SPRING 2016 PACIFIC SOUTH COAST CHAPTER
MS CONNECTION NEWSLETTER
MOST
S M K L A 2015 W NAL WALKERS O I T A R I P S N I
INSIDE 06 THIS ISSUE
LAWRY CIRCLE
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MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR UPCOMING EVENTS
VOLUNTEERS OF THE YEAR
RESEARCH: UNDERSTANDING WELLNESS
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MS CONNECTION: SPRING 2016
A NOTE FROM THE CHAPTER PRESIDENT & BOARD CHAIR
TOGETHER, WE ARE STRONGER
2016 is in full swing and spring is already on the horizon. As the seasons change we begin to see more green, including the green and orange you have come to associate with Walk MS!
Haveever you ever dreamed about Have you dreamed about running/walking a marathon or halfamarathon? running/walking marathon orExcitement is growing as we approach Walk season. This April, we What about a relay with offer seven different Walk MS events throughout San Diego, Orange, Imperial counties, and the Hawaiian Islands. To find the Walk some friends? We can help half marathon? What about aand MS location nearest you, please visit WalkMS.org. Register today you make it happen! join over 550,000 people across the country walking to raise relay with some friends? and funds to fight MS. Join the MS Rockstars today!
Learn more by visiting: MSrockstars.com
CONNECT WITH US ONLINE: MSpacific.org
Beginning April 10-16, we celebrate National Volunteer Week! Please join us in thanking our thousands of volunteers who selflessly give their time and energy to support millions of people affected by MS worldwide. You may read a few of their stories in this issue. Each person makes a difference, and together we are stronger. Each step you take and every dollar you raise brings us all closer to a world free of MS. We encourage you to invite your friends, family members, and colleagues to start a Walk MS team today! Gratefully,
Like us: facebook.com/MSpacific Watch us: youtube.com/MSpacific On the Cover: Walk MS Team Captains Top: Jas Arnold Bottom left to right: Cindy Roper, Liz Hallin
Richard V. Israel
Justin Reckers
Chapter President
Chair, Board of Trustees
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NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG | 1-800-344-4867
LIVING WITH MS
MAKING FAMILY CONNECTIONS Multiple sclerosis can affect the entire family which is why the Society is committed to serving as a resource for families who face the challenges of living with MS to connect with one another.
Looking for ways to connect with your family? See our calendar of events on page 7 or learn about upcoming programs and events at MSpacific.org.
On December 12, 2015, families impacted by MS from across the chapter joined together to meet up with old friends and make new ones at our Annual Sycuan Family Holiday Party. This festive chapter tradition, sponsored by Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation, hosted over 600 people and featured a full buffet lunch, lively entertainment, fun holiday activities and a special visit from Santa Claus. A member shares…
“It was great coming together as a family and feeling accepted. Thank you!”
NATIONAL MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY Pacific South Coast Chapter 12121 Scripps Summit Drive, Suite 190 San Diego, CA 92131 1-800-344-4867 Board Chair: Justin Reckers Chapter President: Richard V. Israel Editor & Design: Christine Wiley Associate Editor: Leslie Roach Associate Designer: Nare Ovsepian © 2016 National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Pacific South Coast Chapter
Information provided by the Society is based upon professional advice, published experience and expert opinion. Information provided in response to questions does not constitute therapeutic recommendations or prescriptions. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society recommends that all questions and information be discussed with a personal physician. The Society does not endorse products, services or manufacturers. Such names appear here solely because they are considered valuable information. The Society assumes no liability for the use or contents of any product or service mentioned.
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MS CONNECTION: SPRING 2016
FUELING THE MISSION
WALK MS MOST INSPIRATIONAL WALKERS
Bottom left, Jas Arnold and team
JAS ARNOLD (SAN DIEGO, 2015) LIZ HALLIN (CARLSBAD, 2015)
Jas Arnold has participated in Walk MS for nearly 30 years since his diagnosis in 1982 with primary progressive MS. He has led Team Arson for the past three years and the team’s numbers have grown from just a few family members to 31 walkers and two rollers this year.
Liz started a team for Walk MS after she was diagnosed in 2010. Her team Lizard Chasers has grown from 6 people and $1,400 raised to 74 people raising $6,745!
MS had a huge effect on his family. His daughter Megan experienced blurry vision and, after months of testing, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.
Prior to being diagnosed with MS, Liz was a competitive softball player and had a scholarship to Cal Baptist. Despite not being able to play softball anymore, Liz helps coach the pitchers at Santa Fe Christian and her team was out in force to support her at Walk MS in Carlsbad, and to walk with Liz across the finish line.
Jas had never reached out to his entire contact list asking for donations to support the Society, but this year became an exception. Donations poured in from the entire country: San Diego, Seattle, Detroit, Philadelphia, and Cocoa Beach. Team Arson had over 100 donors, 33 walkers and raised $11,780, surpassing their 2015 goal of $5,000!
Front center, Liz Hallin and team
In addition to participating in Walk MS, Liz leads a group of over 50 volunteers from her church on “Community Serve Day” to volunteer at our office. Liz participates to get more people involved in Walk MS and to have fun in the meantime!
