Spring 2010
Bike MS Why We Ride in Wisconsin’s Best Dam Bike Ride
Wisconsin Board of Trustees Alyson Zierdt, Chair Attorney, Retired Martin McLaughlin, Past Chair Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren, S.C. Michael Lutze, Vice Chair Ernst & Young Kenneth Minor, Vice Chair Sonic Foundry, Inc. Robert Sowinski, Secretary Diversified Insurance Services, Inc. David Rodgers, Treasurer Briggs & Stratton Corporation Colleen Kalt, President & CEO National MS Society Wisconsin Chapter Carrie Raymond Bedore Carrie Raymond Bedore, LLC Robert Buhler Open Pantry Food Marts of Wisconsin, Inc Albert C. Elser II Community Advocate Robert Engel Retired, M&I Bank
Tom Golden M3 Insurance Solutions for Business Karen Minor Community Advocate Bruce Olson The Marcus Corporation Shelley Peterman Schwarz Meeting Life’s Challenges David Raysich Plunkett Raysich Architects Patricia Raysich Community Advocate James Rose Baker Tilly Virchow Krause LLP Jeffrey Steren Steren Management/McDonald’s Robyn Turtenwald Community Advocate Molly Walsh Office of Governor Jim Doyle
If you or someone you know has MS: Studies show that early and ongoing treatment with an FDA-approved therapy can reduce future disease activity and improve quality of life for many people with multiple sclerosis. Talk to your health care professional or contact the National MS Society at nationalmssociety.org or 1-800-344-4867 to learn about ways to help manage multiple sclerosis and about current research that may one day reveal a cure. The National MS Society does not endorse products, services or manufacturers. Such names appear here solely because they are considered valuable information. The National MS Society assumes no liability for the use of contents of any product or service mentioned. Information provided by the Society is based upon professional advice, published, experience and expert opinion. Information provided in response to questions does not constitute therapeutic recommendations or prescriptions. The National MS Society recommends that all questions and information be discussed with a personal physician. The National MS Society is committed to seeing a world free of MS.
©2010 National Multiple Sclerosis Society - Wisconsin Chapter
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You Push the Pace of Research Progress The pace of progress toward creating a world free of MS is gaining momentum. Take a look: • • • •
Ampyra, the first symptom management drug, was recently approved by the FDA. It has been demonstrated to improve walking ability in many people with MS. Two oral disease-modifying drugs are on the immediate horizon, with FDA approval anticipated later this year. Potential therapies for nerve protection are in clinical trial, and trials for nerve repair are close behind. As you know, some of this amazing work is taking place in Wisconsin; as Dr. Ian Duncan’s team in Madison continues to collaborate with an international group of researchers tackling what only a few short years ago was believed to be improbable. The Society is expediting further exploration of CCSVI (chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency), to determine if this finding may lead to new treatments for people with MS.
Closer to home, Dr. John Fleming’s intriguing worm egg study is entering a second exciting phase. As you’ll read on the following pages; Dr. Fleming believes his research may not only benefit individuals with MS, but possibly those with other autoimmune diseases. Remember: YOU make this possible. Your fundraising efforts and your voices fuel this grassroots organization. That’s never been more apparent than in the conversations about CCSVI. More than 4,000 viewed the recent CCSVI webcast; co-sponsored by the Society and the American Academy of Neurology (you’ll find a transcript and recording of the program at nationalmssociety.org). Because of your efforts, MS research is moving forward faster than ever before. Perhaps that’s to be expected. You are, after all, the movement to end MS. Sincerely,
Colleen G. Kalt President & CEO
MS CONNECTION: Winter 2010
First Phase Tested Safety
Fleming’s Worm Egg Research Entering Second Phase By Amanda Gasper
Not many people would think about drinking worm eggs. But that’s what five MS patients did during the initial phase of a study to evaluate the safety of digesting worm eggs to regulate the immune response in MS. Dr. John Fleming is leading the study. The next phase of his research will again test the use of worm eggs as a treatment for MS, but will involve more patients and last longer. Dr. Fleming is a professor of neurology at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health and the director of the Multiple Sclerosis Clinic at the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics. His interest in MS started in the ‘70s when he was a research fellow for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Raised in Hawaii, Dr. Fleming has resided in Wisconsin for the past 20 years. This study, called Helminth-Induced Immunomodulation Therapy (HINT), offers an alternative approach to treatment of MS. It is funded by a $567,110 grant from the National MS Society and is looking at the use of parasitic worms that live inside a host, called a helminth, to treat the symptoms of MS. Hygiene Hypothesis The theory driving the study is called “the hygiene hypothesis.” This hypothesis suggests that developed
A technician looks at worm eggs through a microscope at OvaMed, the German biotech company that supplies the eggs used in Dr. Fleming’s study. Photo provided by OvaMed, Hamburg, Germany.
countries, such as the United States, have higher incidences of allergies and autoimmune diseases, because there is little or no exposure to parasites and other infections. “In the developing world where they have many helminths and other infections, they just don’t get multiple sclerosis,” Dr. Fleming said. “But in developed countries; where kids are vaccinated, we take antibiotics all the time and the water is super clean; we have higher
In the developing world where they have many helminths and other infections, they just don’t get multiple sclerosis. - Dr. Fleming incidences of autoimmunity.” And that means higher incidences of MS. “Hygiene sanitation is a good thing,” added Dr. Fleming. “We don’t want epidemics like cholera.” But the environment has changed faster than our genetics, said Dr. Fleming. The immune system was accustomed to exposure to parasites. Without them, the immune system sometimes attacks the human body instead. “Helminths and other kinds of natural infections learn how to modulate the host,” said Dr. Fleming. “For their own survival, they produce substances that reduce the intensity of the immune response. And similarly, the host realizes these are big multi-cellular organisms. The body won’t launch a massive immune attack on them, or it’ll harm its own tissues by causing too much inflammation.” This “immunological truce,” as Dr. Fleming calls it, is seen in the body’s response to parasitic infection. It pushes the immune system towards a less inflammatory response. And this is where the worms come in. Dr. Fleming believes the worms can potentially redirect the body’s immune system away from the inflammatory response that happens in MS. “We’re basically using the helminth as a probiotic to change the immune system to help people with MS,” Dr. Fleming said. Probiotics are living organisms that benefit the health of the host. They can be found TOLL FREE NUMBER 1 800 242 3358
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in food products such as yogurt, cottage cheese, sauerkraut and many pickles.
