msc mi vol 8 iss 3

8/6/2019 MSC MI Vol 8 Iss 3

http://slidepdf.com/reader/full/msc-mi-vol-8-iss-3 1/20

MOVING TOWARD A WORLD FREE OF MS | VOLUME 8 • EDITION 3

MSCONNECTION

JOIN THE MOVEMENT JOIN THE MOVEMENT JOIN THE MOVEMENT JOIN THE MOVEMENT JOIN THE MOVEMENT JOIN THE MOVEMENT JOIN THE MOVEMENT JOIN THE MOVEMENT MICHIGAN CHAPTER

Today, we are putting our collective foot down and declaring this instant the time to take action.We have reached the point when individual efforts can be made exponentially stronger throughsupport and collaboration – through an MS research revolution.

NOW, we stand together to raise $250 million to fuel MS research.

Research that will STOP MS in its tracks.

Research that will RESTORE what’s been lost.

Research that will END MS forever.

NOW, we need everyone to be a champion in the MS Research Revolution. We have committedto raise $250 million by the end of 2015 for MS research, and it will take each and every one of usto make sure we reach our goal. NOW. No Opportunity Wasted.

So help us get this revolution going. We’ve joined together with Phil Keoghan from the AmazingRace, to help lead this effort.

ITS EASY TO BE A CHAMPION FOR MS RESEARCH - HERE’S HOW YOU CAN JOINUS AND PROUDLY LET EVERYONE KNOW THAT YOU’RE HELPING TO LEAD THE MSRESEARCH REVOLUTION.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Wii and MePAGE 4

Yuck Factor: The SequelPAGE 7

Ten Tips or HiringHome Help PAGE 12

Pushing or a Cure or MSPAGE 19

Continued on page 2

ENOUGH IS ENOUGH.



MSCONNECTIONA PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONALMULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY,MICHIGAN CHAPTER

21311 Civic Center Dr.Southfeld, MI 48076-3911

Ph: 800 344 4867 or 248 351 2190

Fax: 248 350 0029

E-mail: [email protected]

Chapter Chair • Dean Munger

Chapter President • Elana Sullivan

Newsletter Editor • Chris Collins The National Multiple Sclerosis Society

does not endorse products, services or

manuacturers. Such names appear here

solely because they are considered valuable

inormation. The National Multiple

Sclerosis Society assumes no liability

or the use o contents o any product or

service mentioned.

Inormation provided by the Society is

based upon proessional advice, published

experience and expert opinion. Inormation

provided in response to questions does not

constitute therapeutic recommendations

or prescriptions. The National Multiple

Sclerosis Society recommends that all

questions and inormation be discussed

with a personal physician.

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society is

dedicated to ending the devastating eects

o MS.

© Copyright 2011 National MS Society, Michigan Chapter

2 | JOIN THE MOVEMENT: nationalMSsociety.org

In 2009, I biked across

America, over 3,500 miles, toraise awareness and moneyfor multiple sclerosis. Now,it’s time to do more, we’reraising the bar and startingan ms research revolution,

join me and become a

champion for MS researchtogether. We will raise $250million for this importantcause. No opportunitywasted isn’t just my life’smotto. It’s how we can makea difference NOW.

MS NOW continued from page 1

Phil Keoghan

Visit the following link to learn more:

www.nationalMSsociety.org/

nowchampion.

http://www.nationalmssociety.org/research/now-champion/index.aspx





http://slidepdf.com/reader/full/msc-mi-vol-8-iss-3 3/20 TOLL FREE NUMBER 1 800 344 4867 | 3

NEWLY DIAGNOSED

THE BENEFITS OF DENIAL

Denial allows people to taketime to get used to a new situation and not focuson fears of what might happen down the road.“Denial gets a bad rap,” said David Rintell, EdD, apsychologist at Partners MS Center at the Brighamand Women’s Hospital in Boston, MA, “but it canbe very useful and is sometimes necessary.”

Denial is a very basic defense mechanism,explained Barbara Giesser, MD, clinical director of the UCLA MS Program. “In the process of adaptingto chronic illness, denial can be a useful rst step inthe process of acceptance.”

In fact, said Dr. Rintell, people who are unableto use denial may become disabled by anxiety.“Hopelessness is destructive—it reduces

motivation, and makes us less likely to adhere totreatment,” he said. “I encourage people to let goof the worst-case scenario and continue to live life,go to work, enjoy relationships and take some timeto get used to having MS. Loved ones can help bygiving their diagnosed friend or family member

permission to deny and thereforecope.”

However, said Dr. Giesser, denialdoesn’t work long-term. “Youhave to move past denial in orderto treat and make plans,” she

cautioned. “If instead of acceptingyour diagnosis, you believe

the doctors made a mistake, you might not availyourself of appropriate therapy for both diseaseand symptom management.”

To develop a sensible perspective, it’s importantto get as much information as possible. “Find aneurologist you can work with, who allows you to

be active in your own care,” Dr. Giesser advised.“It’s less scary when you feel empowered.”

Dr. Rintell also suggested speaking with otherpeople with MS or a professional with relevantexperience. “After the initial shock, most peoplelearn that MS can be a difcult illness, but theyrealize that they will be OK with it. Being optimisticturns out to be realistic.”

