event included more than 30 musical acts on four continuous stages with ticketing and other details available online at charityjamboree.com.
• I n Milwaukee, the 14th annual Blarney Bash
on March 5 included a beer tasting, chili cook-off, silent auctions, raffles, paddle games, light appetizers and sports memorabilia. The event is planned by Ashley Gorski and Maura Ambroch in honor of Team Wendy from Bike MS: TOYOTA Best Dam Bike Ride.
• I n Pewaukee, MS Summit capped MS
Awareness Week with the annual day of education and networking hosted by the National MS Society-Wisconsin Chapter.
MS Awareness FACT: More than 11,000 children, women and men in Wisconsin have been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, believed to be one of the higher prevalence rates in the country. That means everyone in our state probably knows someone touched by the disease. The free event included updates on living well with MS as well as the latest in MS research. Details and photos from past Summits are available online at wisMS.org.
• O pen Pantry stores throughout Wisconsin will
be selling paper pin-ups to raise money for their Walk MS team, while employees will also be making a point of engaging customers in conversations about MS in order to connect with people touched by the disease in their communities. Continued on Page 8
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Continued from Page 7
PHOTO CREDIT: BEN BROMLEY, NEWS REPUBLIC
Make Your Connection Count
Looking for a way to increase MS awareness and help those with multiple sclerosis?
• Register to participate in Walk MS – and
ask others to join you. It’s the easiest way to get involved! Sign up, ask others to sign up or donate and mark your calendar to attend the walk of your choice later in the spring
MS Awareness FACT: There were no approved treatments for MS 25 years ago. Today there are 16 for the most common forms of the disease. or fall. Before you know it, you’ve helped fund the research and services that help everyone living with MS! (See page 15 for more information.) Call 855-372-1331 or go to walkMSwisconsin.org and register.
• “Make a Mark for MS” with Wisconsin’s tax check-off program, which allows everyone to donate to select causes directly through their state income tax form. Money donated for multiple sclerosis stays in Wisconsin to help those diagnosed with MS maintain their independence and improve their quality of life. Make a $10 donation on your state income tax form and ask all your friends, neighbors and family members in Wisconsin to do the same.
• Wear orange. Orange is the signature color for multiple sclerosis. Wear it, ask others to wear it and tell everybody why.
Christin Harding and Angela McMurray encouraged local businesses in Baraboo to “Paint the Town Orange” in March for MS Awareness Month.
• V isit MSConnection.org. Join thousands of
people supporting one another and exploring the issues affecting those living with MS. Find peer-to-peer support, learn more about MS, donate and discover other ways to get involved.
MS Awareness FACT: Most people are diagnosed with MS between the ages of 20 and 50.
• S ell Pin Ups. Ask your local restaurant,
custard stand, bar, convenience store or bank to sell the bright orange MS circles for $1 or $5 each. Contact Nichole Shaffer at 262-369-4416 or nichole.shaffer@nmss.org for details.
• A sk your favorite local restaurants to hold a give-back night and donate a portion of their sales. Many restaurants have programs in place already. Contact Kristin Raeber at 262-369-4436 or kristin.raeber@nmss.org with questions. n
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Feel Good About Your Tax Form Make a Mark on your state tax form to help those with MS
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here’s a place on Wisconsin’s state income tax form that gives you the chance to help those living with multiple sclerosis. It’s where someone’s quality of life can be improved and their continued independence assured. It’s the “Donations” section, where multiple sclerosis is listed along with a few other select causes. By making a mark there of $5, $25, $50 or more, you can give an anonymous donation that will have a lasting effect on the lives of others in the state. Steven Weisnicht of Shawano, Wis., can attest. He received financial assistance in 2015 in order to install a hydraulic lift on his vehicle – something that has allowed him to be more active with the mobility scooter he uses because of his MS.
“ In a way, this lift has eliminated obstacles. I can go shopping. I can get to my kids’ games.”
– S teven Weisnicht
“For the first eight years after I was diagnosed, nothing changed,” Weisnicht, 43, explained of his relapsing-remitting MS diagnosis in 2000. “I could work. Everything was fine. Then all hell broke loose.” MS affected his vision, balance and ability to walk. The mobility scooter he uses today helps, but the trailer he had to tow the scooter was a hindrance. “The old trailer was too big to get around with. It was built more for a snowmobile or a tractor,” he said. “The new trailer is a godsend. Now I don’t have to worry about there being a parking spot to fit into. I’m able to
Make a Mark for MS Here’s an extra reason why your donation matters: This year and going forward, a three-year average of $50,000 in donations needs to be maintained in order for multiple sclerosis to remain a part of Wisconsin’s tax check-off program. park in any parking spot eligible for a car. I can drive the scooter on and off the lift. It makes it way easier to get around.” That means Weisnicht has been able to go shopping at the mall for the first time in three years. And he’s looking forward to finally being able to attend more of his children’s basketball and baseball games. With two sons age 13 and 8 and a daughter who’s 5, Weisnicht said, “They have me on the move!” The funds for Weisnicht’s lift came directly from the donations made through the tax check-off program last year, making him one of 77 people helped by the nearly $70,000 raised. From power wheelchairs and stairlifts, to home modifications for safety and accessibility, to gym memberships for wellness and homecare during caregiver respite, the assistance provided has been critical and life changing for many Wisconsinites. “In a way, this lift has eliminated obstacles. I can go shopping. I can get to my kids’ games. I can get anywhere,” Weisnicht said. “It’s much needed and I’m sure a lot of people are in the same boat.” To help others like Weisnicht improve their quality of life and maintain their independence, look for line 35d on the Wisconsin income tax long form or 26d on the short form and write in your donation amount, or ask your tax preparer to insert the amount for you. Then ask everyone you know to do the same. n MS Connection | 9
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Honoring Individual Impact 2015 Annual Meeting celebrates those involved in the MS Movement
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ore than 100 guests gathered in early December at the Chenequa Country Club for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society-Wisconsin Chapter 2015 Annual Meeting. The evening was a celebration of the year’s advancements in understanding and treating MS, and an opportunity to honor some of the individuals in Wisconsin who are fueling that impact. The 2016 Annual Meeting and Celebration is scheduled for Saturday, December 3. n
Aaron Field, MD, PhD, was inducted into the National MS Society Volunteer Hall of Fame in the scientific research category.
