FALL 2012 SOUTH FLORIDA CHAPTER
MS CONNECTION NEWSLETTER
MS HEALTH FAIR & ANNUAL MEETING PAGE 2
INSIDE 08 THIS ISSUE
MS WALK 2012
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MS BIKE RIDE 2012
MS GALA LUNCHEON 2013
MS WOMEN’S RETREAT 2012
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2012 HEALTH FAIR & ANNUAL MEETING The National MS Society’s Health Fair and Annual Meeting will be held on October 13, 2012 at the Grille Event and Banquet Center in Downtown Fort Lauderdale 416 NE 1st Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301. The Health Fair will focus on MS research, education, interactive exhibits including free health screenings and community resources.
THE MS CONNECTION HAS CHANGED! NEW LOOK, SAME GREAT NEWSLETTER! CONNECT WITH US ONLINE: South Florida Chapter www.nationalMSsociety.org/fls
Email: office@fls.nmss.org Like us: facebook.com/ MS.southflorida Follow us: @nmsssfla Watch us: youtube.com/ MSsouthflorida
12:00 – 2:00 PM Registration, Information and Exhibitors: 1:00-1:45 PM Benefits of Tai Chi and MS Tony Garcia, instructor of Alliance Qi Gong Taiji, Inc. Gynecology Dr. Edouard Coupet, M.D. F.A.C.O.G., M.P.H.
Fort Lauderdale MS Center Disease 3:30-4:30 PM Ask The Doctor: Featured panel of leading doctors specializing in MS: MS Neurology: Brian Steingo, MD, Bertha Fonseca, MD and Leticia Tornes, MD Urology: Dawn Scarzella, MD Psychology: Irina Kerzhnerman, Ph.D.
1:45-2:30 PM Understanding The Maze of Social Security and Disability Lyle D. Lieberman, Lieberman 4:30 – 5:30 PM Annual Meeting, Election and Zagoria, P.A. of 2013 Board of Trustees, Resilience in MS Award Presentation, and hors Jennifer Smrtka, RN, MSN, d’oeuvres ANP-C, MSCN Free Admission 2:45-3:30 PM Entertainment Complimentary hors d’oeuvres Modifying Therapy and New Ages 16 & Older Treatments for Symptom Management RSVP is required: Call 1 800 Rebecca Radzivill, MS, FIGHT MS (800-344-4867) LMHC, CCRC Infinity or visit www.nmssfls.org by Clinical Research, LLC October 5, 2012.
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NATIONAL MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY Tel: (954) 731-4224 Fax: (954) 739-1398 South Florida Chapter 3201 West Commercial Blvd. Suite127 Ft Lauderdale, FL 33309 Chairman: Fred Zuckerman Vice Chairmen: Joey Epstein Ed Pozzuoli Secretary: Dianna Geronemus Treasurer: Richard Cascio Chapter President: Karen Dresbach Editor: Jennifer Carroll Information provided by the Society is based upon professional advice, published experience and expert opinion. Information provided in response to questions does not constitute therapeutic recommendations or prescriptions. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society recommends that all questions and information be discussed with a personal physician. The Society does not endorse products, services or manufacturers. Such names appear here solely because they are considered valuable information. The Society assumes no liability for the use or contents of any product or service mentioned. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society is dedicated to ending the devastating effects of MS. Š 2012 National Multiple Sclerosis Society, South Florida Chapter
NATIONAL MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY AFILLIATED MS CENTERS Fort Lauderdale MS Center Director: Brian Steingo, MD Tuesdays 9:00 am to 5:00 pm 572 East McNab Road Pompano Beach, FL 33060 (954) 738-1700 Neuroscience Consultants Comprehensive MS Center Founding Medical Director, Emeritus: Dr. Howard Zwibel, MD Director Clinical Affairs: Carlos Ramirez Calderon, MD Associate Medical Director: Bertha C. Fonseca, MD Mondays 8:30 am to 1:00 pm Thursdays 8:00 am to 3:30 pm 4601 Ponce de Leon Blvd. Ste. 100 Coral Gables, FL 33146 (786) 219-3145 South Broward MS Clinic Director: Islon Seliger, MD Thursdays 9:00 am to 5:00 pm 12596 Pines Blvd, Pembroke Pines, FL 33027 (954) 437-4000 University of Miami MS Center of Excellence Department of Neurology Miller School of Medicine Director of Clinical Neurology: Kottil W. Rammohan, MD 8:00 am to 5:00 pm 1150 NW 14 St, Miami, FL 33136 (305) 243-6732
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years and within 12 months of the date of their renewal, fill out Form HSMV 83039. Permit holders will not have to pay a renewal fee.