And how does it taste? “It was a little salty,” Kristen said. According to Dr. Fleming, after the eggs are ingested, the larvae hatch in the small intestine. By the time they travel to the large intestine, they are a fraction of an inch. This is where they are destroyed by the immune system, he said. “The worm doesn’t penetrate the gut walls,” Dr. Fleming said. “You never have to worry about it going into tissue, liver, lungs or something like that. It just kind of slithers along.”
Five Patients Drank Worm Eggs In Dr. Fleming’s HINT1 study, five recently diagnosed relapsing-remitting MS patients, with no previous treatment, drank worm eggs – or more specifically, Trichuris suis eggs, which are pig whip worms. They did this every two weeks for three months, 2,500 eggs at a time. Many might wonder how drinking worm eggs from pigs could be safe for humans. The eggs come from disease-free pigs that are grown in a clean environment Participants Received Frequent MRIs at a biotech company, Dr. Fleming said. He further Patients were monitored during the study with explained: “Because it’s not a human pathogen, it doesn’t MRI scans to look at the number of new lesions that cause disease in people. The idea is a little bit like using developed before, during and after the ingestion of cow pox to help human small pox. If you gave anything worm eggs. According to Dr. Fleming, “An MRI scan from a human, like attenuated small pox (a less harmful, is much more sensitive than clinical measures. The but still living, version of small pox), you always have average patient will have maybe one attack in a year in the danger that it’s going to revert (to being harmful).” MS, but 10 MRI events. To date, the MRI findings are Previously, encouraging, but larger and longer researchers at studies will be required before any the University definite conclusions are possible.” of Iowa showed Kristen, who is newly diagnosed that T. suis was with MS, said participating in the safe to ingest study was reassuring. and reduced “I had to do a lot of MRIs,” she symptoms in said. “It helped me track what was patients with going on with my disease.” Crohn’s, an The MRIs also helped Dr. inflammatory Fleming keep track of the patients’ bowel disease. safety by making sure the treatment Dr. Fleming’s patients drank 2,500 microscopic eggs in a Dr. Fleming tablespoon of a sports drink-like fluid from bottles such as didn’t make their MS worse. Kristen added, “It’s added, “Dr. Fleming was wonderful, these. Photo provided by OvaMed, Hamburg, Germany. not like you’re checking in to make sure you were drinking a glass of earthworms on a reality show. We feeling alright. I wasn’t ever concerned.” give it as microscopic little ova, or eggs, in a sports Kristen said she participated in the trial because she drink. Essentially, Gatorade.” was hoping that it would help advance research. “It’s Kristen, a patient who participated in the study, promising,” she said. said this about the worm egg cocktail: “The first time, The next step is a study with 18 patients, called I wasn’t sure what it would be like. I was a little grossed HINT2, that will last 18 months. out, but it was super easy to do. I liked that it was “Another question for the future is, do we want to something natural.” be using the whole worm or do we isolate the molecule
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which is active in the worm and use it in pill form,” Dr. Fleming said. “The pill is probably the ultimate goal, but you have to start somewhere. We are starting with the crude preparation, but we don’t want to stop there.” Research also doesn’t stop at relapsing-remitting MS. Dr. Fleming said, “Most new treatments for MS start with relapsing-remitting patients. They are the most active, so it’s easiest to see if something has an effect. Many times, if something seems to have an effect in relapsing-remitting MS, then you go on to look at secondary progressive.” Dr. Fleming added that it might not stop with MS. If this type of treatment works for one autoimmune disease, such as Crohn’s, and if it were to work on a second autoimmune Dr. Fleming’s research may benefit disease, like MS, could it work other autoimmune diseases, in for others? addition to MS.
But for now, Dr. Fleming has “cautious optimism, with the emphasis on caution,” he said. Amanda Gasper is a recent graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison where she studied Life Sciences Communication. She is a part-time copywriter for the Wisconsin Chapter.
Participants Sought for Second Phase of Dr. Fleming’s Worm Egg Study Dr. Fleming seeks 18 individuals to participate in the second phase of his HINT study. The main criteria for participation are: Newly diagnosed with MS or have experienced first attack of an MS-like disease (such as optic neuritis). No prior treatment with MS drugs. Willingness to participate in an experimental oral treatment. For information contact: • University of Wisconsin site: Namita Azad, 608-265-8765, nazad@clinicaltrials.wisc.edu • Marshfield Clinic site: Carol Beck, 800-782-8581 ext. 93144; Beck.Carol@mcrf.mlfdclin.edu
Dr. Fleming Says Hypothesis Merits Study
MS Society’s CCSVI Research Awards to be Announced in June Recent reports have called attention to the idea that CCSVI, a reported abnormality in blood drainage from the brain and spinal cord, may contribute to nervous system damage in MS. Dr. Paulo Zamboni from the University of Ferrara in Italy, conducted a pilot study (published in April 2009), and suggested that a larger, better-controlled evaluation of the possible impact of CCSVI on MS be undertaken. The National MS Society subsequently issued a request for proposals and in June will announce its funding decisions for CCSVI-related research. Weighing in on the possible connection between CCSVI and MS, Dr. John Fleming, professor of neurology at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health and the Director of the Multiple Sclerosis
Clinic at the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics said, “CCSVI is an interesting hypothesis that needs to be followed up on.” “We are very enthusiastic about the research,” continued Dr. Fleming, “but clinical treatment right now is premature. We don’t even know if it’s safe. This is experimental, so should only be done under an ethics board-approved experimental study, both in terms of diagnosis and treatment. Understandably, people are anxious. This might be a breakthrough and they feel like they can’t wait, but it’s the best way to do it.” To learn more about CCSVI and the National MS Society’s research initiative, go to nationalMSsociety.org.
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One Step at a Time You Are Changing Lives Thank you for joining the movement and supporting Walk MS. Over 22 years, Wisconsin’s Walk MS has changed lives. It’s changed them one hug and one smile and one knowing glance at a time. Because you stepped up: families feel hope and research moves forward. There is no doubt – you are the movement to end MS. Especially because 95 percent of the Society’s funding comes from individual donors like you, please remember to submit your pledges by June 25.
Join the movement walkMSwisconsin.org • info@wisMS.org 800-242-3358 • 262-369-4400 6
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Nearly 100 Participate in 7th Annual Event
Attendees Promote Affordable Prescription Drug Pricing After sharing the story of her older brother’s struggle with multiple sclerosis, Wisconsin State Senator Alberta Darling gave the individuals gathered for the 7th Annual Legislative Affairs Day their marching orders: “Give ‘em hell!” And with that, the nearly 100 MS activists gathered at the Concourse Hotel in Madison on March 10 prepared to bring their message of affordable prescriptions to the halls of the Capitol.
