WINTER 2015 | National Multiple Sclerosis Society-Wisconsin Chapter
Let’s Celebrate The holidays are upon us, meaning there’s lots of celebrating to be had in homes and workplaces throughout Wisconsin.
National Multiple Sclerosis SocietyWisconsin Chapter Board of Trustees Tom Golden, Chair M3 Insurance Solutions, Inc. Michael Lutze, Vice Chair Ernst & Young James Rose, Vice Chair Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP Pamela Evason, Vice Chair Windermere Wealth Advisors, LLC Kenneth Minor, Treasurer Sonic Foundry, Inc. Robert Sowinski, Secretary Diversified Insurance Solutions David Rodgers, Past Chair Briggs & Stratton Corporation Colleen Kalt, President & CEO National MS SocietyWisconsin Chapter
Anne Brouwer McMillianDoolittle, LLP Robert Buhler Open Pantry Food Marts of Wisconsin, Inc. Dennis Christiansen Secured Retirement Strategies Group, LLC Robert deJong Rose & deJong, S.C. Robert Engel Retired, M&I Bank Paul Jones Harley-Davidson, Inc. Fr. James Kaestner Retired Wayne Larsen Ladish Company Foundation Martin McLaughlin Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren, s.c. David Raysich Plunkett Raysich Architects Jeffrey Steren Steren Management/ McDonald’s
We’re celebrating at the National MS Society too, but for a different reason: December 31 will mark the completion of the largest MS research campaign in history – the $250 million No Opportunity Wasted (NOW) campaign. Over that time, because of your support and that of donors nationwide: • 818 research studies were funded that focused on stopping MS in its tracks, restoring lost function and ending MS forever. • Five new therapies for relapsing MS were added, bringing the total to 16. • The first clinical trials in myelin repair are underway, offering hope to those with progressive MS. The promise of MS research is more apparent than ever. Our understanding of the causes of the disease has deepened. Our insight into how to help those with MS live their best lives has expanded. All of that gives us reason to celebrate, and I hope they’re reasons you’ll share with your loved ones as you gather together this year. With your continued support and theirs, we’ll give the best gift of all – a world free of MS. With gratitude and joy,
Colleen G. Kalt President & CEO
If you or someone you know has MS: Studies show that early and ongoing treatment with an FDA-approved therapy can reduce future disease activity and improve quality of life for many people with multiple sclerosis. Talk to your health care professional or contact the National MS Society at nationalmssociety.org or 1-800-344-4867 to learn about ways to help manage multiple sclerosis and about current research that may one day reveal a cure. The National MS Society does not endorse products, services or manufacturers. Such names appear here solely because they are considered valuable information. The National MS Society assumes no liability for the use of contents of any product or service mentioned. Information provided by the Society is based upon professional advice, published, experience and expert opinion. Information provided in response to questions does not constitute therapeutic recommendations or prescriptions. The National MS Society recommends that all questions and information be discussed with a personal physician.
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The National MS Society is committed to creating a world free of MS.
Turning a Challenge Into an Adventure Mom-and-daughter duo conquer Challenge Walk MS together
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y daughter and I decided we wanted to have some sort of an adventure. I saw this and thought, ‘All right, this is it.’”
participated in was in 2011. She worked with a trainer to gain leg strength in preparation for Challenge Walk MS this year.
That’s how Laura Chastain explained how she and her daughter Anna became two of the 50 first-time participants at Challenge Walk MS in September.
“That said, I really have to attribute my efforts to my family’s love and support, and to the wonders of will power, beaches and dog park walks,” she added.
What neither realized at the time was that they would be named the 2015 Challenge Walk MS Rookies of the Year for the determination they showed while participating in the three-day, 50-mile event. “I had told Mom, almost jokingly, that if she got too tired I would piggy-back her and we laughed about it,” Anna, 19, explained.
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Anna Chastain carried her mom, Laura, piggy-back style during a portion of Challenge Walk MS in September – a role reversal from the days when Laura carried Anna and son Ben (inset).
Near the end of the second day of the walk, though, they reached a long, steep hill. “We had already used the support vehicles a few times, and I knew my mom wanted to keep trying,” Anna said. “So we started up the hill and when it got too hard for her, I told her to jump on my back. It was hard, but I went as far as I could to get us up the hill.” “I am incredibly proud of that young woman,” Laura said of her daughter.
