OK, we all know that we should be exercising. Besides all of the great stuff that exercise does for everyone (such as lowered cardiovascular risk and increased muscle mass), research on the effects of exercise in multiple sclerosis has shown that it can improve mood, MS-related fatigue and cognitive function.

Notably, exercise has also been shown to increase overall daily activity level, functional capacity and balance in people with MS, as well. In total, this adds up to a measurable increase in quality of life.

WHY NOT?There is even limited evidence in animal models that exercise therapy may halt, slow or reverse disease progression of MS. Exercise therapy is an individualized exercise or plan typically prescribed by a doctor and done under the supervision of a physical therapist or other healthcare provider. There are specific

guidelines, based on scientific data, for programs combining resistance and endurance testing. While that is great and all, raise your hand if you are currently participating in an exercise therapy program. See what I mean?

Studies show that fewer than 20% of people in the general U.S. population get the recommended 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. In people with

SPRING 2013 MID AMERICA CHAPTER

MS CONNECTION NEWSLETTER

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

04POWER AND SUPPORT IN NUMBERS

06DOC TALK - MS AND THE MANY KINDS OF WELLNESS

10RESEARCH PROJECTS RECRUITING PARTICIPANTS

14WALK MS SEASON IS HERE - THERE’S ONE NEAR YOU

CONTINUES ON PG 3

EXERCISE HAS BEEN SHOWN TO INCREASE OVERALL DAILY ACTIVITY LEVEL, FUNCTIONAL CAPACITY AND BALANCE IN PEOPLE WITH MS.

LIVING WITH MS

EXERCISE: OUR DAILY ALLOWANCE BY JULIE STACHOWIAK, PHD

02 MS CONNECTION: SPRING 2014

Mid America Chapter 7611 State Line Rd., Ste. 100 Kansas City, MO 64114 1-800-344-4867

Chairman: David Dickey Chapter President: Kay Julian Newsletter Editor: Joe Cavato

© 2014 National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Mid America Chapter

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.

Dear Mid America Constituents,

I have had the pleasure of working closely with so many of you and want to personally share some important news about an upcoming change.

I have accepted a new position with the National MS Society and will begin my role as Executive Vice President of the Northeast Region on April 1 at which time Midwest Region Executive Vice President Maureen Reeder will serve as interim president. As you know, I am deeply invested in the MS Society and have had the privilege of doing this work for 22 years with the Mid America Chapter. Although I will miss working on a daily basis with many people that matter so much to me – you, staff, volunteers and other partners – I am looking forward to this new opportunity to bring my perspective and experience to an expanded leadership role in the MS Society and to continue to move us forward to a world free to MS.

Maureen and a search committee of the Chapter board will lead a search for a new chapter president. I know that you are deeply invested in the MS Society as well and wanted to be sure that you are up to date on what’s ahead for me and for the Mid America Chapter.

When I reflect back over my time at the Mid America Chapter, I am extremely grateful for your partnership, support and unwavering commitment to end MS. I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with so many talented and dedicated people and am fueled by your personal stories as we all continue identifying solutions for people affected by MS to live their best lives

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

03MSMIDAMERICA.ORG | 1-800-344-4867

MS, this number is definitely lower, as research shows that activity in people with MS starts off low and declines over time.

So, why don’t we exercise? As a person with MS, that is a pretty simple question to answer: Even though I know it will make me feel better, many times I feel so horrible or so fatigued that the thought of 30 minutes of sustained exercise just makes me laugh. Or cry.

A WAY INTO EXERCISEHowever, there may be an answer, according to Robert W. Motl, PhD, in his presentation at ECTRIMS 2013, titled “Physical activity in MS: Theory, determinants and behavioral interventions.”

Dr. Motl reminded the audience that it is not just people with MS who don’t stick to exercise programs. According to studies, over 50% of adults drop out of any formal exercise program after 3 months. And after 6 months, 75% have stopped exercising.

He has some ideas on how to prevent this exercise attrition, however. Rather than pushing for a formal exercise therapy program, we should strive to incorporate more physical activity into our daily lives. Dr. Motl calls this “lifestyle activity,” and points out that intermittent exercise has been shown to have the same effect as “continuous bouts” of exercise. In other words, accumulating 30 minutes a day of moderate exertion doing things like walking, gardening or pushing a vacuum cleaner can be as effective as a more formal 30-minute exercise session.

