Fall 2015 MS Connection by NMSS Northern California

Fall 2015

northern California Chapter

MS Connection Newsletter

INSIDE 03 THIS ISSUE

living with ms

programs connection

community groups

spotlight on advocacy

MS connection: fall 2015

letter from the President

fueling progress Connecting you to the information, resources, and people you need to live your best life is our priority. We’ve changed the format of this publication so you can have access to the wide array of opportunities to learn and share within this powerful community. Check out the variety of upcoming programs and events on page 5 which will allow you to connect with others throughout Northern California.

Annual Meeting & Research Update November 19, 2015 Teleconference Celebrate a year of progress at our Annual Meeting and hear an update on exciting research. Call 800-344-4867 to register today!

Connect with us online: www.nationalMSsociety.org/CAN Like us: facebook.com/MSnortherncal

I am also excited to share that at the end of this year, the Society’s groundbreaking No Opportunity Wasted (NOW) Campaign (page 17) will meet its goal of raising $250 million for research aimed at stopping MS in its tracks, restoring lost function, and ending MS forever. In just five years, we’ve raised more than 25 percent of our total research commitment since the first dollar was allocated in 1947. The combination of uncovering solutions and finding ways to help people who need our support is the heart of campaigns like NOW and everything we do. We act with urgency to find solutions and change the world for people with MS. We want each person with MS to live their best lives and have access to the best information, resources, and people. You are making a difference. When you participate, donate, volunteer, or share your story, you are making an impact. You are changing the course of MS for all the families that have been impacted by this disease. Together, we are fueling progress to one day live in a world free of MS. Warm regards,

Janelle Del Carlo, Chapter President

nationalmssociety.org/caN | 1-800-344-4867

living with ms

regaining independence Canine Companions for Independence was founded four decades ago in Santa Rosa. Since their inception, the non-profit organization has worked to help change the lives of people with disabilities by increasing their independence and providing loving companionship via trained service dogs. Many people who live with MS find it difficult or even impossible to spend much time alone because of their symptoms. Having a well-trained service dog to help with daily tasks can make life easier and more fulfilling for those living with MS.

Northern Californian Jill Wright Leverton has been living with MS symptoms since the age of 24 and was officially diagnosed with the disease when she was 49. As time went on, her symptoms gradually progressed, making it harder to walk; currently she uses a wheelchair.

National Multiple Sclerosis Society Northern California Chapter 1700 Owens Street, Suite 190 San Francisco, CA 94158 1-800-344-4867 Chair: Jay Thayer Chapter President: Janelle Del Carlo Editor: Emily Hazlett Designer: Nare Ovsepian Copywriter: Jenna Tucker ﾂｩ 2015 National MS Society, Northern California Chapter; Published Quarterly窶認all 2015

Jill, a retired physician, has been actively involved with the Northern California Chapter, participating on both the Therapeutics/Pharmacy and Services committees. She also served on the Board of Trustees, eventually becoming the Board Chairwoman.

Around the time she retired on disability, Jill remembered hearing about a canine service during her time with the Society. After learning more about the application and training process, Jill applied and was accepted into the program. She was matched with her first service dog, Jewel, in 2005 and is pictured now with successor service dog, Willamina. continued on page 4... 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.

MS connection: fall 2015

living with MS All Canine Companions’ dogs go through the same intense training process, which begins during puppyhood. But, like any dog, service dogs have different personalities. In order to make sure that the dog and recipient are a good pair, both take part in a two-week, live-in session where the new owner is able to learn more about the dog and work oneon-one with them. “They do a wonderful job making sure that the dog is in sync with you and your needs,” Jill said. “Being in a wheelchair makes it hard to pick things up. These dogs pick everything up. In addition, they open drawers and doors and turn on and off lights. Jewel, and now Mina, increased my independence immensely as well as my confidence when going out. Plus, they are great companions.”

Learn more!