The Wonders of Willpower
Laura was diagnosed with MS in 1997, the year after Anna was born. She already had an almost four-year-old son named Ben, and was living on Madison’s near eastside. Luckily, she said, fitness has always been important to her. So while the MS advanced to secondary progressive MS and she began experiencing chronic pain, walking difficulties (“cement legs,” as she calls them) and fatigue, she continued to exercise as often as possible. “Regular exercise improves strength, endurance, balance and circulation, and the endorphins are critical to wellness too,” Laura said. The last of the four Bike MS: TOYOTA Best Dam Bike Tours she MS Connection | 3
“Being named Rookies of the Year was an honor!” said 19-year-old Anna (right) of the award she and her mom, Laura, received. Continued from Page 3
social work, worked locally in health care, and taught graduate courses before going on disability because of her MS.
“It Was a Hoot!”
When it came to the $1,500 fundraising minimum she and Anna each needed to reach for Challenge Walk MS, Laura used her online participant page (provided to everyone who registers) to collect donations, but also invited people to sign her Walk MS shirt for $2 a signature.
“Fundraising for MS research is so vital, particularly given the limited funds available federally,” she added. “The MS Society is the primary resource for the cause.”
Laura worked with a trainer prior to Challenge Walk MS 2015 to strengthen her legs, but attributes her success at the event to her family’s love and support, “and to the wonders of will power, beaches and dog park walks.”
“It was a hoot! Neighbors and relatives and people at the coffee shop donated. Most people gave more than $2, and one person had a very emotional reaction so it became a bonding thing,” said Laura, who has a master’s degree in
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As for their experience at Challenge Walk MS, Laura said “all of the clichés one might hear about fundraising events actually apply here: inspiring, life-affirming, tough and funny, a sense of community in which you connect and love. And, for me, an amazing mom-daughter adventure.” “Being named Rookies of the Year was an honor!” offered Anna, who is attending Marquette University in Milwaukee. “It was a surprise to both of us, and the reaction we got from everyone was amazing. I didn’t think that me simply putting my mom on my back would get the response that it did.” n
Challenge Walk MS Participants Show Their Strength More than 125 people completed three-day walk in September
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ore than 125 walkers and nearly 50 volunteers gathered in Door County September 18-20 to participate in the 8th annual, three-day, 50-mile Challenge Walk MS. Together with the more than $395,000 generated through this year’s event, the walk has raised more than $2.5 million since it began in 2008. The challenge comes in both the distance walked and the money raised. Challenge Walk MS participants walk 20 miles on Friday, 20 miles on Saturday and 10 miles on Sunday, covering much of Door County (a 30-mile option also is available) and commit to raising or donating a minimum of $1,500. The money funds multiple sclerosis-related research and programs. Participants included 32 individuals who have been diagnosed with MS, as well as 50 who tried the event for the first time. Walker and volunteer registration is already open for next year’s walk, September 16-18, 2016. Visit challengewalkMSwi.org for details. n
Diane Hackbarth (right), with walker Cindy LeBlanc, was a volunteer at Challenge Walk MS 2015. “Ten years ago my daughter was diagnosed with MS and I couldn’t kiss it and make it better. So I volunteer to raise money for the people who can.”
John Haupt’s goal was to complete 40 miles at Challenge Walk MS in Door County using a self-powered wheelchair and raise $15,000. He did all 50 miles and raised more than $16,000.
Julie and Paul Concannon were among this year’s Challenge Walk MS rookies. They wore special socks for the final day of the 50-mile walk.
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Registration is Open for Walk MS 2016 Mark your calendar and get registered today for Walk MS. There are 20 dates and communities to pick from! APPLETON Appleton North High School Sunday, April 24 CEDARBURG Location – TBA Saturday, April 30 DE PERE West De Pere High School Sunday, April 24 EAU CLAIRE UW-Eau Claire Davies Center Saturday, April 30 FOND DU LAC Marian University Gymnasium Saturday, May 7 JANESVILLE Palmer Park Sunday, May 1
KENOSHA-RACINE UW-Parkside Sports & Activity Center Saturday, May 7 LA CROSSE La Crosse Center Saturday, April 23 MADISON Warner Park Sunday, May 1 MARSHFIELD UW-Marshfield/Wood County Saturday, April 30 MENOMONEE FALLS Menomonee Falls High School Saturday, April 30 MILWAUKEE Summerfest Grounds Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard Sunday, May 1 OCONOMOWOC Fowler Park Saturday, April 30
PLATTEVILLE UW-Platteville Ullsvik Hall Saturday, April 30 RHINELANDER Rhinelander High School Saturday, September 17 SHEBOYGAN Blue Harbor Resort Sunday, April 24 STEVENS POINT Location – TBA Saturday, September 17 WAUKESHA Frame Park Sunday, September 18 WAUSAU Central Wisconsin Convention & Expo Center Saturday, May 7 Dates and locations subject to change.