CARLSBAD APRIL 16, 2016
SAN DIEGO APRIL 23, 2016
REGISTER TODAY! WALKMS.ORG 1-855-372-1331 San Diego/Carlsbad 2016
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NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG | 1-800-344-4867
JOIN US FOR SUNSET WALK! Join us for the brand new San Diego County Credit Union SUNSET WALK in Carlsbad on April 16, 2016! Bring your friends and family out to enjoy gorgeous sunset views, music, entertainment, and a fun-filled post-Walk ceremony. The beautiful new location overlooks the flower fields on Aramada Drive. The Walk route might be new, but the goal is the same: to help people with MS live their best lives possible. Bottom left, Cindy Roper and team
Register today at www.walkMS.org!
CINDY ROPER (IRVINE, 2015) As team captain of American Flyers for MS, Cindy has led her team to success with their notorious, but clever fundraising idea - they raffle off an awesome beach cruiser the day of the walk! Since 2003, Cindy’s team has raised an incredible $181,695 for Walk MS, in addition to participating as a team for Bike MS. Cindy is dedicated to bringing awareness about MS. She and her co-owners of the Cyclist bike shop have come on board as a diamond sponsor of Bike MS in 2015. Cindy recently worked with KTLA to help promote our Bike MS: Bay to Bay rally. She is relentless in her effort to support the Society to find better treatments and a cure for MS - she is an inspiration to us all!
HAVE YOU BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH MS? The Living with MS program is new in 2016 and honors those who are diagnosed with MS and participate in Walk MS. Receive a Living with MS shirt and other special recognition during the event. Connect with others. Inspire others. And let those who are newly diagnosed know that they aren’t alone.
IRVINE APRIL 30, 2016 SPONSORED BY
REGISTER TODAY! WALKMS.ORG 1-855-372-1331
Simply designate on your registration form that you have MS. WE’RE STRONGER TOGETHER.
REGISTER TODAY! WALKMS.ORG | 1-855-372-1331
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MS CONNECTION: SPRING 2016
MAKE A DIFFERENCE TODAY: ACCELERATE MS RESEARCH WITHOUT AFFECTING YOUR CURRENT BUDGET If you would like to make a gift to the National MS Society but would rather not give a cash donation, there are many ways you can help stop MS in its tracks, restore lost function and end MS forever.
LIFE INSURANCE
Here are three simple ways you can support the MS community:
Including a gift to the Society in your will or living trust allows you to support research that drives solutions for every person living with MS and creates a legacy that will last for years to come. Your gift is completely customizable so that you can support a particular program or service that has positively impacted your life.
RETIREMENT PLAN ASSETS When you name the National MS Society as the beneficiary of your retirement plan assets, you don’t part with assets and you eliminate the 39.6 percent federal income taxes your loved ones could have to pay. As a nonprofit organization, the Society is tax-exempt and eligible to receive the full amount.
You can name the National MS Society as a beneficiary of the policy.
A GIFT IN YOUR WILL OR LIVING TRUST
Feel free to contact Erich Foeckler at (760) 448-8412 or erich.foeckler@nmss. org with any questions about designating the Society as a beneficiary of your assets.
BE A PART OF SOMETHING SPECIAL! The Lawry Circle is a group of passionate friends dedicated to our vision of a world free of MS. These supporters have demonstrated a deep commitment to improving the lives of those with MS by including a gift to the National MS Society in their estate plans. Contact us to learn how you can join this group today.
Unless otherwise indicated, to register for any of the listed events, please visit http://calendar.MSpacific.org NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG | 1-800-344-4867 and select the date of the event, or call (800) 344-4867 (800-FIGHT-MS).
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
LOCAL EVENTS BOYS’ NIGHT OUT Wednesday, March 30 | 6:00pm – 9:00pm The Elks Lodge, 11551 Trask Avenue, Garden Grove We invite all men living with MS to be a part of this fun get-together. This is an opportunity to have interesting conversations, make new friends and enjoy a delicious dinner.
DAY AT THE BAY Saturday, May 14 - Mission Bay Join other families affected by MS for a day of fun in the sun. Enjoy adaptive sailing on the bay, a delicious BBQ, and fun activities. More information will be coming out soon!
EVERYDAY MATTERS June - Orange County Location and date to be finalized Everyone has their own idea of their best life. For people living with multiple sclerosis, the idea of that “best life” can change due to the challenges of having a chronic, unpredictable and lifelong disease. Everyday Matters is an interactive inperson program that uncovers stories of real people facing the everyday challenges that MS can bring. More information about this professionally facilitated one-day program will be mailed to your home and posted on our website.
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ONLINE PROGRAMS Online Newly Diagnosed Program Every other month starting in January from 6:00-7:00pm | Web & Teleconference A diagnosis of MS can create many unexpected emotions that leave you with a strong need to understand the changes you are facing. This web-based program will be conducted by Dr. Elizabeth Crabtree, Assistant Clinical Professor of Neurology at UCSF and Director of Patient Program Development at UCSF’s MS Center. This orientation provides an excellent opportunity to have any questions you may wish to ask answered and learn more about the resources available to persons with multiple sclerosis. A phone and computer with internet access will be necessary to join this program. Can Do Multiple Sclerosis Webinar Series Brought to you with the help of Can Do Multiple Sclerosis (formerly The Heuga Center for Multiple Sclerosis). Join live from the convenience of your home or office at no charge for an in-depth discussion. This unique opportunity offers interaction with a team of Can Do MS consultants to ask questions and learn how to adopt healthy lifestyle behaviors, actively co-manage your MS and live your best life. To register, view upcoming monthly webinars, or see archived webinars log on to www.mscando.org/webinar
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MS CONNECTION: SPRING 2016
CONNECTION GROUPS We have long recognized our responsibility to respond to the emotional needs and challenges that MS imposes on individuals and their families. Experience and research have revealed that group support is an effective strategy to help people face matters related to change and loss, achieve personal insight, foster new hope, build self-esteem and facilitate behavioral changes. We offer 29 Connection Groups covering an array of topics. These connection groups bring together people who share a common life experience for support, education and mutual aid.