Canine Companions breeds their own dogs and offers them free of charge to those in need, who are accepted into the program. The dogs are puppy-raised by volunteers until they reach age 18 months, and then they go into advanced (professional) training for six months. After training is complete, both the canine and the new owner participate in a graduation ceremony. This ceremony symbolizes the beginning of a long-term relationship between the person and the dog. After graduation, there are regular followup programs, workshops, and reunions. These are done to make sure that the service dog is fulfilling their duties and that the match is still appropriate. “My life with MS is a constant challenge,” adds Jill, “but having a well-trained service dog has helped significantly. I am very fortunate.” n

Canine Companions for Independence will be visiting the following self-help groups this fall:

Monterey Friday, October 16 | 11:00am Marina Public Library 190 Seaside Ave, Marina

Sacramento Saturday, October 10 | 10:00am Mercy San Juan Medical Center 6555 Coyle Ave. #140, Carmichael

San Jose Thursday, October 22 | 11:30am Santa Teresa Public Library 290 International Circle, Room C, San Jose

Santa Rosa Monday, October 12 | 12:00pm Round Table Pizza 2065 Occidental Road, Santa Rosa

If you are unable to attend one of these information sessions or are interested in additional information, please join us for an informational tour at the Jean and Charles Schultz Campus in Santa Rosa. Canine Companions for Independence is hosting a private tour just for the National MS Society on Monday, December 7 at 10:00am. Please call 1-800-344-4867 to register.

Albany/El Cerrito Wednesday, October 14 | 12:00pm Albany Public Library 1247 Marin Ave, Albany

nationalMSSoCiety.org/Can | 1-800-344-4867

prograMS ConneCtion Fall 2015

Unless otherwise indicated, to register for any events, please visit nationalMSsociety.org/calendar/norcal and select the date of the event, or call (800) 344-4867 (800-Fight-MS).

newly DiagnoSeD orientationS available in-perSon or online Hearing the words “you have multiple sclerosis” can set off a flood of emotions, fears, and questions. But the information and support you need most can be found through our Newly Diagnosed Orientations. These free programs are designed for people diagnosed with MS within the past two years. Join National MS Society staff and MS health professionals in an open conversation about the disease, and discover how wellness practices can help you live your best life with MS.

online

in-perSon

Sacramento Thursday, November 5 | 6:30pm – 8:30pm Mercy San Juan Medical Center 6555 Coyle Ave, Room 145, Carmichael San Francisco Thursday, November 5 | 6:30pm – 8:30pm National MS Society 1700 Owens Street, Suite 190, San Francisco Santa Clara Tuesday, November 10 | 7:00pm – 9:00pm National MS Society 2589 Scott Blvd, Santa Clara

Thursday, November 12 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm Online and over the phone

To schedule a one-on-one Newly Diagnosed Orientation, please contact:

Presented by Dr. Elizabeth Crabtree, Assistant Clinical Professor of Neurology at UCSF and Director of Patient Program Development at UCSF’s MS Center.

Napa, North Bay, North State, and Sonoma: Amy Clark at 530-863-7818 Central Valley: Andrea Covolo at 209-2146022

6 programs

Cognifitness keeping the mind moving Do you find it difficult to focus on a task without getting distracted? Do you have difficulty finding words or finishing your sentences? Do you often have a hard time keeping track of activities and appointments? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then this program is for you. CogniFitness is a fun and educational program that will help you keep your mind moving and teach you new techniques to strengthen your cognitive skills. Realize your optimal thinking skills utilizing strategies that have everyday applications. Learn to: • Facilitate focus and concentration • Improve memory using new strategies • Improve organization, problem solving, & critical thinking skills • Manage cognitive fatigue

