SUMMER 2016 PACIFIC SOUTH COAST CHAPTER
MS CONNECTION NEWSLETTER
ARE YOU READY FOR A NEW CHALLENGE? CHALLENGE WALK MS (PAGE 4) & BIKE MS (PAGE 5) CAN TAKE YOU THERE.
INSIDE 06 THIS ISSUE
ADVOCACY UPDATES
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MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR UPCOMING EVENTS
ABOUT CORPORATE
SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
VOLUNTEERISM
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MS CONNECTION: SUMMER 2016
A NOTE FROM THE CHAPTER PRESIDENT & BOARD CHAIR
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE This year marked another impactful spring Walk season with over 10,000 participants making strides throughout San Diego, Orange and Imperial counties and the Hawaiian Islands. Togeher we raised nearly $1.4 million to move us closer toward a world free of MS.
Are you ready to get down and dirty for a good cause? If so, you won’t want to miss MuckFest MS! Sign up today and get ready to take on the obstacle course that’s as fun as it is muddy. Tackle trenches, pits, tunnels and more while you complete the run that’s built for laughs. Event is November 12, 2016 Commit now and save on registration! Visit MuckFestMS.com for more information.
NATIONAL MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY Pacific South Coast Chapter 12121 Scripps Summit Dr, 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: Beacons Point, Inc © 2016 National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Pacific South Coast Chapter
The funds you raised through Walk MS contribute to groundbreaking MS research as well as life-changing programs and services to help those with MS live their best lives. The Chapter’s programs and connection groups are great resources for people affected by MS. We encourage you to review a complete list of our upcoming programs and connection groups beginning on page 8. Your efforts also fund scholarships for students who either live with MS or have a parent living with the disease. Please read more about this year’s recipients on page 16. There are many opportunities to become involved with the Society throughout the rest of the year, including events like Bubbles and Brunch to End MS, Bike MS, MuckFest MS, the MS Dinner Auction and Challenge Walk MS. You may also join the movement in other ways including making a donation, volunteering your time, or becoming an MS Activist. You can find more information about each of these options throughout this edition of MS Connection. Cheers,
Richard V. Israel
Justin Reckers
Chapter President
Chair, Board of Trustees
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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NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG | 1-800-344-4867
CHAPTER LEADERSHIP
HIGHLIGHT ON NEW BOARD MEMBERS The Pacific South Coast Chapter welcomes six new members to the Board of Trustees: Tricia Bothmer, Dr. Monique Canonico, Paul Dechary, Samir Mehta, Ari Segal, and Dr. Craig Walsh. Our newest members are energetic, well connected supporters of our chapter who are going to be great volunteer leaders! We are extremely pleased to have them represent the Pacific South Coast Chapter. Please help us in welcoming our newest trustees!
Tricia Bothmer
Samir Mehta Samir currently lives in Laguna Niguel and is the IBM Cloud
Tricia received her BS from the University of Utah. Tricia has been a supporter of the MS Dinner Auction for two years. She began the “Hit an Ace for MS” tennis tournament three years ago in honor of her sister who lives with MS and plans to exceed her goal of $10,000.
portfolio.
Dr. Monique Canonico
Ari Segal
Dr. Canonico is from Pennsylvania, where she was raised on a farm 30 miles east of Pittsburgh. Dr. Canonico was inspired to enter the medical field by her mother’s career as a nurse. In her role as Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine, she strives to keep current on the neurological literature in order to formulate solutions for neurological problems.
Paul Dechary Paul is the Vice President & Senior Legal Counsel for Monster Energy Company. Paul has supported the National MS Society, Pacific South Coast Chapter for many years individually and through his company. Paul leads Bike MS Team Monster Energy, which raises over $55,000 on an annual basis and is our Bike MS: Bay to Bay Title Sponsor. Paul’s wife Amy lives with MS and he is very connected to the cause and passionate about our chapter.
Marketing Leader for IBM Corporation in Costa Mesa. In his role, he is responsible for establishing IBM as the enterprise cloud market leader and marketing the IBM cloud
Ari Segal, whose father has lived with MS for 40 years, has been the President of Business Operations for the San Diego Gulls of the American Hockey League and was recently hired to be the COO of the Arizona Coyotes.
Dr. Craig Walsh Dr. Walsh obtained his Ph.D. in Immunology at UCLA School of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, followed by postdoctoral work at UCSD in La Jolla, CA in the Division of Molecular Biology. Dr. Walsh joined the faculty in the School of Biological Science in 2001 and is now a Professor in the Department of Molecular Biology & Biochemistry and a Co-Director of the UCI Institute for Immunology. Dr. Walsh has served for three years as a grant reviewer for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and frequently contributes to grant reviews in the area of immune tolerance for the National Institutes of Health.