ADVOCACY
DISABLED PARKING PERMIT REQUIREMENTS CHANGE If you have a blue permanent disabled parking permit, you need to be aware of the new requirements advocated by the South Florida Chapter of the National MS Society and put in place by Florida lawmakers. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles will implement the new law. Effective Oct. 1, any person issued a blue permanent disabled parking permit must renew the permit every four years and, when doing so, provide a certificate of disability completed and signed by a certifying authority within the last 12 months. That means every blue disabled parking permit holder will, at least every four
In addition, effective July 1, if your blue permanent disabled parking permit is lost or stolen, a replacement will only be issued if you submit the same documentation required for renewals. The new law does not affect red temporary disabled parking permits, nor people who have disabled (or wheelchair) license plates. The legislation also directs DHSMV to collect calls reporting abuse of the permits. Calls should be placed to the DHSMV Customer Service Center at (850) 617-3803. The blue disabled parking permit with a current sticker must be visible from the front and rear of a motor vehicle. One side of the permit must display the applicant’s driver license number or state identification card number along with a warning the applicant must have such identification at all times while using the parking permit. Illegally obtaining or using a permit can result in the loss of the parking permit and carries the potential for criminal penalties as outlined in Florida Statute 320.0848. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles provides highway safety and security through excellence in service, education and enforcement. The Department is leading the way to a safer Florida through the efficient and professional execution of its
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core mission: the issuance of driver licenses, vehicle tags and titles and operation of the Florida Highway Patrol. To learn more about DHSMV and the services offered, visit www. flhsmv.gov or like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter at @FDHSMV. Join the Society’s new MS Connection online community and make meaningful connections when, where and how you want. Check out the new connected community at MSconnection.org today!
Knowledge Is Power is a six-week, free, athome educational program for people who are newly diagnosed. Mail or email formats. To register, call 1-800-344-4867, or visit www.nationalMSsociety.org/knowledge.
ALIE’S FUND FOR CHILDREN WITH MS Alie was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at the age of 14. She receives the utmost care and medications from her doctors to help slow the progression of her disease. Alie is living her life to the fullest while in college!
“HELPING TO ENSURE A BRIGHTER FUTURE FOR KIDS WITH MS.”
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society serves as a tremendous source of information and support to Alie and her family. Alie is inspired by the efforts of the many people who raise funds for a cure and the stories of children affected by the lack of money available for their future. Alie formed Alie’s Fund for Children with MS in order to provide funds to children ages 2-22 who live throughout the country with MS. The funds help defer medical and educational costs, counseling and other services to ensure a brighter future for those impacted with MS. If you are interested in applying for assistance from Alie’s Fund for Children with MS, please contact the Programs Department at 1 800 FIGHT MS; 954-731-4224. Documentation of your MS diagnosis and verification of age will be required.
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ADVOCACY
MS ACTIVISTS SUCCEED IN 2012 BY RENEE VANDLIK
Together on the frontline, the National MS Society and MS activists nationwide connect with decision makers, work with like-minded partners and create change to impact the greatest number of people possible. As a united MS Movement, we want to do something about MS now. Here are our 2012 federal and state successes that show what can be achieved by MS activists.
FEDERAL SUCCESSES MS activists… • Added an aggressive form of MS to qualify for the “Compassionate Allowances Initiative” at the Social Security Administration. This will allow people with MS who qualify to receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) quicker than the average applicant. • Established new federal funding avenues that have yielded over $20 million for MS research. • Introduced legislation that would allow Medicare Part D to cover off-label drugs for people living with MS. • Promoted awareness and importance of a wide range of caregiving initiatives for the
people who care for people with MS. This included advocating for increased funding for and reauthorization of the Lifespan Respite Care Program, which improves access to quality respite for family caregivers, and supporting the introduction of legislation to support Adult Day Achievement Centers. • Promoted increased awareness of MS on Capitol Hill by hosting legislative briefings and national recognition of MS Awareness Week. • Formed and continued to grow the first Congressional MS Caucus in the Senate and the House of Representatives. More than 25 percent of representatives in both chambers has shown their commitment to developing policy solutions for people with MS by joining the Caucus.
STATE AND COMMUNITY SUCCESSES • Several states across the United States addressed the cost of MS disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) through legislative action.
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provided utility coverage for people with medical conditions who would be adversely impacted by discontinuation of services. • Kansas, Missouri, Ohio and Virginia aim to create or preserve state income tax credits for accessible home modifications that maintain independence.
Louisiana and Texas contained the cost of DMTs during a contract period and require transparency in pricing. A Maine state law prohibits prescription drug pricing that exceeds the dollar amount for nonpreferred brand drugs, while Delaware made recommendations to limit increasing prescription drug costs. A Vermont state law will limit out-of-pocket prescription drug expenses, while Virginia is examining the issue. These actions build upon a 2010 New York law to prohibit co-insurance pricing for prescription drugs. Co-insurance pricing is a rapidly growing insurance practice that requires the consumer to pay a percentage of a medication’s cost, rather than a fixed co-payment. • Rhode Island secured 13 new accessible taxis to serve 17 communities. • New Hampshire, Illinois and Missouri strengthened accessible parking laws in various ways, including imposing fines for blocking access aisles and requiring more accessible parking spaces for vans. • Colorado,
Connecticut
and
Virginia
• New Jersey created an MS Task Force, charged with developing strategies to identify and address the unmet needs of people with MS in the state. • Missouri, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania and South Carolina offer state license plates with the MS logo to raise awareness of the disease. • State tax forms in Delaware, Louisiana, Missouri, Oklahoma and Wisconsin now offer a voluntary designation to benefit MS. To date, more than $1 million has been raised. • Illinois passed legislation to amend the Illinois Lottery Law and offer instant scratch-off tickets, so far raising more than $3.9 million for MS research. As MS activists, we want everyone on the frontline with us. To effect change in our area, join the MS Activist network at www. nationalMSsociety.org/advocacy or call us. Share your personal stories with us and policy makers to create understanding, engagement and action. Renee Vandlik is the Society’s director of State Government and Local Government Relations.