MS connection: fall 2015 Sacramento Tuesdays, Oct. 6 – Nov. 3 5:30pm – 7:00pm Mercy MS Achievement Center 7777 Greenback Lane, Suite 108 Citrus Heights San Francisco Tuesdays, Oct. 6 – Nov. 17 6:00pm – 8:00pm UCSF MS Center 1500 Owens St (Orthopaedic Institute Building), 3rd Floor, Room 341, SF Novato Thursday & Friday, October 8 – 9 1:00pm – 5:00pm Hamilton Community Center 503-B South Palm Drive, Novato Napa Mondays & Tuesdays, Oct. 12 – 20 3:00pm – 5:00pm Reid Family Vineyards 1020 Borrette Lane, Napa Santa Clara Mondays, Oct. 19 – Nov. 30 9:30am - 11:30am National MS Society 2589 Scott Blvd, Santa Clara Modesto Saturdays, Oct. 31 – Dec. 19 9:30am – 11:30am National MS Society 422 McHenry Ave, Modesto No meeting on Saturday, Nov. 28. Chico Saturdays, Nov. 14 – 21 9:00am – 1:00pm Faith Lutheran Church 667 E. 1st Avenue, Chico

nationalmssociety.org/caN | 1-800-344-4867

programs

free from falls

research in ms Where Are We Now and Where Are We Going?

The National MS Society’s Free From Falls program is designed for people living with MS who may be at risk for falling. Discussion, exercise, and group and individual activities are elements of this engaging format. Expert instructors in the field of rehabilitation, health and wellness will help each participant develop a personal plan to maximize safety. Through this course, participants will: • Increase awareness of the prevalence of falls among people with MS • Identify strategies to prevent falls and develop a fall prevention action plan • Develop and engage in a home fitness plan aimed at reducing fall risk • Increase confidence in minimizing fall risk and in managing falls if they do occur

Oakland Thursdays, October 1 - November 19 6:00pm - 8:00pm Samuel Merritt University, Peralta Pavilion, 450 30th Street, Oakland

We’ve come a long way in our knowledge about MS, but we’re still working towards finding a cure. Join us for an evening with Dr. John Schafer, Director of the Mercy MS Center, as we hear about the progress we’ve made and the directions that we’re going. Light dinner will be served. Sacramento Wednesday, November 18 | 6:30p – 8:30pm Mercy Medical Group, McKinley Hall 3000 Q St, Sacramento

Scholarships MS should not stand in the way of an education, which is why the National MS Society developed a scholarship program for students who have MS, or have a parent with the disease. 2016 scholarship applications will be available October 1 through mid-January. Visit nationalMSsociety.org/scholarship for more information

MS ConneCtion: Fall 2015

ConneCtionS opportUnitieS

get SoCial!

Connect with others at social events throughout Northern California, from crafting to coffee and everything in between. Mark your calendars with upcoming social events in your community:

holiDay SoCial eventS Modesto Thursday, December 10 5:00pm – 7:00pm National MS Society 422 McHenry Ave, Modesto

Celebrate the holidays and meet others who live with MS. Great food and conversation will help kick off the holiday season! Berkeley Thursday, December 10 6:00pm – 8:00pm Ed Roberts Campus 3075 Adeline St, Suite 220, Berkeley

4th annUal it’S tiMe to triM the tree!

Get into the holiday mood, connect with others, and help raise awareness of MS by making beautiful ornaments for the National MS Society’s fourth tree at Christmas in the Park. Dinner will be served and vegetarian options will be available! Santa Clara | Thursday, November 5 6:00pm – 8:00pm National MS Society 2589 Scott Blvd, Santa Clara

CraFting MS ConneCtion

Find your creative side with crafting events in your community. No experience is required and all ability levels are encouraged to attend.

Modesto 1 Wednesday: Oct. 7, Nov. 4, Dec. 2 10:00am – 12:00pm National MS Society 422 McHenry Ave, Modesto

Redding Friday, November 6 4:00pm – 7:00pm All Fired Up 1818 Churn Creek Road, Redding

nationalMSSoCiety.org/Can | 1-800-344-4867

Mix anD Mingle Walnut Creek Thursday, October 22 5:00pm – 7:00pm Modern China Café 1525 N. Main St, Walnut Creek

Looking to meet others in the area and see how they live with their MS? Join us for happy hour at an upcoming Mix and Mingle for a chance to connect with others and unwind.