ORANGE COUNTY
Anaheim: En EspaĂąol Familiares y amigos bienvenidos. La segunda martes de cada mes. Anaheim Adventist Church 900 S. Sunkist St, 6:30 - 8:00pm Rosa Ferreras 714-758-0829 rosam58@me.com Susana PĂŠrez 714-235-7570 sueperezg@yahoo.com Brea 1st Friday, 10:00am - 12:00pm Jim Langdon 714-392-2052 langdonjames1942@gmail.com Lisa Seifert 714-757-8492 mcbryde99@hotmail.com San Juan Capistrano Caregivers Only Group 1st Tuesday, 6:00 - 7:30pm Gloria Poteete 949-291-2007 glori77@cox.net Corona Del Mar: Minimal Symptoms/Newly Diagnosed 2nd Wednesday, 10:30am - 12:30pm Sherri Brash 714-846-2064 Sherri1022@gmail.com Dana Point: Early MS 4th Thursday, 10:00am - 12:00pm Jerry Dowd 949-584-4619 gtdowd@gmail.com Susan Watson 949-493-1299 susanwatson2010@gmail.com
Fullerton: Christian MS Support Group 2nd Tuesday, 7:00 - 8:30pm Sara Minton 714-773-4332 irvinedrama@yahoo.com Huntington Beach: Minimal Symptoms/Newly Diagnosed 2nd Wednesday, 10:00am - 12:00pm Jeanne Archibald 714-842-7198 novajeanne2@yahoo.com Priscilla Wolz 714-846-6526 pfwolz@aol.com Irvine: The Progressives 2nd Wednesday, 1:00pm - 3:00pm Bonnie Richmond 949-677-4272 sambon@pacbell.net Mike Milne 949-322-3156 mmilne93@gmail.com Laguna Hills 1st Tuesday, 10:00am - 12:00pm Francine Grasso 949-278-6935 frannydo@gmail.com
Mission Viejo: Early MS 2nd Wednesday, 6:30 - 8:00pm Jerry Dowd 949-584-4619 gtdowd@gmail.com Susan Watson 949-493-1299 susanwatson2010@gmail.com Newport Beach 3rd Sunday, 2:00 - 4:00pm Harriet Pavidis 714-839-5529 hap.bruce@aol.com Santa Ana: Man to Man 1st Wednesday, 10:00am-12:00pm Jeffrey Blattner 714-472-0904 jbblattner@gmail.com Stanton 1st Tuesday, 12:30 - 2:30pm Rosa Ferreras 714-758-0829 rosam58@me.com
Lake Forest: MS with Christ 3rd Monday, 6:30 - 8:00pm Cathy Varela 949-842-2296 David Corich 949-470-9020
Yorba Linda: Family & Friends Welcome 2nd Monday & 4th Friday, 10:00am - 12:00pm Kathy Kelby 714-525-0686 kkacacia@aol.com Rob Lammers 714-528-8404 robert.retired@hotmail.com
Midway City 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 9:30 - 11:30am Pat Howard 714-968-0277 Linda Logan 714-374-0430 lindajohnson6735@yahoo.com Carolyn Cassell 714-846-0598 carolyncassell7@yahoo.com
Young Adult Group: Young and Strong Together 2nd Wednesday, 6:00 - 7:30pm Ashlee Gallard 805-914-8434 abg_1193@yahoo.com Christy Horning 760-485-3174 christy.horning@yahoo.com
NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG | 1-800-344-4867
SAN DIEGO
Chula Vista St. Marks Lutheran Church 580 Hilltop Dr. 3rd Wednesday, 11:00am - 1:00pm Adriana Flores 619-656-8098 font.ka@gmail.com Encinitas San Diego County Credit Union Community Room 501 North El Camino Real First Friday, 6:00 - 8:00pm Melinda Brizendine 760-944-4549 melindabrizendine@gmail.com Michele Easterling 760-805-6390 m.easterling68@gmail.com Escondido Joslyn Senior Center, Room 5 210 Park Avenue 3rd Wednesday, 1:00 - 3:00pm Michele Easterling 760-805-6390 m.easterling68@gmail.com Escondido: Christian Group HopeKeepers Escondido 4th Saturday, 11:00am - 1:00pm Cross Connection Church 1675 Seven Oakes Rd. Room 4 Jim Johnston 619-933-6523 hopekeeperjim@gmail.com
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San Diego: I Can’t Remember Group National MS Society 12121 Scripps Summit Drive 1st Wednesday, 11am - 12:30pm Carol Rohan 858-755-2440 csrohan@crohan.com
Spring Valley New Seasons Church 2300 Bancroft Drive 2nd Saturday, 12:30 - 2pm Angela Kretschmar 619-303-7806 gela0726@gmail.com
San Diego (Clairemont/La Jolla) Denny’s Restaurant 4280 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. 1st Friday, 10:30am - 12:30pm Alicia Ring 858-456-8766/ 858-229-6600 aring24@san.rr.com
Young Adult Group - San Diego San Diego Young Adults #SDYAMS Mission Valley Library (Seminar Room A) 2123 Fenton Pkwy 2nd Wednesday, 6:30 - 8:00 pm Austin Aaro 760-443-5845 austin1472a@gmail.com Jessica Ford 301-775-0253 jess_534@yahoo.com
San Diego: Men’s Group Kaiser Education Center, San Diego 10990 San Diego Mission Road 1st Tuesday, 6:00pm Mike Kolender 858-274-7114 mdkolender@aol.com Marcus Brown 619-248-2667 marcusib@yahoo.com San Diego (Mid-City) Kaiser Education Center San Diego 10990 San Diego Mission Road 4th Monday, 2:00 - 3:30pm Jane Schnabel 619-758-9470 jane.schnabel@sbcglobal.net Linda Knapp 858-273-7835 chemobrain@san.rr.com