Mark and Katie Marek of Jefferson , Wisconsin attended the Legislative Affairs Day program. At issue is the practice of a growing number of insurers who are moving MS medications into specialty tiers and passing along increased costs to the consumer. This places a significant burden on individuals with MS, and in some cases can effectively price treatments out of reach. In fact, a June 2009 national survey of MS patients found individuals seven times more likely to discontinue use of prescription drugs when monthly out-of-pocket expenses exceed $250. In a tier structure, generic drugs are in the first tier; preferred brand name drugs are in tier two; and nonpreferred brand drugs are in tier three. Specialty drugs, such as those utilized for MS, are typically categorized in the fourth tier. While a consumer pays a fixed amount for medications in the first three tiers, a tier four designation forces the individual to pay a percentage of the drug cost – 20 to 35 percent or more. National research shows that annual treatment costs for drugs categorized as tier four can range from $17,000
to $40,000, with some medications costing more than $100,000 per year. Legislative Affairs Day attendees shared that their MS prescription costs ranged from $4,000 annually “with a really good insurance plan” to $29,430 annually, “which doesn’t include other drugs, two MRIs, a bone scan and doctor visits.” While the National MS Society is working at the federal level to enact reform (U.S. Senator John D. Rockefeller (D-WV) introduced a bill in August 2009), several Chapters including Minnesota, New York, Maryland, California, Nebraska and Wisconsin are addressing the issue at the state level. Leveraging the momentum of Legislative Affairs Day, the draft of Wisconsin’s affordable prescriptions bill is now complete. Georgia Maxwell, advocacy manager for the Wisconsin Chapter, said Wisconsin’s bill is modeled after the federal initiative and would establish a cap for prescription drug co-pay costs. “Even if you weren’t able to attend Legislative Affairs Day, you can still support Wisconsin’s affordable prescription drugs initiative,” said Maxwell. She added, “An important first step is to sign up for Action Alerts.” (See the adjacent box for details.) More information about Wisconsin’s affordable prescriptions initiative will be posted at wisMS.org.
Sign up to Receive Action Alerts The Wisconsin Chapter has 2,149 activists – that’s up 31.5 percent from March 2009. Throughout the United States there are 127,168 MS activists. In order to keep moving forward on issues that matter most to people with MS, we need your voice. You can become an MS activist simply by signing up to receive Action Alerts from the National MS Society. Action Alert e-mails will keep you apprised of federal policies and government programs that impact people with MS and their families. It’s easy to sign up. E-mail georgia.maxwell@ wisMS.org or kim.kinner@wisMS.org; or call 262-369-4400 or 800-242-3358. TOLL FREE NUMBER 1 800 242 3358
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Family Fun Also Part of Weekend
MS Summit Provides Helpful Information, Connections By Alison Wisneski
The 6th Annual MS Summit will be held May 21-22 at the Kalahari Resort and Conference Center in Wisconsin Dells. Presented by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society-Wisconsin Chapter, for the first time in the event’s history the MS Summit will welcome Minnesota Chapter residents. And while attendees from Wisconsin and Minnesota may differ in their opinions about a particular NFL quarterback, it is anticipated everyone will agree that this year’s MS Summit is the most educational and enjoyable ever. Kicking off the MS Summit on Friday, May 21 with a 7:30 p.m. keynote address is Dr. Julie Bobholz, PhD, Associate Clinical Professor of Neurology at the Medical College of Wisconsin. Dr. Bobholz is a neuropsychologist who works with MS patients and has written extensively on MS and cognition. She will speak about MS and emotional wellness. The closing keynote presentation will be made by Dr. Colleen Hayes, PhD, of the University of Wisconsin-Madison on Saturday, May 22 at 11:45 a.m. Dr. Hayes will speak about her Society-funded research on vitamin D and MS. In a recent interview, Dr. Hayes said, “Studies have suggested that vitamin D is beneficial for preventing In addition to presentations, infections, autoimmune MS Summit attendees can diseases, cancers and visit vendors cardiovascular diseases. No one should be without these health benefits.” Of course in between these two exciting presentations, MS Summit attendees will have the opportunity to visit vendor booths, attend break-out sessions and network. Saturday’s program will even
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include a sunrise chair yoga class – a light, peaceful activity designed to get the body moving and mentally prepare participants for the exciting day ahead. The Wisconsin Dells setting also provides plenty of opportunity for family fun. MS Summit room packages at the Kalahari include four passes to the resort’s indoor water park – billed as Wisconsin’s largest. Those staying at the Kalahari will also receive discounted admission
to the resort’s theme park as well as reduced pricing on a Sunday buffet. Parents may also enroll their children ages 5 to 12 in a Kalahari kids program on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The fee is $5 per child. Visit wisMS.org to register for the MS Summit or call 800-242-3358 for information. Registration info: Go to wisMS.org to register for the free MS Summit program. Room reservations should be made directly with Kalahari by calling 877.253.5466 and requesting the National MS Society room block, or Group ID 11765. Room reservations can also be made online by accessing Kalahari through our website, wisMS.org. Kalahari Room Packages: Reduced room rate is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Make your reservations early to secure special discounted pricing. Alison Wisneski is a Wisconsin Chapter communications intern and a UW-Whitewater journalism major who will graduate in May 2010.
‘Our Culver’s Family is Affected by MS’ Schedule of events:
Friday, May 21 5:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. – Welcome reception/check-in/ exhibit booths open 7:30 p.m. - 8:15 p.m. – Keynote speech: Dr. Julie Bobholz Saturday, May 22 7:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Registration/check-in 7:00 a.m. - 7:45 a.m. – Chair yoga class 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Complimentary breakfast buffet 7:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. – Exhibit booths open 9:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. – Kalahari children’s activities ($5 per child) 9:15 a.m. - 10:15 a.m. – Breakout Session 1 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. – Breakout Session 2 11:45 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. – Keynote speech: Dr. Colleen Hayes 12:30 p.m. – MS Summit concludes Breakout session topics: • Relationship Matters (repeated): Kristin Koepke MA, LPC, ART-BC, psychotherapist and art therapist. Designed for spouse/partner attendees. Teaches MS management in a relationship. • Medicare/Medicaid 101 (repeated): Tamara Carey, CPC. This session gives an in-depth evaluation of Medicare and Medicaid. • Skills for the Job of Living (repeated): Kathy Wolf, OTR & Tanya Riegel, OTR. Learn real-life management of daily activities along with tips for dealing with the unpredictability of MS. • Proper Nutrition and Vitamins for MS (repeated): Sara Beno-Chambers, MSN, FNP, MSCN. Secure basic knowledge of diet and nutrition plus an overview of complimentary and alternative therapies important to MS management. • Research 101/Clinical Trials (NOT repeated): Jim Turk, M.S. – Curious about taking part in clinical trials? Learn firsthand what you’ll need to know. • Accessing Resources Panel Discussion (NOT repeated): Experts will answer questions about resources available to you and your loved ones.