Sacramento Tuesday, November 10 5:00pm – 7:00pm Hock Farm Craft & Provisions 1415 L St, Sacramento

CoFFee ConneCtionS

Looking to connect to others in the area living with MS in a relaxed setting? Come to one of our upcoming Coffee Connections to grab some coffee, get questions answered, and make connections. Davis Thursday, November 12 10:00am – 12:00pm Panera Bread, 609 3rd Street, Davis

wine Down weDneSDayS Santa Rosa Wednesday, November 18 5:30pm – 7:30pm Earth’s Bounty Kitchen & Wine Bar 5755 Mountain Hawk Dr, Santa Rosa

Rocklin Monday, December 7 5:00pm – 7:00pm Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que 6628 Lonetree Blvd, Rocklin

All Central Valley Coffee Connections locations meet every month. Please contact Andrea Covolo at andrea.covolo@nmss.org or 209-214-6022 for location details. Come join in the fun at our Wine Down Wednesday Holiday Social events! Relax, eat some good food and connect with other National MS Society members.

Napa Wednesday, December 2 4:00pm – 6:00pm Norman Rose Tavern 1401 1st St, Napa

Chico Wednesday, December 9 5:00pm – 7:00pm Wine Time 26 Lost Dutchman Dr, Chico

MS connection: fall 2015

community groups

connect with others Please contact the group’s facilitator(s) to learn more about a specific self-help group listed below or contact the Chapter at 800.344.4867.

bay area • Alameda - Sharon: 510-521-6260, Ray: 510-522-5210 • Antioch - Sue: 925-813-9069 • Berkeley: Lunch Group (meets periodically) - Toni: 510-653-4534 • Brentwood: MS Lunch Bunch - Kathy: 925-286-7674, Julie: 925-513-4686 • Central Berkeley - Audrey: 510-287-6543

At-home telephone group

• Oakland: Latinos Bilingual Group (Se habla español) - Elsa: 510-777-1414

• San Francisco: Young at Heart Group - George: 415-724-0064, Ann: 415-5738949 • San Mateo - George: 650-281-7646

central valley

• Corte Madera - Vicki: 415-987-5507, Anita: 415-892-5548

• Manteca - Rebecca: 209-505-6438, Lorna: 209-815-8820

• East Bay Community Group: MS Fight Club - Stacey: 510-332-7393

• Merced: MS Challengers - Susan: 209631-7279

• East Bay: Lesbians - eastbaymsgroup@ gmail.com

• Modesto - Marti or Jane: 209-521-8956

• El Cerrito - Thad: 510-528-8540 • Foster City - Eli: 650-377-1970 • Fremont - Marie: 510-520-7276 • Mt. Diablo (Concord) - Cindy: 925-6770737, Jan: 925-372-0859 • Oakland - Katrina: 510-523-1891 • Oakland: African Americans - Karen: 510-757-3290

• Modesto: Women’s Coffee Talk - Clarissa: 559-871-3180 • Stockton (AM) - Laurie: 209-915-1730, Velma: 209-951-2264 • Stockton (PM) - Brenda: 209-951-0536, Mary: 209-334-5670 • Tracy - Linda: 209-833-6882 • Turlock - Frances: 209-883-3526

nationalmssociety.org/caN | 1-800-344-4867

greater sacramento • Auburn - Loreen: 530-320-1711, Ruth: 530-888-8388 • Carmichael: Moving on with MS Michelle: 916-600-1958, Kara: 916-3909480 • Elk Grove - Letitia: 916-896-7764, Dorothy: 916-684-6849, Willie: 916-6841677, Pamela: 916-685-6662 • Grass Valley - Erica: 530-559-4517 • Jackson - Joanne: 209-304-1480