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MS CONNECTION: SUMMER 2016
CHALLENGE WALK MS
FOR MY MOM & FOR ALL AFFECTED BY MS BY MEGAN O’NEAL
My name is Megan O’Neal and I am a Challenge Walk MS participant. It truly amazes me to see 80 of my fellow walkers completing the same 50 miles while also carrying the burden and painful symptoms of MS. My first Challenge Walk MS was for my mom but now I’ve found that the lines have blurred (not in a Robin Thicke sort of way). Although the sign on my back says I walk “in honor of my mama,” I am walking for all of the wonderful people I have met over the years. Somehow in three short days, strangers can touch your heart all the way to its core and as cheesy as it sounds, you really do become a family; a misfit family of people who wear goofy costumes, a lot of orange and have ridiculous inside jokes! We have an understanding for one another and share the same silent struggles a life connected to MS comes with. We are people with parents who have MS, siblings who have MS, children who have MS, friends who have MS, or those with MS, but we are a Challenge Walk family. Over the years I’ve walked a lot and through the 300 miles now under my belt, I have come to realize this event is not just about my mom; rather, it’s something I do for my entire Challenge Walk MS family because I walk for more than just my mother. I walk for my mom,
so that one day we can find a cure. I walk for myself, so that my (eventual) children will grow up with a grandma. I walk for strangers so that they never have to experience MS. But the important thing is, no matter for whom, I am walking.
CHALLENGE WALK MS NOVEMBER 4 - 6, 2016 LEARN MORE AND REGISTER TODAY AT MYMSCHALLENGE.COM
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NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG | 1-800-344-4867
BIKE MS
I RIDE WITH MS PROGRAM How long ago were you diagnosed? I was diagnosed on March 17, 2011. Before my diagnosis, I was doing triathlons on a regular basis and I had done the Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon. Why do you ride? I ride because I want to challenge myself to do as much as I physically can. I also ride to raise money and awareness for MS. The MS Society is a great organization that has done great things to slow down the progression of MS and to assist those with the disease. I want to support those efforts.
hesitant to try and participate in the Bay to Bay Tour? Whatever your limitations, there are people to support you. If you can’t finish, there are people to take you in. No one judges me, and everyone is so friendly and supportive. Bike MS: Bay to Bay Tour will take place on October 22 & 23, 2016. Register today at biketofinishMS.com or call 855.372.1331.
What does it mean to you to be able to participate in the ride? It means the world to me to participate in the ride. I look forward to it for months every year, and I cannot wait until the ride. I look at the ride as my quixotic effort to fight against MS. What is the most important thing you would like people to know about living with MS? The most important thing is that people understand that I have this physical limitation, but that I do not want any pity. There are always worse things, and I am blessed to have a long and fulfilling life in front of me. What are the one or two pieces of advice you would give to someone living with MS who is
TERRI KRIEGER - I RIDE WITH MS PARTICIPANT
TOUR DE STATIONARY Love to Spin but don’t own a bike? Like to ride but not with cars on the road? Well, here’s a funtastic option for you: Bike MS Bay to Bay Tour de Stationary on October 22nd, 2016! Ride the route from the convenience of the Sheraton Hotel complete with music and a super energetic instructor!
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MS CONNECTION: SUMMER 2016
CALIFORNIA STATE ACTION DAY The California State Action Day took place in Sacramento on April 3-4. Over 70 MS Activists from across the state conducted nearly 90 legislative visits with State Senate members, Assembly members and their staff to discuss the following important issues: AB 2507: Enhancing Access to Telehealth Services The access to and reimbursement of telehealth services provided through AB 2507 will assure that people living with a chronic disease like MS will continue to benefit from the innovative technologies available for health care delivery. SB 1135: Consumer Rights: Timely Access to Care And Language Assistance The information provided to consumers through SB 1135 will help assure that people living with MS will maintain their health and well-being and avoid costly and potentially damaging delays and/or interruptions in obtaining health care services. SB 923: Protecting Consumers: Patient Cost Sharing SB 923 will protect individuals in the individual and small group health insurance markets from sudden and unplanned increases in out-ofpocket costs for their health care services during the plan year. It is a consumer protection measure essential to maintaining access to vital
Aarushi Malhotra, Toni Atkins, Jessica Ford and Barbara Katz
and often lifesaving treatment for people living with MS. Our State Action Day marked the start to our core MS-CAN legislative session efforts. And, many District Activist Leaders and MS Activists will be called upon to make in-district legislative visits with Appropriations and Health committee member offices throughout the legislative process. You can also contribute to the passage of these bills by sharing your story or joining us on a visit. If interested, please contact Aarushi Malhotra at 714-6899613 or email aarushi.malhotra@nmss.org.