Sheboygan Culver’s Conducts Successful Pin-Up Program When he was first approached by the Wisconsin Chapter to conduct an MS Pin-Up program in 2009, Ken Horkan – owner of two Sheboygan-area Culver’s locations – admitted he didn’t know a whole lot about multiple sclerosis. That soon changed. First, Horkan discovered that one of his employees had a personal connection to MS. Next, when he attended Walk MS, Horkan saw “a whole lot of our daily customers. I realized our Culver’s family was affected by MS.” Horkan added, “When I learned that an employee’s mother had MS, I decided to give the Pin-Up program a whirl.” The employee’s goal was to get everyone behind the program. “I’m proud of our staff. They raised the bar and came up with personal goals on how many Pin-Ups they were going to sell. They knew that one of our team members was involved in this cause, and that knowledge pushed them to do more.” According to Horkan, selling Pin-Ups is a very simple way to support the MS movement. “Customers would see the Pin-Ups and say, ‘I’ll buy one,’” said Horkan. “It was amazing to hear how many of our Culver’s customers have a personal connection to MS.” That fact really hit home when Horkan attended the 2009 Walk MS in Sheboygan. “I had never personally been to Walk MS before last year. It was a real eye opener. I saw a lot of our daily guests.” Horkan continued, “You don’t notice people talking about MS until you get involved – and then you hear the stories.” Last year the Culver’s of Sheboygan restaurants sold MS Pin-Ups for Walk MS, MS Awareness Week and Challenge Walk and raised $2,500. With all that he now knows about MS, Horkan is selling Pin-Ups again in 2010.
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“Dur i n g a l o n g s tr e tch o f r i di n g a l on e and wondering why I ride, I looked up an d s aw a s i g n al o n g the r o adsid e that read, “Thanks for riding. I have MS.” I looked down the long driveway and a woman was waving to me. T hi s i s w hy I r i de .” Tr i ci a Pe r k i n s , bi k e par ti ci pan t 4 y ea r s Te am : M G &E Po w e r Pe ddl e r s
Presented by your Milwaukee and Madison Area TOYOTA Dealers: Andrew • Don Jacobs • Gentile • Heiser • Hesser • Jack Safro • Jon Lancaster • Kenosha • Ruda • Russ Darrow • Smart • Wilde
Pewaukee to Whitewater to Madison 62.5, 75 and 100 mile options each day August 7-8, 2010 bikeMSwisconsin.org
“I know the biggest reason I ride is my daughter, who has MS. The Saturday night program of each ride is still as emotional as the first one. I leave thinking, “How can I do better?” Maybe next year will be the year for a miracle.” Barbara Lenz, bike par ticipant 10 years Team Captain: BIBS “ Tw o t h in g s m a k e B ik e MS s t a n d o ut : t he ro ut e a n d t h e f ull s up p o r t t h a t is in p la ce f or ev ery t urn o f t h e w h eel. I ra t e t h e s up por t a s b ein g a s c lo s e t o p erf ec t a s c a n b e .” J o e H o lla n d , b ik e p a r t ic ip a n t 1 7 y ears Team : D am N um b B uMS
“Raising money and riding every year is my w and the problems MS presents for her. She h together. My daughter, my son and my best fr Tom Magnus, bike p Team: Fast Eddy’s “We
“I ride because I know that Society-funded research has had an extremely positive impact on the lives of many with MS, and I could not get past the first weekend in August without feeling the need to help those with MS.” Dennis A. Christiansen, bike par ticipant 12 years Team Captain: SPROCKET ROCKETS
An unforgettable ride. An unbeatab
“The firs t y e a r I r o d e , a y o u n g l a d a b o u t 1 6 r o d e b e side me for a f e w m i l e s . I a s k e d h i m w h y h e w a s d o i n g t h e ride. He said, “ M y m o m h a s M S a n d t h i s i s o n e t h i n g t h a t I can do f o r her. S he d oe s s o m u ch f o r m e. ” W h a t a g r ea t k i d.” Phy l Eri c k s on, bik e pa r ticip a n t 6 y ea r s Te am : K a th y ’s K a u s e
way to show my wife, Eddy, I care about her has had MS for 20 years and we ride tandem riend all ride with us. What could be better?” par ticipant 7 years e don’t tread lightly” “W he n I w a l k u p o n th e s t a g e Sa t urd a y n ig h t a n d s ee a ll t h e people with M S tha t s u r r o u nd m e, I k n o w I am n o t a lo n e in t h is f ig h t . An d t o be u p o n tha t s ta ge l o o k in g o ut a t a ll t h e p eo p le w h o d o n o t h ave M S , bu t w ho a r e r i di ng b ec a us e o f a n d f o r y o u, it is a s a c red f eel i n g.” J e s s i c a He n d rik s en , b ik e p a r t ic ip a n t 2 y ea rs Te am : J es s ’s MS Fig h t in g Ped a l P us h ers
“A s l ong as I am able to ride an d g i v e b a c k , I w i l l . I wi ll c ont inue to JOIN THE M OVEM ENT.” Cyndi Cahill, bike par tici pan t 9 y e ar s Team C ap tain: Wauke sha Y - De r s
ble destination. A world free of MS.
