Be Inspired & Get Connected at Walk MS
Wisconsin Chapter:
Where Does the Money Go?
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Wisconsin Chapter Board of Trustees David Rodgers, Chair Briggs & Stratton Corporation
Robert Engel Retired, M&I Bank
Pamela Evason Windermere Wealth Advisors LLC
Michael Lutze, Vice Chair Ernst & Young
Paul Jones Harley-Davidson, Inc.
Paul Jones Harley-Davidson, Inc.
Tom Golden, Vice Chair M3 Insurance Solutions, Inc.
Wayne Larsen Ladish Foundation
Wayne Larsen ATI Ladish LLC
Pamela Evason, Vice Chair Windermere Wealth Advisors, LLC James Rose, Treasurer Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP
Martin McLaughlin Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren, s.c. Shelley Peterman Schwarz Meeting Life’s Challenges, LLC
Bruce Olson The Marcus Corporation Shelley Peterman Schwarz Meeting Life’s Challenges, LLC
Robert Sowinski, Secretary Diversified Insurance Solutions, Inc.
David Raysich Plunkett Raysich Architects
Kenneth Minor, Past Chair Sonic Foundry, Inc.
Jeffrey Steren Steren Management/McDonald’s
David Raysich Plunkett Raysich Architects
Colleen Kalt, President & CEO National MS SocietyWisconsin Chapter
Robyn Turtenwald Community Advocate
Robert Engel Retired, M&I Bank
Mission
Martin McLaughlin Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren, S.C.
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Fundraising
Patricia Raysich Community Advocate
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Jeffrey Steren Steren Management/McDonald’s Robyn Turtenwald
Community Advocate & General Management Molly Walsh Source: 2012 Audited Financial Statement Waisman Center ©2013 National Multiple Sclerosis SocietyWisconsin Chapter MS Connection is a quarterly publication of the National Multiple Sclerosis SocietyWisconsin Chapter. Editor: Maureen Waslicki Assistant Editor: Amanda Gasper Krueger Art Director: Amy Malo To comment or share a story idea, call 262-369-4421 or email maureen.waslicki@nmss.org
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Anne Brouwer McMillianDoolittle, LLP Robert Buhler Open Pantry Food Marts of Wisconsin, Inc.
Molly Walsh Community Advocate Alyson Zierdt Attorney, Retired
Dennis Christiansen Community Advocate
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. The National MS Society is committed to seeing a world free of MS.
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Show the Power of Your Connection at Walk MS As the Chapter that calls the Dairyland state home, it’s fitting that we affectionately refer to every top Walk MS fundraiser as a Big Cheese. They’re the ones who dedicate extra time and effort to moving the mission forward and the ones who raise the most money in support of MS-related research, programs and services. I hope you’ll join their ranks this year. Walk MS is coming in April and May, giving you 18 opportunities to be inspired, get connected and join the Movement to create a world free of MS. There is no registration fee, but historically Walk MS has been a big fundraiser – generating nearly $1.5 million last year to support the nearly 10,000 children, women and men in our state diagnosed with MS and those who care for them. Walk MS donations have also funded global studies that are bringing about a better understanding of the disease. Walk MS is a day when our connections become more powerful than the disease that’s bringing us together. Show the power of your connection by registering as a walker or volunteer, or donating to someone’s Walk MS team. All the details you need are at walkMSwisconsin.org, or you can call our office at 262-369-4400 or 800-242-3358. In gratitude,
Colleen G. Kalt President & CEO
Every Connection Counts to Create MS Awareness The nationwide effort to connect everyone touched by multiple sclerosis, to educate others about MS and to raise money to support research to treat and cure the disease ramps up in March. There are many ways to get involved. Use this list of ideas to get started: • Use your Facebook page to share the story of your personal connection to MS. • Wear orange and tell people why you’re wearing it. • Sign up to participate in one or more Society events. Form a team and invite others to join you. • Set up a “jeans day” at work – ask co-workers to pay $1 or $5 in exchange for wearing jeans and donate the money to the Wisconsin Chapter. • Hold a Do It Yourself Fundraiser such as a bake sale or coin drive. • Put orange flowers on your desk at work and share information about MS with anyone who asks about them. MS Connection | 3
Northwestern Mutual’s Days of Sharing
$10,000 grant came through employee’s recommendation
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ach year the Northwestern Mutual Foundation awards a total of $100,000 in grants to 25 area nonprofit organizations nominated by Northwestern Mutual employees through the company’s “Days of Sharing” campaign.
“We are very fortunate that there is an organization that cares so much for people in our situation.”
- Rochelle Thomas
Rochelle Thomas, a 25-year employee of the company, was one of more than 770 employees to make a nomination for the 2012 campaign.
Her organization of choice was the National Multiple Sclerosis Society-Wisconsin Chapter. “Both my sister and I have MS,” said Thomas, a top fundraiser and current Chapter volunteer, in the nomination. “We are very fortunate that there is an organization that cares so much for people in our situation. When I was diagnosed in 1992 I found comfort in knowing that there was always someone that I could call and ask any type of question. “It seems like everyone knows someone with MS,” she also wrote. “A grant would be very beneficial for furthering the advancement of medical testing so that one day there may actually be a cure for MS.” The “Days of Sharing” take place in December when Northwestern Mutual Foundation representatives randomly select five grants a day during one work week: five $1,000 grants the first day, five $2,000 grants the second day and so on until they get to “Five-Figure Friday,” when five $10,000 grants are awarded. Thomas’ nomination of the Wisconsin Chapter was selected for one of the $10,000 grants.
Rochelle Thomas said finding out that her nomination of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society-Wisconsin Chapter had resulted in a $10,000 grant through the Northwestern Mutual Foundation “Days of Sharing” campaign was “like winning the Publishers Clearing House.” John Kordsmeier, president of the foundation, was among those who surprised her at her desk with the news.
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“They come to your desk with balloons and video cameras and present you with this big check on paper,” Thomas said of finding out which nominees win. “I was in tears. I couldn’t even talk. It’s like winning the Publishers Clearing House.”
Snowmobile Raffles Raise Awareness of MS
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he MS Snowmobile Tour Volunteer Committee held raffles for Packers- and Badgers-themed snowmobiles as a way of generating additional fundraising dollars. Tickets were sold for $10 each at Packers and Badgers football games, snowmobiling expos and other events throughout the state, generating $28,000 in proceeds that were donated to the Wisconsin Chapter. Ava Glaser, a 9-year old from Lodi, won the Badgers sled. A relative of the new sled owner was recently diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Daniel Sullivan of Jackson won the Packers sled and said he has several friends with MS.
Winners of the second, third and fourth place prizes were Brian Hansen and Joseph Woodworth, who won $500 each; Don Holzhauer and Nicolas Sharp, who won $250 each; and Noah Geurts and Kelvin Kimball, who won registration and participation in the 2014 MS Snowmobile Tour. For more information on the 30th Annual MS Snowmobile Tour, turn to Page 20.