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NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG | 1-800-344-4867
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
LOCAL EVENTS EVERYDAY MATTERS: LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE WITH MS Saturday, July 23 8:30am – 4:00pm Orange County, CA Everyday Matters aims to empower, educate and equip members of the MS community with inspiring examples, tools and resources to help put positive psychology to work in their own lives. Participants engage in an interactive learning experience while developing a personal approach to addressing challenges. To register, please call 1-800-344-4867 (1-800-FIGHTand click on July 23, 2016.
MOVING FORWARD: PROGRAM FOR THE NEWLY DIAGNOSED Saturday, August 13 8:30am – 1:00pm San Diego, CA If you have been diagnosed with MS in the last three years, this is a program designed for you. Learn about treatment options, the emotional and physical aspects To register, please call 1-800-344-4867 (1-800-FIGHTand click on August 13, 2016.
To register, please call 1-800-344-4867 (1-800-FIGHTand click on August 10, 2016.
ORANGE COUNTY SYMPOSIUM Save the date for September 21, 2016. Details will be available later this summer!
ONLINE PROGRAMS ONLINE NEWLY DIAGNOSED PROGRAM Every other month starting January from 6:00 - 7:00 PM. For dates, visit www.nationalMSsociety.org/cas A diagnosis of MS can create many unexpected emotions that leave you with a strong need to understand the conducted by Dr. Elizabeth Crabtree, Assistant Clinical Professor of Neurology at UCSF and Director of Patient Program Development at UCSF’s MS Center. Dr. Crabtree will address the most common concerns for people who are newly diagnosed. To register, please call 1-800-344-4867 (1-800-FIGHTMS) and press “1”.
CAN DO MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS WEBINAR SERIES Can Do MS Webinar Series is brought to you with
SCRIPPS LECTURE SERIES THE SCIENCE OF MS Wednesday August 10, 2016 6:30-8:30pm
CREATIING YOUR MS TREATMENT PLAN
MS consultants to ask questions and learn how to adopt healthy lifestyle behaviors, actively co-manage your MS and live your best life.
Wednesday September 7, 2016 6:30-8:30pm
UPCOMING TOPICS:
WELLNESS & MS
June 14 – Traveling with MS
Wednesday October 5th, 2016 6:30-8:30pm Join neurologist Charles Smith, MD in partnership valuable information to individuals who want to better manage their MS symptoms and improve quality of life. Further details and invite to be mailed in July.
July 21 – Managing Symptoms: Spasticity August 9 - Mood in MS September 13th - Healthcare Insurance To register, view upcoming monthly webinars, or see archived webinars log on to www.mscando.org.
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IF YOU WOULD LIKE MORE INFORMATION ABOUT SUPPORT GROUPS IN YOUR AREA, CALL 1-800-344-4867, AND PRESS ‘1’ OR CONTACT A LISTED LEADER.
CONNECTION GROUPS We have long recognized our responsibility to respond to the emotional needs and challenges that MS imposes on help people face matters related to change and loss, achieve personal insight, foster new hope, build self-esteem, and bring together people who share a common life experience for support, education and mutual aid.
ORANGE COUNTY
Anaheim: En Español Familiares y amigos bienvenidos. El segundo martes de son cada mes. Anaheim Adventist Church 900 S. Sunkist St, 6:30 - 8:00pm Rosa Ferreras 714-758-0829 rosam58@me.com Susana Pérez 714-235-7570 sueperezg@yahoo.com Brea 1st Friday, 10:00am - 12:00pm Jim Langdon 714-392-2052 langdonjames1942@gmail.com Lisa Seifert 714-575-8492 mcbryde99@hotmail.com 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 Jerry Dowd 949-584-4619 gtdowd@gmail.com Susan Watson 949-493-1299 susanwatson2010@gmail.com Fullerton: Christian MS Support Group 2nd Tuesday, 7:00pm - 8:30pm Sara Minton 714-773-4332 irvinedrama@yahoo.com
Huntington Beach: Minimal Symptoms/Newly Diagnosed 2nd Wednesday, 10am - 12pm Jeanne Archibald 714-842-7198 novajeanne2@yahoo.com Priscilla Wolz 714-846-6526 pfwolz@aol.com 2nd Wednesday, 10am - 12pm Bonnie Richmond 949-677-4272 sambon@pacbell.net Mike Milne 949-322-3156 mmilne93@gmail.com Laguna Hills 1st Tuesday, 10am - 12pm Francine Grasso 949-278-6935 frannydo@gmail.com Lake Forest: MS with Christ 3rd Monday, 6:30 - 8:00pm Cathy Varela 949-842-2296 David Corich 949-470-9020 Midway City 1st & 3rd Tuesdays 9:30am - 11:30am Pat Howard 714-968-0277 Linda Logan 714-374-0430 lindajohnson6735@yahoo.com Carolyn Cassell 714-846-0598 carolyncassell7@yahoo.com