Knowledge is Power is a six week, free,at-home educational program for peoplewho are newly diagnosed. Mail or e-mailformats. To register, call 1-800-344-4867,select option 1 or visitnationalMSociety.org/knowledge.

Denial is not a river inEgypt. And it actuallyhas a place in helping

people absorb a

diagnosis of MS.


http://slidepdf.com/reader/full/msc-mi-vol-8-iss-3 4/204 | JOIN THE MOVEMENT: nationalMSsociety.org

LIVING WITH MS

Wii AND MEBY JONATHAN RUBIN

Eighteen years ago, when I was 24, I lostsomething very important. I lost the ability tocompete. I had played competitive sports myentire life. So much so I never thought what lifewould be without them. They were just part of

me. But my competitive ability was taken awayby my first major MS attack, one that left medizzy, weak and bedridden(temporarily) for the firsttime in my life.

Soccer was my primarypassion, with tennis andhockey following closebehind. I was taught the“beautiful sport” of soccer first by Africanswho lived in our apartment complex inMadison, WI, when I was six. Then, whenmy family moved to England for three years,I learned another version, English football,which involves less intricate passing and more

rough tackling and big kicks downfield. Then,back in the good ol’ U.S. of A., I played youthand varsity high school soccer. I was not great,

but always good, always in the game, ready toplay, an able teammate.

While at the University of California at SantaCruz, I frequently played with members of theBanana Slugs Division III, but never went outfor the team — I think due to a youthful desireto be more intellectual, less jock.

I played on every intramural team, in every

league, in every pickup game, whenever I hadthe opportunity to join, and would spendhours and hours just running around animmense field overlooking the Pacific Oceanchasing and kicking a small white ball. It waspure freedom. It wasn’t until the winter of ’92–’93 that I realized just how important itwas to me.

After my first MS attack, it took me five

months to get back on a basketball courtand a year to even kick a soccer ball (my legs

were heavily affected). It wasprobably 18 months before afriend talked me into tryinga pickup soccer game. I wasa little slower, a little shakier,a little weaker, but it wassoccer, by golly, and I loved it.

However, after many ups and downs and allarounds, my MS has shifted into secondary-progressive. I now walk with a cane and canonly imagine playing in an actual soccer match

My competitive abilitywas taken away by myrst major MS attack,

one that left me dizzy andweak.



LIVING WITH MS

TOLL FREE NUMBER 1 800 344 4867 | 5

Tennis is a similar story. It was an early casualtyof MS. Running made me dizzy and confused,neither of which is conducive to playing quality

tennis.It is difcult for me to even break a sweat thesedays, let alone get a true aerobic workout. Themuscles in my legs quit after two minutes of stationary bike riding and after 10 on a rowingmachine. If I work out for 15 minutes, it becomesnext to impossible for me to walk out of the gym.I enjoy yoga, but my muscles buckle with anypose that involves the legs.

Which brings me to the present, to thisChristmas actually, when my family and I (mytwo sons are jocks too — gogure) bought the Wii Fit Plusgame station from Nintendo.

Thanks to Wii, I can play golf,and I am once again a champion(level 2000) tennis player. I can

groundstroke endlessly, connecton every overhead slam and whip forehandwinners crosscourt. I can serve big, rush the net,

and still backpedal to the baseline. I can sweatlike a pig again. I am, in a sense, complete.

My experience reminds me of the scene in the movie Avatar where the wounded veteran,who has lost the use of his legs,has his mind put into the bodyof an avatar. He walks a few

trembling steps, and then startsrunning and running and running. He will notstop. It is impossible to imagine what it is like tonot be able to run until you can’t.

I haven’t yet tried soccer and basketball on theWii and I’m not sure that Nintendo can capturethe joy of those sports quite as well as they didwith tennis. But I’m ready to start the PGA tourwith Woods and Mickelson. Who wants to

caddy?

Jonathan Rubin, who lives in Madison, WI, iscurrently ranked 5,024 in the world on Wii GrandSlam Tennis and hopes to be #1 by spring.

Affording WiiOne of Wii’s drawbacks is that it’s notcheap. It usually retails for $250 and up,

depending on model, accessories andgames, although with a little Internetresearch, you may uncover lower prices. Orcall us to see if any communal Wii events,such as bowling tournaments, or classes onusing a Wii, are coming up in the area.

Thanks to Wii, I canplay golf, and I am

once again a championtennis player.



RESEARCH

MEDICARE“IMPROVEMENT

STANDARD”CHALLENGED

For many people withMS, physical, speech oroccupational therapy may beessential in preventing theirabilities from deteriorating.However, many of these folkshave been denied medicallynecessary rehabilitationservices that they are eligiblefor through Medicare becauseof something called the“improvement standard.”

The standard actually violatesMedicare’s own ofcialregulations, which say that“the restoration potential of a patient is not the decidingfactor” for coverage and thattherapies that help preventphysical and cognitivedeterioration or maintainoptimal functioning, even if improvement is not expected,are to be covered.