Ramona 2nd Tuesday, 11:00am - 12:00pm Van Reeder 760-789-9129
MEET A CONNECTION GROUP LEADER: MICHAEL KOLENDER
PROFESSIONALLY-LED CONNECTION GROUPS Where Do I Go From Here... A Group for Sharing & Learning 2nd Tuesday of Every Month 10:00am - 12:00pm Facilitator: Debbie Hornstein, MSW Neighborhood Community Ctr 714-689-9613 Women’s Caregiver Group 2nd Wednesday of Every Month 6:30 - 8:00pm Facilitator: Deborah LeFevre, MFT 714-689-9613 National MS Society Santa Ana Office 1221 E Dyer Road, Suite 140 Santa Ana, CA 92705
Michael Kolender is a men’s support group co-leader in San Diego. He has been a part of the group since its inception over fifteen years ago. Michael was originally diagnosed with relapsing-remitting MS, which a year later turned into secondary-progressive MS. Michael believes the best medicine is to stay active. He is an active boater and fisherman. It is not always easy for him with the rough movement of the ocean, but he has no plans on stopping. Michael is the owner and Captain of his boat, located in the marina. He loves being in the water and enjoys exercising on a recumbent bike and stretching to stay limber.
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MS CONNECTION: SPRING 2016
HEALTH & WELLNESS CLASSES AQUATICS YOGA Costa Mesa Yoga Works 1835 Newport Blvd, #A208 Mondays, 1:00 - 2:00pm
Carlsbad: Indoor Waterworks Aquatics 2704 Gateway Road Tuesdays, 11:45am - 12:45pm
Dana Point Dana Point Community Center 34052 Del Obispo Road Wednesdays, 8:00 - 9:15am
El Cajon: Outdoor/Indoor St. Madeline Sophie’s Center Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays 11:30am - 12:30pm
Fullerton Friends in Christ Lutheran Church 2311 E. Chapman Avenue Wednesdays, 10:30 - 11:30am
Irvine: Outdoor Arthritis Foundation Approved Class Waterworks Aquatics 25 Waterworks Way Tuesdays & Thursdays 10:30 - 11:15am
Huntington Beach Yoga Works 301 Main Street Wednesdays, 1:00 - 2:00pm Santa Ana Goodwill Fitness Center 1601 E. St. Andrew Place Fridays, 9:30 - 10:30am San Diego Addie’s Personal Training Studio 4440 Ingraham St. Sundays, 10:00 - 11:00am $5 per person
BALANCE & STRENGTH TRAINING
La Jolla Ability Rehab Specialists 737 Pearl St, #108 1st, 2nd, 3rd Tuesdays, 6:00 6:45pm Costa Mesa Healthy Balance 1599 Superior Avenue, Suite B Tuesdays & Thursdays 10:30 - 11:30am
To attend any of the listed classes, a waiver is required. Please contact 800-344-4867 to request a waiver today.
IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD Carlsbad: Peace, Love, and Yoga | Thursdays, 1:30 - 2:30pm 2588 El Camino Real, Suite O Fee based class. For more info, please call 760-720-0619 or email ms@juliachenyoga.com Fullerton: Indoor Aquatics | Mon, Wed, & Fri, 9:00 - 10:00am North Orange County YMCA, 2000 Youth Way $6 per session La Jolla: Yoga | Thursdays, 9:00 - 10:00am Scripps Memorial Hospital, 9888 Genessee Avenue $10 monthly fee, Cardiac Rehab: 858-626-6493 San Diego: MS FITT Addie’s Personal Training Studio, 4440 Ingraham Street Fee-based class. Call 858-483-2711 for more information. San Diego: Pilates Comprehensive Theraphy Service, Inc. 5677 Oberlin Dr, Suite 106 Mandy Johnson: 858-457-8419 $10 per class
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NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG | 1-800-344-4867
FUNDING THE MISSION
JOIN US AT THE 22 ANNUAL MS GOLF INVITATIONAL ND
The National MS Society is proud to announce that Gary Cady, CEO of Torrey Pines Bank, will be serving as the Honorary Chair of the 22nd Annual MS Golf Invitational, taking place on Monday, May 2 at La Jolla Country Club. “I am greatly honored to be this year’s Honorary Invitational Chair for the 22nd annual MS Golf Invitational. Torrey Pines Bank is a proud sponsor of this important event, and I encourage others in our community to help play a role in creating awareness for this cause. Through great events such as the MS Golf
Invitational, together we will continue to take meaningful steps towards freeing the world of this disease.” Come join Gary for a wonderful afternoon of golf, premier tee prizes, gourmet lunch and dinner, silent and live auctions, fun contests, and so much more to support the Society’s mission. For more information about the event or to reserve your entry please visit www.GolfMS.org or call Heather Dean at 800-486-6762.