Mission Viejo: Early MS 2nd Wednesday, 6:30 - 8pm Jerry Dowd 949-584-4619 gtdowd@gmail.com Susan Watson 949-493-1299 susanwatson2010@gmail.com Newport Beach 3rd Sunday, 2 - 4pm Harriet Pavidis 714-839-5529 hap.bruce@aol.com Santa Ana: Man to Man 1st Wednesday, 10am-12pm jbblattner@gmail.com Stanton 1st Tuesday, 12:30 - 2:30pm Rosa Ferreras 714-758-0829 rosam58@me.com 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 Young Adult Group: Young and Strong Together 3rd Wednesday, 6:00pm-8:00pm Ashlee Gallard 805-914-8434 abg_1193@yahoo.com Christy Horning 760-485-3174 christy.horning@yahoo.com
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NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG | 1-800-344-4867
SAN DIEGO
Chula Vista St. Marks Lutheran Church 850 Hilltop Dr. 3rd Wednesday, 11am - 1pm 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 - 8pm Melinda Brizendine 760-944-4549 melindabrizendine@gmail.com Escondido Joslyn Senior Center, Room 5 210 Park Avenue 3rd Wednesday, 1 - 3pm Michele Easterling 760-805-6390 m.easterling68@gmail.com Escondido: Christian Group HopeKeepers Escondido 4th Saturday, 11am - 1pm Cross Connection Church 1675 Seven Oakes Rd. Room 4 Jim Johnston 619-933-6523 hopekeeperjim@gmail.com Ramona 2nd Tuesday, 11am - 12pm Van Reeder 760-789-9129
San Diego (Clairemont/La Jolla) Denny’s Restaurant 4280 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. 1st Friday, 10:30 - 12:30pm Alicia Ring 858-456-8766/ 858-229-6600 aring24@san.rr.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 (Mission Valley) 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
Spring Valley New Seasons Church San Diego: I Can’t Remember Group 2300 Bancroft Drive National MS Society 2nd Saturday, 12:30 - 2pm 12121 Scripps Summit Drive Angela Kretschmar 619-303-7806 1st Wednesday, 11am - 12:30pm gela0726@gmail.com Carol Rohan 858-755-2440 csrohan@crohan.com
MEET A CONNECTION GROUP LEADER: JIM LANGDON
Young Adult Group - San Diego San Diego Young Adults #SDYAMS 2nd SWednesday, 6:30 - 8pm Austin Aaro 760-443-5845 austin1472a@gmail.com Jessica Ford 301-775-0253 jess_534@yahoo.com
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 1221 E Dyer Road, Suite 140 Santa Ana, CA 92705
Jim Langdon started his MS journey in New York, on July 15th, 1976. He moved to Southern California with his family in the fall of 1977 and he started attending the Man2Man, Rockers & Rollers, and Fullerton Connection group meetings and got involved in Boys Night Out. In 2001, he completed the training to become a Connection Group Leader himself and started co-leading a group in Brea. His group has over 20 members today and is like a
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TO ATTEND ANY OF THE LISTED CLASSES, A WAIVER IS REQUIRED. PLEASE CONTACT 1-800-344-4867 TO REQUEST A WAIVER TODAY.
HEALTH & WELLNESS CLASSES YOGA
AQUATICS
Costa Mesa Yoga Works 1835 Newport Blvd, #A208 Mondays, 1:00 - 2:00pm
Carlsbad: Indoor Waterworks Aquatics 2704 Gateway Road Tuesdsay 11:45am - 12:45pm
Dana Point Dana Point Community Center 34052 Del Obispo Road Wednesdays, 8:00 - 9:15am Fullerton Friends in Christ Lutheran Church 2311 E. Chapman Avenue Wednesdays, 10:30 - 11:30am 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, 10-11am $5 per session
BALANCE & STRENGTH TRAINING
Costa Mesa Healthy Balance 1599 Superior Avenue, Suite B Thursdays, 10:30 - 11:30am La Jolla Ability Rehab Specialists 737 Pearl St, #108 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, 6pm-6:45pm
Irvine: Indoor Arthritis Foundation Approved Class Waterworks Aquatics 25 Waterworks Way Tues & Thurs 10:30 - 11:15am
IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD Carlsbad: Peace, Love, and Yoga 2588 El Camino Real, Suite O Thursdays 1:30pm-2:30pm Fee based Class. For more info please call 760-689-2272 or email ms@juliachenyoga.com La Jolla: Yoga Scripps Memorial Hospital 9888 Genesee Avenue Thursdays, 9am - 10am $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 Therapy Service Inc. 5677 Oberlin Dr. Suite 106 Mandy Johnston 858-457-8419 $10 per class Fullerton: Indoor Aquatics North Orange County YMCA 2000 Youth Way Mon, Wed. & Fri,. 9 - 10am $6 per session Santa Ana: Chair Zumba Goodwill Fitness Center Tues. & Thur. 11am - 12pm $10 per session. Call 714-361-6180 for more information.
NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG | 1-800-344-4867
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VOLUNTEERS
FOR LIBERTY MUTUAL, SERVICE MATTERS
“Serve with Liberty” is Liberty Mutual Insurance’s employee community service program. In 2015, more than 28,238 Liberty Mutual employees completed over 2,548 projects on behalf of over 936 charities in 21 countries around the world! A group of “Serve with Liberty” Volunteers came to the San Diego National MS Society office for the 5th consecutive year on Wednesday, May 4th as part of their worldwide service outreach to local communities. These volunteers dedicated themselves to helping our staff organize our office after the Walk and Golf events. We were also able to enjoy a wonderful lunch and shared with them the importance of these events to our Society and the support of our volunteers who make it all happen.
Later in May the chapter’s OC office hosted its 4th year of having this wonderful group of volunteers help. During this time, six projects were completed; Day at the Bay center pieces and Challenge Walk MS mailings to name a few! During lunch, one Liberty Mutual volunteer shared her experience of living with MS. A great connection was made and we look forward to having the “Serve with Liberty” volunteers at future MS events. If you would like to explore volunteer opportunities for your company, contact Linda Ingram, 760-448-8416, email: linda.ingram@nmss.org.
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MS CONNECTION: SUMMER 2016
2016 RESEARCH LAB TOURS A GREAT SUCCESS! This year’s lab tours featured the cutting edge MS research being conducted at the University of California, Irvine and the University of California, San Diego. Golden Circle donors and top recruiting Walk MS team captains and fundraisers enjoyed learning about the advancements to stop disease progression, restore lost function, and end MS forever. Last year, the Society invested $50.6 million in 380 new and ongoing research projects and initiatives.
JOIN THE GOLDEN CIRCLE Golden Circle members each generously donate over $1,000 in the calendar year! What are the benefits of membership? • Unmatched access to breaking research news • Invitations throughout the year to exclusive Golden Circle events such as VIP receptions or MS Research Lab Tours • Subscriptions to “Momentum” and “MSConnection” magazines • Invitations to participate in national research calls and conferences • Recognition as a leader in the MS movement • And so much more! For more information, visit goldencircle.MSpacific.org or contact Erich Foeckler at (760) 448-8412 or erich.foeckler@nmss.org.
S SPONSORED BY
BUBBLES AND BRUNCH BY CINDY LOCKE
Join me for the 3rd Annual Bubbles & Brunch to End MS sponsored by Biogen on Saturday, August 27 at the beautiful Island Hotel in Newport Beach. As the Committee Chair for this event, I can promise you it will be an incredible morning filled with a delightful mimosa-laced reception, delicious three-course brunch, premier silent auction and wonderful supporters connecting for a cure. This year’s emcee will be Anabel Munoz, a reporter for ABC7 Eyewitness News. The Keynote Speaker will be Wendy Booker who is the first person with MS to successfully summit six of the world’s “Seven Summits” and reach both the North and South Poles. As a person living with MS, I personally know the impact events like this make in moving us closer toward a world free of MS. For more information or to purchase your tickets visit BubblesandBrunch.org or contact 760-448-8496.
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NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG | 1-800-344-4867
FUNDING THE MISSION
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
CYCLE THROUGH MISSION BAY If you are looking for a bit of a challenge but are not ready to commit to a 2-day event, come join us for the Bike MS: Bay to Bay 25 mile ride at 9am on Sunday, October 23, 2016. It’s an easy, fun-filled ride as participants depart from the start line at Hospitality Point Park in San Diego, and enjoy spectacular views cycling along Mission Bay. You’ll head north through Pacific Beach and Bird Rock before turning around in La Jolla. There you’ll join the Bike MS 2-day riders and head south back through Pacific Beach and around East Mission Bay before returning to the Finish line at Hospitality Point Park where you will receive a finisher’s medal and be able to enjoy food, beer and the camaraderie of fellow Bike MS participants. For more information, please go to www.biketofinishMS.com or call 855-372-1331.
MS GOLF INVITATIONAL A SUCCESS! The 22nd Annual MS Golf Invitational sponsored by Torrey Pines Bank took a drive at multiple sclerosis on Monday, May 2 at La Jolla Country Club and raised $150,000 for the Society’s mission. Torrey Pines Bank CEO, Gary Cady served as the Honorary Chair and gave a moving speech about his connection to MS and his passion to support the San Diego community. Everyone in attendance enjoyed a great day on the course with fun contests, a fabulous silent and live auction, a cocktail reception followed by a gourmet dinner, and so much more. It truly was a great day golfing to create a world free of MS. To get involved with 2017, visit www.GolfMS.org or call 760-448-8417.