Grants Support Research, Programs and Services The Wisconsin Chapter thanks the following organizations for the grants recently awarded in support of research, programs and services that are critical to people affected by MS. • $25,000 from Ladish Co. Foundation • $10,000 from Elizabeth Elser Doolittle Charitable Trust • $10,000 from Northwestern Mutual Foundation • $10,000 from Puelicher Foundation, Inc. • $6,000 from Briggs & Stratton Corporation Foundation, Inc. • $2,000 from Acorda Therapeutics, Inc. • $1,070 from Greater Milwaukee Foundation David C. Scott Foundation Fund In total, $64,070 was received in gifts and grants from October to December 2012. 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 | 5
We’re Going to Celebrate Like It’s 1984
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his year marks the 30th Annual Bike MS: Best Dam Bike Ride. What began as a two-day, 150-mile roundtrip ride to Beaver Dam and back (hence the event’s name), has turned into one of the most successful bike fundraisers in the state, committed to creating the best experience possible while raising money for MS-related research, programs and services. The Wisconsin Chapter will celebrate the milestone in a big way August 3 and 4. Make sure you’re part of it! Register now so you can train and fundraise throughout spring and summer. Registration is open for the 2013 ride. Sign up before March 31 for only $35. Call 800-242-3358 or go to bestdambikeride.org.
Were you there at the beginning? Email your original Best Dam Bike Ride photos to info.wisMS@nmss.org (include “Best Dam Bike Ride photos” in the subject line), or mail them to: Best Dam Bike Ride Photos, c/o NMSSWisconsin Chapter, 1120 James Dr. Ste. A, Hartland, WI 53029. (Please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you would like your photos returned).
Thinking about joining the 30th annual Best Dam Bike Ride but not sure what it’s all about?
View the new video at bestdambikeride.org to find out what makes it more than a ride. It features some of last year’s participants sharing their personal reasons for riding along with footage from the route. MS Connection | 6
bestdambikeride.org
AMPYRA® (dalfampridine) is an oral medication that helps improve walking in patients with Multiple Sclerosis.
I will: “The first thing I started to notice as my walking improved with Ampyra was my confidence in my ability to walk to meet my friends.” — Kristie Salerno Kent, diagnosed with MS in 1999.
Walk on. Walking better matters. AMPYRA is the first and only medication shown in two clinical trials to improve walking in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). This was demonstrated by an increase in walking speed.
In these clinical studies, people who walked faster, regardless of treatment, reported improvements in their walking related activities. Not everyone responds to AMPYRA. Individual results may vary. Can be taken in combination with your other MS therapies.
Visit Ampyra.com to find out more about a FREE* TRIAL. *Limitations and Restrictions apply.
Talk to your doctor to see if AMPYRA may be right for you.
In two pivotal trials 35% and 43% of patients taking AMPYRA responded to treatment vs. 8% and 9% of patients taking placebo.
IMPORTANT NEW SAFETY INFORMATION Do not take AMPYRA if you are allergic to dalfampridine (4-aminopyridine), the active ingredient in AMPYRA. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION Do not take AMPYRA if you have ever had a seizure, or have certain types of kidney problems, or are allergic to dalfampridine (4-aminopyridine), the active ingredient in AMPYRA. Take AMPYRA exactly as prescribed by your doctor. You could have a seizure even if you never had a seizure before. Your chance of having a seizure is higher if you take too much AMPYRA or if your kidneys have a mild decrease of function, which is common after age 50. Your doctor may do a blood test to check how well your kidneys are working, if that is not known before you start taking AMPYRA.
AMPYRA should not be taken with other forms of 4-aminopyridine (4-AP, fampridine), since the active ingredient is the same. AMPYRA may cause serious allergic reactions. Stop taking AMPYRA and call your doctor right away or get emergency medical help if you have shortness of breath or trouble breathing, swelling of your throat or tongue, or hives. Please see accompanying Patient Medication Guide on the following page. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088. AMPYRA® is a registered trademark of Acorda Therapeutics®, Inc. AMPYRA is marketed by Acorda Therapeutics, Inc. and is manufactured under license from Alkermes Pharma Ireland Ltd. © 2013 Acorda Therapeutics, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 02/13 AMP2240 PAID ADVERTISEMENT
MEDICATION GUIDE FOR AMPYRA® (am-PEER-ah) (dalfampridine) Extended Release Tablets Read this Medication Guide before you start taking AMPYRA and each time you get a refill. There may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking with your doctor about your medical condition or your treatment. What is the most important information I should know about AMPYRA? AMPYRA can cause seizures. • You could have a seizure even if you never had a seizure before. • Your chance of having a seizure is higher if you take too much AMPYRA or if your kidneys have a mild decrease of function, which is common after age 50. • Your doctor may do a blood test to check how well your kidneys are working, if that is not known before you start taking AMPYRA. • Do not take AMPYRA if you have ever had a seizure. • Before taking AMPYRA tell your doctor if you have kidney problems. • Take AMPYRA exactly as prescribed by your doctor. See “How should I take AMPYRA?” Stop taking AMPYRA and call your doctor right away if you have a seizure while taking AMPYRA. What is AMPYRA? AMPYRA is a prescription medicine used to help improve walking in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). This was shown by an increase in walking speed. It is not known if AMPYRA is safe or effective in children less than 18 years of age. Who should not take AMPYRA? Do not take AMPYRA if you: • have ever had a seizure • have certain types of kidney problems • are allergic to dalfampridine (4-aminopyridine), the active ingredient in AMPYRA What should I tell my doctor before taking AMPYRA? Before you take AMPYRA, tell your doctor if you: • have any other medical conditions • are taking compounded 4-aminopyridine (fampridine, 4-AP) • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if AMPYRA will harm your unborn baby. You and your doctor will decide if you should take AMPYRA while you are pregnant. • are breast-feeding or plan to breast-feed. It is not known if AMPYRA passes into your breast milk. You and your doctor should decide if you will take AMPYRA or breast-feed. You should not do both. Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements. Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them and show it to your doctor and pharmacist when you get a new medicine. How should I take AMPYRA? • Take AMPYRA exactly as your doctor tells you to take it. Do not change your dose of AMPYRA. • Take one tablet of AMPYRA 2 times each day about 12 hours apart. Do not take more than 2 tablets of AMPYRA in a 24-hour period. • Take AMPYRA tablets whole. Do not break, crush, chew or dissolve AMPYRA tablets before swallowing. If you cannot swallow AMPYRA tablets whole, tell your doctor. • AMPYRA is released slowly over time. If the tablet is broken, the medicine may be released too fast. This can raise your chance of having a seizure. • AMPYRA can be taken with or without food. • If you miss a dose of AMPYRA, do not make up the missed dose. Do not take 2 doses at the same time. Take your next dose at your regular scheduled time. • If you take too much AMPYRA, call your doctor or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away. • Do not take AMPYRA together with other aminopyridine medications, including compounded 4-AP (sometimes called 4-aminopyridine, fampridine). PAID ADVERTISEMENT
What are the possible side effects of AMPYRA? AMPYRA may cause serious side effects, including: • serious allergic reactions. Stop taking AMPYRA and call your doctor right away or get emergency medical help if you have: – shortness of breath or trouble breathing – swelling of your throat or tongue – hives • kidney or bladder infections See “What is the most important information I should know about AMPYRA?” The most common side effects of AMPYRA include: • urinary tract infection • trouble sleeping (insomnia) • dizziness • headache • nausea • weakness • back pain
• • • • • • •
problems with balance multiple sclerosis relapse burning, tingling or itching of your skin irritation in your nose and throat constipation indigestion pain in your throat