In addition to this new approach to getting our recommended daily allowance of exercise, Dr. Motl has been researching the effect of social

cognitive theory, which relies on perceived self-efficacy. Simply put, a person will be much more likely to do something if they believe that they CAN do it. Putting this theory to the test, Dr. Motl’s research group tried it out on people with MS. After three months, the people who participated in the self-efficacy component exercised more, exerted themselves more and reported feeling better than those in the group who did not receive the self-efficacy message.

MODELING HEALTHI’m a huge fan of this new paradigm of incorporating exercise into daily life. After seeing the title of an article, “Is Sitting the New Smoking?” in a popular magazine, I bought a pedometer and now force myself to get at least 10,000 steps a day. Since a part of self-efficacy involves “modeling” or seeing others do the same thing, I monitor an online group of people who log their steps daily. In this way, I have made exercise a habit. I can tell you, I feel much better than I did when I would visit the gym for 3 days straight and then take a 6-month break. For those of you who may have limited mobility, you can still get the many benefits of exercise by exerting yourself to the extent possible to do your daily activities. Talk to your healthcare provider about what activities may work best for you. For more ideas on how to make exercise a part of your everyday life, visit www.nationalMSsociety.org/exercise. n

Julie Stachowiak, PhD, is an epidemiologist, author of The Multiple Sclerosis Manifesto, and a person living with MS.

COVER STORY CONT.

04 MS CONNECTION: SPRING 2014

BY HEATHER SYMTSCHYTSCH LICENSED MENTAL HEALTH PRACTITIONER, LIVES WITH MS

Have you noticed that so much of being “well” is focused on being physically well? But what about the other components of wellness? One of the most important things I learned is how vital it is to recognize the importance of accommodating people’s mental, emotional, and psychological needs as well as their physical needs or their “total wellness”.

I am a Provisionally Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (PLMHP) in Nebraska and am working toward my clinical license to practice therapy independently. With the collaboration of Daryl Kucera of MS Forward in Omaha, NE, I was able to start a counseling practice that focuses on helping people who are affected by MS. I am not just a professional who has only studied and worked in the MS field… I have MS too.

In 2007, at the peak of obtaining my educational goals, I was struck with the hefty diagnosis of MS. I worked hard in school, receiving my Master’s in Social Work by the time I was 23. I quit working for a period of time so I could focus on my health. Total wellness was something I never really had to think about before then.

In 2012, when Daryl Kucera and I began working together, I decided to take a major step in combatting my own challenges with MS. I began by offering social services

to people that go to the gym. I thought to myself, why not combine my passion of social work with something I can relate to – having MS?

I began leading a monthly connection group for people living with MS. We have focused meetings on life coaching, financial planning, legal documents, and acupuncture. In the months to come, we will hear about tai chi, stem cell treatments, and navigating our health care system.

On this journey, I realized a strong need to start a support group for caregivers of people living with MS. I know what my husband has struggled with being a care partner to me. It became important to acknowledge that he needs support.

I recognized that his total wellness is just as important as mine when it comes to battling MS.

In our groups, we acknowledge participants unique needs and provide beneficial solutions. It is my hope that other people recognize the importance of considering total wellness, whether you are a person with MS or their care partner. n

PROGRAMS

POWER - AND SUPPORT IN NUMBERS

BRAD JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY

HEATHER SYMTSCHYTSCH LEADS A MONTHLY CONNECTION GROUP FOR PEOPLE LIVING WITH MS.

05MSMIDAMERICA.ORG | 1-800-344-4867

MID AMERICA SSDI PROGRAM PROVIDES

1. INFORMATION AND RESOURCES FOR THOSE JUST STARTING THE APPLICATION PROCESS

2. 1-ON-1 ASSISTANCE COMPLETING THE APPLICATION

3. REFERRAL TO AN ATTORNEY WHO SPECILAIZES IN DISABILITY APPLICATIONS

THIS IS A VOLUNTEER-LED PROGRAM OF THE NATIONAL MS SOCIETY.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO SIGN UP TO MEET WITH ONE OF OUR VOLUNTEERS, PLEASE CONTACT CHASE CARLIN AT (816) 912-0570 OR CHASE.CARLIN.ORG

TO VOLUNTEER CONTACT ANDREA OLITSKY AT ANDREA.OLITSKY@NMSS.ORG

NEXT SSDI PROGRAM DATE APRIL 26, 11 A.M. - 3 P.M.