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KEEP YOUR COOL The National MS Society, Pacific South Coast Chapter wants people living with MS to keep cool during the warm weather with its 2016 Summer Energy Assistance Program. Since heat management is an important part of managing MS, our program is designed to support our members with financial assistance for energy bills, portable air conditioners, fans, or cooling apparel and accessories. We encourage you to apply from June 1 to September 15, 2016. To be eligible for the program you must: • Have a confirmed diagnosis of MS • Reside in Orange, San Diego, Imperial County, or Hawaiian Islands • Have a current need of cooling equipment or help paying of an energy bill To learn more about our 2016 Summer Energy Assistance Program and how to apply, call an MS Navigator at 800-344-4867 and press option ‘1’.
GET COMFORTABLE WITH ‘COOL’ RESOURCES Summer is here and it calls for longer days, warmer weather and more time outdoors. However, for people living with MS it may also mean having to deal with heat management and rising energy bills. Here are some tips you might consider to help beat the heat.
WEAR COOLING GARMENTS SUCH AS VESTS, HEADBANDS AND NECKBANDS. • Applying a simple damp towel or wearing traditional wide brimmed hat and lightcolored loose clothing can be helpful.
MS CONNECTION: SUMMER 2016
• Companies like Polar Products offer cooling products such as vests, hats, neck wraps, etc. Visit their website at www.polar-products.com or call 1-800-597-0618.
FIND A COOLER ENVIRONMENT • Seek out local cooling centers, to obtain referrals to cooling centers in your area, contact your local 2-1-1 program. • If you are spending time outside, pick the cooler times of the day, usually early morning or evening.
REDUCE THE COST OF YOUR ENERGY BILLS
Contact your local gas and electric company to inquire about your eligibility for programs that may help decrease the cost of your monthly bills. Available in Orange, San Diego, and/or Imperial County • Medical Baseline Allocation Program: An additional 16.5 kilowatt-hours (kWhs) per day of low-priced “baseline” energy is provided year round for persons with certain medical conditions. • SDGE (apply online or call 1-800-411-7343) & SCE (apply online or call 1-800-655-4555) • California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE): eligible customers receive a discount on electric and natural gas bills. • SDGE (apply online or call 1-800-411-7343) & SCE (apply online or call 1-800-950-2356) Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA): qualified households with three or more persons, this program provides a discount on electricity costs once your energy usage reaches certain levels. • SDGE (apply online or call 1-800-411-7343) & SCE (apply online or call 1-800-798-5723) Energy Assistance Fund: Provides one-time assistance of $100 during a one-year period. If you would like to apply for EAF, you may contact SCE at 800-205-8596 for information on participating community organizations. Only for SCE customers.
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NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG | 1-800-344-4867
OFF MY WAVE. O ce a n B e a c h n a t i v e a n d l o c a l s u r f l e g e n d S t e v e B e t t i s w a s d ia g n o s e d w i t h M S i n 2 0 0 6 . A l t h o u g h s u r f i n g i s s t i l l ce n t r a l t o h i s l i f e , h e h a s n’ t b e e n a b l e t o g e t o u t o n t h e w a t e r i n 10 y e a r s . F o r a m a n w h o s e da i l y r o u t i n e a l w ay s i n c l u d e d a f e w w av e s , m o r e t h a n a d e c a d e o u t o f t h e s u r f i s j u s t t o o l o n g . T h i s i s w hy t h e N a t i o n a l M S S o c i e t y t e a m e d u p w i t h h i s b u d d y R o b e r t “ W i n g n u t ” We av e r a n d u s e d v i r t ua l r e a l i t y t o g e t S t e v e b a c k o n h i s w av e . S e e t h e i r e x p e r i e n ce a n d f i n d o u t h o w y o u c a n s h a r e y o u r s a t W e A r e S t r o n g e rT h a n M S . o r g .
Together We Are Stronger.
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MS CONNECTION: SUMMER 2016
SCHOLARSHIP
SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
Congratulations to the 2016 Carol & Bob Webster Memorial Scholarship Fund Recipients! MS shouldn’t stand in the way of a college education. The Carol & Bob Webster Memorial Scholarship funded by the generosity of private donors, helps to alleviate some of the financial burdens experienced by families affected by MS. This year, 21 students residing in San Diego, Orange, Imperial counties and the Hawaiian Islands were awarded $32,000 in scholarships.
Skyler Gonzales Aveda Institute
Major: Cosmotology
“Cosmetology is something much more to me, it’s something that I’ve seen bring so much joy and happiness to people.”
Tori Lazerson
University of California, San Diego Major: Biomedical Engineering
“I dream of making tangible technological advances that improve the world in a logical and efficient way.”