Don and Eileen Bell were named the Wisconsin Chapter’s 2015 Impact Award recipients for their support of MS research and scholarships through their family’s annual fundraiser, a rabbit hunt that has raised more than $250,000 since it began in 2003. From left to right: Allan Bell, Sharon Bell, Brian Bell, Don Bell, Eileen Bell, Jan Waldhart and Tom Waldhart.
From left to right: Jagruti and Yogesh Khatri and Bhupendra Khatri, MD. Dr. Khatri was inducted into the Society’s Volunteer Hall of Fame with a Lifetime Achievement Award.
From left to right: Cheryl Blaschuk, NP, Aurora Health Care Neuroscience Innovation Institute, along with Stanya Smith, MD, and Jamie Wolf, MSN, RN, FNP-BC, APNP, MSCN, from ProHealth Care’s MS Clinic at Waukesha Memorial Hospital.
From left to right: Tia Richardson and Wisconsin Chapter Government Relations Committee member Dr. Stephanie Richardson, RN.
Joshua Boyer and Walk MS: Cedarburg committee member Bridget Milinski. MS Connection | 11
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Is Social Security Disability Riddled with Fraud? Initiatives in place to fight fraud
D
uring its history, the Social Security disability program has not been viewed as particularly prone to fraud. In recent years, however, there have been several high profile news stories about fraud in the disability program. In response, Congress held hearings, passed new laws designed to combat fraud and provided the Social Security Administration (SSA) with additional funding to address the problem. SSA has instituted fraud fighting initiatives including new fraud investigation units and a campaign that encourages citizens to report fraud.
BY ATTORNEY THOMAS E. BUSH Wisconsin’s Tom Bush shares SSDI expertise gleaned over 20 years.
of reliance on medical evidence, especially objective test results and medical findings, there is not a great opportunity for claimants to commit fraud in being found disabled. Indeed, there is little incentive to be off work more than two years in order to try to be found disabled at an administrative law judge (ALJ) hearing (where the odds of winning are less than 50/50 these days) in order to obtain benefits, the national average of which is around $1,200 per month.
How prevalent is Social Security fraud?
Let’s see if we can establish some perspective on this problem. Although SSA does not keep “fraud statistics,” it tracks “improper overpayments,” which are caused by SSA errors – probably the largest category, simple errors made by beneficiaries of the program, followed by the next largest category, out-and-out fraud by beneficiaries and fraud by SSA employees. SSA data shows a rate of overpayments to disability beneficiaries generally less than 1% (0.97% in 2012, 0.57% in 2013 and 1.13% in 2014). Since fraud must be a tiny proportion of this already small percentage, it does not make sense to say that fraud has run rampant in the disability program. Yet, because SSA deals with hundreds of millions of dollars in total overpayments, and because any fraud has a corrosive impact on a disability program, it is easy to see why SSA says it has a zero tolerance for fraud and has established a goal of reducing total overpayments to 0.2% or less over the next few years. Fraud most likely constitutes a very small percentage of total overpayments in the disability program. The only opportunities for fraud by claimants generally involve 1) fraud in getting on the program to begin with and 2) failure to report events that should cease benefits. In recent years, it has been so difficult for claimants to be found disabled that few people who are not actually disabled get approved for the program. Because
“ SSA has instituted fraud fighting initiatives including new fraud investigation units and a campaign that encourages citizens to report fraud.”
– Tom Bush
The area where there may be greater potential for fraud is when a beneficiary fails to report that he or she has medically improved and is now capable of returning to work or when a beneficiary fails to report to SSA that he or she actually returned to work. Although initial reporting requirements are based on the honor system, SSA has ways of catching up to those who fail to report and assesses them with over payments and, in egregious cases, charges them with fraud punishable by fines and imprisonment. SSA has robust methods for obtaining reimbursement for overpayments such as deduction from future disability benefits, garnishing wages, intercepting tax refunds and deduction from future retirement benefits. n Tom Bush is the preeminent expert on SSDI in Southeast Wisconsin. A Wisconsin Chapter volunteer for 20 years, he was inducted into the National MS Society’s Volunteer Hall of Fame in 2008. Tom’s website is www.tebush.com.