New for 201 6: captain, can Any member of a Walk M be the first to S team, not ju register and Visit walkM S.org or call set up the te st the 855-272-133 a 1 to get star m. ted. iv ce e r by D and a fr ecember 31 ana! ee W a lk MS band
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REGISTRATION IS OPEN NOW. Go to walkMS.org, where the newly enhanced website and online features make it even easier to sign up, form your team and start fundraising today! The 2016 goal is to raise $1.5 million.
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Plan for Your Future Start your financial journey with these helpful tips
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ave you avoided giving thought to your financial future? Do you leave your 401k and other investment statements unopened in a drawer? Do you worry you don’t have enough saved for retirement? If any of these apply to you, you are not alone. But as the saying goes, “the best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago. The second best time is now.” The same applies to our financial journey. Start today! A great way to get started is by compiling a personal balance sheet and income statement. The following article will walk you through that process.
PERSONAL BALANCE SHEET • What is it? A balance sheet shows your assets (things you own) and liabilities (things you owe) as of a static point in time. The difference between your assets and liabilities is your financial net worth. • Why is this important? A personal balance sheet provides you with a snapshot of your financial health at a given point in time. It helps you evaluate whether you have sufficient assets to pay for your obligations. It also allows you to calculate your current level of savings and asset accumulation, as well as your debt obligations. • Where do I begin? First, compile a list of your assets. Again, assets are things you own so think of items such as cash accounts, investment accounts (IRAs, 401ks, brokerage accounts, etc.), your home, furniture and cars. Make the list as detailed as possible. Next, compile a list of liabilities (things you owe), which may include a mortgage, student loans, credit card debt and car loans. For each portion of debt, also list the remaining term and interest rate.
BY PAM EVASON, CFA, CPA Pam Evason is Managing Director at Windermere Wealth Advisors, LLC and serves on the Wisconsin Chapter Board of Trustees.
a financial advisor to help you evaluate the results and take any required actions. It’s also advisable to update the balance sheet over time (recommended to do quarterly but at least annually), which allows you to track your progress and make any necessary adjustments.
PERSONAL INCOME STATEMENT • What is it? An income statement is a summary of both your income (cash you are receiving from a career, pension, Social Security or other sources) and your expenses (items for which you expend cash, including income taxes, property taxes, insurance premiums, health care costs, day care, utilities, clothing, travel, entertainment, etc.) for a given time interval. Our personal net income is the difference between the two amounts. • Why is this important? Cash flow is arguably one of the largest determinants of long-term wealth accumulation. The higher our personal net income, the more cash flow we have available to contribute to savings and investment vehicles and the earlier we save, the greater the time period over which we may experience compounding Continued on Page 8
• What do I do with the information? You now have a snapshot of your financial health at a point in time. Depending on your comfort level with financial matters, you may wish to work with MS Connection | 7
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returns. An income statement helps us realize our current cash flow situation and make the necessary adjustments to raise our personal net income. • Where do I begin? First decide upon a time interval (monthly may be the easiest to track). Compile a list of your income sources. Pay stubs or prior year W2s are a good place to find this information. Next, detail your expenses. Be sure to include large annual items (and convert to monthly expense as needed) such as insurance premiums and property taxes. Recurring expenses can often times be deduced from your credit card statements or check register. Also be sure to review the websites of your bank and credit card companies for useful budget tracking tools and reports/downloads that will help summarize your charges into categories.
• What do I do with the information? As with a balance sheet, the true benefit comes from tracking the information over a period of time and making the necessary adjustments. With the goal being increasing personal net income, review the report to find ways to either increase income or reduce expenses. Remember, every little bit of incremental savings counts! Today is a great time to get started on your financial journey. It may be challenging, but it will also be enlightening and empowering and your future self will thank you. Enjoy the journey! n This article is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional guidance and assistance in planning your financial future. The matters discussed here are provided as a starting point for further discussions with an investment professional familiar with your specific situation. Windermere Wealth Advisors, LLC, is an investment advisory firm located in Milwaukee, Wis. If you have questions or comments, please contact Pam at 414-716-6150 or pam.evason@windermerewealth.com.