• Redding: HOPE 4 MS - Beth: 530-2468404, Patricia: 530-222-7277 • Santa Rosa - Susan: 707-544-9654, Debbie: 707-548-8437 • Windsor - Kristina: 707-217-0289 • Yuba City - Evon: 530-701-2189

south bay • Capitola - Estefana: 831-406-9127, Jon: 831-332-5265

• Lincoln - Marilyn: 916-434-6898

• Hollister Group - Joann and Andrew: 831-630-0266

• Placerville - Doris: 530-622-5673

• Milpitas - Phyllis: 408-509-8137

• Sacramento: MS Adapters - Kim: 916821-6133, Stephanie: 916-215-5356, Debbie: 916-837-2019

• Monterey - Veronica: 831-869-1684

• Sacramento: MS Musings of the Mind Writing Group - Irene: 916-993-6778 • Sacramento: Yoga and Tai Chi Support Group - Cynthia: 916-682-9030, Evelyn: 916-391-1365 • Vacaville - Marian: 707-580-0112 • Woodland - Shannon: 916-821-3576

north state • Chico - Amy: 530-863-7818, Tracy: 530343-3623 • Eureka - Ann Louise: 707-839-0177, Kim: 707-445-9803 • Fort Bragg - Joanne: 707-937-4929

• Palo Alto - Kathy: 408-921-9888 • San Jose - Marie: 510-520-7276 • Santa Clara - Susan: 408-253-4489, Bruce: 408-978-9648

online • Online: Second Life - John: 916-7089708

MS connection: fall 2015

dial, listen, & learn

teleconferences Tired of Being Tired? Tips, Tools, & Techniques to KEep You Going

Tuesday, October 13, 5:00pm

Join us for this webinar where Juliann HansonZlatev, OT, and Patty Bobryk, PT, will help you understand the definition of fatigue, and more importantly, provide you with strategies on how to boost your energy, make your activities of daily living easier, and improve your participation in things that are important in your life.

gentle yoga Yoga combines breathing with movements that can alternately stimulate or calm the body. Many people with muscle tightness or decreased range of motion find that practicing yoga brings noticeable improvement. Enjoy a class of gentle yoga in your community:

managing your nutrition and diet in ms

Tuesday, November 10, 5:00pm

Good nutrition is essential to everyone. But for people with MS, how you eat can have additional importance. Join experts in wellness and nutrition for this informative webinar that will give you the simple steps and strategies you need to incorporate a healthy diet into your lifestyle.

MAnaging invisible symtpoms in ms

Save the date! Tuesday, December 8, 5:00 pm

RSVP today www.MScando.org/webinar. Oakland Tuesdays, October 6 – December 15 10:00am – 11:00am Redwood Heights Recreation Center 3883 Aliso Ave, Oakland, CA Contact: Patrice at 510-530-0352 Modesto Tuesdays from 10:30am – 11:30am Accident and Injury Center 1419 Standiford Ave #1, Modesto Contact: Richard at 209-380-5955 Turlock Thursdays from 11:00am – 12:30pm I Am Yoga Wellness Studio 2031 Geer Rd, Turlock, CA 95382 Contact: 209-667-8100 (Studio)

nationalmssociety.org/caN | 1-800-344-4867

research

New directions in diet and MS by Nicholas LaRocca, PhD

To think that you might be able to change the course of multiple sclerosis, or at least relieve symptoms, by eating or not eating specific types of food is enticing. However, “the proof is in the pudding,” scientifically speaking, since studying diet is challenging. That’s why it has been exciting to see how many researchers are investigating diet and MS at the American Academy of Neurology’s annual meeting, which took place in Washington D.C., this A diet low in saturated fats and high in antioxidants, could be April. Diet and MS was the subject of associated with positive changes in body composition & fatigue numerous platform talks and poster now? A healthy diet certainly can’t hurt, and sessions, showing that clinicians and researchers it may even help both MS and general health. are asking the same questions we hear so often (Abstract P2.211) from people who live with MS.