This past January, a class-action lawsuit was led inthe U.S. District Court inVermont, with the NationalMS Society as the rst nationalhealth organization namedplaintiff, and subsequently

joined by the Alzheimer’sAssociation, United Cerebral

Palsy, Parkinson’s ActionNetwork and ParalyzedVeterans of America. Thelawsuit seeks to assure thata person’s “improvement”status is not a basis for denyingongoing therapy services. Theoutcome will be reported in“Government News” at www.nationalMSsociety.org/advocacy.

POTENTIAL

ANTI-SPASTICITYTREATMENTBOOSTED BYTHE SOCIETY’SFAST FORWARDPROGRAMKey early-stage research on an

oral treatment for spasticity,the painful and debilitatingmuscle spasms associatedwith MS, is underway atCanbex Therapeutics. TheUK-based company receiveda $2.8 million TranslationAward in March, 2011, fromthe Wellcome Trust, a globalcharitable foundation, to

support this research. Thework is being led by DavidBaker, PhD, an MS investigatorunder the National MSSociety’s Promise: 2010initiative. The Canbexspasticity program has beensupported by the Society’s Fast

Forward initiative to movethis potential therapy towardclinical trial faster.

WELCOMETO DIGITALMOMENTUM!

Momentum, the National MSSociety’s agship magazine,is now available online atwww.nationalMSsociety.org/magazine in a fullydigital edition with plenty of bonus features. It includes all content from the print edition,including advertisements,and allows you to click onlive hyperlinks, comment onarticles and respond to readercomments, download wholeissues as PDFs, print pages and

share articles via e-mail, links oby posting to social networks.Digital Momentum is alsoavailable for free from iTunesand the Android Market. Theapp includes the magazine, thelatest Society news, our Twittefeed and videos.



MONEY MATTERS

YUCK FACTOR: THESEQUEL

If drinking a glass of worm eggs could help withMS, people might just grimace and swallow.

Two recently published studies explore whetherinfection with relatively harmless parasiticworms, called helminths, can reduce diseaseactivity.

The idea stems from the “hygiene hypothesis,”which suggests that an early lack of exposure to

infectious agents may cause the immune systemto later overreact and trigger MS.

In the rst phase of a clinical trial (Helminth-Induced Immunomodulation Therapy, or HINT)supported by the National MS Society, JohnFleming, MD, and colleagues at the Universityof Wisconsin - Madison, administered a drinkcontaining helminth eggs to ve people withrecently diagnosed MS. The participants were

then monitored with MRI scans.

Study results, published in Multiple Sclerosis Journal 2011 Mar 3, showed that participantstolerated the helminth treatment well andneurological symptoms did not get worse.However, the small number of participants andthe study design made it difcult to draw rmconclusions about the treatment’s effectiveness.

The second phase of this study is now under way.In a previously reported Argentine study, JorgeCorreale, MD, and Mauricio Farez, MD, at theInstitute for Neurological Research, Buenos Aires,followed the disease course of 12 people withMS who ingested helminth eggs. They showedfewer relapses, better disability scores andlower MRI activity compared with uninfected

people. In a follow-upstudy published in

Journal of Neuro-

immunology 2011 Jan 28, the researchersreport that in fourinfected participantswho required anti-parasitic treatment,MS symptoms and disease-related MRI activitysubsequently increased. However, again, becausethe study was so small, further studies are needed

to establish a direct link between parasites andimprovements in MS.

UPDATE ON ORAL BG-12In April, Biogen Idec announced that theexperimental oral therapy BG-12 signicantlyreduced relapses in people with relapsing-remitting MS in a phase III trial. The results of another study comparing BG-12 with glatiramer

acetate against placebo are expected later thisyear.

AMERICAN ACADEMY OFNEUROLOGY MEETING

The American Academy of Neurology’sannual meeting, held April 9-16 in Honolulu,offered promising results about oral MSmedications, treatment of symptoms and better

understanding of mechanisms involved in thedisease. For example, the rst reported resultsof a phase III trial of oral laquinimod suggestedit could signicantly reduce disease activity anddisability progression, while appearing to bewell-tolerated. For more news from the AANconference, go to www.nationalMSsociety.org/AANews.



ADVOCACY

Legal BriefsBy Ina Cohen

There are many legal issues thathave particular impact on the livesof those diagnosed with MS. Whilethe local chapter cannot providelegal services, it does try to provide

general information and referrals toresources. Ina C. Cohen is an attorney and member of the Board of Trustees, National MultipleSclerosis Society, Michigan Chapter.

What does “disabled” mean? Whatdetermines whether I am disabled?

This is not a simple question. The term“disabled” has many different meaningsdepending on the circumstances. People oftenconfuse having a medical diagnosis or a diseasewith being “disabled”. In general, it dependson the situation or context whether one isdetermined to be disabled.

For example, if you are claiming to be disabledfrom work, you may have short and long termdisability insurance coverage. When you rstapply, the standard for disability will most likelybe whether you can perform the last job youwere doing at work. However, after you havebeen on long term “disability” insurance benets

for 24 months, the policy may provide that youhave to be “disabled” from all jobs for which youare qualied.