MS Connection | 13
Fueling Progress No Opportunity Wasted campaign funds critical research
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he past five years have seen remarkable achievements in multiple sclerosis research, due in large part to the generous donations to the National MS Society’s $250 million No Opportunity Wasted (NOW) campaign, which came to a close at the end of 2015. This campaign accelerated vital progress toward stopping MS in its tracks, restoring function that has been lost and ending MS forever. Achievements from the groundbreaking campaign include:
STOPPING MS • Improved tools to speed the diagnosis of MS • Supported promising clinical trials of nerve-protecting strategies • Founded the International Progressive MS Alliance in partnership with MS Societies of Italy, United Kingdom, Netherlands, Canada and the MS International Federation • Uncovered new evidence for disease progression risk factors • Established the MS Outcome Assessments Consortium to develop measures of MS progression and speed clinical trials
RESTORING LOST FUNCTION • Advanced myelin repair strategies • Demonstrated the promise of stem cells to restore function • Leveraged wellness research results so that people with MS can apply what is known through research to live their best lives everyday
ENDING MS FOREVER • Identified important leads regarding environmental and lifestyle factors that increase MS risk • Discovered genes that make people susceptible to MS • Expanded the Network of Pediatric MS Centers
Visit nationalMSsociety.com/research for more information on research progress, funding and news. n
Significant progress has occurred since the start of the $250 million NOW campaign in 2010:
• 5 new treatments for relapsing remitting MS • MS treatment pipeline is larger than ever before with 291 potential treatments • 3 promising myelin repair treatments in trials • First large trial of a treatment showing benefits for primary progressive MS Members of Chuck’s Athletic Supporters, the top fundraising team at the 2015 Bike MS: TOYOTA Best Dam Bike Tour. MS Connection | 14
• 200 genetic variants linked to MS • Several risk factors for MS confirmed
. S M K L A W . R E H T E TOG
2016
R WE’RE STRONGE APPLETON Appleton North High School Sunday, April 24 CEDARBURG Cedarburg High School Saturday, April 30 DE PERE West De Pere High School Sunday, April 24 EAU CLAIRE UW-Eau Claire Saturday, April 30 FOND DU LAC Marian University Saturday, May 7 JANESVILLE Palmer Park Sunday, May 1
KENOSHA-RACINE UW-Parkside Saturday, May 7 LA CROSSE La Crosse Center Saturday, April 23 MADISON Warner Park Sunday, May 1 MARSHFIELD UW-Marshfield / Wood County Saturday, April 30 MENOMONEE FALLS Menomonee Falls High School Saturday, April 30
THANK YOU TO OUR PREMIER NATIONAL SPONSOR
MILWAUKEE Summerfest Grounds Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard Sunday, May 1 OCONOMOWOC Fowler Park Saturday, April 30 OSHKOSH Oshkosh West High School Sunday, September 18 PLATTEVILLE UW-Platteville Saturday, April 30 RHINELANDER Rhinelander High School Saturday, September 17
SHEBOYGAN Blue Harbor Resort Sunday, April 24 STEVENS POINT Location TBA Saturday, September 17 WAUKESHA Frame Park Sunday, September 18 WAUSAU Central Wisconsin Convention & Expo Center Saturday, May 7 Check-in: 9 a.m. Walk Begins: 10 a.m. Dates and locations subject to change.
REGISTER TODAY! WALKMS.ORG | 855-372-1331 Wisconsin
‘My Fight with the MonSter’ On a whim, Wisconsin runner joins local 5K and raises $3,400 to Finish MS
M
ichele Campbell, 53, has three adult children, teaches 4th grade at Waukesha Catholic St. Mary Campus and is a columnist for the Catholic Herald. She was officially diagnosed with MS (which she refers to as “the MonSter”) in 2010. “I made it a mission to do the things I love to do as much as I can, while I can. I am checking things off of my bucket list so I can talk about the memory of doing it, not regret that I didn’t.” That includes skydiving, hot air ballooning and roller coaster riding, not to mention getting back into running. In 2015 she entered the Milwaukee Running Festival and, through the Finish MS program, raised $3,400 for the National MS Society.
PHOTO CREDIT: MILWAUKEE RUNNING FESTIVAL
• When did you first get into running? After my
youngest was born, I tried running on a whim and loved it. I think it has helped keep my MS at bay.
• Have you completed many 5Ks? As themed runs
have become the trend, I have started to do them because they are a lot of fun and the energy is amazing. I have done the Color Run and Dirty Girl Mud Run for a number of years.
• What made you decide to sign up for the Milwaukee Running Festival 5K? It seems like
my “on a whim” decisions have been the best ones. I simply got an email and saw that I can raise money for a cause I believe in, not one predetermined. That was my motivation and a sign it was time to start doing 5K’s again. My legs are weakening and I saw this as my fight with the MonSter.
• How did you fundraise? Once again, on a whim,
I posted it to my Facebook page as a way to commit me do to do the run. I added the link with my MS profile and hoped for maybe $125 so I could get the free shirt. In less than 24 hours, I raised $1,000! I didn’t want to be too pushy so I would do an occasional progress post as well as emphasize my deepest gratitude. Within that week, I had raised $2,000! As the run approached, I posted a few times and was so close to my new goal of $3,000.