Grants Support Research, Services The Wisconsin Chapter thanks the following organizations for the grants recently awarded in support of research and services that are critical to people affected by MS. • $7,000 • $2,500 The Hinrichs Foundation The Harley-Davidson Foundation, Inc. • $6,000 Jack Deloss Taylor Charitable Trust
• $5,000 Evan & Marion Helfaer Foundation • $5,000 Racine Community Foundation, Inc. • $4,500 B.A. & Esther Greenheck Foundation • $3,000 Baird Foundation, Inc.
• $1,500 A.O. Smith Foundation • $1,000 UBS Donor Advised Fund/ National Philanthropic Trust (The Rosel Family Charitable Fund) • $200 Kent and Kristin Powley Family Fund within the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region
In total, $35,700 was received in gifts and grants from July through September. If you are connected to a foundation that you would like to suggest for a grant opportunity, or for more information on how you can help, contact Cindy Yomantas at 262-369-4431 or cindy.yomantas@nmss.org. MS Connection | 8
PAID ADVERTISEMENT
Make a Mark to Help Those with MS Income tax check-off program donations improve quality of life
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iagnosed in 2006, Mikki K.’s multiple sclerosis has affected her mobility, leaving her unable to safely use the stairs in the two-story home she shares with her mother, her partner and her 13-year-old daughter. Knowing a stairlift was the solution but unable to afford one, she contacted the National MS Society-Wisconsin Chapter for help. Donations made for multiple sclerosis through Wisconsin’s state tax check-off program earlier this year made it possible for Mikki’s request to be fulfilled. The dollars are earmarked to help those living with MS maintain their independence and improve their quality of life, exactly what Mikki’s request would help her achieve. Being confined to the first floor of her home meant she couldn’t move freely to be with her family members, couldn’t help her daughter get ready for school and had a lack of privacy. The stairlift was installed in August. Wisconsin residents will again have the opportunity to help people like Mikki when they fill out their 2015 income tax forms (see sidebar). Donations fund items like home and vehicle modifications to make them wheelchair
Make a Mark for MS tax checkoff donations fund accessibility modifications like ramps and chairlifts.
Make a Mark for MS Make a Mark for MS is the name given to the option that Wisconsin taxpayers have to make a donation for multiple sclerosis on their annual state income tax forms. Going forward, the Society needs to generate a three-year average of $50,000 in donations in order to stay in the program. To donate, look for the “Donations” section of your tax form, select “multiple sclerosis” and indicate the amount you want to donate, or ask your tax preparer to add the amount when completing the form for you. Be sure to ask family and friends to do the same. Nearly $70,000 was generated through the program this past year.
accessible; exercise therapy to maintain strength and mobility, and improve balance/stability; orthotic equipment to improve walking ability; and adaptive computer software. Applications for funding such items are thoroughly reviewed by the National MS Society-Wisconsin Chapter and assistance is awarded based on financial need and personal circumstances. Like Mikki, Jody also received assistance through the program in 2015 to purchase a motorized scooter to help her get to work. The 58-yearold lives in accessible housing across the street from her place of employment, but she and her physical therapist knew a scooter would improve her mobility both in getting to work and moving around the office. Her private insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, but donations from the Make a Mark for MS program did. Now Jody is able to ride down the road to work and be more efficient while at the office. “I want to stay working. I need to stay working,” Jody said. “Working makes me feel good and I will work as long as I can.” Those who donated to the Make a Mark for MS program are making sure she will. n MS Connection | 9
The National MS Society Drives Progress in MS Research The National MS Society pursues all promising multiple sclerosis research while focusing on priority areas including progressive MS, nervous system repair, gene and environmental risk factors, and wellness and lifestyle. In 2015 alone, the Society committed a projected investment of more than $53 million to support more than 380 new and ongoing studies around the world. New projects include: • A study at Baylor College of Medicine investigating a protein that may play a role in myelin repair and replacement of lost nerve cells, two events that may improve progressive MS. • A Scottish investigation of whether adult stem cells from the nose hold promise for nervous system tissue repair. • An exploration of whether brain circuits are connected to the profound fatigue experienced by people with MS. • A study at Harvard University exploring whether exposure to air pollution is associated with MS risk. Visit nationalMSsociety.org/research to learn more about research funded by the Society, as well as research news and progress.