Diet and MS symptoms In a small study, Dr. Rocco Totaro and a team from the University of L’Aquila in Italy tested whether a six-week diet low in saturated animal fats and high in antioxidants would be associated with positive changes in body composition and fatigue in 17 people with relapsing-remitting MS. In the study, the participants’ percentage of body fat decreased, and their fatigue, as measured by a clinical scale, lessened significantly as well. We need more and larger studies like this to show how diet may impact symptoms that affect the lives of people with MS. What does it mean for you

More on salt We’re hearing more and more about the possibility that salt may increase the immune activity in the brain and spinal cord in those with MS. A team from the Network of Pediatric MS Centers showed that this may not be the case in children. Looking at salt intake prior to diagnosis among 174 children and adolescents with MS, compared with 337 people without the disease, no increased risk of developing MS with excess sodium intake was found. It will be interesting to see if this finding is confirmed and whether it helps us to understand if, when, and how salt becomes a factor in MS. (Abstract S38.003)

MS connection: fall 2015

research

Coffee may lower the risk of developing MS.

Coffee and MS Previous studies have suggested that caffeine may protect against Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, but there haven’t been any definitive studies in MS thus far. I was intrigued by a study by an international team led by Johns Hopkins University researcher Dr. Ellen Mowry, which looked at coffee consumption in two large data sets—in a group of 1,629 Swedish people with MS and 2,807 people without MS, as well as a group of 584 people with MS and 581 controls enrolled in the Kaiser Permanente health plan of Northern California. In the Swedish study, drinking six cups of coffee a day was associated with a reduced risk of developing MS and four cups had the same association in the American study. Studies like this may help us figure out how to prevent MS in the future. What this study doesn’t tell us is whether or how drinking coffee may impact MS in people who already have the disease, so it’s probably not a good idea to increase coffee consumption until we know more. (S45.004)

Looking in the gut Gut bacteria is another area where research is increasing, and it presents the exciting

possibility that probiotic strategies may ultimately be developed to treat MS. I’m pleased that a small pilot grant from the National MS Society helped launch the MS Microbiome Consortium, a collaboration of researchers in California, Colorado, and New York, who presented some early findings from their analysis of blood and stool samples from people with MS treated with glatiramer acetate, untreated individuals, and healthy controls. They found differences in gut bacteria between the treated and untreated individuals and also between those with MS and healthy controls. The team recently won a Collaborative MS Research Center Award from the Society to pursue this promising research. I’m eager to see more from this group and to see how their findings can be translated into a way of stopping immune attacks in MS. (Abstract P2.205)

A new era Not so long ago, searching the medical literature for “diet and MS” yielded little. I’m thrilled to see that we are entering an era where diet and lifestyle are truly considered to be factors that can help lead to innovative treatments and ultimately free the world of MS. Visit www.nationalMSsociety.org/signup to sign up for MS eNews and stay up to date on MS research. n Nicholas LaRocca is the vice president of Health Care Delivery and Policy Research at the National MS Society.

nationalmssociety.org/caN | 1-800-344-4867

spotlight on advocacy

breaking news

house passes 21st century cures act

On July 10, 2015, the United States House of Representatives passed the 21st Century Cures Act (H.R. 6). The initiative includes three priority issues for the National MS Society:

Establishing a data collection system to identify risk factors for MS H.R. 6 creates the National Neurological Disease Surveillance System, which will collect data about people living with neurological conditions in an effort to better understand prevalence, incidence, and environmental factors.

Increasing Resources for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) & U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) H.R. 6 calls for increased discretionary funding for the NIH and establishes the NIH Innovation Fund, which will increase NIH funding by $8.75 billion total from 2016 to 2020, to support biomedical research through basic, translational, and clinical research.

incorporating patients perspectives into drug development and review H.R. 6 strengthens the FDAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to take the direct experiences of patients with particular diseases and conditions then use that data to modify and improve potential treatments.

7 steps to change Your story is a unique and powerful advocacy tool -- perhaps the most powerful tool you possess and one that can influence incredible change. You can create your own story toward powerful change by following these seven steps from Brad Fitch of the Congressional Management Foundation:

1 the want

Begin with the ending in mind. Set the stage & establish the stakes.