The standard of being disabled for SocialSecurity disability benets and SSI is that youmust be unable to perform any substantialgainful activity (i.e., any work). Other programs,

policies, etc. dene being disabled differently.You might have a life insurance policy thatwaives premiums (doesn’t require you to makepayments when you are “disabled”) and it mightdene disability as the inability to work orthe loss of use or two hands or two feet or onehand and one foot. With the last 3 denitionsof being “disabled” you could actually be fullyemployed but “disabled” by the loss of use of two hands test, etc.

Oftentimes, disability is evaluated in terms of ADLs or activities of daily living. These are the

basic tasks of everyday life and include (but arenot limited to): bathing, dressing, grooming,oral care, toileting, transferring, walking,climbing stairs, eating, shopping, cooking,managing medications, using the telephone,housework, doing laundry, driving andmanaging nances.

So, the important question is really what isthe standard or context in which you are to be

evaluated for “disability”. It means you shouldalways check the applicable law, contract,regulation, rule or policy to determine exactlywhat standard applies and never assume youknow.

Although you may be working part or full time,you should know whether you might qualifyas “disabled” in certain circumstances but notothers. Just because you are denied SSI or SocialSecurity disability benets doesn’t mean thatyou might not be entitled to waive insurancepayments since you may disabled under theterms of the policy.

You should know the disability test for any of these that might apply to you:




ADVOCACY

TOLL FREE NUMBER 1 800 344 4867 | 9

a. early withdrawal of IRA, pension or protsharing money without penalty

b.waiver of payment of car loan or lease if

availablec. waiver of school loan payments

d.waiver of payment of credit card balancesif available

e. waiver of payment of insurance premiumsif available

f. waiver of association or union membershipdues if available

g. waiver of group membership fees if available

h.eligibility for senior citizen rates (mostreduced “senior” fees or benets also applyto people who are disabled)

i. waiver of residential mortgage payments ifavailable etc.

So, don’t assume anything and check out all of

the possibilities. If you are deemed “disabled”under the applicable denition, you are entitledto the benet!

Clinics are scheduled six times a year on the rstSaturday of every even numbered month. Futureclinics in 2011 will take place October 1st andDecember 3rd. Call ahead to schedule your session at (800) 344-4867, select option 1.

SAM’S CLUB RAISES NEARLY $1.2 MILLIONDOLLARS TO BENEFIT PEOPLE LIVING WITH MS.

After six short weeks of fundraising in over 600 clubs across the country,and at the conclusion of an intense MS-themed dodge ball tournamentat their annual meeting, Sam’s Club presented a check to the Societyfor nearly $1.2 million. Making the most of grass roots fundraising techniques thatincluded donation jars, caramel apple and hotchocolate sales, and MS bracelet and sneaker sales

in club parking lots, Sam’s Club employees ralliedtogether to make a signicant nancial contributionto the MS movement.

On behalf of the National MS Society and peoplewith MS everywhere—thank you Sam’s Club! Sam’s Club Dodge Ball Tournament



MICHIGAN CHAPTER PROGRAM CALENDAR

Moving Forward, a program for people newly

diagnosed; Saturdays September 24, 2011 andOctober 1, 2011, 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at theWilliam W. Kitti Education Center, 419 S. CoralStreet, Kalkaska. Topics that will be presentedby speakers include the medical aspect of MS,physical activity and rehabilitation, emotionalaspects of MS and employment issues, along withplenty of time to ask questions of the speakers andinteract with other attendees.

For more inormation call Michelle Honer,(231) 421-3706 or (800) 344-4867, selectoption 1. Register by September 22 atnationalMSsociety.org/mig

Speak Up: Training for In-District LegislatorVisit - a toll-free telephone conference to help youarrange a meeting close to your home with your state legislators. The training will help you feelcondent and well-informed about issues being

voted on in the Michigan legislature that areimportant to people with MS. Training is availableAugust 6, 2011 at 10:30 a.m. and repeated August9, 2011 at 7:30 p.m. For more inormation call Ruth Linnemann, (517) 339-6002 or (800)

344-4867, select option 1. Register by August 3at nationalMS society.org/mig

Aquatics for People with MS – Ten Saturdays,September 10, 2011 until November 12, 2011, 9:00

a.m. to 10:40 a.m. Sessions are held at the GrandTraverse County Civic Center Pool. Sessions arefree. The volunteer instructor leads therapeuticexercises that do not require swimming ability.Each person with MS is welcome to bring oneassistant. For inormation call Roz Nadeau,(231)946-8606 or Kirsten Ardery,(231) 947-6098.

SAVE THE DATE:

8 Hours to a Lifetime of RelationshipSatisfaction - According to past participants,this is one of the best MS programs ever offered.In this program for couples affected by MS,participants will learn problem solving techniquescommunication skills and much more. Theprogram will be held in Grand Rapids Saturday,September 17, 2011 with Doug Schwentor,

LMSW as facilitator. For more inormation call (800) 344-4867, option 1.

Gateway to Wellness - a six week series whereyou will learn, along with 12-15 participants, howto make informed choices about lifestyle, medicalcare, and exercise. You will practice settingrealistic personal goals so that you can achievea balance of play, work, family and self-careactivities in your life.