“ I loved reading KIP. It has really opened my eyes to my situation, what I can expect, and what to look for.” Knowledge is power. Truer words have never been spoken, but as someone who is newly diagnosed with MS or has a loved one who is newly diagnosed you may not even know where to begin. Knowledge is Power is a free, at-home educational series that is both an introduction and a guide to being newly diagnosed. Access information on the topics of interest and importance to you – from learning more about the first steps after diagnosis to maintaining healthy relationships with family and friends, to exploring treatment options. Knowledge Is Power is available online at nationalMSsociety.org/KIP or can be delivered to your home. Call an MS Navigator at 800-344-4867 to register.
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New Research Awards The Society is the driving force for multiple sclerosis research
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his fall, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society committed more than $21 million to support an expected 78 new MS research projects. These are part of a comprehensive research strategy aimed at stopping MS, restoring function that has been lost and ending the disease forever for every single person with MS. More than $1.4 million of these funds were awarded to two scientists in Wisconsin: Bonnie Dittel and Ian Duncan.
BONNIE DITTEL PhD
Stop MS in its Tracks Bonnie Dittel, PhD, of the Blood Research Institute, BloodCenter of Wisconsin, received a $706,686 grant to investigate how a subset of immune “B cells” reduces inflammation for clues to harnessing this power to stop MS. In MS, the immune system damages tissues in the brain and spinal cord, and finding a way to reduce or stop this immune response, which includes inflammation, may be key to stopping MS in its tracks. The immune system has its own mechanisms for reducing inflammation, one of which is regulated by an immune cell type called B cells. Dr. Dittel and her team are looking at how certain B cells, called regulartory B cells (“Bregs”), communicate with another type of immune cell called regulatory T cells (“Tregs”), which have been shown to be essential for turning off immune attacks in MS. “This Society funding will provide support for our long running project investigating the role of B lymphocytes in attenuating disease severity in MS and will be used in part to move our research into the study of regulatory B cells in humans,” Dittel said.
IAN DUNCAN BVMS, PhD, FRSE
Restore What’s Been Lost Ian Duncan, BVMS, PhD, FRSE, of the University of Wisconsin-Madison received a $693,682 grant to explore factors controlling myelin repair and ways to non-invasively detect and enhance that repair. Myelin is the nerve-insulating coating that promotes nerve signaling in the brain and spinal cord. It is damaged in MS and often the body’s natural repair processes cannot keep up, leaving nerve fibers vulnerable and unable to send signals properly. One possible way of protecting nerves from destruction in MS is to facilitate myelin repair. Dr. Duncan and his team are studying myelin damage and repair in a model that provides opportunities to study myelin at many stages of damage and recovery. The team is studying sources of repair cells in the brain, the timing of their activity and the ability of restored myelin to protect against nerve loss. They are examining repair in the optic nerve and also the spinal cord to see what may account for differences between the two. The team is also using advanced MRI technology to see changes in myelin non-invasively with an eye toward developing standard ways of examining myelin repair in people with MS. “We’re trying to explore the cellular and molecular aspects of myelin loss and repair,” Duncan said. “And using MRI, confirm the imaging correlate of myelin breakdown, remyelination and axon loss.” n
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Thank You, 2015 Sponsors Event sponsors partner with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, allowing more funds to go toward the critical research, programs and services that make a difference in the lives of people affected by MS.
Wisconsin 2015
CHICAGO REGIONAL COUNCIL OF CARPENTERS
CHICAGO REGIONAL COUNCIL OF CARPENTERS
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Cleary-Kumm Foundation
Presented by your Milwaukee- and Madison-area TOYOTA dealers: Andrew, Don Jacobs, East Madison, Heiser, Hesser, Jack Safro, Kenosha, Racine, Ruda, Russ Darrow, Smart, Wilde
Door County 2015
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Fundraising for Foodies Restaurant programs provide an easy–and tasty–way to give support
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veryone has to eat, right? So why not put a meal or two toward a good cause while patronizing a local business willing to lend their support? That’s the theory behind restaurant giveback programs, in which a portion of a store’s sales on a given date are donated to a charity, school or other civic organization – and it’s one that raised thousands of dollars in Wisconsin for multiple sclerosis in 2015. Take September, for example, when six restaurants – Benvenuto’s Italian Grill, Buffalo Wild Wings, California Pizza Kitchen, Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt, Rocky Rococo Pizza and Pasta, and Texas Roadhouse – held giveback events benefiting the National Multiple Sclerosis Society-Wisconsin Chapter. More than $3,200 was raised. Each location did something different. Most donated between 10 and 20 percent of their sales for a given day at one or more of their locations. Some also held raffles, sold paper Pin Ups or donated gift cards and discount coupons to be sold.