22ND ANNUAL
MONDAY, MAY 2, 2016 LA JOLLA COUNTRY CLUB
GOLFING TO CREATE A WORLD FREE OF MS
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MS CONNECTION: SPRING 2016
SUPPORTING THE MISSION
2015 VOLUNTEERS OF THE YEAR! During our Annual Meeting of Members breakfast in January, we honored extraordinary volunteers who go the extra mile. We couldn’t do it without the incredible support of these individuals and community partners. Chapter Star Family of the Year The Parish Family
State Legislator of the Year Assemblymember Toni G. Atkins
Wellness Partner of the Year Yogaworks
Service Provider of the Year Lee Sachtschale
Media Partner of the Year San Diego Business Journal
Student Volunteer of the Year Sam Gherrity
Corporate Champion of the Year Softchoice Cares
Media Volunteer of the Year Mitch Murphy
Outstanding Partnership Award Merrill Lynch Wealth Management
Bubbles & Brunch to End MS Volunteer of the Year Annaliese Train
Outstanding Corporate Partner Melissa’s Produce Student Organization of the Year Alpha Phi Omega San Diego State University Activist of the Year Phil Arcara Connection Group Leader of the Year Van Reeder
Event Volunteer of the Year Kathi Nardozza Passion for the Mission Volunteers of the Year Kelly & Andrew Ezzard Medical Support Volunteers of the Year Renee and Scott Limpus Office Volunteer of the Year Lizbeth Najm
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NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG | 1-800-344-4867
SUPPORTING THE MISSION
MISSION POSSIBLE
The Mission Possible Club is committed to the cause, care, and cure for MS. They have given and/or raised $10,000 or more in 2015 to impact the lives of people living with MS. We would like to thank: Edward S. Arnold Estate - $179,922 Anonymous - $100,000 Dick & Lynn Gordon - $70,373 Judy Zankel Fund - $60,000 Al & Casey Basso - $55,107 Anonymous - $50,000 Victor J. & Dorothy J. Hawthorne Survivor’s Trust - $50,000 McGrory Family Fund - $48,192 Douglas Peterson - $42,663 Zippy’s - $41,300 Paul & Amy Dechary - $39,750 Doug & Nancy Barnhart - $38,100 Bill & Kristi Bisch - $36,770 Jack & Terry Babbitt - $29,766 Rona Kay - $25,981 Anne Allen - $25,646 Chris & Joyce Serocke - $25,333 Jeffrey Walsworth - $23,435 Ed Clark - $21,745 Troy & Heidi & Maclaine Parish - $21,475 Jay & Tina McCabe - $21,427 Cindy Roper - $21,265 Dawn Beattie - $20,816 Bob & Jeanne Woodard - $20,400 Sunwest Bank Charitable Fund - $20,000 Alan & Mildred Peterson - $20,000 Softchoice Cares - $19,956 Mylan Inc. - $19,435 John G. & Jodi Most - $18,816 Jeff & Sheila Parker - $17,055 Pam Fair & Glen Sullivan - $17,025 Jim Ponder - $16,060 Ed & Ruth Evans - $15,645 Diana Twadell - $15,625 Don & Ellen Goodwin - $15,030 Grossmont Healthcare District - $15,000 Michael Newton - $15,000 Change a Life Foundation - $14,875 Daniel Abrams - $14,656 Escondido Sunrise Rotary Club - $14,400 Phil & Arlene Bresnick - $13,589 Barbara Katz - $13,391 Brian Grey - $13,283 Matthew & Tiffany Birkett - $13,277 Tricia Bothmer - $13,200 Nick & Ruth Tsoulos - $12,740 Mark Malbon - $12,540 Ron & Guadalupe Cohn - $12,528
Bart Evans - $12,495 Glenn & Rory Egger - $12,312 Kimberly Roush - $12,100 Bob Moore - $12,100 Jas & Lisa Arnold - $12,000 Dan Fischer - $12,000 Natalie Eansor - $11,995 Keith & Kristi Sherwood - $11,965 Doug & Denise Regnier - $11,885 Bob Ott - $11,861 David Brooks - $11,667 Vincent Harden & Alice Diaz - $11,615 James & Ellen Beshears - $11,556 Peter & Diane Albini - $11,301 Colleen Brown & Erin Stonestreet - $11,295 Mark Fischer - $11,205 Ken Tudhope - $11,201 Christian & Lina Waage - $11,090 Mark Neilson - $11,061 Joyce Savage - $10,970 Douglas Loreman - $10,915 Christopher Steiger - $10,675 Tim Bockhold - $10,550 Mike Wolff - $10,525 Suzanne Shepela - $10,490 Angela Genin - $10,340 Marty Taylor - $10,195 Tim & Kristin Zandbergen - $10,150 Steve Malloy - $10,106 Lizbeth Najm - $10,100 Tim & Leah Salmon - $10,090 Kevin Hilderman - $10,015 Faheem Hasnain - $10,000 Dr. Jody Corey-Bloom - $10,000 Glenn Arnold - $10,000 Harry Cheshire - $10,000 Kristyn Evan - $10,000 Don & Nancy Swearingen - $10,000 Marcia Tilker - $10,000 Sempra Energy Giving Network - $10,000 Beckman Coulter Foundation - $10,000 Pro Players Foundation - $10,000 A Little Help Foundation Fund - $10,000 Datron World Communications Inc c/o Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund - $10,000 HMSA Foundation - $10,000 Darren Williams - $10,000