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mswalksouthflorida.org. The MS Walk team is also available to assist with fundraising efforts or questions at mswalk@fls.nmss.org or 954731-4224. We look forward to seeing all of our participants in 2013!
2012 MS WALK COMMITTEES EVENTS
OVER $800,000 RAISED AT 2012 MS WALK
Walk 2012 presented by
Join the movement became more than a statement for the thousands of walkers that participated in the 2012 UAIC MS Walk Presented by Pollo Campero in Aventura, Boca Raton, Coral Gables, Fort Lauderdale, Lee County, Naples and the Palm Beaches. Families, friends and co-workers came together in their communities to show that they wanted to do something about MS now! This united effort raised over $800,000 to continue the search for a cure and to provide programs and services for over 6,000 South Floridians living with MS. Thank you to our participants, volunteers and sponsors! We hope to continue this momentum by having you and your family and friends sign up for the 2013 MS Walk today! For more information about your local MS Walk, please visit
Aventura Hilda Alveraz Doug Bonds Estrella Mitrani Myrna Goldman Jane Matthews Joe Maya Diana Bustillo Boca Raton Mitchell Cohen Billie Cohen Gerry Cohen Barbara Glasser
Barbara Mena Luis Yepez Yari Burke Barbara Liebman Marlene Ruber Andrea Aghlaghanian
Jodi Rothman Sandy Segal Andrew Tharpe Al Witko
Coral Gables Vanessa Bedoya Paul Kluck Sophie Elortegui Melissa Lorenzo Maria Enriquez Jose Rivas Felix Jose Garcia-Tunon Jessica Silverman Bettina Gensollen Oliana Torres Ed Gross Adam Vega Fort Lauderdale Rick Andreassen Noreen Nejaz Mike Blatt Jennifer Rice Deb Giblin-Davis Lee County Sue Baxter-Arend Laura Crabtree Clint Baxter Cathy Kennedy
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Denise Baxter Tonya Emerson Fred Hixson Jackie Neff
Barbara Walthier Melissa Lorentson Marc Davis
Naples Sue Haberkorn
Ian Russell
Palm Beach Herbert Hartman Alexis Villwock Anna Carter Heather Paiva Molly Connell Iveth Vasquez-Thompson
MS WALK SPECIAL AWARDS Best Corporate Teams Team Miramar Aventura NCCI Boca Raton Neuroscience Coral Gables Florida Linen Fort Lauderdale MARC MS Angels Lee County McDonald & Osborne Naples The Legend Group The Palm Beaches Best Friends and Family Team Team William’s Island Aventura Team Alie Boca Raton Jodi’s Team Coral Gables Seanathon! Fort Lauderdale Team Elaine Davis Lee County Team B & P Naples After 6 For A Cure The Palm Beaches Team Anna Banana Virtual Walk Most Improved Team MS Crusaders Aventura Team Addison Boca Raton Jodi’s Team Coral Gables
Don’s Angels We Can McDonalds & Osburne After 6 for a Cure Best Rookie Team Team William’s Island Team Clare Kookie’s Dream Team Team Schick Team Elaine Davis Team Campbell Troop 22005 Betty’s “miniature” builders
Fort Lauderdale Lee County Naples The Palm Beaches Aventura Boca Raton Coral Gables Fort Lauderdale Lee County Naples The Palm Beaches
Best School Team Team Aces Aventura Barry University SSWA Coral Gables FGCU Cares Lee County Suncoast Community The Palm Beaches High School Computer Club
2013 MS WALK DATES Saturday, February 23 Lee County Naples Sunday, February 24 Fort Lauderdale The Palm Beaches Sunday, March 10 Boca Raton Sunday, March 17 Aventura Sunday, April 7 Coral Gables
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On behalf of the MS Bike team and staff we would like to thank all the participants who made the most of and joined together in raising awareness and funds to create a world free of MS!
2012 MS BIKE COMMITTEE EVENTS
ZIMMERMAN MS BIKE RIDE PRESENTED BY MACK CYCLE AND FITNESS
Ride 2012
presented by
The 2012 Zimmerman MS Bike Ride presented by Mack Cycle and Fitness was one of resiliency and tremendous dedication. Due to inclement weather, we were forced to cancel the first day of the ride. In probably our most challenging year, our riders, volunteers, fundraisers and sponsors showed their overwhelming dedication towards finding a cure for MS by raising nearly $1.3 million. The ride continued on day two, starting and ending at the Maroone Start/ Finish Village at Homestead-Miami Speedway. With a collective effort of improvisation and excellent planning, cyclists were able to enjoy a short yet challenging route through the South Miami Dade area.