MS Connection | 16
“I am not in it to raise money for ME, I am in it to raise money for US – all of us with this MonSter,” said Michele Campbell, who ran a 5K and raised $3,400 for Finish MS.
The amazing generosity of my friends pumped in another $400 by race day for a total of $3,400. Unbelievable. While I was completely blown away by the donations, what was even more special were the words of encouragement, the prayers and even the fact that I have inspired others. What an amazing feeling! I have also learned that many of my friends have some sort of connection with MS, be it them personally, a coworker, a family member or even a public figure. They were more than happy to donate to my race because they see it as a way to help those they connect with. n
Finish MS offers athletes of all types and abilities the chance to create a world free of MS while pushing their own personal limits. Learn more. Contact Kristin Raeber at 262-369-4436 or kristin.raeber@nmss.org for details.
Year in Review
Holding a Do It Yourself Fundraiser is a fun way to raise both awareness and funds for multiple sclerosis. There are jean days, lock-ins, rummage sales, volleyball tournaments and more. Some DIY Fundraisers competed in athletic events and used the opportunity to raise funds through the Finish MS program. More than 150 DIY Fundraising events were registered with the Wisconsin Chapter in 2015. The events are listed here, along with the name of the organizer and the dollars raised as reported to the Chapter.*
JANUARY Polar Bear Dash Bill Schneider RAISED $750 ABB Casual for a Cause Fundraiser Kristine Anderson RAISED $240 Help Find a Cure for MS Ben Romenesko RAISED $55,555
Zach’s Angels for MS Michael Boldt RAISED $1,145 3rd Annual MS Volleyball Tournament Dave Koch RAISED $2,296 The Brave Benefit for MS Barb Heath RAISED $13,740.44 Cabin Fever Fun Day Attitude Sports RAISED $750
DIY Success Story Attendees gathered in February for the 13th Annual Rabbits Unlimited Rabbit Hunt, which included a rabbit hunt, raffles, games, food and music. More than $50,000 was raised at the event.
* DIY Fundraisers and totals raised as reported to the Wisconsin Chapter as of February 1, 2016. Some events did not report their final results.
For more information about holding your own DIY Fundraiser in 2016, contact Ashley Wissinger at ashley.wissinger@nmss.org or 262-369-4426.
Appleton North Coffeehouse Appleton North High School Student Council RAISED $1,000
FEBRUARY Countywide Casual Day Jessica Morris RAISED $826.05 13th Annual Rabbits Unlimited Rabbit Hunt Bell Family and Friends RAISED $50,250 Appleton East High School Key Club Candy Gram Sales Pamela Westphal RAISED $378 Kortelopet-Birkie Ellen Cochran RAISED $1,525 Cassville Ski Busters Snowmobile Auction Poker Run for Multiple Sclerosis Barb Lenz RAISED $12,000
MS Connection | 17
Year in Review
MARCH
Kappa Beta Gamma Sorority’s 13th Annual MS Benefit & Silent Auction Taylor Zilch RAISED $10,065
Altra Federal Credit Union Employee Jeans Day Donations Altra Federal Credit Union RAISED $151.75
13th Annual Blarney Bash for MS Ashley Gorski RAISED $42,004.71
Ignite Milwaukee Sammi Dittloff RAISED $443
DIY Success Story
J.J. Keller Fun At Work Event J.J. Keller & Associates RAISED $801.34 Pool Tournament Peggy Machtan RAISED $1,089 Girls Arrowhead Soccer Fundraiser Scott Asher RAISED $2,041.90
Attendees of the Brewery Tour to Fight MS received a private tour at Milwaukee Brewing Co. and had the opportunity to sample craft beers. The event raised $2,100 for Bike MS: TOYOTA Best Dam Bike Tour.