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO MSMIDAMERICA.ORG OR CALL 1-800-344-4867

FILM SCREENING - WHEN I WALK MAY 28, 6 P.M., MOXIE, SPRINGFIELD, MO “When I Walk” is an emotional, life-affirming documentary driven by a 25 year old young man’s determination to survive. In order to make sense of the impact of MS on his life, he turns to the art of cinema. See trailer at http://wheniwalk.com. Admission and parking is free, donations are welcome. Parking garage is on Campbell.RSVP required. Layla.harding@nmss.org or (417) 268-9009.

SUMMER SOCIAL - T-BONES BASEBALL JUNE 7, 5:30 P.M., KANSAS CITY, MO Join us for a fun evening of BBQ, baseball and fireworks. Tailgating starts at 5:30 and the national anthem plays at 7:05. RSVP required. Participation is free.Jean.long@nmss.org or (816) 448-2180

COUPLES RETREAT - JULY 12-13The National MS Society invites you and your spouse/partner to an overnight retreat for couples living with the challenges of MS. More details to come!

2014 TREND SYMPOSIUM - AUGUST 2August 2, 2014 at KU Edwards Campus and watch party in Lincoln, Nebraska. More details to come!

UPCOMING PROGRAMS

SAVE THE DATE

LIVING WITH MS

MS & WELLNESS BY JOHN MICHAEL HARDIN, D.O.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disorder in which the covering of nerves (myelin) in the brain and spinal cord are affected. However, this disease affects so much more than just a patient’s nerves…it affects everything. An important and often over-looked realm in the treatment of MS is not simply ONE thing. It involves a subject that is vitally important to us all: Wellness.

Wellness is more than a lab value. It is more than just taking a medication consistently. It’s a state of balance involving one’s body, mind, and soul. Wellness: 8 simple letters, but so much more! Let’s examine a couple of key areas of this concept.

GENERAL HEALTHThe American Heart Association (AHA) makes the following recommendations:

1. At least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity at least 5 days per week for a total of 150 minutes OR

2. At least 25 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity at least 3 days per week for a total of 75 minutes; or a combination of the two

AND

Moderate to high intensity muscle-strengthening activity at least 2 or more days

per week for additional health benefits.

These recommendations apply even for patients affected by MS. Maintaining activity and resisting a sedentary lifestyle are crucial - if you have activity limitations from MS, this could lead to decreased activity. Sedentary activities can give way to other complications, such as obesity and/or smoking. Both of these, regardless of your medical conditions, impair your overall health and predispose you to other medical complications. Without question, you’ve got to “Keep Moving”, as the slogan says!

MEDICAL HEALTHHaving MS does not excuse a patient from all other areas of life - in many ways, it makes it more important! In association with your Primary Care Physician and your entire healthcare team, your medical needs must be optimized. Conditions such as anemia and abnormal thyroid levels need to be be examined. Low vitamin D levels are a fairly new and pretty consistent finding in MS, and are worth examining. Incontinence with either urine or bowel can lead to infections and skin breakdown - bowel and bladder programs, which can help combat these problems, must be developed. Don’t forget about your colon health & colonoscopies!

MENTAL HEALTHFatigue is a very common symptom of MS, and is defined as a lack of energy and motivation. In MS it is commonly worsened by such things as warm temperatures,

06 docTALK

07MSMIDAMERICA.ORG | 1-800-344-4867

additional stress, and excessive activity. Fatigue not only taxes your body, but can exhaust you mentally as well. The fatigue with MS typically worsens as the day proceeds, underscoring why many people gravitate to becoming “morning people”. Interesting to note, the likelihood of clinical depression is increased in those with MS. When present, treatment for depression is strongly recommended. No matter how healthy your body may be, your brain “desires” wellness too.