MidlandSix Monday Evening SessionsOctober 3 - November 14, 2011(no class on October 31)6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Grand RapidsSix Wednesday Evening SessionsOctober 5 - November 9, 20116:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

I you are interested, you may request anapplication by contacting Christy Bomba at(989) 249-1184 or [email protected]


REGIONAL NEWS



REGIONAL NEWS

Live Your Best Life Independently will beoffered in collaboration with St. Therese of LisieuxHealth Ministry on Friday, September 30, 2011,

in Shelby Township from 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Topics will include agency and communityresources, fall prevention, home modications,and more. A breakout session for caregivers isplanned. Program details and registration infowill be sent by e-mail and be available on ourwebsite in August. If you would like to receive abrochure when they are available, please leave your name, address, and phone number at(800) 344-4867, select option 2, ext. 232.

MS ACHIEVEMENT CENTER The MS Achievement Center is a great place tolet your hair down and just have fun. Membersenjoy bonding with the added benet of steadilyincreasing wellness. With musical performances,yoga, crafts and potlucks there’s really nevera dull moment at the center. Participants also

enjoy sessions on Tai Chi, therapeutic gardeningand self-advocacy. Uniquely located rightinside the Michigan Chapter headquarters, inSoutheld the Achievement Center brings inpeople from all walks of life to learn skills, reducestress, improve and maintain mobility andenhance their support system.

Interested in volunteering or participating?There are TWO ways to sign up today, email [email protected] or call (800) 344-

4867, select option 2, ext. 231 to request anapplication! Don’t miss out on the fun!

In case you were wondering, the AchievementCenter is always accepting donations andlooking for additional charismatic volunteers.

WISH LIST - Acrylic Paint, Brushes,Computers, Markers, Glitter, Glue Sticks,Utensils, Paperware (cups, plates, napkins)

THE HEAT IS ON... The hot, sunny days of summer are uponus! These warm days, however, can beuncomfortable ones for persons with MS.Research has proven heat and humidityoften exacerbate common MS symptomsand cooling the body down providestemporary relief for people experiencingdistress from these symptoms.

The Chapter offers solutions for keepingthe body temperature cooler throughits Financial Assistance program. Themost common portable cooling productis a vest that can be worn under or overclothing. The vest contains insulatedpockets which hold small ice packs.Other products that might provide relief are neck and wrist wraps.

For relief indoors, there is also nancialassistance available for window airconditioning units. These units arestandard window units that can cool aroom approximately 150 square feet.

The Chapter arranges the delivery of the units to the home but arrangementsfor installation have to be madeindependently.

As a reminder to qualify for nancialassistance from the Chapter, anapplication needs to be submitted alongwith a conrmation of MS diagnosis.Call (800) 344-4867, then select Option1 to start the process.



MONEY MATTERS

TEN TIPS FOR HIRINGHOME HELP

BY AL TAINSKY

Respect, honesty, compassion, compatibilityand civility are core ingredients of a successfulcaregiving relationship. But a sense of humor anda soupçon of soul don’t hurt either.

I was diagnosed with MS in 1987, but I tracethe disease back to the 1950s and a summer sohot it melted the tar on Anderson Avenue in theHighbridge section of the Bronx.

For nigh on 20 years, I have hired, red and livedwith caregivers. I call my current live-in caregiverMr. Wizard. His technical and computer skillsare remarkable. He has a sense of humor and hetaught Sunday school for about 14 years. Hisyounger sister is developmentally disabled andthe love he feels for her shows a man of substance.

Here are a few of my tips to nding your own Mr.Wizard.

1. Have applicants supply the names, addressesand phone numbers of three personal or workreferences.

2. Hire someone with a clean driving record.

3. Have him or her agree to give one month’snotice—and do the same.

4. Don’t hire an alcoholic. (I expect my caregivers

to be clean and sober in my home.)5. Keep food separate. (Sometimes we eat

together, sometimes we don’t.)

6. The caregiver’s room should hold all thecaregiver’s goods. (I have no room for storageand nothing should hinder my movement in myhome.)

7. No sleepovers and no inviting friends over

without permission. (I need night coverage andthat is non-negotiable.)

8. Keep your computer and printer for yourpersonal use only.

9. If a caregiver steals, lies or cheats, make a planfor coverage before firing the miscreant, soyou’re not left on your own.

10. Don’t surrender control of your life to anyone.

Need help? Call a friend, call a relative, call theSociety, call the closest Independent LivingCenter and if necessary call the police.

Al Tainsky was a professional journalist and sometime writer of comedy for television when hewas diagnosed with MS 24 years ago. He continuedto live independently and to write articles for Momentum magazine, Real Living with MS, andother disability publications. He died of a heart

attack in February shortly after completing thisarticle. We will miss his smarts and his spirit.

Wondering how to afford a caregiver?

Call 1-800-344-4867 to talk to an MSNavigator®. Also go to nationalMSsociety.org for the brochure, “Hiring Help at Home.”



REGIONAL NEWS

Consortium of MS Centers Honors Robert Lisak, M.D.with Lifetime Achievement Award

Wayne State School of Medicine The Consortium of Multiple SclerosisCenters has honored a Wayne StateUniversity professor and departmentchair for his lifetime of commitmentand research to combat the condition.