Shaving the Beard for St. Patrick’s Day Kayc Kleinhenz RAISED $173.05 2nd Annual Hot Cookies MS FUNdraiser Roshelle Weist RAISED $1,200
7th Annual Family Fun Day/ Texas Hold ‘Em Connie Plier RAISED $14,867
Charity Jamboree 2015: Music Can Beat MS Steve Schmieding RAISED $7,174.33
MS Coins for Cure Jackie Andrew RAISED $350
Brewery Tour to Fight MS Kelly Magnus RAISED $2,100
Dance for a Cure 2015 Angel Barber RAISED $420
MS Wine Tasting Jamie Wolf RAISED $1,015
Fight MS...Eggroll Style Sarah Hwang RAISED $5,000
Benefit Concert for the MS Society North Shore Dance Studio RAISED $14,000
MS Connection | 18
St. John’s Pies for MS Fundraiser Amy McCargar RAISED $415
St. Joe’s Middle School Awareness Event Aly Cunningham RAISED $100 Buffet Pasta Dinner Fundraiser K.O.’s Trio RAISED $1,750 MS Moonlight Bowling Trudy DeRemer RAISED $1,116
APRIL Spring Flower MS Fundraiser Tracy and Michael Bender RAISED $350
Year in Review
Trophy Bar Raffle Berlin’s Trophy Bar RAISED $400
Golf Fore MS! Vic Erickson RAISED $7,000
Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration Jeans Day FSPA Employee Relations Committee RAISED $38
Sargento Bowling & Raffle Fundraiser Joan Butters RAISED $1,321
Howard Elementary Penny Drop for MS Vonnie Voight RAISED $916.40 Jan’s Fans “Pulling For A Cure” Tom and Janice Hart RAISED $7,715 Walgreens Bake Sale Melani Larsen RAISED $1,350 Eggroll Fundraiser for Step for Sonya Sonya Bleier RAISED $1,190
Walk with Strength – 6th Annual Awareness Walk Zach Mielke RAISED $8,500
1st National Bank Jeans Day Toni Tilley RAISED $1,200 The MS Scramble Samantha Wreath RAISED $1,330
Save Your Change in May Paul and Julie C. RAISED $481.27 Garage Bake Sale Dena and Brianna Sorge RAISED $15 31 Fundraiser Heidi Crull RAISED $186.68
Walk for a Cause – Make a Connection with MS Jeanne Nichols
Rock the MonSter Toni Tilley RAISED $1,193
Buffalo Wild Wings Diane Hackbarth RAISED $27.47
MS Fundraiser Bruce Pyfferoen RAISED $1,055
Green Mill for Good – Give-back Event Green Mill Restaurant & Bar Eric Hoium RAISED $234
Bowl-a-thon for MS Darice Seib RAISED $1,082
Jewelry is Fun Sale Jenni Oliver RAISED $587.52 O’Leary MS Fundraiser Nancy O’Leary RAISED $5,471
MAY
Madison Walk MS Silent Auction Sue Lerdahl RAISED $3,020
DIY Success Story Participants of the O’Hare Family Spring Clay Shoot, held at the Wern Valley Sportsmen’s Club, had a BBQ dinner and raffle in addition to the clay shoot. The 3rd annual event held in May raised $2,420.
Open House Fundraiser Karen Minor RAISED $838 MS Connection | 19
Year in Review
Buffalo Wild Wings Edward Olsen RAISED $89.44 MS Walk Dine Out at Benvenuto’s Autumn Neugent RAISED $310 Applebee’s Dining to Donate Pam Heinrich RAISED $22.27 Sabika Jewelry: Benefits my Challenge Walk MS Mary Mann RAISED $186.12 Taco Bell Fundraiser Kim Bertram RAISED $257 Platteville Walk MS Silent Auction and Raffle Walk MS: Platteville Committee RAISED $1,965 Smash MS Ryan Minor RAISED $62 MS Event Jane Zimmerman Cellcom Half Marathon Howard Herrild RAISED $100 Fox Valley Road & Track Classic Roy Fine RAISED $3,045 The O’Hare Family Spring Clay Shoot The O’Hare Family RAISED $2,450 MS Connection | 20
Soiree for Success: A Fundraiser to Fight MS Shayla Rosen RAISED $24,192.36
Scramble Fore MS Golf Outing Debbie Knudson RAISED $5,685
Blurred Lines Brat Fry Stacey Remington RAISED $2,427
Brew at The Barn Christin Harding RAISED $600
JUNE
MS Society Fundraising Night @ Kapco Park Jacob Nelson RAISED $30
Vintage Bike Night for MS John Haupt RAISED $1,576 Rummage Sale Kathy Osiecki, Alicia Osiecki, Colleen Zwitter, and Amy Zumach RAISED $1,991.15 Bag MS at Hartfest Sponsored by Wachtel Tree Science Joseph Fangmann RAISED $2,420 Emil Open MS Golf Outing Steve “Emil” Wolf and Nickie Neipert RAISED $2,300 “Rockin’ the UC” “Summer on the Mall” Committee for the James R. Connor University Center RAISED $455.35 Rummage Sale Event Ann and David Freigang RAISED $1,000 Bike MS Fundraiser at Simple Cafe Caroline Pollock-Cho RAISED $2,043 MS Scarf Fundraiser Caroline Pollock-Cho RAISED $240
Damn Yankee’s Watering Hole – 10th Annual MS Benefit Ron Scherwinski RAISED $7,795
JULY Joy for Jeans Rachel Snethen Rosie’s Buds – Fightin’ the Fight for MS Awareness! Laurie Baerwolf RAISED $141.65 Blue Ribbon Beer Run – Traditional Hot Rod and Custom Car Show Wisco Maniacs RAISED $10,606 Best Dam Bake Sale Victor Walker RAISED $300 Candles for a Cause Tashyanna Skiles RAISED $30 26th Annual Croal Open for Multiple Sclerosis Dan, Mike and Tim Croal RAISED $59,103
Year in Review
9th Annual MS Golf Scramble and Tim Pagel Benefit Pagel and Freeman Families RAISED $10,500
DIY Success Story The Blue Ribbon Beer Run featured a traditional hot rod and custom car show and raised more than $10,600 for the Wisconsin Chapter. This annual event was held by the Wisco Maniacs at Best Place at the Historic Pabst Brewery.