FAMILY HEALTH MS affects more than just an individual and it can affect the entire family unit. A child may become a caregiver out of necessity, which could be something they have never done before. The person affected by MS may now be unable to work, shifting the dynamics of the entire household. Although there is no “one way” to guarantee all members of a family will work in the setting of MS, the guiding principles should always be those of love and understanding.

SOCIAL AND RELIGIOUS HEALTH Some people attend church services daily; some weekly, while some only on special days. Many people would love to go to their grandchildren’s recital, but they are worried about having a bladder accident. Too many times people allow their illness to dictate what they can or cannot do, which can lead to what is termed “social isolation”. Social isolation is a real entity and can impact a person’s desire to pursue things and activities that they once

enjoyed. When this happens, it can lead to feelings of sadness and loss. These feelings, unfortunately, can contribute to a patient’s depression. The secret to fighting this? Simple:

Don’t let MS win! If you are worried about problems with incontinence, then work with your healthcare provider to develop a bowel or bladder program that works for you. If you feel self-conscious about how you walk, consider utilizing leg braces, a wheelchair, or working with a physical therapist to enhance endurance and strengthening. Always remember: people look at things much less often then you think they do!

IN SUMMARY Wellness - one simple word, with multiple facets, all of which when optimized, come together in order to make you a healthier and happier person. Multiple Sclerosis is a disease marked by variability, but by emphasizing your overall well-being and promoting a healthy lifestyle, you can bring a little predictability to an unpredictable disease. Always seek to integrate these areas into your overall well-being. You will notice, more often than not, that you may have MS…but MS will NEVER have you! n

JOHN MICHAEL HARDIN, D.O.

08 MS CONNECTION: SPRING 2014

UPCOMING PROGRAMS

MIDWEST TELECONFERENCE SERIESGet the most up to date information on a variety of topics the second Monday of every month. Teleconferences are FREE, but registration is required. We will send call-in information and handouts the week prior to the call and you will receive a reminder the day before the call. SHARING YOUR DIAGNOSIS WITH FRIENDS & FAMILY APRIL 14, 2014 AT 7 P.M. •Gain tips for talking with friends and family

about your MS diagnosis.

•Learn to respond to people that don’t understand your disease.

•Be empowered to create your own support network.

MANAGING BOWEL AND BLADDER ISSUES MAY 12, 2014 AT 7 P.M. •Explore possible bowel and bladder issues.

•Learn how to talk with health professionals

about these sensitive issues.

•Gain practical tips for managing bowel and bladder symptoms.

WHAT’S HAPPENING NOW IN PROGRESSIVE MS RESEARCH JUNE 9, 2014 AT 7 P.M. •Know the focus of NMSS research and the

NOW Campaign.

•Understand the challenges of researching progressive MS.

•Learn what’s in the pipeline for future treatments.

EMERGING THERAPIES JULY 14, 2014 AT 7 P.M. •Learn about oral disease modifying

medications currently available.

•Understand the potential side effects associated with each therapy

•Discuss the timeline for new therapies

PRACTICAL NUTRITION FOR PEOPLE WITH MS AUGUST 11, 2014 AT 7 P.M. •Learn the importance of a healthy diet in

managing the symptoms of MS.

•Understand appropriate nutrition for healthy living.

•Gain insight about specific diets and their impact on your health.

To register for a teleconference or to learn more about the Midwest Teleconference Series, call 1-800-344-4867 and press 1, or e-mail midamericachapter@nmss.org.

MidwestTeleconferenceSeries

09MSMIDAMERICA.ORG | 1-800-344-4867

ADVOCACY

ACTIVISTS MAKE CONNECTIONSEvery Connection Counts in the movement to end MS. MS Activists traveled to Topeka, KS and Lincoln, NE to share their stories of living with MS and to make connections with legislators to impact the following legislation:

NEBRASKA & KANSAS - MEDICAID The Society believes Medicaid expansion will have a significant, positive impact for those living with MS. MS Activists encouraged their legislators to “close the gap” of uninsured people who make too much to qualify for Medicaid under current income requirements, yet earn too much to qualify for insurance subsidies in the Federal Insurance Marketplace.