Personal Connections Drive Local Toyota Dealers to Join the Movement This isn’t your typical sponsorship. True, there is an important financial component that helps guarantee the success of Bike MS. But the Milwaukee and Madison Area Toyota Dealers’ sponsorship of Bike MS runs deeper. That’s because the relationship is personal. It’s personal because a neighbor of a Wilde Toyota employee has MS. It’s personal because a close friend of a Lancaster Toyota employee has MS. And it’s personal because the owners of Hesser Toyota have a family member who has MS. “Among the Milwaukee and Madison area Toyota dealers; we have family members, friends, employees and customers who have MS,” explained Pat Donahue, vice president of Wilde Toyota in West Allis and speaking on behalf of the dealer group. And that’s why, Donahue said, for almost 10 years one or more of the dealers has supported the National MS Society-Wisconsin Chapter. “It’s important to us to help create awareness for MS,” said Donahue, “and to support MS research.” That all changed four years ago. Because beginning in 2006, and for the first time in their history Milwaukee and Madison area Toyota dealers came together to jointly sponsor Bike MS. According to Donahue, the National MS Society is the only cause the Toyota dealers collectively support. “What was rooted in personal relationships,” explained Donahue, “has grown into a major sponsorship.” Now known as Bike MS: TOYOTA Best Dam Bike Ride, Donahue added that the sponsorship is also in keeping with Toyota’s culture. “At its core,” said Donahue, “Toyota is about people.” And in the case of the TOYOTA Best Dam Bike Ride, it’s also about creating a world free of MS.
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Participants Receive Free Admission
August 14 is MS Volunteer Day at Wisconsin State Fair Last year more than 80 Wisconsin Chapter volunteers headed to the Wisconsin State Fair and, in exchange for free fair admission, filled a variety of unique jobs – including “crowd control” for the famous racing pigs. This same volunteer opportunity is available at the Wisconsin State Fair on Saturday, August 14. In exchange for volunteering to work at the Wisconsin State Fair for an approximate four-hour shift, participants will receive free admission on August 14 and free parking. Volunteers must be at least 14 years old.
Connie, left, and Diane Plier provided “crowd control” for the famous racing pigs as part of the 2009 Wisconsin State Fair MS Volunteer Day. If you are interested in participating, please contact Kristin Raeber at 262-369-7165 or e-mail kristin.raeber@wisMS.org. Sample Volunteer Assignments Most positions are four hours in duration. • Transit Greeters: Greet Fair attendees as they depart buses • Ticket Takers: Scan tickets at entry gates • Racing Pigs: Assist with crowd control • Central Mall Helpers: Assist with special events • Coliseum: Keep aisles clear during judging • Band walkers: Lead entertainment groups to stages
Dr. Ian Duncan Drives Fundraiser
Birkie Skiers for Cures Program Features Cool, Collectible Pin For the second year in a row, the American Birkebeiner designated the National MS Society as the beneficiary of its Birkie Skiers for Cures fundraising program. And also for the second year in a row, Dr. Ian Duncan championed the program’s success. Dr. Duncan is a Society-funded Promise: 2010 researcher at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and also an avid participant in Bike MS as well as the American Birkebeiner. Organizers of the American Birkebeiner, North America’s largest cross county ski marathon, reported that the 2010 event set a record with more than 10,200 participants. The Birkie Skiers for Cures program generated more than $50,000 through sales of collectible pins. This puts the two-year fundraising total for the Birkie Skiers for Cures program at more than $155,000. The American Birkebeiner was held February 25-27 in Cable and Dr. Ian Duncan is a longtime American Hayward, Wisconsin. A small supply of Skiers for Cures pins is still available. Birkebeiner particpant and premier To purchase yours, email amanda.menominee@wisMS.org. MS researcher.
27th Annual MS Snowmobile Tour Attracts more than 100
Wabeno Weekend Warms Hearts, Despite Deep Freeze Temperatures may have dipped below zero, but spirits remained high at the 27th Annual MS Snowmobile Tour. Held January 28-31 in Wabeno, Wisconsin, the 2010 event attracted more than 100 riders, volunteers and supportive fans. Together with presenting sponsor Forest County Potawatomi Foundation and sponsorships from the Association of Wisconsin Snowmobile Clubs (AWSC), Rockford Silk Screen Process, Inc. and EMD Serono; the group has raised nearly $225,000 of the $235,000 goal. Rick Romenesko topped the list of Snowmobile Tour fundraisers for the fifth year in a row. He generated $35,000 bringing his 15-year total contribution to $212,121. The Fox Award, honoring hard work and dedication toward the Scott Smith accepts the Garland Award, named Society’s mission, was presented to Monika Iverson. Scott Smith for Ralph and Joyce Garland – former Trail Master received the Garland Award in recognition of his integral role in and Trail Mistress of the MS Snowmobile Tour. planning and promoting the MS Snowmobile Tour.
PRESENTING SPONSOR
SUPPORTING SPONSORS
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Are You Ready to Get Dirty for a Good Cause?
Wacky MS Mud Run Coming to Dresser, Wisconsin You’ll never get this dirty for anything this good! The MS Mud Run is coming to Dresser, Wisconsin Saturday, September 11 – and you’re invited to participate. MS Mud Run is a 10K race (approximately 6 miles) through a military-style obstacle course made of mud. Teams of five compete in the Co-ed, Corporate, Uniformed Services, All Male or All Female divisions. You can also run as an individual or team of two. MS Mud Run attracts people of all skill levels and is the fastest-growing adventure race in the country. The Jacksonville Chapter of the National MS Society launched the event in 2009 with 900 participants. This year Jacksonville’s MS Mud Run attracted more than 2,800 participants and raised $400,000. Based on Jacksonville’s success, the MS Mud Run is being expanded to four national markets. The MS Mud Run will be held at the Trollhaugen Ski and Snowboard Resort in Dresser – which is located in Polk County and approximately 50 miles from Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota.
The MS Mud Run will be held September 11, 2010 at the Trollhaugen Ski Resort in Dresser. Whether you run in the mud or watch contestants slip, slide and slosh their way to victory; the MS Mud Run is a unique experience you won’t want to miss. Registration is $40-$60, and a minimum fundraising pledge of $100 per person is required. For more details, visit wisMS.org, e-mail info@wisMS.org or call 800-242-3358.
MS College Scholarship Award Winners will also be Recognized
Dr. Hayes, Lori Schneider to Address MS Luncheon Attendees Stories of perseverance will permeate the 2010 MS Luncheons scheduled for June 15 at The Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee and June 16 at the Marriott West in Madison. Featured speakers Dr. Colleen Hayes, a Society-funded Wisconsin researcher; and Lori Schneider, a Wisconsin resident and the first person with MS to summit Mt. Everest; will provide insights into the determination that has allowed each to maintain intense focus on seemingly insurmountable challenges. Dr. Hayes, PhD, is a professor and researcher at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She has studied vitamin D and multiple sclerosis for nearly 20 years. In 2009 she received her fifth research award from the National MS Society – a $485,469 three-year grant to continue to explore how vitamin D may influence MS. “Studies have suggested that vitamin D is beneficial for preventing infections, autoimmune disease, cancer and cardiovascular diseases,” said Dr. Hayes. “No one
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should be without these health benefits.” While Dr. Hayes was working in the laboratory to unlock the mysteries of MS, Schneider was tackling the Seven Summits – the highest points on each of the seven continents. In May 2009 she stood atop Mt. Everest and became the first person in the world with MS to achieve this remarkable feat. She is also a member of an elite group of about 250 people (and the only one with MS), who have conquered the Seven Summits. Said Schneider, “After my diagnosis, MS was my mountain to climb. Climbing mountains has helped me move beyond the fear.” Also at the MS Luncheons, the Wisconsin Chapter’s MS College Scholarship award winners will be recognized. All guests must register in advance and pay the minimum donation of $100. Tables are available for $1,000. Make your reservation today by contacting the Wisconsin Chapter at 800-242-3358.