A Personal Connection Texas Roadhouse is a prime example. In September,
a coordinated giveback opportunity was arranged at all 13 of their Wisconsin locations and surpassed expectations by raising $1,600. Dave Hess, Texas Roadhouse market partner for Wisconsin and an 18-year employee with the steakhouse leader, coordinated the opportunity in which all locations donated 10 percent of sales
“ . . . our founder has always lived by the philosophy of giving back to the community.”
–D ave Hess on two nights to customers requesting it. Some of the locations rounded out the totals by donating extra money, as well. “Every Texas Roadhouse store is its own entity, but our founder has always lived by the philosophy of giving back to the community. MS Connection | 14
Texas Roadhouse employees – as well as the restaurant’s mascot – have helped support Walk MS and the National MS Society on numerous occasions.
He expects that everyone does something unique,” Hess explained. The store in Waukesha lent its support to the Wisconsin Chapter with a giveback night for Walk MS: Waukesha last year, forming a team to participate in the event and making sure Texas Roadhouse mascot Andy the Armadillo was there to cheer on the walkers. This year the location again formed a team and hosted another giveback night. When Hess learned about it, he spearheaded a wider effort across all the locations in the state. “MS affects a lot of people, but you don’t hear much about it,” Hess said of wanting to support the cause, adding that his mom, aunt and sister were all diagnosed with MS during the past 15 years. “It’s a cause that’s near and dear to me.” Restaurants don’t need to have personal connections to the disease, although given the high prevalence rate of MS in Wisconsin, chances are a number of their customers are affected by the disease even if their employees aren’t.
“A giveback program probably is not a way to build your business but, in my opinion, it’s fundamental,” Hess said. “It teaches a good value lesson to employees.”
“ Their support is helping every individual, and family, that’s dealing with the effects of living with MS.”
– S uzanne Diercks
Coordination is Easy Most often, restaurant giveback events are coordinated by residents in the same community. In Madison, Jim Turk and Autumn Neugent, members of the Walk MS: Madison planning committee, worked to set up giveback events at Texas Roadhouse and Benvenuto’s Italian Grill. The money raised was credited toward the Madison walk’s grand fundraising total for the year. “At Texas Roadhouse, the manager let us greet people as they came in. If they looked like they wanted to interact, we suggested that they tell the server that they wanted a percentage of the food bill to go to the MS Society,” Turk explained. “Some people even went so far as to give additional donations on the way out. “I always have a lot of fun getting the chance to talk to people about the disease and the good things that the MS Society does,” he added. “If I can do it in the context of a fundraiser – that’s even better.”
THANK YOU!
It’s a sentiment echoed by giveback night participant Suzanne Diercks, who ate at Buffalo Wild Wings and Texas Roadhouse near her Waukesha County home. “It’s always a treat to get to go out to dinner, and it’s like icing on the cake to eat and support the MS Society at the same time!” said Diercks, who has relapsing-remitting MS. “I love knowing that I live in a community where the restaurant owners are so very generous in their giving to, and their support of, the MS Movement,” Diercks added. “These restaurant owners don’t even know me and yet, when they support the MS Movement, they’re helping me to be able to live a better life. But not only me – their support is helping every individual, and family, that’s dealing with the effects of living with MS.”
“ I love knowing that I live in a community where the restaurant owners are so generous in their giving . . . ”
– Suzanne Diercks
According to the National Restaurant Association, 94% of America’s restaurant operators make charitable donations. To learn more about restaurant giveback programs in Wisconsin, visit wisMSdiy.org, hover over “Wisconsin” and select “Restaurant Give-Back Program” to find a list of known programs, or work with the manager of your favorite local restaurant to establish one. Contact Kristin Raeber at kristin.raeber@nmss.org or 262-369-4436 with questions. n
Six restaurants held giveback events for the National MS Society-Wisconsin Chapter in September, raising more than $3,200. Learn more about setting up a giveback night of your own by calling 262-369-4436.