Jason Swift Committee Chair
EttaDixon-Antonio Nurse Coordinator
Ron Abrams Rest Stop Coordinator
David Fariss Miami-Dade Police
Mike Blatt Start / Finish Coordinator Bob Bodner JP Facilitator Corey Bryan Monroe County Police Merritt Burrus Route Logistics Assistant David Carey Monroe County Police Michael Connor Truck Logistics Coordinator Ernesto Diaz Committee at Large
Diann Geronemus Scene Coordinator Matt Ginn HAM Coordinator Martel Givens Nurse Coordinator Gary Hicks SAG 1 Larry House SAG 2 Silvia Inman Start / Finish Coordinator Christy King JP Coordinator Julia Mayan Start / Finish Coordinator
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Javier Salinas Trucking Logistics Assistant Kevin Scanlon Net Control Alan Steel Bike Repair / Route Marking Claretha Timmons Rest Stop Assistant
Brandy Urbine JP Coordinator Dante Watson Trucking Logistics Assistant Dale Word JP Coordinator Brenda Zelman JP Assistant
TOP 25 TEAMS Bacardi $133,949 Mack Cycle and Fitness $113,394 Team Storm Riders $57,695 Team MS $55,675 zMotion $53,469 DHL Pedal For a Cure $50,381 G4S $30,740 Microsoft $27,140 Tar Peddlers/Solar Sprockets $24,662 Whole Foods Market $17,516 Cargill Cares $17,123 Enterprise Rent A Car $16,447 Bike America $14,576 Team Roux $14,234 General Mills $12,500 Team Holman $12,403 Mission Remission $12,242 CBRE Cares $11,624 Manny’s Fannies $11,239 Subway/IPC Bike Team $11,220 Hermanos $10,655 Team Tyco $10,830 Mako $10,963 Holy Rollers $10,320
For more information on the 2013 MS Bike Ride and to view our 2012 Club 151 members visit the MS Bike website at www.msbikeflorida.org or “Like” our facebook page at facebook.com/MS.southflorida
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TOP 5 5K CORAL GABLES RUN TEAM Team Paradise Team Daly Running and Smylein Team Kluck Team Sharon
EVENTS
MS 5K RUN & KIDS FUN RUN If you love to run, join the Run to Stop MS movement by participating in our 3rd Annual MS 5K Run & ¼ Mile Kids Fun Run at Merrick Park in Coral Gables on Sunday, April 7, 2013. There will be entertainment and fun for the kids at our MS Kids Fun Zone; so get your whole family involved. Registration for the 5K is $25 prior to race day and $35 day of the event. The ¼ Mile Kids Fun Run is $10 prior to race day and $15 day of. Don’t miss out and register now at www.runtostopmsflorida.org or call 1 800 Fight MS; 954-731-4224 for more information.
TOP 5 5K CORAL GABLES RUN INDIVIDUAL Robert Daly Meghan Kelly Santiago Escobar Joshua Searles Daniel Goodman
TOP 9 PARTICIPANTS FOR THE 2012 ING MIAMI MARATHON AND HALF MARATHON: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
David Schulman Stacey Schulman Carrie Schulman Dale Kotler Gregg Saffell Terry Duddy Karrie Griffiths Heather Geronemus Perla Bursztein
$12,571 $10,473 $10,250 $3,301 $1,960 $1,600 $1,305 $1,125 $1,116
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EVENTS
CBM OF AMERICA, INC. MS GOLF TOURNAMENT It’s no surprise that the 32nd annual CBM of America, Inc. MS Golf Tournament was once again a huge success! More than $80,000 was raised to support much needed local programs and services by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, South Florida Chapter. The pairing party and auction hosted by Smoke On the Water Cigar Bar in Weston got the golfers excited and set the tone for the next day. 144 golfers and 30 local celebrities gathered at the beautiful Boca Lago Country Club in their bold and bright Loudmouth shorts ready to tee off and enjoy a little friendly competition while on the course. Participants also indulged in several appetizers and beverages
2012 FIRST PLACE TEAM throughout the tournament provided by Hooters, Jersey Mikes, Exquisite Catering, Celsius, Boar’s Head, and Slainte Irish Pub. As always, the day came to an end with a delicious buffet lunch, awards ceremony and a much anticipated silent auction and raffle. Surrounded by fellow players and local sports celebrities, this year’s first place MS Golf Tournament trophy was proudly presented to Bruce Simonson, Joe Greco, Brannon Martina and Dean Baker. The National MS Society would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the tournament’s title sponsor, CBM of America, Inc. and the outstanding committee members lead by event chair, Stuart Kosh. For more info on the 2013 MS Golf Tournament contact Monica Whiting at (954)7314224 or email monica.whiting@fls.nmss.org
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tinuous commitment and contribution to end the devastating effects of multiple sclerosis. Guests will receive a first class experience throughout the day that concludes with an unforgettable runway inspired fashion show.
The 30th Annual MS Gala Luncheon presented by DBS Financial Group will take flight on Wednesday, January 23, 2013 at Sheltair Hangar #1170 in Fort Lauderdale. The sky is the limit as we celebrate 30 years of progression, fashion and commitment led by MS Gala Luncheon Chair, Deborah DelPrete. This year’s honorees will be The Rothman Family (Fred, Jodi, Alie and Lecia) for their con-
Charleston 2013 Challenge 2012
For more information on the event, please visit www.nmssfls.org or contact 954-7314224.
MARCH 1-3, 2013
through historic Charleston and along the beautiful South Carolina coastline.
THE WALK WILL CHALLENGE YOU, THE EXPERIENCE WILL CHANGE YOU
We have tools to help you reach your preevent training and fundraising goals, and all of your needs will be taken care of during the life-changing event weekend. The route is fully supported with catered meals, rest stops every few miles, support vehicles to provide transportation assistance and festivities to keep your spirits high. You will stay two nights at the Wild Dunes Resort on Isle of Palms, SC, featuring relaxing beachside accommodations to unwind after each day’s incredible journey.