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MS CONNECTION: SPRING 2016
FUNDING THE MISSION
THIRTY FOUR YEARS OF BIKE MS On a picturesque sunny Southern California day, the Bike MS Bay to Bay ride celebrated its 34th year this past October, with nearly 2,000 cyclists fundraising nearly $2.4 million! Thirty-two of these participants raised over $10,000 in 2015 to qualify for a spring weekend getaway at La Casa Del Zorro in Borrego Springs. This group gathered to share fundraising and recruitment ideas, ride in the dessert and enjoy a weekend together. In addition, we are especially proud of and would like to recognize our corporate partners and top teams, as well as highlight the 2016 Bike MS 150 Club with their incredible achievement of exceeding the $1 million mark for the second year in a row.
2015 TOP TEAMS Mission Possible Award Level ($100,000+) Howard’s Team: $178,239.14 Team Basso: $165,874.82 Team Wescom: $150,685.00 Team Disney: $118,555.90
Diamond Award Level ($50,000 - $99,999)
Still Kicking For Gordo: $98,254.99 KPMG ALL STARS: $59,096.79 Team Hansen’s: $56,169.50 LPL Financial: $53,808.00
Gold Award Level ($25,000-$49,999)
Scripps Riders for a Cure: $43,794.00 Team Crash: $42,774.50 MOST: Team Top of the Hill: $41,462.00 Team Intuit: $36,587.00 Good Carma: $35,488.09 Team Beckman Coulter: $32,200.72 Wells Fargo: $31,827.00 Mitsubishi Motors: $31,691.60
Team LAPD and Friends: $31,319.00 OutSpokin’ For A Cure: $31,066.00 HB CRUISERS: $30,169.00 Bill’s Biker Backers: $29,803.30 Power Peddlers: $29,426.00 Pratt & Whitney Power Spinners: $28,381.00 Terry’s Team: $27,133.78 Cymer: $26,776.41 JANUS et Cie Velo: $26,436.00 Hogan’s Heroes: $26,097.20
Silver Award Level ($15,000-$24,999)
KTLA & Fox 5 San Diego: $24,456.40 MUFG Union Bank: $22,035.34 “Annie’s Gang”: $20,945.00 Deloitte: $20,576.00 teaMSeaside: $19,325.00 Roland Stones: $18,200.00 Biking Vikings: $16,920.00 Team Operation Boot Camp LA: $16,193.07 Griff Said Pedal: $15,911.00 Team Rock N Road: $15,230.00
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NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG | 1-800-344-4867
2015 TOP FUNDRAISERS 1. Al Basso: $55,107 2. Paul Dechary: $37,420 3. Douglas Peterson: $36,463 4. Jack Babbitt: $29,566 5. Rona Kay: $25,981 6. Ed Clark: $21,745 7. John Most: $16,066 8. Jim Ponder: $15,720 9. Daniel Abrams: $14,536 10. Jeff Parker: $12,685 11. Bart Evans: $12,495 12. Mark Malbon: $12,385 13. Bob Moore: $12,100 14. Dan Fischer: $12,000 15. Bob Ott: $11,861 16. Jay McCabe: $11,454 17. Peter Albini: $11,301 18. David Brooks: $11,197 19. Mark Neilson: $11,061 20. Ken Tudhope: $11,001 21. Kimberly Roush: $11,000 22. Douglas Loreman: $10,915 23. Christopher Steiger: $10,675 24. Tim Bockhold: $10,550 25. Mike Wolff: $10,525 26. Keith Sherwood: $10,485 27. Marty Taylor: $10,195 28. Steve Malloy: $10,106 29. Kevin Hilderman: $10,015 30. Glenn Arnold: $10,000 30. Kristyn Evans: $10,000 30. Tim Salmon: $10.000
THANK YOU TO OUR LOCAL SPONSORS TITLE SPONSOR
PRESENTING SPONSORS
PLATINUM SPONSORS
DIAMOND SPONSORS
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MS CONNECTION: SPRING 2016
CHALLENGE WALK MS
TAKE THE CHALLENGE
New this year! Challenge Walk MS is still in San Diego, but the date has changed. Thanks to YOUR feedback, the event will take place November 4 – 6, 2016! We hope that you are as excited as we are to take the 50 mile journey in a cooler climate.
Challenge Walk MS is back and better than ever in 2016! When you take on the challenge, you commit to walking 50 miles over the course of three days. If it sounds tough, that’s because it is. But, it’s also one of the most rewarding experiences you could ask for.