Tell your doctor if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. These are not all the possible side effects of AMPYRA. For more information, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. How should I store AMPYRA? • Store AMPYRA at 59°F to 86°F (15°C to 30°C). • Safely throw away AMPYRA that is out of date or no longer needed. Keep AMPYRA and all medicines out of the reach of children. General Information about the safe and effective use of AMPYRA Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Medication Guide. Do not use AMPYRA for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give AMPYRA to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them. This Medication Guide summarizes the most important information about AMPYRA. If you would like more information, talk with your doctor. You can ask your pharmacist or doctor for information about AMPYRA that is written for health professionals. For more information, go to www.AMPYRA.com or call 1-800-367-5109. What are the ingredients in AMPYRA? Active ingredient: dalfampridine (previously called fampridine) Inactive ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene glycol, and titanium dioxide. Distributed by: Acorda Therapeutics, Inc. Ardsley, NY 10502 Issued 01/2013
This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. AMPYRA® is a registered trademark of Acorda Therapeutics®, Inc. Manufactured for Acorda under license from Alkermes Pharma Ireland Limited (APIL), Athlone, Ireland, utilizing APIL’s MatriX Drug Absorption System (MXDAS®) technology. MXDAS® is a registered trademark of Alkermes Pharma Ireland Limited (APIL). U.S. Patent Nos.: US 5,540,938 and US 8,007,826 The stylized Acorda logo is a registered trademark of Acorda Therapeutics®, Inc. ©2013, Acorda Therapeutics, Inc. All rights reserved. 0113427ART-0 PAID ADVERTISEMENT
How We Move It Wisconsin Chapter News and Notes
Earn a 2013 Walk MS Shirt Raise $100 or more for Walk MS and get this year’s commemorative T-shirt. Kids 9 and under can get one too by raising The 2013 Walk MS T-shirt design just $25. Visit walkMSwisconsin.org to register and make your pledge. Shirts will be available for pick-up at each Walk MS event. Team T-shirts Available Too A national partnership with Pure Protein is providing Walk MS teams with the chance to buy customized team T-shirts. Visit teampureprotein.com to order. A one-time set up fee, cost of shipping and six-shirt minimum apply. Allow 14 days for delivery. PEER PHONE SUPPORT The hours have changed for MS Friends, the telephone support service staffed by volunteers living with MS. The new hours are 8 a.m. and 11 p.m. every day of the week. Call MS Friends at 866-673-7436. CAFÉ CON LECHE The telephone-based support group for native Spanish speakers “meets” once a month MS Connection | 10
for 90 minutes. Experts from different areas of specialization in MS speak on important topics in MS care. Interested participants can register by calling 800-344-4867 and selecting Option 3 (Spanish dedicated phone line). New members are welcome to join at any time. NEW PUBLICATIONS AVAILABLE A new publication, How to Choose the Mobility Device that is Right for You, is available to help people understand the full range of tools available to help them stay functionally mobile, comfortable and safe. It offers guidance on how to determine if and when a device might be appropriate, important safety tips and photos of the variety of devices available. Call the Wisconsin Chapter office at 800-242-3358 to request your copy. How to Choos e De vice that is the Mobility Rig ht for You A g u id e for peo ple wi t h ms M a nagi ng
M ajoR CH a nges
TRAINING PHYSICAL AND OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS Seventeen Occupational and Physical Therapists participated in the one-day training seminar, Rehabilitation in Multiple Sclerosis: Strategies for Physical and Occupational Therapists, on January 29. Participants earned six continuing education credits and represented inpatient, outpatient and skilled nursing settings from seven cities in the Madison area. Speakers were from Dean Neurological Institute and Spine Center. Additional professional resources can be found at wisMS.org under Programs & Services – Professional Education and Certifications.
WORLD MS DAY World MS Day, May 29, is a chance to bring awareness of the MS movement worldwide. MS affects more than 2.1 million people globally. This year’s campaign will spotlight a core group of young people living with MS by sharing their mottos for living with the disease. Watch for more information as it becomes available at wisMS.org. NEW MS CLINIC LOCATION Dr. Bhupendra Khatri, a member of the Wisconsin Chapter’s Clinical Advisory Committee, recently moved his offices to the newly-opened Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare Center for Neurological Disorders at St. Francis Hospital in Milwaukee.
FRIENDLY VISITOR PROGRAM Roxan Perez and fellow volunteer Jean Reis filled 60 gift bags as part of the Chapter’s Friendly Visitor Program. Each bag included an assortment of items such as toiletries, handknit wraps, hats, socks, keychains, Roxan Perez with some of the 60 pens, books and bags delivered during the holidays. holiday decorations. They were delivered during the holidays to individuals with MS in long-term care facilities.
POWER UP
YOUR FUnDRAISInG WITh
PIn UPS!
Selling paper Pin Ups is an easy way to: Raise awareness about multiple sclerosis Fund research advancements in treating and curing the disease Support programs and services for those living with MS
Contact the Wisconsin Chapter office for a supply of Pin Ups, then ask local businesses – grocery stores, gas stations, banks, bars, restaurants, your hairdresser or barber – to sell them for $1 each, or sell them yourself and decorate your workplace. Donate the money raised to the National MS Society-Wisconsin Chapter to drive MS-related research, programs and services. Hosting a Do It Yourself Fundraiser or joining a Chapter event? Selling Pin Ups is an easy way to generate donations toward your fundraising goal! Contact Jamie Baker at 262-369-4435 or jamie.baker@nmss.org for details. MS Connection | 11
Make a Mark for MS on Your Income Tax Form Every dollar stays in-state to help improve quality of life
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ince 2007, nearly half the funds used to provide financial assistance to Wisconsin children, women and men diagnosed with multiple sclerosis have come from the state’s tax check-off program. To offset new legislative changes that could put the future of such financial assistance in jeopardy, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society-Wisconsin Chapter is asking anyone touched by MS to make a donation through their tax form this year.
Changes to the Program Taxpayers have the opportunity to designate a contribution on their Wisconsin income tax forms for a variety of nonprofit causes including multiple sclerosis. New legislation will limit the number of causes to 10 with only the top eight – based on the amount of revenue each generates through the program – retained year-to-year. (Two nonprofits from a waiting list of organizations will replace the two that are removed.) Without the tax check-off funds, it would become more difficult for the Chapter to provide the kind of financial assistance that improves quality of life and helps those diagnosed with MS remain independent. What Is Needed Taxpayer donations have decreased 15 percent since 2007 and now risk disappearing entirely if multiple sclerosis falls off the list of tax check-off beneficiaries. “Donations through the Make a Mark program have declined at the exact time when more people with MS need help financially,” said Wisconsin Chapter President and CEO Colleen Kalt. “MS can be an expensive disease, costing families an average of $70,000 each year in medical costs and lost wages. We try to offset that by providing MS Connection | 12
financial assistance; but without donations through the tax check-off program, more Wisconsinites with multiple sclerosis could be left to struggle.” Every dollar raised through the Make a Mark for MS tax check-off program stays in Wisconsin and goes directly to financial assistance. What Your Donation Provides Just as the effects of MS are different for each person with the disease, financial assistance needs vary from client to client. For one young Milwaukee-area mother whose MS symptoms were exacerbated by the extreme heat last summer, it meant help purchasing an air conditioner. For a Beloit-area woman who has had MS for more than 30 years and is legally blind, it meant helping to pay for in-home therapy to help her stay mobile. In fact, individuals in 34 counties throughout the state received assistance in 2012 from tax check-off donations.
To make a positive difference in someone else’s life, look for “Multiple Sclerosis” on your state income tax form and write in the amount you want to donate. Ask family members and friends to do the same. Learn more at wisMS.org.