Fundraising Reception Held in La Crosse
Golden Circle Individual Giving Campaign Tops $260,000 By Denise Jendusa
In the fall of 2009, the National MS Societymonthly conference Wisconsin Chapter launched Golden Circle, the Society’s calls, lab tours with new individual giving campaign committed to the internationallycause, care and cure of MS. The campaign was created renowned scientists, to encourage donations and recognize the significant invitations to exclusive support of individuals who make a personal annual gift local and national events of $1,000 or more to move the mission forward. The and the opportunity campaign’s overall goal is to increase individual nonto connect with other event giving through a variety of cultivation activities Golden Circle members including private receptions – passionate people hosted by leadership donors who want do something who engage their friends and about MS now. business associates to join the “I ask for your help Golden Circle movement. After now because promising launching in the fall of 2009, research risks being the Wisconsin Chapter’s Golden stopped for the lack of Circle program has already funding and families From left, Michael and Kelly generated more than $260,000 face the possibility of Sigman hosted a La Crosse in donations. fundraiser featuring acclaimed reductions in programs On March 21, Michael and Kelly Sigman hosted a author, Wisconsin resident, and and services. Their need Golden Circle reception in their hometown of La Crosse, MS advocate, Jeffrey Gingold. is great and times are Wisconsin. The Sigmans are leaders in community not,” explained Michael philanthropic projects and Michael also serves as an Sigman to his guests. He continued, “I must be bold if MS Ambassador and Walk MS Committee Chair. I am to ask for your help to fund the cure. Your gift and Attended by 23 guests, the Sigman’s private reception support would mean that someday friends like mine will featured Dr. Loren Rolak; a neurologist, researcher and never hear the words, ‘Your child has MS.’ Please join founder of the Marshfield me ... working together Clinic’s Multiple Sclerosis with passion and purpose Center, who spoke about to create what years ago was exciting advances in MS only a hope … a world free research. Internationallyof MS.” acclaimed author and MS For more information advocate Jeffrey Gingold about joining the Golden spoke about the effects Circle, visit wisMS.org or of MS on cognition and call 800-242-3358. how donors can become Denise Jendusa is the Wisconsin more involved through Chapter’s Vice President of Major activism and volunteer Gift Development. She can be engagement. Reception reached at 262-369-7166 or guests also learned that e-mail denise.jendusa@wisMS.org. Golden Circle benefits include access to breaking Attending the Golden Circle reception in La Crosse research news, invitations were, from left, Corey and Stacey Sjoquist, Randy Eddy, Sr. to research briefings, and Bill Hoel. TOLL FREE NUMBER 1 800 242 3358
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SSA’s Interpretation of ‘Gainful Activity’ Makes it Tougher for Self-Employed to Secure Disability Designation By Attorney Thomas E. Bush
The Social Security Administration (SSA) makes Consider this example. it more difficult for self-employed people to be found A woman with MS fatigue stops working at her regular disabled than it does for employees – those who have full time office job and sets up an on-line business at worked only for someone else. SSA uses a different home that allows her to work when she is able. She definition of “substantial gainful activity” for selfnever earns as much as the substantial gainful activity employed people, which affects whether a job is level that is used for employees, but she spends a lot of considered to be “past relevant work.” People who do not time working every week to try to make her business meet SSA’s medical standards for disability (called the successful. After two years, she gives up and applies for “Listing of Impairments”) must show that they cannot disability benefits. Her condition has not worsened. perform past relevant work – any job done in the SSA values her past 15 years, which lasted long enough to learn self-employment work by to do it and was “substantial gainful activity.” figuring out how much she Substantial gainful activity for employees is would have had to pay an determined simply by looking at the amount of employee to put in the hours income earned per month. Until the end of the she worked and concludes that 1990s, $500 per month was substantial gainful it is substantial gainful activity activity. Since then, the substantial gainful and therefore “past relevant activity amount has gone up every year to the work.” Although SSA finds point where in 2010 it is $1,000 per month. that she cannot do her regular Under this rule, part-time jobs often do not full time office job, it finds that count as past relevant work for employees. she remains capable of doing SSA uses the same substantial gainful activity the self-employment job and is amount when it considers whether a selftherefore not disabled. Wisconsin’s Tom Bush shares SSDI employed person’s job qualifies as “past relevant expertise gleaned over 20 years. This is an unfair result. work.” But for a self-employed person, this is She needs to hire a lawyer to only part of the test. SSA also looks at the self-employed argue with SSA about whether this self employment person’s work activities and their value to the business. really was “substantial gainful activity.” SSA says that many self-employed people, especially Tom Bush is the preeminent expert on SSDI in Southeastern when they are building their businesses, actually lose Wisconsin. A Wisconsin Chapter volunteer for 20 years, in 2008 Tom money. So looking only at the amount of income for was inducted into the National MS Society’s Volunteer Hall of Fame. self-employed people may not accurately reflect the true Tom’s web site is www.tebush.com. value of their work.
Order Flowers for Mom, MS Society Receives $10 Visit the Wisconsin Chapter’s website, wisMS.org, and click on the ProFlowers special offer. Order any bouquet starting at just $19.99, and $10 of your order will be donated to the MS Society – plus you’ll receive a free vase. ProFlowers features a variety of guaranteed fresh flowers including Spring Blooms, One Dozen Assorted Roses and 15 Assorted Tulips – each a terrific choice for mom.