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How We Move It Wisconsin Chapter News and Notes Scholarship Program
In September, employees of Oshkosh Corporation presented a check for $10,000 to the National MS Society. Shown left to right, Brett Gloudeman, maintenance manager; Tyler Semrow, welding; Aimeè McClure, senior principal environmental engineer; and Colleen G. Kalt, National MS SocietyWisconsin Chapter president and CEO. Not shown, Art Lyman, team coordinator II, and Suzanne Murawski, defense senior environmental manager.
Oshkosh Corporation Donation
Oshkosh Corporation donated $10,000 to the National MS Society in September. Money for the donation came from an annual company award to the work team that submits the best idea for a continuous improvement project. McClure suggested the donation be made to the Society in honor of her best friend, Sindy Oakley, who was diagnosed with MS in 2013. “I was very proud to call Sindy and tell her we won,” McClure said. “That we could give that much money was huge. You don’t hear of many companies that can take it to such a personal level and allow you to choose something that means a lot to you.” McClure and Oakley were part of Walk MS: De Pere in April. With the $10,000 award and other company donations, a total of $12,500 was given to the Society. MS Connection | 16
The National MS Society is dedicated to helping individuals impacted by MS achieve their goal of attending college. This is why the Society established a scholarship program. The program has expanded substantially since its inception in 2003. In 2015, more than $1 million was awarded to 834 recipients nationwide, including 37 in Wisconsin. The application period for the 2016 scholarship program is open until January 15, 2016. In order to be eligible, applicants must be current high school seniors, high school graduate (including students who have earned their GED certificate), or undergraduate students of any age who have MS or have a parent with MS and will be attending, or are already attending, an accredited postsecondary school working toward their first undergraduate degree. Visit NationalMSSociety.org/scholarship to learn more about the scholarship program and to apply.
AUTOS-4-MS
Help drive MS away donate your vehicle today!
When you donate your car, truck, motorcycle, boat or trailer to the National MS Society, you can feel good knowing 100% of the proceeds go directly toward benefiting people with MS. Proceeds fund vital research into the cause, cure and treatment of MS as well as programs and services for people living with MS.
Your vehicle donation is tax deductible. Refer to your tax professional for specific details. For answers to all your questions and to start the donation process, please visit www.AUTOS4MS.org or call our office at 1-877-672-8864.
New Self-Help Group for Couples
There is a new self-help group for couples taking place in Milwaukee. This group meets the third Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. at Wheaton Franciscan (3237 S. 16th St.), 8th floor auditorium. Visit wisMS.org, and click on “Groups and Discussions” for a full list of selfhelp groups in Wisconsin. Contact Tarin Lorenz at 262-369-4415 for more information.
No Opportunity Wasted Wisconsin resident Dan Erschen and the workout
facility he has set up for others living with MS were featured in a new video produced by the National MS Society and highlights the impact the five-year No Opportunity Wasted fundraising campaign has had. Erschen, diagnosed with MS in 2000, went from not being able to walk to competing in three Ironman competitions. He attributes that accomplishment to exercise, and promotes physical activity and wellness to others as a way of living ones best life with MS. You can see the video online at bit.ly/ NOWimpactvideo2015.
Dan Erschen was filmed at his workout facility in Waukesha for a new video produced by the National MS Society.
Making a Difference Through Volunteering Volunteers are critical to the success of the MS Movement. In 2015, more than 2,300 volunteers gave their time, energy and talents at Wisconsin Chapter fundraising events and programs, in the Chapter office or by serving on volunteer committees. Visit wisMS.org and click “Volunteer” to learn more about opportunities to get involved throughout the year.
Thank you, volunteers! MS Connection | 17
Winter Escape Snowmobilers will gather up north for MS Snowmobile Tour
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on’t miss the ride or the camaraderie of nearly 200 snowmobile enthusiasts at the MS Snowmobile Tour. This winter escape is an all-inclusive fundraising event taking place January 28-30, 2016, and headquartered at the Potawatomi Carter Casino and Hotel in Carter, Wisconsin.
The experience includes: • • • •
Guided rides on groomed trails On-site mechanical support Three-nights lodging Free registration for first-time participants (use code MSSTrookie2016) • Meals at the resort and along the route • Free bandana and hat • And more! Participants pay a $45 registration fee and agree to raise a minimum of $650 – money that funds MS-related research. Snowmobiles and gear are also available for rental at several area businesses. Nearly $7.3 million has been raised throughout the event’s 33-year history. n
Snowmobile rentals are available.