Registration for Challenge Walk MS is now open! Visit www.myMSchallenge.com to get started today! You can also follow along on social media – facebook.com/ChallengeWalkMS.
Your strength and your spirit will be tested, but you will also walk away with new friends, great stories, and the satisfaction that you talked the talk and walked the walk to help people in your community who are living with MS.
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT: Renee and Scott Limpus have been medical volunteers at Challenge Walk MS for four years; or, ever since their son was diagnosed with MS at age 10. Because of their commitment to the cause, they are both on the Extra Mile Committee for Challenge Walk MS and love the group’s passion to always go the extra mile to aid event participants. “We support the National MS Society because we will only find solutions for people affected by MS, including our son and countless others who we have come to know and love, through our collective efforts.”
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NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG | 1-800-344-4867
Connecting for a Cure Fundraiser SPONSORED BY
August 27, 2016 11am Island Hotel Newport Beach www.BubblesandBrunch.org
Saturday, MayNovember 14 | Sunday, May 2016 Saturday, 12,15,2016 REGISTER AT MUCKFESTMS.COM 100% of fundraising dollars go to the National MS Society.
Prado WillardRegional Athletic Park Complex 16700 S. Euclid Avenue Ave. Antietam St. & Sherman Chino, 91708 Devens,CA MA 01434
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MS CONNECTION: SPRING 2016
RESEARCH
UNDERSTANDING WELLNESS BY NICHOLAS LAROCCA, PHD
A big part of my excitement at the annual meeting of the European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis, or ECTRIMS, in October 2015 was seeing so many researchers from around the world working hard to find the best solutions for people affected by MS. I found this to be especially true in the growing area of lifestyle and wellness research — exploring diet, exercise, physical activity and other approaches — all of which people can manage themselves to improve how they feel and possibly how their MS evolves.
NUTRITION AND DIET The idea of intermittent fasting as a way to fight inflammation is being explored by MS researchers. But anyone who’s tried it knows how challenging it can be to stick with it. That’s why I was intrigued by a small trial involving 48 people with relapsing-remitting MS done by Dr. Markus Bock and colleagues (Universitätsmedizin Berlin). The investigators studied various diets that may affect “ketone bodies” — molecules in the liver that may protect the brain and spinal cord. Compared to participants who
WELLNESS IS OF GROWING INTEREST TO MS RESEARCHERS.
followed their usual diets, participants who followed either a “ketogenic diet” (a highfat, adequate-protein, low-carbohydrate diet) or a prolonged-fasting diet (an initial seven-day fast followed by a Mediterranean diet) reported improved quality of life. These results are encouraging; hopefully we will see results in larger numbers of participants in the future. Another interesting study reported by Dr. Aiden Haghikia (Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany) and colleagues had previously found in mice that gut bacteria giving off short-chain (versus medium- or long-chain) fatty acids could protect against the development of MS-like attacks. To translate these results to human beings, the team administered daily capsules of “proprionate,” which contains short-chain fatty acids, to 18 healthy volunteers. They found no side effects, but more importantly, cells that activate immune attacks in MS were suppressed, while other cells, call Tregs, that turn off attacks, increased by 25-30 percent. This early report shows the potential of a nutritional supplement that could be tested for its benefits in people with MS.
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NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG | 1-800-344-4867
EXERCISE AND INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY We are seeing more studies on the benefits of exercise and physical activity in people with MS. As research advances, we’ll share it so people with MS will have the information they need to choose what’s right for them. Researchers are looking at how exercise may lead to changes in brain function. Dr. Francesca Tona (Sapienza University, Rome) and colleagues looked first at whether 26 people with MS with balance problems would benefit from home-based training using videogames and the Wii balance board five times a week for 30-minute sessions over 12 weeks. Many experienced improvements in their balance after the program. Next, the researchers explored how “functional connectivity” — the connections between different areas of the brain measured using neuroimaging — changed after the 12 weeks. They found increased connectivity in several areas of the brain including the cerebellum, which controls bodily movement. This is particularly exciting because participants didn’t have to go to a gym or healthcare facility; instead, they could access the technology and complete the sessions at home. This study also provided evidence for “neuroplasticity,” the idea that the brain is capable of changing in ways that may improve people’s day-to-day function. Meanwhile, a team from Denmark and Belgium led by Dr. Ulrik Halgas (Aarhus University) noted that people with MS tend to lose muscle mass and that they have fewer “myogenic stem cells” — cells in the body that help rebuild muscle. The team reported
that after a 12-week, high-intensity training program (involving exercise machines for strengthening upper and lower body muscles), the number of myogenic stem cells more than doubled in people with MS. This kind of exercise program may not be for everyone, but it’s encouraging to know that such regrowth is possible.
IMPROVING COGNITIVE FUNCTION Finally, I am encouraged to see more studies that show how cognitive rehabilitation can improve learning and memory in people with MS. After all, cognition is an important part of what makes us feel well. A team from Italy and the United Kingdom, led by Dr. Micaela Mitolo, tested an intensive program designed to target multiple areas of the brain and thus multiple cognitive problems. Among the 15 people who underwent one-hour rehab sessions for five days a week for four weeks, cognitive function improved, even in areas not specifically involved in the training. Brain imaging also showed that compared to the participants who did not undergo the program, those who did experienced increased functional connectivity. To learn more, visit www.nationalMSsociety.org/research. n Nicholas LaRocca, PhD, is vice president of Health Care Delivery and Policy Research at the National MS Society. Originally published on: www.MSconnection.org/blog.