The consortium presented RobertLisak, M.D., Chair of the Department

of Neurology, with its Lifetime Achievement Award

last week during its annual meeting in Montreal.

“Bob Lisak is someone who cares. He cares abouthis institution, serving as Parker Webber Chair inNeurology, Chair and professor of Neurology andprofessor of Immunology and Microbiology atWayne State University, Neurologist-in-Chief of Detroit Medical Center and Chief of Neurology atHarper University Hospital,” said Corey Ford, M.D.,Ph.D., professor of Neurology and associate dean for

Research at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine and former president of the consortium.“He cares about his research and has published over200 peer-reviewed scholarly articles, and has beenfunded by the National Institutes of Health, theNational Multiple Sclerosis Society, the MuscularDystrophy Association, the Myasthenia GravisFoundation and many others.”

The Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers is aprofessional organization of MS health care providersand researchers in North America. It seeks to increasethe ability of those professionals to impact the careof MS sufferers and improve their quality of life. Theconsortium also is an international clearinghouse forresearch results, the latest treatments, clinical trialsand patient education programs.

“This a great honor for me, recognizing mycontributions and leadership in research, clinical

care, teaching and mentoring as well as service tothe scientic, clinical and patient organizationsbeginning at the National Institutes of Health 45years ago,” said Dr. Lisak, the consortium’s researchdirector and newly elected secretary. “But it alsoreects the support of my family and the supportand collaboration from colleagues at the NIH, theUniversity of Pennsylvania, and for the last 24 years,Wayne State University.”

Dr. Lisak has served in leadership positions andon committees of the American Academy of Neurology, the American Neurological Association,the International Society of Neuroimmunology, theNational Multiple Sclerosis Society, the Guillain BarreSyndrome/CIDP Foundation and the MyastheniaGravis Foundation of America. He also has beeneditor of the Journal of the Neurological Sciences, the

journal of the World Federation of Neurology.

“He cares about his patients and has always been aclinician, attending clinics and caring for those withneurological illnesses,” Dr. Ford said. “He cares abouthis students and trainees, many of whom he hastaught and mentored, furthering their careers andthose of his junior faculty.

“Bob is clearly a person who says ‘yes’ muchmore often than ‘no.’ He is truly a role modelfor the clinician-scientist, but it is unlikely hisaccomplishments and contributions could be copied.”

Dr. Lisak has been a member of the MichiganChapter’s Board of trustees since 1990. He also serveson the Executive Committee and the Clinical AdvisoryCommittee.

We congratulate Dr. Lisak on this great and very well deserved honor!



Tuesday, August 30th11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Westin Book Cadillac DetroitYvette Bing, First Lady o DetroitHonorary Chairperson

SAVE THE DATE

FUNDRAISING

person with MS to successfully climb 6½ of theSeven Summits, and recently became the rstperson with MS to reach the North Pole – the topof the world – accompanied by her intrepid teamof sled dogs. She is a mountaineer, an adventurer,an explorer – and she’s not done yet. Next stop:the bottom of the world…the South Pole! Wendy’s

passion, strength and tenacity are garneringattention from national and international press,and her career has evolved from interior designto motivational speaking around the globe. Shewill motivate and encourage anyone facing achallenge in life to push through and climb on –the view from the top is breathtaking!

Women on the Move is a leadership initiative tounite and empower women to help create a worldfree of multiple sclerosis (MS), a disease thatgreatly impacts women.

Why Women…Why Michigan?

• Two-thirds of people diagnosed with MS arewomen

• The affects are even greater when youconsider that women are often careproviders for others living with MS

• Michigan has one of the highest incidencerates of multiple sclerosis in the country, withover 18,000 people living with the disease inMichigan

Keynote Speaker: Wendy Booker

Wendy Booker’s energy seemsendless – it takes more thanmountaineering, marathons,mushing and multiple sclerosisto tame her passion foradventure. Wendy is the rst

TICKETS: $100 each or $1,000 per tableof 10 guests - Each ticket includes inspirational

program, lunch, rafe and valet parking.

To purchase tickets, call Patti Radzik at(248) 936-0342 or email [email protected].

Tickets are also available for purchase online at:nationalMSsociety.org/mig(click “Women on the Move” on homepage)



FUNDRAISING

The MS Leadership Class of 2011**as of publication date, 8/1/11

Nicholas Baise, General Counsel – Alken Ziegler

Denise Barron, Senior Account Executive –Kelly Services, Inc.

Tim Belanger, Vice President – AIM Construction

Dana DeFlorio, Director, Medical Management –Blue Care Network

Forrest Dillon, Member – Bodman PLC

Kate Cahill Durak, Major Gifts Consultant – St. John Providence Health System Foundations

Jeffrey Eckles, Partner – Plante & Moran LLP

Steven Englehart, Vice President & Team Leader –Fifth Third Bank

Jane Kogan, Associate – Warner Norcross & Judd LLP

Nevena Mirkovic, Strategic Account Manager –EMD Serono

Kim Oblak, Vice President-Retail Banking –Best Bank

William Ogden, Managing Partner – Kohl, Harris,Nolan, McCarthy, Turkelson & Ogden, P.C.