2 the opening

3 paint the picture 4 the struggle 5 discovery

Details & the senses.

Describe the challenges.

Provide interesting & impactful facts.

6 we can win

Introduce the potential of success & joy.

7 the button

Finish with the request.

For more tools and resources to help you craft your story and to see a compelling example by MS Activist, Robert Taylor, visit www.nationalMSsociety.org/7stepactiviststory

MS connection: fall 2015

ms activists

creating impactful change by James Stewart A little over a year ago, I was informed of an opportunity to be a District Activist Leader (DAL) for my legislative district. Since becoming disabled and stopping employment, I wanted to participate in an activity that would keep me mentally sharp and engaged. The responsibility and activities associated with DAL were just the right fit for me. Being a DAL allows me to experience political activism that supports the views and concerns of people like me, living with MS. I have an opportunity to share my experiences, which are common to others living with MS, in an effort to persuade politicians to support bills that could become laws favoring those impacted by this disease. Mostly, this involves sending letters to our representatives, but it also involves calling their office to request support for said bills. This year, I participated in the Capital Action Day in Sacramento where I scheduled meetings with my legislators. Along with others from my region, we informed our legislators about key priorities including SB 26 California Health Care Cost and Quality Database, SB 137 Provider Directories, and AB 339 concerning the affordability of Outpatient Prescription Drugs.

It was great to be in Sacramento to hear from the chair of the Senate Health Committee Senator Ed Hernandez, who authored two of the bills, and to learn tips and talking points from professional health policy advocates. We met with representatives of our Assembly members and explained why these bills are important to people living with MS, providing examples and sharing personal experiences. One of the more reassuring experiences I had was when I attended a local Affordable Care Act informational meeting and met my Congressman Mike Thompson. After explaining who I was and that I represented the Society, he said, “Don’t worry, I’ve got your back.” This gives me encouragement that our political system does function for the betterment of people affected by MS and also encourages me to continue my important work as a volunteer District Activist Leader. n

GET INVOLVED! To learn more about how you can get involved as a District Activist Leader or join the MS Activist Network, visit nationalMSsociety.org/DAL or contact Stewart Ferry at 415-230-6678 ext. 73003.

nationalmssociety.org/caN | 1-800-344-4867

ways to give

The Time is Now! In 2011, the National MS Society launched the groundbreaking No Opportunity Wasted (NOW) Campaign with a goal to raise $250 million. This campaign seeks to accelerate research to stop MS in its tracks, restore what has been lost, and end MS forever. In the last five years alone, the NOW campaign has fueled more than 25% of the nearly $900 million invested in MS research by the Society since 1946. We are now in the homestretch of this campaign having fueled a total of $228.6 million in research investments to date! Together, we must raise the necessary funds to successfully complete this historic achievement.

How Can I Help? Your gift will ensure we achieve the largest MS research campaign ever conducted. Please help the National MS Society reach its $250 million goal with a gift to the NOW Research initiative. Call Laura Milewski at 415-230-6678 to learn more or make a gift by phone. Checks noting the donor’s desire to support NOW research can be mailed directly to the Chapter’s San Francisco office at 1700 Owens Street, Suite 190, San Francisco, CA 94158. Be a part of the MS Research Revolution. NOW.

Accelerated Impact ÉÉ We continue to pave the way for all MS treatments – five have been approved in just the last five years. ÉÉ We have expanded the MS treatment pipeline – there are now more potential treatments in trials than any other time in history. ÉÉ We have recruited more than 900 new researchers to the field – nearly every thought leader driving advances today got their start with Society funding. ÉÉ We have turned the promise of myelin repair into reality – three potential myelin repair treatments have entered trials in just the last five years. ÉÉ We have galvanized the world around solving progressive MS – 10 countries and growing are collaborating through the International Progressive MS Alliance. ÉÉ We have advanced our understanding of the causes of MS – Over 100 genetic variants have been identified in the last five years and several risk factors have been confirmed.