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Grant Support Powers MS Research, Services, Programs The Wisconsin Chapter extends its sincere gratitude to the following organizations for grants awarded January 1, 2010 through March 31, 2010. For information contact Cindy Yomantas at 262-369-4431 or e-mail cindy.yomantas@wisMS.org. • $80,000 from the Christian Stewardship Foundation for research • $16,500 from EMD Serono for special events • $15,000 from the David V. Uihlein Foundation for research • $10,000 from EMD Serono for educational programs • $10,000 from Teva Neuroscience for special events • $8,000 from Biogen Idec for special events • $5,500 from Biogen Idec for educational programs
• $5,212 from Teva Neuroscience for educational programs • $5,000 from the Reiman Foundation for research • $5,000 from the Cudahy Foundation for research • $2,000 from the Gordon Henke Family Foundation for scholarships • $500 from the Fleck Foundation for research • $100 from the Jewish Community Foundation – Diane & Leonard Goldstein Family Fund
Group Selects Presidential Award Winners
Jacobson Appointed to National Scholarship Committee Jane Jacobson has been appointed to serve Wisconsin resident on the National MS Society’s Scholarship Review Laura Hermanns Committee. A retired teacher and resident of Elm received the Joyce Grove, Wisconsin, Jacobson will participate with Nelson Presidential 14 other appointees representing Minnesota, Scholarship in 2008 Alabama, Massachusetts, Illinois, Florida, – the first from the Georgia and Texas. Badger State to be The Scholarship Review Committee assists so honored. in the selection of approximately 10 top scholars In addition to from around the country who receive four-year this appointment, awards directly from the National MS Society. Jacobson is an Chapters also present awards to a separate slate MS Community of scholarship winners. The Wisconsin Chapter’s Ambassador for the 2010 scholarship winners will be announced Wisconsin Chapter in May and recognized at the MS Luncheon in and serves on the Milwaukee on June 15 and in Madison on MS Luncheon June 16. Committee. Jane Jacobson and her husband, Doug, The two most prestigious awards being After completing participated in the 2009 Challenge Walk MS selected by Jacobson and the Scholarship the three-day, in Door County. They plan to walk again in Review Committee are the Joyce Nelson 50-mile walk last 2010. Presidential Scholarship, named for the current year; Jacobson National MS Society President and CEO; and the and her husband, Doug, have already signed up for General Mike Dugan, USAF, Presidential Award, named the 2010 Challenge Walk MS in Door County, in honor of the Society’s past president and CEO. September 24-26. TOLL FREE NUMBER 1 800 242 3358
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20s/30s Group is Generation Optimistic
Networking Group Launches New Name, New Markets Only a few months short of their two-year anniversary, the Wisconsin Chapter’s networking group for young adults with MS is launching a new name, new logo and new markets. Formerly 20s/30s Celebrate Life!, the networking group for individuals in their 20s and 30s and diagnosed with MS is now called Generation Optimistic. Along with the new name and new logo, the “GO” group is also expanding to two new markets: Appleton and Wausau. These compliment existing Generation Optimistic groups in Madison and Milwaukee. While approximately 60 individuals currently participate in Generation Optimistic activities, that number is expected to increase with the addition of the new markets and a new, robust annual calendar of events. Discussion topics for upcoming sessions range from “What’s new in research?” to “Pregnancy
and family planning with MS.” Noted neurologists including Dr. Christopher Luzzio and Dr. John Fleming from the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Dr. Merle Teetzen from the Aurora Baycare MS Clinic, Dr. Douglas Woo from Froedtert and the Medical College and Dr. Loren Rolak from the Marshfield Clinic will lead several of the discussions. “I was diagnosed with MS in May 2009, and joined the 20s/30s group shortly thereafter,” said Lisa Muxworthy, who participates in Milwaukee activities. “It has been a relief to find others just like me and to spend time with such a positive group of people.” For more information about Generation Optimistic, visit wisMS.org or call 800-242-3358 or e-mail meghan.schnabl@wisms.org. Generation Optimistic is sponsored by EMD Serono and Biogen Idec.
Get to Know Wisconsin’s Society-Funded Reseachers Michael Carrithers, M.D., Ph.D is an associate professor at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health and treats patients at the University Hospital and Clinics MS Clinic and the William S. Middleton Veterans Hospital. Dr. Carrithers is studying how immune cells move through the body. He currently has a $306,292 grant from the National MS Society. Shing-yan (Bill) Chiu, Ph.D. is a professor at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health. He is studying the movement of mitochondria, which generate energy for the myelinated axons (nerve fibers). Chiu’s research is supported by a $568,425 grant from the National MS Society. Ian Duncan, BVMS, Ph.D., from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, has a $3.4 million grant from the National MS Society as part of the Promise: 2010 Nervous System Repair and Protection Initiative. One of the goals of his research is to repair the myelin sheets that are damaged in MS. John Fleming, M.D, is a professor at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health and the director of the MS Clinic at the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics. Dr. Fleming has a $567,110 grant from the National MS Society and is studying the ingestion of worm eggs to change the immune response in patients with MS. Colleen Hayes, Ph.D, a professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, is researching vitamin D’s role in MS with a $485,469 grant from the National MS Society. There are higher incidences of MS further from the equator where the exposure to sunlight, and vitamin D, is lower. Alexander Ng, Ph.D, from Marquette University, has a $44,000 grant from the National MS Society, to study the factors that affect bone strength in people with MS. He is trying to find the reasons behind the high risk of decreased bone mineral density (BMD) in people with MS.