Lauren Parrott, TV Show Host/Production Assistant – WMTV5

Cheryl Rothe, Account Executive – Crain’s DetroitBusiness

Maria Szymanski, Senior Vice President & Chief Development Ofcer – Trinity Health

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society, MichiganChapter is proud to present the MS LeadershipClass of 2011. A new program launched thisyear, the Leadership Class honors successful

business professionals in Southeast Michiganfor their leadership in the community and inthe workplace. It also provides a platform forfuture leaders of the National MS Society tobe developed and to be actively engaged in themission to create a world free of MS.

Nominated by their peers, the members of theLeadership Class are participating in a special giftscampaign now through September to each raisea minimum of $1,000 for MS research, programsand services. The campaign kicked off in July at areception sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and will conclude on September 27th atan awards reception hosted by Anthony J. Filippis,President & CEO of Wright & Filippis and thehonorary chair of the MS Leadership Class.

In August, members of the Leadership Class will

tour the Multiple Sclerosis Treatment and ClinicalResearch Center at Wayne State University inDetroit and see rsthand the efforts that areunderway by researchers to nd a cure.

To make a donation to members of theLeadership Class, visit nationalMSsociety.org/ mig (click on “MS Leadership Class” on home page) or call (248) 936-0342.



FUNDRAISING

The 2011 International da Vinci Awards are fast approaching. Amazing nominations arebeing submitted and we want you to join us onSeptember 22nd at The Henry Ford in Dearborn,Michigan to watch as the winners are announcedfor the rst time on stage.

This year we will behonoring our 2011 Spiritof da Vinci Award winnerCody Unser, the founderof the Cody Unser FirstStep Foundation andthe daughter of autoracing legend Al Unser, Jr.

Paralyzed at age 12 from anautoimmune disorder called Transverse Myelitis,Cody started the Foundation to raise awarenessfor her condition and provide support to familiesand individuals living with this disorder. Throughher foundation she also started a quality of life

program called Cody’s Great Scuba Adventureswhere she introduces the freedom of scuba divingto people with disabilities by putting them in theopen ocean where they get their nal certication.

The da Vinci Awards celebrate people who

triumph over disabilities and those who havedeveloped new technologies and innovations thatenhance mobility and enable people to function attheir fullest.

There will be opportunities to network with manyorganizations about the products and people whoembody what the da Vinci Awards are all about.Do not miss this amazing opportunity to help raisefunds and awareness for the National MultipleSclerosis Society, Michigan Chapter.

Tickets for this gala event are available at:daVinciAwards.org;by email: [email protected];or by calling (248) 936-0350.

the da Vinci AwArds®

Celebrating Innovative Assistive Technology from Around the Globe

Walk MS is a time and place for

you, your family and friends tocome together and proclaim, for allto hear: We are the movement toend MS! We would like to thank

the more than 7,500 people who have alreadyparticipated at a Walk MS event this year. Becauseof their hard work and dedication we have raisedover $938,000 - taking us 78% of the way to

reaching our $1.2 million goal. With three Walk

MS events remaining this year there is still time foryou to sign up and be an important part of the MSMovement. Please join us at one of these walk sites

Grand Haven – September 10thMilford – September 10thWest Branch – September 17th

Register today at walkMSmi.org

2011



Are you someone living withMS and looking for a funway to participate in Bike

MS? The NOW and Novartisfor MS professional women’scycling team is looking for

people with MS to ride on a tandem bike at theFall Breakaway Bike MS Ride on Saturday,September 17th. If you are taking the Novartisoral therapy Gilenya and are interested inlearning more, please contact Tammy Willis by email at [email protected] or calling

(517) 646-0807.

Our goal for Bike MS this year is to raise$800,000 to support MS research and fundprograms and services for everyone living inMichigan with MS. We are excited to sharethat with your help we are over half the way to

reaching our fund raising goal!

There is still time to register for our tworemaining rides this year:

Fall Breakaway – September 17thBavarian Breakaway – September 24 & 25th

Register today at bikeMSmi.org

TOLL FREE NUMBER 1 800 344 4867 | 17

FUNDRAISING

GOLF ALL SUMMER LONG!

Golf MS captains are able to

create a team of four or moregolfers, pick a course, pick a datesuitable for their entire team,and play back-to-back rounds of golf.

Currently, there are 39 partner courses aroundthe state donating greens fees to Golf MScaptains and their teams. There remain over1,000 donated rounds of golf available through

September 30th.

For a complete list of golf courses and to registera team, visit golfMSmi.org, email [email protected] phone (248) 936-0350.

Golf MS is sponsored by: FOX 2 Detroit, HourDetroit, and TaylorMade Golf.

What is Making Strides AgainstMultiple Sclerosis (MSAMS)? MSAMS is a group of dedicatedrunners whose single cause is tocreate a world free of MS through

awareness and fundraising. The funds you raisewill be honoring research, treatments, education,and supporting clients and family membersthroughout Michigan. Most of all, you will bemoving us closer to a world free of MS!

How Do I Get Started?