Every once in a while, a challenge calls that you simply must answer. The Challenge Walk MS: Charleston Challenge 2013 offers a new experience for members of the MS community living in the southeast. This incredible physical and philanthropic challenge gives you the chance to reinvigorate your spirit and change your life. As a participant, you will raise $1,500 or more for the National MS Society and walk 50 miles in three days
For more information or to register, contact Denise Dixon at (954) 731 - 4224 or visit www.ChallengeMS.org.
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TEEN DAY 2012 This year we added a new splash to our Teen Day Program as we ventured to Sea World in Orlando, FL. The program consisted of South Florida Chapter Teens and Mid Florida Chapter Teens ages 13-17 years. They joined together to share and explore new ways to cope with daily pressures of living with a parent or grandparent with MS. Our day of discovery included scavenger hunts, games, workshops and more. This program allowed teens to live a real world experience where they developed their Teen Day Program including electing committee members and developing their strategic plan for Teen Day 2013. The National MS Society South Florida and Mid Florida Chapter will oversee the teens on their journey. The teens will learn how to build their own budget, network and execute this program.
MS WOMEN’S RETREAT 2012 The Disco Diva Women’s retreat took place on July 20-22, 2012 at the Renaissance Plantation Hotel. They boogied the weekend away with pampering, entertainment, MS education and physical health. The weekend gave the ladies an opportunity to share stories and experiences, make long-lasting friendships and create memories to last a lifetime! Activities included aquatics, yoga, and tai-chi. Entertainment fulfilled the evenings with karaoke, bingo, games and they shook their groove thing at The Saturday Night Fever Disco Party where the best 70’s outfit won fabulous prizes! Experts presented on a variety of topics including First-Timers Meeting, Ancient Medicine in a Modern World, Keeping Up-Beat, Inner / Outer Diva, Know Your Rights – SSDI & ADA, MS and Your Emotions, and an MS Girl Talk Panel with an MS Neurologist, Urologist, Psychologist, and Internal Medicine Specialist.
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The weekend was complete with pampering Diva Massages, Diva Day Spa, Diva Makeovers and exciting prizes throughout the weekend! Stay tuned for registration information for the 2013 Women’s Retreat. Women’s Retreat funded in part by a grant from
Wellness Sponsor HealthSouth Sunrise Rehabilitation Hospital
RELATIONSHIP MATTERS Relationship Matters is a program for couples living with MS and it can help you strengthen your partnership and minimize the impact of MS on your life. By choosing from our in-person, teleconference and online options, you can learn techniques and information to keep your most important relationships moving forward. Visit the link for more information http://www.nationalmssociety.org/livingwith-multiple sclerosis/relationships/relationship-matters/index.aspx
MS CONNECTION: FALL 2012
KIDS CAMP The Busch Gardens Adventure camp was a “different species of a camp” as we ventured out to Busch Gardens Adventure Camp in Tampa for an amazing fun-filled weekend! Kids ages 7-12 joined together to share and explore new ways to cope with daily pressures of living with a parent or grandparent with MS. Throughout the weekend they participated in many activities which included: Tiger and Rhino Encounters, Coaster Physics, Activity Zoo Hospital Experience, Australia, Morocco, Myombe and Jungala Explorations, Camp Fire Story Telling, MS Experience Activities, Twilight Safari and much more.
For more information on Kid’s Camp contact our programs department at (954) 731-4224 or email msprograms@fls.nmss.org.
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people whose voices aren’t being heard. Make sure yours is. National Voter Registration Day is September 25, 2012. Register yourself and learn how you can register others at www.usa. gov/Citizen/Topics/Voting/Register.shtml.
PREPARE TO VOTE ADVOCACY
MAKE YOUR VOTE COUNT BY RENEE VANDLIK
Election Day 2012 is on the horizon, so get ready to cast your vote for who best represents the issues you care about. Here’s what you need to know to vote in the elections on November 6.
THE BIG PICTURE This fall, Americans will cast votes for the presidency, every member of the U.S. House of Representatives and one-third of the U.S. Senate. What’s different? Since the 2010 census, 15 million Americans became eligible to vote and an anticipated 50 million more will vote this November due to stronger engagement in national campaigns. However, people with disabilities register to vote at a 16 percent lower rate than other Americans. And with 1 in 10 eligible voters having a disability, that’s a lot of
This year, citizens in 30 states will have to comply with voter identification laws. Contact your local polling precinct ahead of time to find out what you’ll need. Also ask about accessibility: you don’t want to show up, only to find out you can’t get in the door. Since 2005, The Help America Vote Act requires every precinct in the country to have at least one voting machine or system accessible to persons with disabilities, including those with vision impairments. Learn more at www.aapd.com/what-we-do/voting/. If it’s difficult to vote in-person, plan to vote absentee. Learn more at www. longdistancevoter.org.
THE INFORMED VOTER Go to www.nationalMSsociety.org/advocacy to learn more about issues important to people with MS, such as health care, accessibility and medical research. Then find out where the candidates stand on those issues— www.yourcandidatesyourhealth.org is one place to start. Renee Vandlik is the Society’s director of State Government and Local Government Relations.