Reining in the Effects of Multiple Sclerosis
How hippotherapy is helping to improve the quality of life for one Wisconsin woman
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ammie Hussin was running out of treatment options. After living with multiple sclerosis for nearly 20 years and being “on everything from A to Z” since, she was in the hospital for IV steroid treatments following an exacerbation when another patient with MS suggested hippotherapy, a type of therapy using horses. “I didn’t believe her,” the Green Bay-area resident
recalled of that conversation three years ago. “I thought, ‘I like horses but they’re horses.’ When I tried it, I was flabbergasted.” Today Hussin speaks enthusiastically about the difference the therapy has made in her life. “They have helped me be more mobile and live a fuller life,” she said.
Not Horsing Around When a human sits on a horse’s back while it is walking, the person’s pelvis moves in much the same way as if he or she was actually doing the walking. Hippotherapy (from the Greek “hippos,” meaning horse) makes use of that motion to stimulate nerves and muscles for people with limited mobility in ways that increases core strength, improves balance and promotes coordination. While the act of simply sitting on the back of a horse as it walks provides therapeutic benefit, hippotherapy also incorporates exercises such as having the person do arm circles or toss a ball into a bucket while the horse is moving. In addition to the therapist, the horse is flanked by two “side walkers” and led by a handler to ensure patient safety. It may look similar to therapeutic riding but is different in that with hippotherapy,
Photo by Kapellen Photography LLC
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A Therapy Champion Not all horses can be hippotherapy horses. A rigorous selection process based on size, temperament and the horse’s particular walk are used to ensure the equine can handle the various needs of the people they will work with. Jessica Kaczmarek, an active rider and competitive dressage enthusiast, worked with a horse trainer to find qualified candidates. Today she has two horses she uses with patients: Tia, a Fjord, and Reuben, a Thoroughbred with stellar lineage – his great grandfather was the Triple Crown winner Secretariat. “He was born to be a therapy horse,” said Tammie Hussin of her hippotherapy “partner.” Kaczmarek agreed, explaining that although Reuben had been a race horse, the 13-year-old’s temperament is much better suited for therapy work. Not only does he have a large stride that translates to better range of movement for the client, but “you put a patient on his back and three volunteers around him and he goes into therapy mode,” she described. “His neck drops. His eyes go soft. As you walk patients onto the ramp, he makes sure he turns and touches the person he’s going to work with. He really loves it.” To learn more about hippotherapy and to find a qualified specialist or therapist, visit americanhippotherapyassociation.org.
the rider is passive (meaning he or she is simply sitting on the horse, not trying to control it), the sessions are typically one-on-one and the therapist must be certified by the American Hippotherapy Association. “There’s nothing else that can replicate that correct movement outside of what the horse does,” explained Jessica Kaczmarek, OTR, an American Hippotherapy Association Level 1 Certified Therapist who has been treating Hussin. “That’s the primary reason why hippotherapy helps. It replicates those movements in a correct way without the person having to do anything. It creates new neural pathways that remind the body of what it’s like to walk correctly. “MS is so unique in that the myelin is what’s deteriorating but not every single sheath that feeds that particular muscle is affected, so there are still nerves that are feeding the muscles. Hippotherapy helps beef up that communication,” she added. Other conditions that can benefit from hippotherapy include stroke, spinal cord injury, cerebral palsy, autism, and processing or sensory integration disorders. Although the level of efficacy will vary person to person, Kaczmarek said that, overall, the difference she sees in the way a patient moves before and after a session “is remarkable. You’ll see more freedom and range of motion through the hips when they’re walking, an improved stride length, a more even stride and an improved base of support.” Some people may enjoy hours of improvement while others could have it for weeks.
“Traditional clinical therapy is important for MS and aquatic therapy is important for MS,” she added. “This is just another avenue for people.”
traditional therapy in treating balance deficits in people with MS. Help from Horse and Human Alike Hussin said she saw results at her first session, leaving exhausted but feeling as if being on the horse helped remind her body of the way it used to move. “It jarred my brain into remembering ‘this is the right way to walk and these are the muscles you need to use.’”
Although her husband (whom Hussin refers to as her “Rock of Gibraltar”) has good insurance, the MS-related expenses she incurs leaves little room for extras, including treatments such as hippotherapy that typically are not covered by insurance.
“Hippotherapy is similar to other types of therapy directed at movements and balance, such as physical therapy, “It’s with a wing and a prayer aquatic therapy in a pool, or that I’ve gotten this far,” she even yoga,” agreed Loren said. “I’m to the point now Rolak, M.D., of the Marshfield where there is nothing I can Clinic MS Center and chair take pill wise that is going to of the National MS Societystop an exacerbation for a Wisconsin Chapter’s Clinical longer period of time.” She progressed from using a Advisory Committee (CAC). quad cane to a standard cane “With any of these treatments, Working with the Chapter, she to no cane at all in a matter of some people don’t seem to was able to secure funding to improve much while others see months because of the hippohelp pay for hippotherapy. a lot of benefit. So it is “Thank you from one more weapon in our the bottom of my “Thank you from the bottom of my heart arsenal against MS.” heart to donors. to donors. They have really helped open They have really “Hippotherapy is a helped open up up another avenue for me.” unique non-pharmacoanother avenue - Tammie Hussin logic approach to treating for me. I have signs and symptoms of seen progression MS such as spasticity, therapy. It has made such a instead of the regression. That, balance and gait abnormalities,” difference in her life, she said, to me, is everything.” explained Bhupendra Khatri, that she can’t imagine what it M.D., of the Wheaton Franwould be like if she had to Every dollar of every donation ciscan Healthcare Center for give it up. made through the Wisconsin tax check-off program supports Neurological Disorders and financial assistance so that member of the CAC. “Limited For that, she thanks those who people such as Tammie Hussin controlled studies of hippohave donated to the Wisconsin can maintain their independence therapy in MS have been all Chapter of the National MS and improve their quality of positive in respect to improving Society to help those with MS life. To help, “Make a Mark balance, spasticity, ability to who are in need of financial for MS” by making a donation walk and overall quality of life. assistance. Hussin knows all through your 2012 state income I support it wholeheartedly.” too well how expensive the tax form. If you have already Central Michigan University disease is, costing the average filed your taxes, make a is currently initiating a study family nearly $70,000 a year in donation online at wisMS.org. to compare hippotherapy to lost wages and medical costs. MS Connection | 15
Whether it’s for your friend, for your family member or for yourself, you make a significant difference each year you lace up, step out and show your support at Walk MS. Show your commitment. Sign up today for any of the 18 Walk MS events in Wisconsin this spring. See Page 31 for the list of dates and locations.
“I read about MS and watch the progress of research, and I can see where the money I raise is actually going.” - Don Huston,
Walk MS: Wausau
Be INsPIred. Get co
“I walk in memory of my dad who passed away after battling MS a very long time. I walk in honor of my mother who cared for my dad 24/7. I walk in support of my sister who was diagnosed with MS 10 years ago.” - Donald Bruckert, Walk MS: Menomonee Falls
“I walk to make a difference. I walk because my daughter was diagnosed with MS at age 18. I walk for my brother-in-law, who was diagnosed in 1987. I walk because the money I raise helps Wisconsin families with MS. I walk for those who can’t. I walk because Walk MS has become part of our family life. I walk because it is the right thing to do. I walk because I truly believe every step I take brings us one step closer to a cure.” - Donna Mayer, Walk MS: Sheboygan
oNNected. walk ms.