WIN a Green Bay Packers Sled! Enter to win a PACKERSTHEMED SKI-DOO 600 SPORT, cash prizes and more with the MS Snowmobile Tour raffle, conducted by the Tour’s Volunteer Committee. Tickets are $10 each or three for $20.
Sign up at MSsnowmobiletour.org or 262-369-4400.
2016
A Fun Ride A Great Cause MS Connection | 18
For more information, email MSsnowtourraffle@gmail.com.
MS Specialty Clinics in Wisconsin
CHAPTER CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS
Quality MS care is offered at several clinics throughout Wisconsin. Some of these clinics have taken additional steps focusing on neurology, rehabilitation, mental health and/or comprehensive care specific to MS.(*)
2016
CENTERS FOR COMPREHENSIVE MS CARE* Green Bay: La Crosse: Madison: Marshfield: Waukesha:
Aurora Medical Group MS Clinic 920-288-8020 Gundersen Lutheran MS Clinic 608-775-9000 Dean St. Mary’s MS Clinic 608-260-3425 UW Hospital and Clinics MS Clinic 608-262-0546 Marshfield Clinic MS Clinic 715-387-5350 ProHealth Care MS Clinic 262-928-8668
March 12
APRIL, MAY, SEPTEMBER
See page 6 for all dates. Wisconsin 2015
Milwaukee: Columbia St. Mary’s MS Clinic 414-291-1771
BIKE MS: TOYOTA BEST DAM BIKE TOUR
CLINICS Aurora Advanced Healthcare (Not currently accepting new patients) Center for Neurological Disorders 414-769-4040 Aurora Marinette Menominee Clinic 715-735-7421 Neuroscience Group 920-725-9373 Aurora Wilkinson Medical Clinic 262-434-5000
MS CONNECTION IS A QUARTERLY PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETYWISCONSIN CHAPTER.
Editor: Amanda Gasper Krueger Contributing Editor: Maureen Waslicki Graphic Design and Production: Joan Hartin and Amy Malo
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To comment or share a story idea, call 262-369-7173 or email amanda.gasper@nmss.org. National MS Society-Wisconsin Chapter 1120 James Dr., Ste. A, Hartland, WI 53029 262-369-4400 | 800-242-3358
@
wisMS.org
January 28-30
MS SUMMIT
PARTNERS IN MS CARE*
Milwaukee: Marinette: Neenah: Summit:
MS SNOWMOBILE TOUR
TOLL FREE
August 6-7
CHALLENGE WALK MS
September 16-18 Door County 2016
Get Connected The National Multiple Sclerosis Society helps each person address the challenges of living with MS through a variety of resources and support options. For more information on topics such as being newly diagnosed, treatment options and employment issues, visit nationalMSsociety.org. Sign up to receive National MS Society emails at nationalMSsociety.org/signup.
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Join the MSconnection.org community, a place for people living with MS to learn, share and connect with others impacted by MS.
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Talk to an MS Navigator – experts in helping you find MS information and resources – by calling 800-344-4867, Option 2, 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. CST Monday through Friday.
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MS Connection | 19
NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE
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A Publication of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society-Wisconsin Chapter
1120 James Drive Suite A Hartland, WI 53029
MADISON, WI PERMIT NO. 1252
www.wisMS.org Toll Free 1-800-242-3358 262-369-4400
®
ACCELERATED RESEARCH BREAKTHROUGHS
Change Lives and
END MS FOREVER Together, we are changing the pace of MS research progress and accelerating life-changing impact for everyone living with MS. Tremendous progress has been made through $900 million in research investments since our founding, including $250 million alone through the No Opportunity Wasted (NOW) Campaign over the last five years:
•
he MS treatment pipeline has significantly expanded – there T are now more potential treatments in trials than any other time in history and several new approved treatment options available.
•
he promise of myelin repair is now reality – several potential T myelin repair treatments have recently entered trials.
•
Our understanding of the causes of MS has advanced – nearly 200 genetic variants have been identified and several risk factors confirmed.
The Society is rapidly approaching the successful completion of the NOW Campaign, and every gift made before December 31st will be vital to reaching that goal. Visit wisMS.org or call 262-369-4400 to make your year-end gift a part of a life-changing legacy.
nationalMSsociety.org | 1-800-344-4867