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2012 SCHOLARSHIP AWARDEES MS SERVICE DAY Our First Annual MS Service Day was held on March 16, 2012. This is a volunteer driven initiative day of service organized by the National MS Society South Florida Chapter. Teams of volunteers completed projects for families living with multiple sclerosis which included: • • • • •
Interior chores - general cleaning Outdoor jobs - yard work Painting - indoor and outdoor Light repairs De-cluttering & organizing
Two teams and were able to service a home in Broward and Palm Beach. Stay tuned for 2013 MS Service Day in your area! For more information on MS Service Day contact our programs department at (954)731-4224 or email msprograms@fls. nmss.org.
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society scholarship program helps students affected by multiple sclerosis pursue a college education. It is open to high school seniors who live with MS or have a parent living with MS. The 2011 recipients shared their personal stories describing the impact MS has had on their life and achieving their dreams by going to college. The South Florida Chapter awarded scholarships to the following seniors: Jennifer Cordovi, Christian Hernandez, Mahraina Moodie, Haylay Ann Stricker, Lydia Tortorici, Jenah Tracey, Toni Tripp, Jessica Wolff
JENNIFER CORDOVI MIAMI, FL Miami Beach Senior High Miami-Dade College Mathematics
CHRISTIAN HERNANDEZ HIALEAH, FL Hialeah High Miami-Dade College Clinical Lab SCI
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MAHRAINA MOODIE FORT MYERS, FL
JESSICA WOLFF BOCA RATON, FL
Penn Foster Lee County High Tech Pharmacy Technician
Weunbaum Yeshiva University of Central Florida Psychology
HAYLAY STRICKER FORT LAUDERDALE, FL Cardinal Gibbons Florida Atlantic University Communications and Marketing
LYDIA TORTORICI LAKE WORTH, FL Lake Worth High University of Florida Health Care Professional
JENAH TRACY NAPLES, FL Naples High Lees-McRae College Athletic Training
TONI TRIPP DELRAY BEACH, FL Boca Raton Community High University of Florida Health Care Professional
Scholarship applications for 2013 awards will be available October 1, 2012. For detailed guidelines and application information contact Suhaill Ruano at (954) 731-4224 or suhaill. ruano@fls.nmss.org
HOLIDAY CARDS Share the spirit of giving during this Holiday Season. Join the movement towards creating a world free of multiple sclerosis by purchasing National MS Society holiday greeting cards. Now you and your employer can share your commitment to finding a cure through special cards featuring artwork by artists with MS. Order your cards online at https://www.cardsdirect.com/mssf.aspx. 20% of your purchase price benefits the South Florida Chapter.
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THE SPECTRUM OF MS: FALL 2012 SERIES Wednesday, October 24, 2012 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Top 10 List of MS Questions This call will address the most common questions and concerns facing individuals newly diagnosed with MS.
EDUCATIONAL TELECONFERENCE SERIES 2012-2013 Join us from the comfort of your own phone for informative conference calls on a diverse range of topics for people living with MS. This educational series is free and made available through the collaboration of the following chapters of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society: Connecticut, Greater New England, Long Island, New Jersey Metro, New York City - Southern New York, Rhode Island and Upstate New York. Register today! Registration is free. For more information or to register please call 1-800-344-4867, option 1
Speaker: Angela Applebee, M.D. Director of the MS Center of Northern New England at Fletcher Allen Health Care Registration Deadline: October 17, 2012 Wednesday, November 28, 2012 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Invisible Symptoms People who have “invisible” MS symptoms have a unique set of difficulties. This call will address the “invisible” symptoms of MS such as pain, fatigue, and cognitive issues and how to manage these symptoms effectively. Speaker: Pam Mills, RN, BSN, MSCN Certified MS Nurse, National MS Society Rhode Island Chapter Registration Deadline: November 21, 2012 Wednesday, December 12, 2012 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. MS: A Family Affair MS comes with many challenges for both the individual and family living with MS. Changes occur in family roles and everyday functions. Learning about MS and communicating are effective strategies for coping with these chal-
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lenges and developing a healthier lifestyle. Speaker: Peggy Crawford, Ph.D., PSYD, Clinical Psychologist, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital; contributing author to Multiple Sclerosis: A Guide for Families Speaker: Bonnie Danowski, family member of a person with MS and active volunteer for NMSS Arizona Chapter Registration Deadline: December 5, 2012 Stay tuned for spring session teleconferences taking place in April, May, and June 2013. Upcoming topics: Bowel & Bladder, Sex, and Progressive MS.
MS LEARN ONLINE The National MS Society has an exciting menu of MS Learn Online webcasts currently available on its website www.nationalmssociety.org/mslearnonline. Each webcast features experts presenting on topics relevant to those affected by multiple sclerosis. MS Learn Online webcasts are typically 10 minutes in length, and have been a successful way to educate people about multiple sclerosis from the convenience of their own computer. Program topics cover: the basics facts of MS, symptom management, progressive MS, research, healthy living and family life, life planning and independence. In addition to the existing menu of programs, a new webcast debuts the first and third Thursday of each month throughout the year.
WITHOUT VOLUNTEERS, THE NATIONAL MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY WOULD NOT EXIST TODAY. YOUR DONATION OF TIME IS GREATLY APPRECIATED AND CRITICAL TO CREATING A SUCCESSFUL EVENT. The Chapter would like to recognize and thank all of the outstanding volunteers who have come together in 2012 to help change the lives of individuals living with MS in our community. Through your compassion and unselfish caring you have demonstrated the fortitude needed to meet our challenges and accomplish our goals. We cannot thank you enough for your strength, tireless energy and talent, and look forward to working with you again in 2013. If you or someone you know may be interested in volunteering, please contact Jaime Valdivia at jaime.valdivia@fls.nmss. org or call (954) 731-4224.