Advocate for Those with MS: Be Part of Take Action Day
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ollowing last year’s successful Take Action initiative, which generated nearly 900 letters and more than 400 emails to Wisconsin state legislators to thank them for their past support of National Multiple Sclerosis Society initiatives, the Wisconsin Chapter is planning another Take Action Day for 2013. This year’s communication will highlight the effects legislative support has had – and can continue to have – on maintaining the pace of research to treat and ultimately cure MS.
Be part of the action. Here’s how: 1. Look for Take Action Day tables at select Walk MS locations in April and May and sign a pre-printed letter to be delivered by Wisconsin Chapter representatives to Wisconsin legislators on May 29, World MS Day. Not attending a Walk MS event this year? Watch for information on an email version of the letter.
2. Sign up to receive Action Alerts – either at select Walk MS sites or online at wisMS.org (click on Take Action). Stay informed on the latest news about legislation affecting those living with multiple sclerosis and details about other ways you can get involved.
IT’S AS MUCh ABOUT ThE
JOURnEY AS IT IS ThE DESTInATIOn Challenge Walk MS sets a high bar with a three-day, 50-mile* walk and a $1,500 fundraising minimum. It rewards you at the same level with an all-inclusive weekend in Door County surrounded by friends, family and some of the most beautiful terrain Wisconsin has to offer.
RISE TO ThE ChALLEnGE.
Register now and receive a FREE training T-shirt.
Call 800-242-3358 or visit challengewalkMSwi.org. *A two-day, 30-mile option is also available. MS Connection | 18 ChALLEnGE WALK MS | 3 Days. 50 Miles. | A world free of MS. | Door County, Wisconsin
September 20-22, 2013 | challengewalkMSwi.org | 800.242.3358
MS Connection | 18
Volunteer Spotlight: Barbara “Babs” Kihslinger By Steven Schilling
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arbara “Babs” Kihslinger is a Connecticut native who, having a brother with MS, has been volunteering at the National Multiple Sclerosis Society-Wisconsin Chapter. “My 62-year-old brother was diagnosed about five years ago. He is very athletic and retired as a Navy Captain but is still involved with the military today,” she said. He knows how disabling the disease can be and is proud of me for volunteering here.”
volunteered at the Chapter. Although Kihslinger just recently started volunteering with the Chapter, her personable attitude, enthusiasm and professionalism has everyone in the Chapter office smiling.
“Her positive attitude and Barbara “Babs” Kihslinger says making thankyou calls has been her favorite volunteer energy are contagious,” assignment for the Wisconsin Chapter so far. said Ashley Wissinger, development coordinator – Her sons Alex (left) and John (not pictured) have also volunteered. volunteers and outreach. donations, assembling T-shirt “She approaches every job we ask her to do with a ‘Yes, I can mailings for various events and recruiting other volundo anything!’ willingness that makes her a joy to work with.” teers. She even got sticky while hot gluing mini snowmobile “Her positive attitude and ornaments made of popsicle When asked what her favorite energy are contagious.” sticks that were handed out at projects have been so far, – Ashley Wissinger the MS Snowmobile Tour in Kihslinger replied: “I really January. enjoy making ‘thank you’ calls – not to ask for money, but Kihslinger earned her bachsimply just thank somebody for “It doesn’t feel like work. This experience has been beneficial. elor’s degree in marketing at their support. Because of my I am now closer with my the University of Rhode Island brother I am genuine and truly while competing athletically mean it when I say ‘thank you’ brother and the understanding of his MS. I won’t give this up, in rowing. After running her to someone. Knowing how plain and simple. I love being own advertising business, she curable MS may possibly be, and her husband moved to every dollar or minute donated here.” Delafield, Wis., to be near her really does help.” Any time you can give – husband’s family. Her kids whenever you can give it – went to school near the WisIn her description of her favormakes a difference to those consin Chapter office and she ite thing about working at the affected by MS. Volunteer couldn’t believe it was so close. Chapter, she replied: “They opportunities are available “I thought, ‘I have to get in are flexible, grateful and so for all age and skill levels. touch with them,’” she said. supportive of me. I get to set Two of her children, John, a my own agenda and that’s great.” Contact Ashley Wissinger at ashley.wissinger@nmss.org sophomore in high school, and Alex, a freshman at Kihslinger has also helped with or 262-369-4426 to learn about all the ways you can UW-Steven’s Point, have also data entry, processing get involved. Steven Schilling is an intern with the Wisconsin Chapter and a student at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, majoring in advertising/journalism.
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MS Snowmobile Tour: 30 Years of Progress
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hen asked to complete the phrase “30 years of _____”, MS Snowmobile Tour participants at this year’s event chose the words hope, dedication, movement, challenges, success, dreams and progress. These words could also be used to describe the past 30 years of multiple sclerosis research advancement and optimism for the future. More than 160 veteran and rookie riders, family and volunteers joined the 30th Annual MS Snowmobile Tour, raising more than $300,000 for research, programs and services – and putting the 30-year fundraising total for the event at $6.7 million. The Tour, based at the Telemark Resort in Cable, Wis., took place January 24-26.
Another group of riders, led by veteran Tour participant Bob Schmidt, also gathered January 24 to 26 to conduct his “Million Dollar Ride.” The event commemorated the group’s lifetime achievement of raising $1 million to support the Society. Ben Romenesko, a 17-year rider, was recognized with the Fox Award for his hard work and dedication to the MS mission. Mark Schmidt and Marty Iverson, co-chairs of the MS Snowmobile Tour Volunteer Committee for more than 10 years, were honored with the Garland Award, given to participants who have been integral to the planning process and enthusiastic promoters of the Tour.
Laura and Kelvin Kimball were among the more than 160 riders, family and volunteers who gathered for the MS Snowmobile Tour in January, raising more than $300,000.
Thank You, 2013 MS Snowmobile Tour Sponsors
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Financial Matters are a Family Affair By Pam Evason
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e share many things with our families – daily routines, closely guarded secrets, vacations, holidays and life milestones. However, many families don’t share a key element of their lives with one another – finances. Whether it’s one spouse handling the responsibility or parents not bringing their children into the discussions, it’s rare for the entire family to discuss financial matters. This reluctance can be caused by any number of reasons, including insecurities with our own financial situation and knowledge, the desire to not burden our spouse or children with financial issues, the belief that such topics are not enjoyable to share, and/or the limited discussions we had growing up within our own families.
Despite this reluctance, the fact remains that a collective understanding of financial matters amongst all members of the family is beneficial on many fronts. Discussing these topics in an open and honest fashion can increase knowledge, lower fear and encourage positive actions and relationships with wealth for all involved. Ready to get started? Below are some Do’s and Don’ts when it comes to making financial matters a family affair. DO teach children of all ages about finances Children of all ages can benefit from financial education. You can begin discussing concepts at an early age and build upon the conversation as your children grow, all the while keeping the lessons age appropriate. Take for instance the concept of savings. With younger children, you can encourage them to use a piggy bank
and provide them with an allowance. With older children, you can help them open a bank account and begin discussing compound interest and investing. At all ages, there are lessons parents can share. Other financial topics to consider discussing with children include careers and income, budgeting, and credit.
Pam Evason, CFA, CPA, is Managing Director at Windermere Wealth Advisors, LLC and serves on the Wisconsin Chapter Board of Trustees.