MS connection: fall 2015

northern california heroes

volunteers

Join us in celebrating our latest volunteer heroes: April Culley has been volunteering at the Sacramento office since 2011, recruiting others to join the fight against MS. Both April and her mother live with MS. “Helping to build the awareness and share my story has given my MS a purpose,” April said. Montazcha Tatum has spent the last two years volunteering in the San Francisco office. Montazcha said, “Volunteering is important to me because I like helping people and seeing them benefit from the work I do.” Susanna Pennes, who lives with MS, is a champion committee member for Walk MS: Santa Rosa. “It is important to me to do what I can to help others experience support and, most of all, hope,” she said. Ralph Cyr has volunteered for twelve years. He has been a volunteer peer counselor since 2003, a weekly “phone buddy” since 2004, and has been deeply involved in advocacy. “As a member of the Northern California Chapter, I’ve associated with hundreds of really great people. It gives me great pleasure to give something back to the Chapter and the MS Society,” he said.

November is National Family Caregivers Month! The National MS Society provides services and support for the thousands of caregivers and partners who provide invaluable strength and assistance to their loved ones living with MS, such as: n

Support through one-to one counseling and community groups n In-person, online, and telephone programs for the whole family n Access to quality MS care resources and referrals n And more! For more information and resources for caregivers, please visit nationalMSsociety.org/caregiver or call 1-800-FIGHT-MS (344-4867).

nationalMSSoCiety.org/Can | 1-800-344-4867

MUCkFeSt MS

MiSSion: MUD

teaM val’S palS

MuckFest MS is built for laughs, especially when you’re rocking the obstacles with a team of close friends. That’s what San Francisco team captain Valerie Rosado is all about—FUN. Last year, she put together a team of family and friends for their first MuckFest MS event. “I have always loved running, mud, and challenging myself,” Valerie said. “When MuckFest MS came to the Bay Area, it was a no brainer for me.” In their first year, Team Val’s Pals raised $6,460 and was the highest fundraising team at the event. MuckFest MS represents more than a mucky obstacle course and a day of fun for Valerie, who was diagnosed with MS in 1998. “For me, as I climb over obstacles, dodge big, muddy balls, and hang on to ropes for dear life, it represents the struggle I have had with this disease over the last 17 years,” she said. “When I conquer each obstacle I feel empowered by the physical, emotional, and mental strength I need to battle my MS diagnosis each and every day.” You can join Valerie and thousands of others who want to show MS who’s boss at this year’s MuckFest MS San Francisco, October 10 at the Solano County Fair Grounds. Conquer the 5K course with a swinging dirty cocktail of fun and muddy obstacles, and celebrate after the event with a free beer (or soda) and snack. Lil’ Muckers ages 5 to 11 can get in on the action

too, with a mucky playground space for children who aren’t old enough to be on the full course. Register your team today! Visit muckfestMS.com and join us for this year’s MuckFest MS San Francisco. n

The holiday season just got a little sweeter thanks to the generosity of Guittard Chocolate Company! For every $35 you donate to the National MS Society between October 1 - December 1, you’ll earn an entry to win “Chocolate of the Month.” The winner can look forward to a unique chocolate package mailed to them each month in 2016.

visit bit.ly/guittard to donate!

National Multiple Sclerosis Society Northern California Chapter 1700 Owens Street, Suite 190 San Francisco, CA 94158

HOST YOUR OWN FUNDRAISING EVENT!

NORCAL EQUESTRIAN CHALLENGE RIDE FOR MS 2015 October 3, 2015 Folsom Lake, Granite Bay Join us for a noncompetitive horseback riding event to raise money and awareness for MS research and programs. Each rider can choose a challenge trail for up to 25 miles with multiple route options available.

www.ec4MS.org

Use your talents and interests to raise funds for the National MS Society. Visit www.nationalMSsociety.org to get started!