Ryan Kamkar
University of California, Los Ange Major: Neuroscience
les
“I strive to improve the lives of peop le with medical conditions”
Barbara De Leon Barton Hailey Parker Tricey Oregon State Universit Major: Marketing
son in “I will become the first per year r fou a nd atte to my family ool.” college right after high sch
Caitlyn Dodge
Boise State University Major: Biology
“I aspire to gain the education and knowledge necessary to enter into the medical field and make an impact on the lives of others.”
University of San Diego Major: International Business
“My goal is to one day open my own consulting firm for international corporations.”
Austin Aaro
Western Governor University Major: Business Information Technology
“I will get a job helping society via making hospitals run more efficiently. That is my goal!”
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Erika Lopez-Carrillo
Julee Rossman
Kalani Prokop
College Tallahassee Community ial Major: Elementary/Spec Education
that ry eve en children are giv to e iev ach to ty opportuni their fullest.”
“I want to make sure
California State University, Fullerton Major: Elementary Education
“I look forward with joy and excitement in joining the many beacons of light which shall sit before me in the classroom. May all who enter leave better educated, and more compassionate, than before.”
University of California, Berkeley Major: Molecular & Cell Biology
“My goal is to work with children and their parents to let them know that as doctors we are here to help.”
Nicole Giamello
American University of Health Science Major: Nursing
Caitlyn Filippone
“I want to help people get better and have hope. I want patients to know that they are cared for.”
Grand Canyon University Major: Pre-Pharmacy
“My goals are to maintain good grades throughout the remainder of my school years and continue to hold a spot on the Dean’s List. I plan to graduate with a degree in Pre Pharmacy.”
Sarah Dodge
y
Boise State Universit Major: Biology
d “My aspirations for this fiel n stem from the combinatio ple’s of my awareness of peo n with adversities, my fascinatio strong the human body, and my .” sion pas com sense of
Andrew Kaiser
California Polytechnic State University: San Luis Obispo Major: Business
““I want to generate positive change in society through real estate development and legislation.”
Olivia Guiliana
San Diego State University Major: Hospitality
“I dream to one day own my own event company…”
Sophia Eliopulos Stanford University
Major: Biology/Pre-Med
“I not only want to save people’s lives, but I want to improve their quality of life and well-being.”
Special thanks to these sponsors for their generosity and commitment to ensuring that MS does not stand in the way of an education. Carol & Bob Webster Memorial Scholarship Fund, O.L. Halsell Foundation, and VIMS. If you would like to fund scholarships for deserving students impacted by MS, please contact us at 1-800-486-6762. To learn more about our national scholarships, visit NationalMSsociety.org/scholarship
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MS CONNECTION: SUMMER 2016
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tissues surrouding the brain, where most therapies would not reach them. Some MS researchers from different institutions are focusing on the latter, exploring the role that meningeal inflammation might play in MS. Dr. Pavan Bhargava (Johns Hopkins University) and colleagues used powerful MRI to identify and track meningeal inflammation in mice with the MS-like disease EAE, an approach that could be used to screen therapies and help understand why this inflammation occurs in MS. Dr. Bhargava will continue these studies with the support of a new Career Transition Fellowship from the National MS Society.
SOME MS RESEARCHERS ARE EXPLORING THE ROLE THAT MENINGEAL INFLAMMATION MIGHT PLAY IN MS.
Researchers from the Imperial College London and University of Verona reported finding inflammatory messenger proteins suggestive of meningeal inflammation in people with severe damage from MS. This research, funded by the International Progressive MS Alliance, could help predict early in MS who might need aggressive therapy aimed at reducing the risk of progression. In addition, Dr. Peter Calabresi (Johns Hopkins University) is leading a clinical trial of rituximab given directly into the spinal fluid (intrathecally) in order to stop meningeal inflammation.
PATHS TO WELLNESS Diet and MS: Participants in a mail survey conducted by researchers at the University of Virginia responded that their most favored
dietary approaches include the paleo diet, a highcarbohydrate diet, a low-salt diet and a modified Atkins (low-carbohydrate) diet. The researchers concluded that interest was high enough to recruit participants for a possible clinical trial on diet as a complementary approach to managing MS. To learn more about nutrition and MS, visit nationalMSsociety.org/diet. Exercise and cognition: In a preliminary study, Dr. Brian M. Sandroff (Kessler Foundation) and colleagues found that treadmill walking, whether light, moderate or vigorous, might improve an aspect of cognition called “inhibitory control,� which is the ability to bypass automatic responses. The next step is to use these results to design and conduct controlled trials to help determine any longer-term benefits of walking on cognitive abilities in people with MS. Mindfulness: A cross-institutional Canadian team reported results from a questionnaire on mindfulness, which emphasizes improving awareness and acceptance of moment-tomoment experiences. Responses showed links between higher levels of mindfulness and lower levels of depression, anxiety and fatigue, as well as perceived cognitive deficits and health-related quality of life. All of the participants indicated that they were willing to participate in a trial of a mindfulness training program that includes meditation and yoga. To learn more, visit actrims.org. n
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MS CONNECTION: SUMMER 2016
SPONSORSHIP
WALK MS RAISES NEARLY $1.4 MILLION! THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING WALK MS SPONSORS:
PREMIER NATIONAL NATIONAL PRESENTING SPONSORS
During the month of April, more than 10,000 participants and volunteers raised nearly $1,400,000 at Walk MS! Funds raised at Walk MS provide assistance to individuals affected by MS right here in our community. Thank you to everyone who came out and helped make this year’s Walk MS a success! A special thank you to all of our Walk MS sponsors who either supported the event with cash to underwrite expenses or donated goods and services which allowed the Society to contribute more towards creating a world free of MS. Be a part of the fun in 2017 by visiting WalkMS.org. For more information about how you can become a Walk MS Sponsor, contact Sarah Janssen at 760-448-8425 or sarah.janssen@nmss.org.