DO share your money journey – the good and the bad When discussing your financial history with your partner, spouse or children, it is easy to omit the less-than-favorable parts. Perhaps you misused credit in the past or perhaps you haven’t been able to maximize your retirement savings to-date. Don’t omit these elements – every portion of your money journey represents a teachable moment. Stay open and honest and encourage other family members to learn from your experiences – good and bad. DO involve the family in philanthropic efforts For many of us, charitable giving is an important element of our financial lives. No matter the size or scale, gifting holds great significance and personal meaning. Involvement of the family in this process can help illustrate how money can be used as a tool to make the world a better place. Consider asking your spouse and/or children to research a charity they would like to support. Continued on Page 22
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Encourage your children to save their own money to donate to a cause. Share the letters of appreciation and stories you receive from the non-profit entities you support with your family. DON’T avoid difficult topics Financial discussions can involve many difficult topics. One such topic is estate planning and wealth transfer. There’s no doubt these discussions are challenging as none of us want to think about losing a loved one. Nonetheless, the sharing of key financial information between spouses, children and/or elderly parents will serve to reduce fear and uncertainty for all involved. More importantly, it will save significant confusion, stress and worry in the future should the unthinkable occur. Possible information to discuss includes: • Legal arrangements (wills, trust documents), and the individuals you have designated to carry out key tasks (trustee, executor, guardians) • Directives (medical and/or financial powers of attorney) • Names and contact information for key advisors (tax, financial advisory, legal) • Personal data (social security numbers, account numbers, passwords for financial websites) • Location of key records and documents • Summary of cash and investment accounts
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DON’T hesitate to seek professional advice As you begin to have financial discussions with your family, you’ll undoubtedly want to feel confident in your knowledge and understanding of the subject. Don’t hesitate to seek the help of a professional in these efforts. You can freely discuss any number of topics with an advisor – including budgeting, retirement goals, and investing approaches – which you can then share with your family. Consider having your family members join you for these meetings as well, so they can actively participate in the relationship and ask any questions they may have. DON’T treat it as a taboo subject We all know actions speak louder than words. Going forward, work to actively demonstrate that wealth is not a taboo subject. Bring the topic up in day-to-day conversation, discuss money matters in front of your family, ask family members for input and advice on financial decisions you are facing, and share financial articles or books you’ve read. Work to keep the lines of communication open and with time, such discussions will become second nature. Pam Evason, CFA, CPA is Managing Director at Windermere Wealth Advisors, LLC, an investment advisory firm located in Milwaukee, Wis. If you have questions or comments, please contact her at 414-716-6150 or pam.evason@windermerewealth.com. This article is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional guidance and assistance in planning your financial future. The matters discussed here are provided as a starting point for further discussions with an investment professional familiar with your specific situation.
Year in Review
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ach year, many individuals dig into their pockets and their hearts to help those affected by multiple sclerosis by hosting or attending Do It Yourself (DIY) Fundraisers – events such as craft and bake sales, golf outings, dances, competitions and more that raise money to support MS-related research, programs and services. More than 150 DIY events were registered with the Wisconsin Chapter in 2012, raising money and awareness for the MS Movement. Their ingenuity, energy and contribution truly make a difference. The events are listed here, along with the name of the organizer and the dollars raised as reported to the Chapter. Of these DIY events, 13 raised more than $10,000, earning the esteemed “Mission Driver” distinction (highlighted in orange below).
For more information about holding your own DIY Fundraiser or if you currently host a fundraiser that is not included on this list, contact the Wisconsin Chapter at 262-369-4400 or email ashley.wissinger@nmss.org. JANUARY 7th Annual ‘Help Find-a-Cure for MS Benefit’ Organizer: Rick Romenesko Raised $20,000 Coin War Organizer: Casey McKenna Raised $680 Wildtree Party Organizer: Jenny Egan FEBRUARY 10th Annual Rabbits Unlimited Ltd. Rabbit Hunt Organizers: Donald, Jerry, Glen Bell & Family Raised $30,250 Night at the Nitty Organizer: Becky Hall Bake Sale at Plymouth High School Girls Basketball Game Organizer: Alison Smith Raised $2,211
Team Fon du Lac Cyclery MS Saturday Spin Organizer: Dave Hornung Raised $2,068
Dance For A Cure – Zumba Organizer: Angel Barber Raised $267
Hair Pretties Sale Organizer: Heidi Crull
Team Gamma – Matty’s Bar & Grille Organizer: Bernadette Gamma
Heart of Harmony – Singing Valentine Organizer: Jack Ryback Raised $175
MARCH Jockey Jeans for a Reason Organizer: Cynthia Pielat Raised $2,465
Tello’s Grille & Café for We’re Egan to Cure MS Organizer: Jenny Egan
Hoops for Hope Organizer: Becky Hall Raised $1,932
Skate Away MS Organizer: Heidi Crull Raised $2,340
Sargento Dress Down Fridays Organizer: Lori Seinert Raised $768
Concert Event at Waverly Beach Organizer: Michael Boyle
Sheboygan South High School Fundraiser Organizer: Corey Butters Raised $630
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Moonlight Scotch Doubles Bowling Organizer: Trudy Deremer Becky’s 1st Annual MS Raffle – Applebee’s Dine to Donate Organizer: Rebecca Payne Shawn & Connie’s MS Family Fun Day Featuring Texas Hold ’Em Organizers: Connie Plier and Shawn Corbett Raised $20,000 Wine and Cheese Tasting Organizer: Alison Smith Raised $3,240
4th Annual Music Can Beat MS Organizers: Steve and Jane Schmieding Raised $6,212
Strike Out MS Bowl-A-Thon Organizers: Kate and Dan Bertram Raised $11,870
Red Robin Fundraiser Organizer: Joe Meyer
MS Charity Bootcamp Organizer: Amy Monroe
Pure Romance Party Organizer: Kim Muszynski Raised $175
5th Annual We’re Egan to Cure MS Fundraiser Organizer: Jenny Egan Raised $3,408
Fond du Lac Culver’s Night for Walk MS: Fond du Lac Organizers: Cindy Koffman and Erin Oetjen
DIY Success Story A Texas Hold ’Em Tournament fundraiser and raffle generated more than $20,000. The event was hosted by poker enthusiasts Shawn Corbett and Connie Plier. It was their 4th year running the tournament, in which 80 individuals took part. Other activities included a guessing game, toss game and spin-thewheel. Also attributing to the fundraiser’s success was Plier’s employer, Schrieber Foods. The company matched donations dollar-for-dollar.