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Two New Locations and Day Camp Added
MS Camp for Kids Options Expand, Include Minnesota ’s Camp Friendship The Wisconsin Chapter’s 8th Annual MS Camp for Kids program is expanding in 2010 to provide more opportunities for more children affected by MS to have fun, share exciting adventures and build friendships. Applications are required and must be submitted by May 24 for Minnesota’s Camp Friendship and May 31 for Wisconsin’s Minnikani and Lakotah camps. While the Wisconsin Chapter will cover camp fees for those whose applications are accepted, families must secure their own transportation to the camp locations. To secure a camp application, please contact Jeremy Otte at 262-369-4400 or 800-242-3358 or e-mail jeremy.otte@wisMS.org. Day Camp The YMCA’s Camp Minikani in Hubertus, Wisconsin offers day camp for children age 8 to 13 years old. Camp sessions are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and run June 21 to August 7. For more information about Camp Minikani visit Minikani.org. Overnight Camps The YMCA’s Camp Minikani in Hubertus, Wisconsin offers one-week overnight sessions starting June 20 and concluding August 8. The sessions are open to children ages 8-13. Children ages 13-14 participate in Camp Minikani’s two-week Explorers program, which provides additional experiences such as backpacking, tent camping and canoeing. A new option this year, children ages 14-15 who have already participated in the Explorers program may sign up for the two-week Masters Explorers camp. More details about overnight camp can be found at Minikani.org. Camp Lakotah in Waupaca, Wisconsin provides one-week overnight sessions for children ages 8-15. Three sessions will be held in 2010, beginning July 11 and concluding July 31. Camp Friendship in Annandale, Minnesota (60 miles northwest of the Twin Cities) is open to youth who have completed the third grade up to age 18. Teens age 18 have the option to attend as a camper or apply to be a counselor in training. In addition to traditional experiences, Camp Friendship provides MS education sessions. More information about Camp Friendship is available at Friendshipventures.org. If you’d like to make a donation to support the MS Summer Camp program, please contact Denise Jendusa at 262-369-7166 or e-mail denise.jendusa@wisMS.org. TOLL FREE NUMBER 1 800 242 3358
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Wisconsin Chapter News and Notes
This is How We Move It
Subscribe to the Challenge Walk MS Blog. Get the inside scoop on this life-changing event held in beautiful Door County when you subscribe to the Challenge Walk MS blog. Regular contributors and Challenge Walk MS veterans, Mike and Jenny Egan of Port Washington, touch on all facets of the three day, 50 mile event. Subscribe today by visiting challengewalkmsdoorcounty.blogspot.com/. MS Day at the Zoo is September 18. Mark your calendar for MS Day at the Milwaukee County Zoo. You’ll find details and registration information at the Wisconsin Chapter’s website, wisMS.org. Find us on Facebook. You can sign-up to become a fan of the National MS Society-Wisconsin Chapter on Facebook. It’s a great way to stay connected to the Wisconsin Chapter’s programs and services. Wisconsin Chapter Calendar of Clinic Visits. Representatives of the Wisconsin Chapter regularly visit several of the organization’s official clinics. During these visits, Chapter staff is available to meet confidentially and answer questions plus share informative literature. The current schedule of clinic visits is as follows: • Aurora Baycare MS Clinic, Green Bay: 4th Friday of every month. • UW Hospital and Clinics Neurology/MS Clinic, Madison: 4th Wednesday of each month. • Marshfield Clinic MS Center, Marshfield: 3rd Tuesday of every month. • Regional Multiple Sclerosis Center, St. Luke’s Medical Center, Milwaukee: 2nd Thursday and 4th Monday of each month. • ProHealth Care Neuroscience Center, Waukesha Memorial Hospital: 4th Tuesday of each month. Call an MS Navigator Today. We’re here to help you navigate the challenges of MS with a personalized response to your unique needs during standard business hours: Monday-Friday. Please call 800-344-4867 for personalized service, up-to-date information and practical resources and referrals.
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Circle of Hope Support Groups. Wisconsin has more than 50 support groups and new groups sprout up regularly. For a complete listing including meeting dates, please visit wisMS.org or call toll-free in Wisconsin 800-242-3358. Sign Up for the Pick ‘n Save We Care Program. A percentage of your grocery purchases will be donated to the Wisconsin Chapter by Roundy’s when you join the We Care program at any of the company’s participating Pick ‘n Save, Copps or Rainbow stores. The Wisconsin Chapter number is 532300. Assistive Technology Resource Fair Coming to Green Bay. An Assistive Technology Resource Fair will be held May 13 at the Lambeau Field Atrium, 1265 Lombardi Avenue, in Green Bay from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event is being presented by Options for Independent Living and is free and open to the public. A variety of exhibitors will display the most recent adaptive equipment and assistive technology for people with disabilities. There will also be information on recreation, travel, home modifications and more. Seminars on related topics will be held throughout the day. Registration for seminars is recommended but not required. Information is available at www.optionsil.com or by calling Sandy Popp at Options for Independent Living 1-888-465-1515 ext. 179.
Where Do the Dollars Go? Management and General Fundraising
Research and Services
MS Awareness Week Featured Bucks Relationship Matters Seminar Slated for Wausau. You and your spouse or partner are invited to attend the Relationship Matters seminar on Saturday, May 8 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites in Rothschild, WI. The program covers such topics as effective communication strategies, problem-solving techniques and how to work as a team to manage MS. Continental breakfast and lunch will be provided, and each couple attending receives a $50 American Express gift check. Space is limited. Register at wisMS.org by Monday, May 3.
As part of MS Day at the Milwaukee Bucks on March 14, Team Captain Andrew Bogut, left, received the game ball from Chuck Scherwinski, center, and his son Andy Scherwinski. Chuck is the top fundraiser for Bike MS: Best Dam Bike Ride and Andy is captain of Chuck’s Athletic Supporters, one of the event’s top bike teams.
Wisconsin Chapter Calendar of Events Generation Optimistic Madison Meeting April 22
Cognitive Meltdown Seminar in Green Bay June 5
Make a Mark for MS Committee Meeting July 26
Challenge Walk MS: Door County September 24-26
Make a Mark for MS Committee Meeting April 26
Generation Optimistic Wausau Meeting June 10
Bike MS: Best Dam Bike Ride August 7-8
Make a Mark for MS Committee Meeting September 27
Generation Optimistic Milwaukee Meeting May 6
MS Luncheon Milwaukee June 15
Make a Mark for MS Committee Meeting August 23
Relationship Matters Seminar in Wausau May 8
MS Luncheon Madison June 16
Generation Optimistic Appleton Meeting September 2
Wisconsin Chapter Board of Trustees Meeting September 28
Generation Optimistic Appleton Meeting May 20
Wisconsin Chapter Board of Trustees Meeting June 22
MS Summit: Wisconsin Dells May 21-22
Make a Mark for MS Committee Meeting June 28
Make a Mark for MS Committee Meeting May 24
Generation Optimistic Madison Meeting July 15
MS Mud Run September 11
MS Day: Milwaukee County Zoo September 18 Generation Optimistic Milwaukee Meeting September 23
Generation Optimistic Wausau Meeting October 7 Make a Mark for MS Committee Meeting October 25 Please visit the wisMS.org Calendar of Events for the latest listing of Chapter activities and Community Events.
MS Connection is a publication of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society - Wisconsin Chapter. For information or to share story ideas, please call 262-369-4431. Editor: Cindy Yomantas, Art Director: Amy Malo
TOLL FREE NUMBER 1 800 242 3358
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The event will challenge you. The experience will change you.
Door County Challenge Walk MS 3 days. 50 miles. A world free of MS. September 24-26, 2010 challengewalkMSwi.org Photo Courtesy of DoorCounty.com/Door County Visitor Bureau