PLATINUM SPONSORS
GOLD SPONSORS PACIFIC RESEARCH NETWORK
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THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING WALK MS SPONSORS: SAN DIEGO/CARLSBAD TITLE SPONSOR
San Diego County Credit Union has supported Walk MS for over a decade! Through corporate sponsorship and team fundraising, SDCCU has raised nearly $1.2 million for the Chapter. They also rock the Walk recruiting more than 100 employees, friends, and customers every year! SDCCU has engaged nearly 3,000 employees, along with their friends and family over the past 14 years.
ORANGE COUNTY TITLE SPONSOR
Since being established in 2007, Fish & Tsang has done extraordinary work on the forefront of pioneering advances that change the world. Today, as Fish & Tsang supports innovators in biomedical, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals and medical devices, it also supports breakthroughs being made to find a cure for MS.
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MS CONNECTION: SUMMER 2016
COMMUNITY EVENTS
SUPPORTING THE SOCIETY Every year, numerous events and organizers in the community choose the National MS Society as a beneficiary of their fundraising. There are three great community events that have selected to support the Society’s mission later this fall. We hope you will consider getting involved and participating at one of these events, helping raise awareness and funds on behalf of the Pacific South Coast Chapter. To learn more about do-it-yourself fundarising, visit www.mspacific.org or call 760-448-8417.
ESSEX SKYLINE CATWALK FOR CHARITY EVENT ON THURSDAY, AUGUST 4 AT 6PM IN SANTA ANA Enjoy an exquisite fashion show along with local restaurants and chefs, drinks and cocktails, DJ and dancing, silent auction and much more! Learn more or purchase your tickets at www.ocfashionshowcase.com.
WAVE GOODBYE TO MS, PADDLE FOR THE CURE EVENT ON SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 AT 9AM AT OCEAN BEACH PIER Grab your surfboard, boogie board, SUP board, kayak, canoe, inflatable alligator or any other human powered craft and join the fun at the Ocean Beach Pier! Live music on the beach, opportunity drawing prizes, food and refreshments and more will be a part of this event! Learn more or register at www.WaveGoodbye.org.
GRAPE DAY 5K ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1 AT 7:30AM IN ESCONDIDO Grape Day 5K is a 5K fun run for everyone from elite runners to casual walkers, so bring the whole family out for a good time! Each runner will receive a finisher’s medal, a cool tech shirt and an even cooler schwag bag plus many more goodies! Use the code MSVIP for $10 off your registration. Learn more or register at www.sandyfeetevents.com/grape-day-5k.
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NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG | 1-800-344-4867 PAID ADVERTISEMENT
Wednesday, June 29, 2016 at 6:30 PM WHAT: An MS Speaker Event WHERE: Brigantine Seafood Restaurant 13445 Poway Road Poway, CA 92064 SPEAKER: Charles Smith, MD MS Specialist
Please RSVP so we can reserve your seat. Use event code TR369839.
Pacific South Coast Chapter 12121 Scripps Summit Drive, Suite 190 San Diego, CA 92131
NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID San Diego, CA Permit # 451
MARK YOUR
CALENDARS July 23:
Everyday Matters: Living Your Best Life with MS
August 4:
Essex Skyline Catwalk for Charity
August 10:
Scripps Lecture Series: The Science of MS
August 13:
Moving Forward: Program for the Newly Diagnosed
August 27:
Bubbles & Brunch to End MS
September 7:
Scripps Lecture Series: Creating your MS Treatment Plan
September 10:
Wave Goodbye to MS, Paddle for the Cure
September 21:
Orange County Symposium
October 1:
Grape Day 5k Fun Run
CONNECT WITH US ONLINE: MSpacific.org Like us: facebook.com/MSpacific Watch us: youtube.com/MSpacific