Pizzeria Piccola Stephen Hudson-Mairet RAISED $1,432.84 2015 Minocqua Antique and Classic Boat Show Al Hanley, Gordon Moore and Peter Ekstrom RAISED $11,295 Tee Off for MS: The 1st Annual Walter Hermanns Memorial Golf Outing Laura Hermanns RAISED $8,476 Lyndon Station Park Fest Candy Sonnenberg RAISED $590 Bob-O-Classic Golf Outing Bryan and Shawn Neddo RAISED $500 Pedal and Party in Pardeeville with a Purpose Harry and Kay Lum RAISED $5,440 Rookies Sports Bar & Grill Golf Outing Steve Carrow RAISED $4,304.63 3rd Annual Vick & Associates Couples Golf Outing Kevin Vick RAISED $2,290 Greater Duck Creek Open Duck Creek Campground RAISED $10,989
Team CCC Fundraiser Rick Huhn and Mick Gilbertson RAISED $2,125
15th Annual Pat’s Par-Tee Broadlands Golf Course RAISED $1,625
AUGUST
Milton Mud Challenge Heidi Crull RAISED $24,177.70
Golf MS 2015 Wendy McCarthy RAISED $2,875.63 Wells Fargo Brookfield Branch Fundraiser William Manders RAISED $315 13th Annual A Drive For MS-Bogey Bare MS Scramble Ken Bare RAISED $6,221 MS Golf Outing Becky Blauert RAISED $3,411.58 2015 Digital Scavenger Hunt Kim Bertram Road Rally to Benefit MS Shirley Pate RAISED $850
JMO: A Drive for MS Heidi Erdmann RAISED $2,235 Brat Sales Frisbee Golf Event Morgan Iverson RAISED $1,200 Boardtrackers Harley-Davidson Grand Opening – CCC Fundraiser Curt Sauser RAISED $6,621.07 Share Day at Culvers Rhinelander Stan and Betty Panek RAISED $525
MS Connection | 21
Year in Review
Apple Holler MS Orchard Walk & Fundraiser Sheri Gavin RAISED $10,731 Lip Sync Battle Kelly’s Bleachers – Big Bend Woods & Water Paddle Races Lynn Ann’s Campground RAISED $300
Texas Roadhouse Benefit Night Texas Roadhouse RAISED $2,202.05 Mukwonago High School Staff Charity Fun Run/Walk Bruce Lammers RAISED $510
Jessica’s Granola Bar Sales Jessica Kramer RAISED $270
Turning Heads 4MS, a group led by Zach Haertl, participated in the Oshkosh Turkey Trot in November, raising $1,535. The 10 runners at the 2015 event dressed up in an outer space theme, space shuttle included.
Community First Bank – Causal for a Cause Community First Bank RAISED $100
Buffalo Wild Wings Give Back Night Buffalo Wild Wings RAISED $656.18 Ynot II Annual MS Benefit Shaleigh Fitzpatrick RAISED $650 Rebeck’s Swing for MS Golf Outing Shana Rebeck RAISED $5,624 Ken Fest 10 Gina Kowalik RAISED $3,775
MS Connection | 22
2nd Annual Bootz Saloon Open Golf Outing Christopher Kempken RAISED $4,130
DIY Success Story
SEPTEMBER
Adams County Golf for a Cure MS Martin & June Hillert RAISED $45,900
Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt Fundraiser Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt RAISED $4.44
Dogleg Open a Golf Outing to Support MS Dylan Guendert RAISED $7,577
AutumnDoll Streaming to End MS AutumnDoll Gaming RAISED $155
2nd Annual SavannaFest Block Party Fundraiser Shonna Royer
Rocky Rococo’s Fundraiser Night Ellen Schneider RAISED $11.56
Gamble Scramble Fore MS Dwayne Sweeney RAISED $4,851
OCTOBER
Ride for Clyde Biking for Beulah Dawn Janisch RAISED $5,190 Walk MS Rhinelander Raffle Stan and Betty Panek RAISED $160
United Bank Jeans for Charity United Bank Staff RAISED $478.80 Buffalo Wild Wings Give Back Night Buffalo Wild Wings RAISED $204.76
Year in Review
Shaleigh’s 4th Year MS Bike Ride Shaleigh Fitzpatrick
Milwaukee Running Festival Runner: Molly Burness RAISED $783
Chilly Willy Horse Show Becky Perron RAISED $1,055
Milwaukee Running Festival Runner: Michele Campbell RAISED $3,405
MS Snow Tour Cash Raffle Hanna Meronk & Family, Mavis Family RAISED $3,805
Milwaukee Running Festival Runner: Lizzy Flipse RAISED $210
“Climbing Beyond Our Limits” Women’s Event Heather Hayward RAISED $327 Beer for a Cure Lindsay Hale RAISED $1,457 Spaghetti Dinner Cindy Koffman RAISED $604.72
NOVEMBER Milwaukee Running Festival Runner: Nancy Burkard RAISED $215
DIY Success Story More than $450 was raised at ”Rockin’ the UC.” The National MS Society was the 2015 charity of choice for this summer event at UW-Whitewater and was hosted by the “Summer on the Mall” Committee for the James R. Connor University Center.