10th Annual Blarney Bash Organizers: Mary and Patrick Topp Raised $24,782
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10th Annual Kappa Beta Gamma MS Benefit Organizers: Marissa Schuh and Jessica Kasten Raised $4,620
APRIL Brat Fry to Benefit Walk MS: Fond du Lac Organizer: Cindy Koffman Raised $500 Credit Bureau Data Inc. Jeans Days Organizer: Shelley Ghelfi Raised $220 My Sisters Closet Organizer: Molly Walsh Raised $2,146 Walk MS Sheboygan Brat Fry Organizer: Martha Jacobs Raised $860 Zumbathon for MS Organizer: Amy Oechsner Race to Erase MS 5K Run/Walk Organizer: Becky Hall Heart of Harmony Spring Show Organizer: Jack Ryback Raised $175
Team O’Leary Fundraiser Organizer: Chuck O’Leary Hope for the Future MS Dance-a-Thon Organizer: Benjamin Roper 5th Annual UW-W Women’s Sports Fund 5K Walk/Run Organizer: Amy Edmonds 5th Annual Buehler Fest for MS Organizer: Keri Addis Walk With Strength – Making Strides Toward a Cure Organizer: Zach Mielke Raised $6,100 MS Charity Boot Camp Organizer: Amy Monroe MAY Brat Fry to Benefit Challenge Walk MS Organizer: Andrea Dekker Raised $584 Premier Bank Cinco de Mayo Party Organizer: Marjorie Dudzik Raised $77 Scentsy Sales Fundraiser Organizers: Susan Passehl and Julie Much Raised $125 MS Rummage Sale Organizer: Michelle Collins Raised $100 Donation Day Walk for MS Organizer: Diane Hackbarth
DIY Success Story Last year the Milton Mud Challenge attracted more than 600 participants to Central Park, Milton. The fundraiser generated $40,000, far surpassing the coordinator’s goal of $6,000. The 5K mud run/walk included wall climbs, tire piles and a hay bale pyramid. The event’s success was attributed to its sponsors, more than 60 donations and a DJ who donated his time for the day. Extreme Fitness and members of the Challenge Walk MS team “Survivors Out Move Out Last,” led by Heidi Crull, coordinated the event. Wells Fargo Jeans Day Organizer: Jim Van DeVen Raised $180 RD Benefit Ride Organizers: Rick and Deb Olson Raised $2,570 Wheaton Franciscan Penny Wars Organizers: Melissa Gottfredsen and Lisa Barbian Raised $317 Mother’s Day Basket Fundraiser Organizer: Andrea Dekker Raised $330 Strike Out MS Organizer: Erika O’Leary Raised $1,822
Ozaukee County 4-H Volleyball/Pull Tab Event Organizer: Meghan Buechler Raised $143 Noodles & Co Fundraiser Organizer: Jane Lapp Benefit Night with Burrachos for MS Organizer: Laurie Anderson Raised $40 3rd Annual Arrowhead Soccer Tournament Organizer: Emma Clawson Raised $500 Open House Fundraiser Organizer: Karen Minor Raised $673 9 Pin Tap Bowl-A-Thon Organizer: Julie Madden Raised $3,659
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MS Family Fun Day Organizer: Luann Schreiber Raised $6,141 Fox Valley Road & Track Classic XII Organizer: Roy Fine Raised $1,935
8th Annual Neipert Golf Outing Organizers: Alan Neipert and Steve Wolf Raised $2,255 Walk MS Butternut Organizer: Donna Lohman
DIY Success Story Jeans Day at the Milwaukee Academy of Science raised $319. Teachers were allowed to wear jeans to school for a day by donating a minimum of $3 to the National MS Society. More than 60 teachers participated. With the success of this first DIY Fundraiser under her belt, Jeans Day coordinator Emilie McClure plans to repeat the event. Plymouth Brat Fry Organizer: Alison Smith 2012 Golf for MS Organizer: Thomas Magnus
Citizens Bank of Mukwonago Dress Down Day Organizer: Kimberly Burks Raised $640
Paint the Sunset – Ladies Night Out Organizer: Pat Heller
PPG Industries/Imagin National Books – Book Fair Organizer: Mona Stanke Raised $155
2nd Annual MS Yard Sale Organizer: Nancy Burkard
MS Share Night Organizer: Lori Kolosowski
Moo-ving 4 MS Organizer: Brenda Sellen
MS Fish Fry Fundraiser Organizer: Linda Czecholinski
JUNE Bike MS Brat Fry Organizer: Terry Werth
Bag MS – Bean Bag Toss Tourney Organizer: Joseph Fangmann Raised $815
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Damn Yankee’s Watering Hole 7th Annual MS Benefit Organizer: Ron Scherwinski Raised $7,589 MS Charity Boot Camp Organizer: Amy Monroe Weary Travelers Freehouse Raised $270 Northwestern Bank Casual Day Raised $76 Rausch, Strum, Israel, Enerson & Hornik, LLC Casual Dress Down Day Organizer: Meghan Lemke Raised $2,470 BAMS MS Ride Organizer: Ron Sweeney JULY Marie’s Miles for MS Organizer: Marie Sarnowski Raised $300 Imagination Station Organizer: Josh Lenz Raised $322 Clear Lake Ladies Golf League Fundraiser Organizer: Diane Gulbrandson Raised $209 Brat Fry for Challenge Walk MS Organizer: Lori Rousseau
2nd Annual Reel Brothers Harley Davidson (Castle Rock HOG Chapter) Benefit Ride Organizer: Robyn Reel Raised $377 Wasabi Mike & Fresh Ground Pepper Count to Benefit MS Organizer: Michael Van De Kamp 5th Annual Birdy’s Scramble for a Cure Organizers: Lisa and Pat Haak Raised $21,458 Rookie’s Sports Grill Golf Outing Raised $1,084 23rd Annual Croal Open for MS Organizers: Daniel, Michael and Timothy Croal Raised $35,028
TNT Lanes Bowl for a Cure Organizer: Kelvin Kimball Raised $790
3rd Annual John D. Kressel Memorial Golf Outing Organizer: Mandi Kressel Raised $1,323
3rd Annual Tee’d Off at MS Charity Golf Outing Organizer: Dave Blavat Raised: $4,100
Giselle Memorial Ride MS Benefit Organizer: Stacy Rogne
Pedal and Party in Pardeeville with a Purpose Organizer: Kay Lum
Pig Skin Inn Poker Run Organizer: Lisa Forbes Raised $260
8th Annual Fight MS Golf Scramble Organizers: Karen and Don Pagel, Liza and Tim Pagel Raised $10,500
AUGUST Red Robin Fundraiser Organizer: Joe Meyer
20th Annual Minoqua Antique & Classic Boat Show Organizer: Gordon Moore Raised $6,341
DIY Success Story Members of the Theta Chapter of Kappa Beta Gamma at St. Norbert College created a fundraiser 10 years ago in honor of a fellow sorority sister who was diagnosed with MS. The 2012 KBG Multiple Sclerosis Benefit generated $4,670, the most successful to date. Participants enjoyed silent auction items and listening to guest speakers at dinner. Event coordinators Marissa Schuh and Jessica Kasten welcomed 130 attendees. Some auction items included gifts from the Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Brewers and Chicago Bears.