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MS CONNECTION: SPRING 2016
ADVOCACY
CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF THE PUBLIC POLICY CONFERENCE The National Multiple Sclerosis Society Public Policy Conference took place in Washington D.C. from March 14-16, 2016 and this year we recognized 25 years of MS activists’ collective impact.
The Pacific South Coast Chapter was represented by six MS Activists and four staff members. We visited eleven congressional members and two senators to discuss the following issues that are important to people affected by MS:
On March 14th, over 100 District Activist Leaders (DAL) from across the Nation met to honor the DAL of the Year and strategize for 2016. They attended two workshops - first on how to build relationships between elected officials and the MS movement and the second on how to craft stories that will leave a personal imprint on the mind of elected officials about the impact of MS.
• The Advancing Research for Neurological Diseases Act (H.R. 292/S. 849);
On the first day of the conference, after a warm welcome from Cindy Zagieboylo, President and CEO of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, we heard from Political Analyst – NBC News, Charlie Cook about the Political Climate in Washington. We jumped right into panel discussions and prepared for Capitol Hill Visits. On March 16th, over 300 MS Activists conducted nearly 400 legislative visits with U.S. Senators, Representatives and their staff. MS researchers joined Society leaders and activists on key visits to provide the scientific perspective and the value and promise of their research, illustrating the need to support priority issues.
• Funding for MS research through the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program (CDMRP) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH); and • Affordable access to MS medications. We will continue to move these priority issues forward and cultivate meaningful relationships with key elected officials at both the federal and state level to help find a cure for this disease.
TAKE ACTION TODAY If you are interested in becoming an MS Activist or would like to share your personal story, contact Aarushi Malhotra at aarushi.malhotra@nmss.org or call (714) 689-9613. Follow us on Twitter @CA_MSactivists
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NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG | 1-800-344-4867
l a u n n A n h o t i t 0 c 3 u e A h T inner rnival a D C S M az ilian r CanDo MS B A Webinar & Telelearning Series
NOVEMBER 19, 2016 LOEWS CORONADO BAY RESORT WWW.MSDINNERAUCTION.COM
CanDo MS Webinar & Telelearning Series
SUSAN, DIAGNOSED IN 1988
WILLIAM (LEFT), DIAGNOSED IN 2002
BROOKE, DIAGNOSED IN 2009
The 2016 Webinar & Telelearning Series brings together a collaboration of MS experts to help you build strategies to live your best life with MS. Each free webinar and telelearning program features two presenters with time for Q&A. Join us online or by phone on the 2nd Tuesday of each month from 8 to 9:15 p.m. ET
SUSAN, DIAGNOSED IN 1988
WILLIAM (LEFT), DIAGNOSED IN 2002
BROOKE, DIAGNOSED IN 2009
at& mscando.org/webinar 1-800-367-3101. TheRegister 2016 Webinar Telelearning Series brings together a or collaboration of MS experts to help you build strategies to live your best life with MS. Each free webinar and telelearning program features two presenters with time for Q&A. Join us online or by phone on program is possible thanks to the generous support of and EMD Serono. the 2nd Tuesday ofThis each month from 8 to 9:15 p.m. ET Register at mscando.org/webinar or 1-800-367-3101.
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15721 Pomerado Road Poway, CA 92064
PAID ADVERTISEMENT Join a MS Research Study Pacific Research Network (PRN)
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Qualified participants are routinely compensated for time and travel.
619-294-4302 or visit www.PRNSD.com
Pregnant and have Multiple Sclerosis? You may be wondering... • Will MS affect my developing baby? • Is my MS medication OK to take during pregnancy or while breastfeeding? MotherToBaby counselors provide FREE up-to-date, evidence-based information about pregnancy or breastfeeding and: • Prescription and over-the-counter medications. • Infections and diseases, like MS, and much more... You can also help us learn even more about MS and pregnancy by volunteering for our MS and Pregnancy Study. The study involves telephone interviews only—no needles, no medications, and no changes to your routine are required. To get your questions answered about MS and MS medications during pregnancy or to volunteer for our study, call toll-FREE (877) 311-8972 or visit MotherToBaby.org
Find us on: MotherToBaby @MotherToBaby company/mothertobaby MotherToBaby Pregnancy Studies are conducted by the Organization of Teratology Information Specialists (OTIS). OTIS and MotherToBaby are suggested resources by many agencies including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Office of Women’s Health.
Pacific South Coast Chapter 12121 Scripps Summit Drive, Suite 190 San Diego, CA 92131
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MARK YOUR
CALENDARS May
March 30:
Boys’ Night Out
April 16:
San Diego County Credit Union Walk MS: Carlsbad
22:
Water Walk MS: San Diego
23:
San Diego County Credit Union Walk MS: San Diego
29:
Water Walk MS: Orange County
30:
Walk MS: Irvine sponsored by Fish & Tsang LLP
2:
MS Golf Invitational sponsored by Torrey Pines Bank
14:
Day at the Bay - Mission Bay
25:
World MS Day