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MS CONNECTION: FALL 2012
and restore the function she has lost to MS. “This is the key opportunity for our daughter,” Merwyn says, a member of the South Florida Chapter board.
THE DANS: ACCELERATING RESEARCH PROGRESS Residents Dolly and Merwyn Dan insist they are like anyone else in the MS movement. However, they have found their own unique way of harnessing their commitment to end multiple sclerosis, initiated when their youngest daughter was diagnosed with the disease in 1998. That diagnosis changed the Dan family’s life forever, spurring them to inspire, engage and challenge fellow volunteers to increase the research funds needed to speed new and better therapies to people living with MS. Dolly and Merwyn are specifically interested in myelin repair, which they believe one day will stop their daughter’s disease progression
Since the beginning of their involvement with the Society, the Dans have supported research grants related to myelin repair. Most recently, their support of the Society included a $1 million long-term pledge to Fast Forward, which focuses on accelerated commercial developments of new treatments for MS. The Dans’ gift helped develop a targeted program in nervous system repair. “We would like to see a faster route to the solution, and Fast Forward is an important step toward that,” explains Merwyn. As longtime active volunteers for the Society, the Dans are passionate about getting other families to give to research, and see an opportunity in the NOW campaign. “The more that others contribute to this effort, the more partnerships Fast Forward will be able to make— and the more grants the Society will be able to award,” Merwyn says. He and Dolly see NOW’s $250 million commitment to research as critical, and with their pledge they challenge others to make the most meaningful gift they can. Because of their extraordinary commitment to the MS movement, the Society is honored to have Merwyn as a member of the Volunteer Hall of Fame, and both Dolly and Merwyn as members of the Circle of Distinction. Join Dolly and Merwyn Dan and help propel MS research through The Golden Circle today.
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NATIONALMSSOCIETY.ORG | 1-800-344-4867
For more information on NOW, Golden Circle or Fast Forward contact Mark Kotler at (954) 731-4224 or email mark.kotler@fls.nmss.org. Visit our website at http://www.nationalmssociety.org/fls
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FUND Many people with multiple sclerosis live on limited resources and an exacerbation or progression of the disease can make it difficult to maintain employment or make ends meet. A temporary misfortune may be averted through financial assistance with outstanding rent, utility bill, groceries, drug co-pay, durable medical equipment, or the cost of an examination by a neurologist.
Please help someone in Financial Assitance need overcome a crisis this in Broward County Holiday Season. A gift of is funded in part by $500 or more will enable an individual with MS and their family move their lives forward. Make a special year end gift to the National MS Society today.
My Contribution to Making a Difference! Make your 2012 Year-End gift today and help 6,000 South Floridians living with multiple sclerosis. Yes! I want to help people living with MS with my Year-End Gift! p$50 p$100 p$250 p$500
p$1,000
p Other: $ __________
I would like to direct my gift to (optional): Crisis Financial Assistance (assisting those with MS in crisis) Chapter Programs and Services (assisting those with MS and their families)
MS Research
p Other: __________
Please make your check payable to the National MS Society and mail with this form to: National MS Society, 3201 W Commercial Boulevard, Suite 127, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309 or call 1 800 FIGHT MS (in South Florida) or 954-731-4224 or log on to nationalmssociety.org/fls and click “Donate.”
Thank you for making a difference in someone’s life today.
SUPPORT GROUPS BROWARD COUNTY
COLLIER
Coral Springs Afternoon Group 3rd Tuesday of month at 1:30 pm Coral Springs Medical Center Community Education Center, Class B 3100 Coral Hills Drive Coral Springs, 33065
Naples Day Social Group 1st Monday of month at 3:30 pm NCH Briggs Wellness Center 399 Ninth Street North Naples, FL 34102 Second Floor Lobby, Next to Subway Tanya Dannibale (239) 793-7009 tanya.dannibale@fls.nmss.org
Contact: Cindee Horowitz AntCyd@aol.com Mindy Morrison mindywoo123@gmail.com Michael Myette (954) 255-0679 pmmyette@aol.com *Occasional speakers will appear. Members will be notified by evite or phone. *New Broward Group* NMSS Sunrise Evening Group 3rd Wednesday of month at 7:00 pm Health South 4399 Nob Hill Road, Sunrise, 33351 (Main Entrance to Conference Room 2) Alisa Loucado (954) 560-4931 ajtiny@bellsouth.net Cherlyn Warner (954) 292-8819 cherlynwarner@yahoo.com Sunrise Educational Meeting 3rd Tuesday of the month at 6:00 pm Sunrise Medical Group 12596 Pines Blvd. Pembroke Pines, FL 33027 RSVP to Monique or Cynthia (954) 437-4000
LEE COUNTY Cape Coral Day Group First Sunday of month at 3:00 pm Cape Coral Hospital 636 Del Prado Blvd. S., Room A Cape Coral, FL Dave Lane (239) 652-3602 lanenikken@comcast.net Maria Hawley (239) 728-8183 mariakhawley1964@gmail.com Ft. Myers Evening Group 3rd Thursday of month at 5:00 pm St. Hilary’s Episcopal Church 5011 McGregor Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33901 Dave Lane (239) 652-3602 Email: lanenikken@comcast.net Karen Hart (239) 209-7549 or (239) 400-0529 kare4@comcast.net Social luncheon held 1st Thursday of month at 1:30 pm. Contact Karen Hart for details.