2012 Coffee Pot Scramble Golf Outing Organizer: Dave Knuth Raised $1,273 MS Fundraiser at Heming Ways Lake Geneva Organizer: Larry Joseph Sulera Family Reunion & Auction Organizer: Sharon Mlsna Raised $520 2012 MS Golf Benefit and Raffle Organizers: Cody and Becky Blauert Raised $2,924 Milton Mud Challenge Organizer: Heidi Crull Raised $40,000
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Pat’s Par-Tee 12th Annual Ladies Scramble Organizer: Pat Klotz Raised $1,794 Bogey Bare MS Scramble Organizer: Ken Bare Raised $7,290 Walworth County Annual Poker Run & Car Show Organizer: Jeff Green Brew at the Barn Organizer: Christin Harding Raised $609 Dining to Donate Applebee’s Organizer: Michelle Reinen Raised $38 The JMO – “A Drive For MS” Golf Outing Organizer: Heidi Erdmann Raised $3,160 8th Annual MS Orchard Walk & Fundraiser at Apple Holler Organizer: Sheri Gavin Raised $13,415 Auto Paint and Supply Car and Bike Show for MS Organizer: Chuck Scherwinski Raised $3,894 Sportsmen Against MS Benefit Trap Shoot Organizers: Bruce and Linda Frei Raised $6,710 Golf MS 2012 Fundraiser Organizer: Wendy McCarthy Raised $13,367 MS Connection | 28
Brat Feed Organizer: Amanda Dux Raised $230 SEPTEMBER Brat Fry Fundraiser Organizer: Tina Bonikowske Raised $500 Honish Labor Day Lemonade Stand Organizer: Laura Honish Raised $53 Brat Fry Fundraiser Organizer: Dawn Bitsky 3rd Annual MS Golf for a Cure Organizers: Martin and June Hillert Raised $27,116
Leah’s Ladies Bean Bag Tournament Organizer: Nicole Haselwander Raised $155 Baird Jeans Day Employees donated $60 Jack Murphy Memorial Golf Outing Organizer: Meta Hartman Raised $2,377 Rummage Sale Organizer: Connie Plier Raised $1,241 Ironman Wisconsin Organizers: Kate Mulardore and Scott Towle Raised $5,277
DIY Success Story The Sportsmen Against Multiple Sclerosis trap shoot event raised more than $6,700. The event brought together approximately 70 shooters and more than 200 attendees who participated in a silent auction, raffle, dog show, turkey-call making and food sales because of Bruce Frei, an avid hunter diagnosed with MS six years ago. The Superior Chapter of Safari Club International donated a $1,200 rifle and $500 check that made a big impact on the auction. It was the fourth year the Brill Area Sportsmen’s Club has held the shoot, and the first time the event benefitted the National MS Society.
Ken Fest VII Organizer: Gina Felten Raised $2,300 Mukwonago High School – After School Run/Walk Organizer: Bruce Lammers Raised $250 Y Not II Fundraiser Organizer: Shaleigh Fitzpatrick Ride for Clyde Organizer: Dawn Janisch Raised $1,601 DogLeg Open Organizer: Dylan Guendert Raised $3,815 6th Annual Golf Outing Benefiting MS Organizer: Linda Kocken Raised $700 Online Calendar Sales Organizer: Jake Knox Bail’s Watering Hole Fundraiser Raised $112 OCTOBER Recipe for MS Cure – Cook book sales Organizer: Sharon McNeiley Raised $110 MS Bike Ride: Milwaukee to Nashville Organizer: Shaleigh Fitzpatrick Raised $220
Neuroscience Group Raffle Donation Organizer: Joan Schmitt Raised $405
1st Annual Huffin for a Stuffin Organizer: Sarah Mosher Raised $2,320
Jackson National Asset Management Jeans Day Drive Raised $408
1st Annual Devvy/Vick Bowling Tournament Organizer: Kevin Vick Raised $4,600
Goodies in a Jar Fundraiser Organizer: Robin Honish
Volleyball Tournament Organizers: Scott and Linda Wittmann Raised $2,000
Spaghetti Dinner Organizer: Cindy Koffman Raised $250 Boofest at Petersons Pumpkin Patch Raised $638 NOVEMBER 2nd Annual Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School Packer Party Organizer: Matt Wauters Raised $1,000 Generation Optimistic MillerCoors Brewery Tour Organizer: Kim Glocksine Raised $4,885
4th Annual Soiree for Success Organizers: Shayla Rosen and Katie Walsh Raised $28,082 DECEMBER Apocalypse Party MS “Fun” Raiser Organizers: Kate Wicker and Lauren Espie Mercy Leadership Team Collection Organizer: Jere Johnson Raised $480
Halloween Costume Party for MS Organizer: Debra Forbes Raised $1,000 Mini-Golf for MS Organizer: Jesse Juedes
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Midwest Teleconference Series Brings Learning Home
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earn from home with the teleconference series. Held on the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. Central, each hour-long call features expert information about living with MS. Register online by the Wednesday before each teleconference at wisMS.org or by calling 800-344-4867 (option 2). April 8 Topic: Calm Before the Storm Planning for a natural disaster
July 8 Topic: WAKE UP! Fatigue and sleep issues in MS
May 13 Topic: It’s Not Just in Your Head MS-related anxiety, depression and mood swings
August 12 Topic: Probiotics and MS Understand probiotic as a treatment option
June 10 Topic: My Family Has MS The effects of MS on the family
September 9 Topic: Complementary and Alternative (CAM) Therapy for MS Benefits and risks of CAM therapies
Co Milwming t o on S aukee the Sep aturd area tem ber ay, 14! Run, slosh and climb your way through mud-filled trenches, slip-n-slide pits and other muddy obstacles at MuckFest MS, the newest and dirtiest way to support the MS Movement. Sign up by June 6 and save nearly 50% on registration. All donations raised above the registration fee help fund MS-related research, programs and services. Register at muckfestMS.com or by calling 800-838-0671. MS Connection | 30
Want to Send Your Son or Daughter to Summer Camp? The Wisconsin Chapter’s Camp Scholarship Program can help The National Multiple Sclerosis Society-Wisconsin Chapter Camp Scholarship Program provides children 8-14 who have a parent with MS or who have MS themselves with the chance to attend accredited Wisconsin summer camps. Whether it’s an overnight or day camp, or sports or specialty themed, parents and children make the choice! How the program works: 1. Determine which accredited camp your child wants to attend. 2. Submit a completed National Multiple Sclerosis Society-Wisconsin Chapter Camp Scholarship application to the Wisconsin Chapter.
3. Upon approval, a check will be made payable and mailed directly to the designated camp along with your camp application. Current scholarships are estimated to range from $300-500 each; the maximum scholarship amount is $800.
A limited number of camp scholarships are available and will be evaluated on an ongoing basis pending funding. The Chapter cannot reimburse any payments already made to a camp. Get more details and download the application form at wisMS.org (click on Programs & Services / Family and Youth Programs).
walk to create a world free of ms Brown County Sunday, April 21
Janesville Sunday, May 5
Marshfield Sunday, April 28
Sheboygan Sunday, April 28
Eau Claire Saturday, April 27
Kenosha-Racine Sunday, April 28
Menomonee Falls Saturday, April 27
Waukesha Sunday, April 28
Fond du Lac Saturday, May 4
La Crosse Saturday, April 27
Milwaukee Sunday, May 5
Wausau Saturday, April 27
Fox Cities Sunday, April 28
Lake Country Saturday, April 27
Platteville Sunday, April 28
Grafton Saturday, May 4
Madison Sunday, May 5
Rhinelander NEW! Saturday, May 11
Go to walkMSwisconsin.org or call 800-242-3358 to register. MS Connection | 31
Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage
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A Publication of the Multiple Multiple Sclerosis Society-Wisconsin Chapter A Publication ofNational the National Sclerosis Society-Wisconsin Chapter
1120 James Drive Suite A Hartland, WI 53029
Milwaukee, WI Permit No. 2868
®
wisMS.org • Toll Free 1 800 242 3358 • 262 369 4400 To All the Wonderful People in Wisconsin, I would like to thank all of the donors who have helped to fund the Make a Mark for MS program. With your help I was able to receive a manual wheelchair, which allows me to visit friends and family. It is wonderful to know that there are people out there who are willing to help others in need. Thank you again. You truly will always be in my thoughts. Sincerely,
Make a donation on your 2012 income tax form to improve the quality of life those living with multiple sclerosis. Ask everyone you know to do the same. 100% of the money raised will stay in Wisconsin.