First thing to do is to select a running event that isideal and convenient for you. You can join the runof your choice to raise funds for MS and join themovement for the more than 18,000 people livingwith MS in Michigan.

Ride 2011

Team Raymond James, Bike MS 2011

Continued on page 18



FUNDRAISING

We are gearing up for the Detroit Free Press

Marathon on October 16, 2011. To register pleasevisit DetroitFreePressMarathon.comand besure to pick the National MS Society as yourcharity of choice!

For questions, please contact Bris Robertsat (248) 936-0365 or via email [email protected].

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Please consider supporting these upcoming

volunteer-coordinated fundraising events thatwill benet the National MS Society, MichiganChapter:

1st Annual Gilbert and Matt WeberGolf ClassicAugust 27, 2011 - Devils Ridge Golf Club3700 Metamora Road • Oxford, MI

For more information contact Laura Weber at:

(248) 840-1297 or [email protected]

14th Annual MS Motorcycle RunAugust 27, 2011 - Bow Tie8388 Alpine Avenue NW • Sparta, MI

Ride for a world free of MS. There will be rafeprizes and trophies for the rst and second placewinners! For more information, contact Kim at(616) 550-1777.

L. Barge Open 2011September 17, 2011 - Fieldstone Golf Club1984 Taylor Road • Auburn Hills, MI

Join us for an 18-hole golf scramble, puttingcontest, food and prizes. For more informationcontact L. Barge & Associates, Inc. at (248) 582- 3430 or via email at [email protected].

2011 Hacker ScrambleOctober 8, 2011 - Brentwood Golf Course2450 Havenwood Dr • White Lake, MI

Enjoy music, food, prizes and golng at thisannual event – please save the date! For moreinformation please contact Scott or RuthCrichton at (248) 684-0020.

Continued from page 17

GO GREEN & HELP SAVETHOUSANDS! Did you know that with your help theMichigan Chapter can save thousands of dollars annually? Our environment wouldalso benet by the huge reduction of paperusage. How can you help? Sign up nowto receive MS Connection and othermailings electronically.

Try it. If you change your mind, we canalways put you back on the list to receiveprinted copies. To sign up, visit ourwebsite at www.nationalmssociety.org/mig. Complete the short form, and that’s it!

• National MS Society, Michigan Chapter

• Bike MS – Michigan Chapter

• Walk MS – Michigan Chapter

• Golf MS

• da Vinci Awards

• MS Awareness Week

The National MS Society Michigan

Chapter is on Facebook! Look for:



Don’t miss your chance to win a 2012 Mustang GT Manual

Convertible, courtesy of The Ford Motor Company! Rafe ticketsare on sale now through August 20th when the prize drawingwill take place at the Woodward Dream Cruise and a winneris announced. (Winner need not be present to win. Winner isresponsible for 25% Federal Income Tax, license and Title fees.)Rafe License #: R12418.

Tickets are $10 each or 3 for $20 and are available for purchase online at nationalMSsociety.org/migor by calling (248) 351-2190 ext. 212.

TOLL FREE NUMBER 1 800 344 4867 | 19

FUNDRAISING

PUSHING FOR A CURE FOR MS!

Champagne & Marx Excavating is one of thetop excavating companies in Mid-Michigan andis “Pushing for a Cure” to end MS. Employeesof the company came up with the idea to havetheir new gravel train wrapped to increaseawareness of MS and the National MS Society.

The Kenworth Gravel Hauler was unveiled at arecent event hosted by the company to thankdonors to the National MS Society, MichiganChapter, and the result is just one moredemonstration of the company’s commitmentto a world free of MS. Champagne & Marx alsohas teams that participate annually in the WalkMS and Bike MS events and have set a goal toraise more than $25,000 this year!

Win a 2012 Ford Mustang GT and help people with MS!



21311 Civic Center DriveSoutheld, MI 48076-3911

Mailing Label ChangesPlease check the appropriate box

below, correct the label then return to

National MS Society, MI Chapter

qName change or misspelled

qAddress change

qRemove from mailing list

qReceived more than one copy

qPlease send me my MS Connection

via e-mail. My e-mail address is:

____________________________

If You or Someone You Know Has MSEarly and ongoing treatment with an FDA-approved therapy can make a difference for people withmultiple sclerosis. Learn about your options by talking to your health care professional and contactingh l l

Future ads for medical equipment willbe placed on our website instead of MSConnection. If you are interested in placinga free ad to sell your medical equipment,send a detailed description of the item,along with the price and your phonenumber or other contact information.

Send the ads to: MS Connection,

National MS Society Michigan Chapter,21311 Civic Center Dr, Southfeld, MI 48076or e-mail [email protected].

EQUIPMENT CLASSIFIEDS: Host Your Own Fundraising Event!

From carwashes and lacrosse tournaments tobake sales and martial arts tournaments, peopleput an impressive amount of time, resources animagination into fundraising to create a worldfree of MS.

By coordinating your group’s very own event,you help bring research and programs to themore than 18,000 people living with MS inMichigan. Join the Movement today!

For more information, please visit our websiteat nationalMSsociety.org/mig or contact us at(248) 351-2190, ext. 233.

msc mi vol 8 iss 3

Documents