MS CONNECTION MIAMI DADE COUNTY
PALM BEACH COUNTY
South Miami-Dade Evening Group 2nd Thursday of month at 7:00 pm Doctors Hospital- Cafeteria 5000 University Drive Coral Gables, FL 33146 Maria Zaldivar (305) 710-2210 mariazaldivar@comcast.net Kirstie Bray (305) 984-7501 kbray624@gmail.com
Central Palm Beach Group 2nd Wednesday of month at 7:00 p Wellington Library 1951 Royal Fern Drive Wellington, FL 33414 RSVP Mara Stegmaier (561) 792-2400 or (561) 632-2403 marastegs@yahoo.com Joy Mercado (561) 234-0938 m.s.joy7@gmail.com
Miami-Dade Spiritual Group 2nd Thursday of month at 6:00 pm Doctors Hospital- Chapel 5000 University Drive Coral Gables, FL 33146 (2nd Floor, near elevator A) Ch. Ronald Gaudio (786) 308-3800 RonaldGa@baptisthealth.net
Boynton Beach Group 2nd Tuesday of month at 7:00 pm Hagen Ranch Road Public Library 14350 Hagen Ranch Rd Delray Beach, FL 33446 Jim Montgomery (561) 740-7867 cjjm@bellsouth.net Eliot Reinstein (561) 302-6913 eliotr7@comcast.net
Miami Beach Group 1st Tuesday of the month at 7:00 pm Mt. Sinai Medical Center Founders Conference Ctr. 1st Floor, Warner Bldg, next to ER 4300 Alton Rd. Miami Beach, FL 33140 Gladys Fernandez (305) 534-8848 abbayayi@yahoo.com Ellie Klein Cardonne (305) 322-2299 ecardonne@bellsouth.net
North Palm Beach Group 2nd Monday of month at 6:30 pm Borland Center 4885 PGA Blvd. Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418 For Individuals with MS and Friends Nancy Decker (561) 622-4606 Palm West Group 3rd Monday of month at 6:30 pm September meeting at Olive Garden 5801 Lake Worth Rd. Greenacres, FL 33463 Howard Chiet (561) 795-5233 jjhakks@gmail.com
WELLNESS PROGRAMS
The National MS Society provides wellness programs to the MS community. You are invited to enjoy these classes free of charge. For more information contact: Suhaill Ruano 1 800 FIGHT MS (800-344-4867) Email: suhaill.ruano@fls.nmss.org
BROWARD WELLNESS PROGRAMS
Yoga Rosa Special Needs: Tues. & Thurs. at 12:00 pm Yoga: Mon. & Wed. 8:30 am, 12:00 pm, 5:30 pm Rosa Santana (954) 456-6077 Weston Yoga Registration is required please call Fabienne Grossman (954) 871-5222 for an appointment.
Coral Springs Medical Center Tai Chi: Sat. at 2:00 pm Kathy Byrne (954) 344-3344
COLLIER COUNTY
Tamarac Community Center Tai Chi: Mon. at 1:00 pm Chair Yoga Tues. at 11:30 am Meditation: Mon. at 12:30 pm Rose (954) 597-3643
Yoga & Balance: On Hold Until Further Notice
NCH Briggs Wellness Center Aquatics: Tues., at 9:30 am
MS CONNECTION
LEE COUNTY Cape Coral Wellness Facility Gentle Yoga: Mon. at 12:00 pm Aquatics: Tues. & Thurs. at 11:30 am Fort Myers Wellness Facility Gentle Yoga: Tues. & Thurs. at 11:30 am
MIAMI-DADE Tai Chi with Tony* Neuroscience Consultants 9090 SW 87 Ct. Suite 201 Miami, FL 33176 Please call Suhaill Ruano to RSVP. 1 800 FIGHT MS Email: suhaill.ruano@fls.nmss.org
*Classes are free to individuals with MS who are registered with the South FL Chapter Body, Mind, & Spirit YOGA Instructor: Jannee Alt Class is on hold, however Jannee teaches a free yoga class at Bayfront Park on Mondays and Wednesdays at 6:00pm
PALM BEACH Tai Chi in Palm Beach Mae Volen Center 1515 W. Palmetto Park Road Boca Raton (561) 395-8920 Tai Chi: Friday 12:00 - 1:00 pm Yoga: Friday 1:00 - 2:00 pm
NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID FT LAUD FL Permit # 4435
National Multiple Sclerosis Society South Florida Chapter 3201 W. Commercial Blvd. Suite 127 Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33309
HELP US GO GREEN RECEIVE THE MS CONNECTION ONLINE. CALL 1-800-344-4867 OR 954-731-4224 TO SIGN UP TODAY UPCOMING EVENTS October 13, 2012 MS Health Fair & Annual Meeting January 23, 2013 MS Gala Luncheon February 23, 2013 MS Walk Lee County MS Walk Naples
February 24, 2013 MS Walk Fort Lauderdale MS Walk The Palm Beaches March 10, 2013 MS Walk Boca Raton March 17, 2013 MS Walk Aventura April 7, 2013 MS Walk Coral Gables