Hays Jeans Day for Charity Employees of Hays Companies Wisconsin RAISED $259 4th Annual Perry/Vick Bowling Tournament Kevin Vick RAISED $1,805
Milwaukee Running Festival Runner: Jessica Klug RAISED $325
MS Fundraiser hosted by the Milwaukee Chapter of Generation OptiMiStic Kim Muszynski RAISED $7,333
Milwaukee Running Festival Runner: Kristie Kurtenbach RAISED $125
Putt 4 MS Jesse Juedes RAISED $2,371
Milwaukee Running Festival Runner: Jennifer Laughlin Mueller RAISED $120
4th Annual Turkey Trot Denise Johnson RAISED $960
Milwaukee Running Festival Runner: Michael Miller RAISED $246 Milwaukee Running Festival Runner: Dan Rieck RAISED $495
Finish MS – Turning Heads 4MS Zach Haertl RAISED $1,535
DECEMBER Light Up Your Holidays with Texture Laura Springer RAISED $235 7th Annual Volleyball Tournament for MS Scott Wittmann RAISED $2,400 MHS Lock-In: Staying The Night To End The Fight Marci Mitchell-Hallett RAISED $2,940.14
MS Connection | 23
PAID ADVERTISEMENT
Wednesday, April 6, 2016 at 6:00 PM
Monday, March 21, 2016 at 6:00 PM Please RSVP so we can reserve your seat. Use event code TR344810.
WHAT: An MS Speaker Event WHERE: Bonefish Grille 7345 mineral Point Road Madison, WI 53711
Please RSVP so we can reserve your seat. Use event code TR344811.
WHAT: An MS Speaker Event WHERE: HOBNOB’ 277 South Sheridan Road Racine, WI 53403 SPEAKER: MS Expert
SPEAKER: MS Expert
Tuesday, April 12, 2016 at 12:00 PM WHAT: An MS Speaker Event WHERE: Mitchell's Fish Market Seafood Restaurant & Bar 275 North Moorland Road Brookfield, WI 53005
Managing Relapsing MS & Relationship Conversations
Please RSVP so we can reserve your seat. Use event code TR344812.
WHEN:
SPEAKERS:
04/13/2016 at 6:00 PM
WHERE:
Sprecher's Restaurant & Pub 111 Center Street Lake Geneva, WI 53147
Lisa Sershon, PA Center for Neurological Disorders S.C And Kelly Malucha, RN, MSCN
FYI:
Complimentary parking or valet available. A meal or snack may be provided.
SPEAKER:
Bhupendra Khatri, MD Medical Director The Center for Neurological Disorders, Milwaukee
PLEASE RSVP FOR YOU AND A GUEST:*
Visit RelapsingMultipleSclerosisEvents.com, or call 1-866-703-6293 *Registration is limited to two people per RSVP. Photo ID may be requested at event entrance. Register today.
EVENT ID: TR345136
PAID ADVERTISEMENT
MS Connection | 24
MS Snowmobile Tour Makes A Big Impact 2016
M
ore than 170 riders and volunteers, including a record-setting 43 rookie participants, joined the 33rd annual MS Snowmobile Tour, January 28-30. The camaraderie and spirit of the Tour were on full display, as participants enjoyed snowmobiling, trail games and memorable evening entertainment. The commitment to every person affected by MS was also on display, with the group raising more than $300,000, surpassing the event fundraising goal. Donations are still being accepted at MSsnowmobiletour.org. n
The 2017 MS Snowmobile Tour is January 26-28 and will once again be headquartered at the newlyrenovated Potawatomi Carter Casino and Hotel in Carter, Wis. Register at MSsnowmobiletour.org or by calling 262-369-4400.
Grants Support Research, Services The Wisconsin Chapter thanks the following organizations for the grants recently awarded in support of research and services that are critical to people affected by MS. • $25,000 Ladish Co. Foundation
• $1,000 PhRMA
• $15,000 Forest County Potawatomi Foundation
• $1,000 Schiestle Family Fund
• $10,000 Demmer Charitable Trust
• $1,000 William Stark Jones Foundation
• $7,500 Krause Family Foundation
• $500 Janice & Raymond Perry Community Fund, Inc.
• $5,000 Lux Foundation, Inc.
• $500 Mandry Family Charitable Fund
• $5,000 Puelicher Foundation Inc
• $500 Nicolet National Foundation, Inc.
• $5,000 Robert and Mary Sowinski Charitable Fund
• $250 Telly Foundation, Ltd.
• $5,000 The Victor & Christine Anthony Family Foundation, Inc.
• $167.50 Leeds Township Charities Fund
• $4,500 Briggs & Stratton Corporation Foundation, Inc.
• $100 Hittle Family Charitable Fund
• $2,800 J effrey M & Jody E Steren Donor Advised Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation
• $100 Thomas and Karen Ragatz Fund
• $2,000 Ralph G or Cherie Gorenstein Charitable Foundation Inc.
• $50 Treharne Family Fund
• $1,500 Barrow Medical Foundation
• $100 Schoenauer Family Foundation
• $1,054 G reater Milwaukee Foundation David C. Scott Foundation Fund
In total, $94,621.50 was received in gifts and grants from October through December. If you are connected to a foundation that you would like to suggest for a grant opportunity, or for more information on how you can help, contact Cindy Yomantas at 262-369-4431 or cindy.yomantas@nmss.org. MS Connection | 25
How We Move It Wisconsin Chapter News and Notes
Webinar & Telelearning Series The 2016 Webinar & Telelearning Series brings
together a collaboration of MS experts to help those impacted by MS to build strategies to live their best life with MS. Each free webinar and telelearning program features two presenters, with time at the end for questions. The programs start at 7 p.m. Central. Join online or by phone on topics including exercise and cognition; employment; treatment decisions; research updates; travel, stress and relaxation; managing spasticity; mood; health insurance; tips for support partners and families; diet and nutrition; and sleep. Register at nationalMSsociety.org/ telelearning or at 800-344-4867. Upcoming topics include: March 29 Home Based Employment: What Employers Want April 12 Myelin, Movement, and the Mind: Hot Topics in MS Research May 10 Stress Management and Relaxation
Camp Scholarship Program The MS Youth Camp is
a great way for young people who have a parent with MS or who live in a household with a person who has MS, to share a summer adventure, build friendships and have fun with others their age whose world is impacted by the disease. The 2016 camp will be held June 20-25 at YMCA Camp Icaghowan in Avery, Wis. The application deadline is April 8; a limited number of camp scholarships are available. Contact Krista at 612-335-7937 or krista.harding@nmss.org or visit nationalMS society.org/Chapters/ WIG/Services-and-Support/Services/ Camp-Scholarship-Program for details.
MS Connection | 26
Café con Leche Support Group The National MS Society offers a monthly telephone support group held completely in
Spanish. Upcoming topics will focus on areas of interest to people living with MS. Additionally, experts from different areas of specialization in MS will join to speak about important topics in MS care. For more information or to register, call 800-344-4867, option 3.
For Kids: Keep S’myelin The Keep S’myelin Activity Book is a 28-page colorful,
engaging, informative and reassuring interactive publication to help children and their parents talk and learn about MS together. It is filled with stories, interviews, games and activities on a variety of topics related to MS, and there is a separate eight-page section just for parents. To request a copy, contact an MS Navigator by calling 800-344-4867. You can also download them at nationalMSsociety.org/ks.
Make a Difference – Be a Volunteer Volunteers are critical to the success of the MS Movement. From those who give their time and talents at Wisconsin Chapter fundraising events and the Chapter office, to those who serve on volunteer committees, each person makes a difference. Visit wisMS.org and click “Volunteer” to learn more about opportunities to get involved throughout the year.
MS Specialty Clinics in Wisconsin
CHAPTER CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS
Quality MS care is offered at several clinics throughout Wisconsin. Some of these clinics have taken additional steps focusing on neurology, rehabilitation, mental health and/or comprehensive care specific to MS.(*)
APRIL, MAY, SEPTEMBER
CENTERS FOR COMPREHENSIVE MS CARE*
See page 15 for all dates.
Green Bay: Aurora Medical Group MS Clinic 920-288-8020 La Crosse: Gundersen Lutheran MS Clinic 608-775-9000 Madison: Dean St. Mary’s MS Clinic 608-260-3425 UW Hospital and Clinics MS Clinic 608-262-0546 Marshfield: Marshfield Clinic MS Clinic 715-387-5350 Waukesha: ProHealth Care MS Clinic 262-928-8668
Wisconsin 2015
BIKE MS: TOYOTA BEST DAM BIKE TOUR August 6-7
PARTNERS IN MS CARE*
CHALLENGE WALK MS
Milwaukee: Columbia St. Mary’s MS Clinic 414-291-1771
September 16-18
CLINICS Milwaukee: Aurora Advanced Healthcare Center for Neurological Disorders 414-769-4040 Marinette: Aurora Marinette Menominee Clinic 715-735-7421 Neenah: Neuroscience Group 920-725-9373 Summit: Aurora Wilkinson Medical Clinic 262-434-5000
Editor: Amanda Gasper Krueger Contributing Editor: Maureen Waslicki Graphic Design and Production: Joan Hartin and Amy Malo
n n n
To comment or share a story idea, call 262-369-7173 or email amanda.gasper@nmss.org. National MS Society-Wisconsin Chapter 1120 James Dr., Ste. A, Hartland, WI 53029 262-369-4400 | 800-242-3358
@
wisMS.org
TOLL FREE
2017
MS CONNECTION IS A QUARTERLY PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETYWISCONSIN CHAPTER.
Door County 2016
MS SNOWMOBILE TOUR January 26-28
Get Connected The National Multiple Sclerosis Society helps each person address the challenges of living with MS through a variety of resources and support options. For more information on topics such as being newly diagnosed, treatment options and employment issues, visit nationalMSsociety.org. Sign up to receive National MS Society emails at nationalMSsociety.org/signup.
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Join the MSconnection.org community, a place for people living with MS to learn, share and connect with others impacted by MS.
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Talk to an MS Navigator – experts in helping you find MS information and resources – by calling 800-344-4867, Option 2, 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. CST Monday through Friday.
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MS Connection | 27
NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE
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1120 James Drive Suite A Hartland, WI 53029
MADISON, WI PERMIT NO. 1252
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LIVING WITH MS? INSPIRE OTHERS. Designate on your Walk MS registration form that you have MS
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