KANSAS - DISABLED TAX CREDIT MS Activists encouraged members of the House Taxation Committee to reapprove a state tax credit for home modifications to improve accessibility.

KANSAS - MS CAUCUS As a result of the efforts of our MS Activists, we now have 4 senators and 17 representatives signed on to our Caucus! The Kansas MS Caucus provides unique awareness to MS in the legislature, engages legislators and staff, while keeping MS and its effects at the forefront of their decision making.

SHARE YOUR STORY Do you want to tell your story and become an activist? Go to http://www.nationalmssociety.org/Chapters/KSG/Advocate-for-Change/ Become-an-MS-Activist and sign up today.

MEMBERS OF THE KANSAS MS CAUCUS PARTICIPATE IN A HOUSE RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING MS ACTION DAY IN TOPEKA ON FEBRUARY 12, 2014.MISSOURI - STARTING A TASK FORCE Missouri State Senator Jay Wasson is sponsoring a resolution (SCR 36) to create an MS Task Force in Missouri. As part of its nationwide unified state policy agenda, the National MS Society supports the creation of an MS Task Force in Missouri. It will be modeled on successful MS Task Forces in other states, and will help identify quality of life issues impacting the more than 8,900 individuals and families affected by multiple sclerosis in the Show Me State. The task force will be comprised of legislators, a representative of the Department of Health and Senior Services, neurologists, social service agencies, and individuals who live with MS. For more information contact Sarah Gentry at sarah.gentry@nmss.org. n

MS CONNECTION: SPRING 2014

RESEARCH

RESEARCH TRIALS ENROLLING PATIENTS

10

SLEEP & MS COGNITION RESEARCH STUDY The Mid America Chapter has partnered with the University of Kansas Medical Center (KU MED) to pursue a research study about the effect of exercise on sleep and cognitive function in people living with multiple sclerosis. The purpose of this study is to determine the impact of a 3-month aerobic exercise program on cognitive function and sleep quality in individuals with MS.

CRITERIA FOR PARTICIPATION:

• Must be 18-80 years old

• Have no untreated sleep disorders

• Have been diagnosed with relapsing remitting or secondary progressive ms.

*You cannot participate in the study if you have experienced a relapse and/or corticosteroid use within four weeks.

Participants will be reimbursed $250 and the HE group will be reimbursed $150 to aid in recruitment efforts, help with retention, and to cover travel costs.

Contact: Catherine Siengsukon PT, PhD, Assistant Professor Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science Department – KU MED csiengsukon@kumc.edu or 913-588-6913.

ADHERENCE RESEARCH STUDY: Do you have relapsing-remitting MS? Do you choose not to take medication to prevent flare-ups? If so, researchers at UMKC and KUMC are looking for you! You are NOT required to take disease modifying treatments to be part of this study. We are interested to learn your reactions to the telephone counseling you will receive. It is hoped that this research will help us improve MS care and better understand why some choose not to take medication.

STUDY REQUIREMENTS:

• 1 1/2 hour appointment prior to start of telephone counseling.

• Four 20 minute telephone conversations about MS medications.

• Completion of questionnaires at home.

CRITERIA FOR PARTICIPATION:

•Diagnosed with a relapsing form of MS

•Discontinued taking a disease modifying medication

•Do not currently have plans to begin taking MS medications

Participants will be paid $200. Contact: Jared Bruce, Ph.D. University of Missouri – Kansas City Phone: 816-235-5428 ext. 1 e-mail: msmedfeedback@umkc.edu.

MSMIDAMERICA.ORG | 1-800-344-4867

SOCIAL FUNCTIONING RESEARCH STUDY Researchers at UMKC are looking for you! This study focuses on thinking skills and social functioning in people with MS. It is hoped that this research will help us improve social functioning in people with MS.

STUDY REQUIREMENTS: Attend a study appointment that will last approximately 2 hours. At the study appointment participants will be administered neuropsychological tests and complete questionnaires.

CRITERIA FOR PARTICIPATION:

•Be between the ages of 18 and 70 at the time of enrollment

•Have been diagnosed with MS (either relapsing-remitting MS or secondary-progressive MS) by a neurologist

Participants will be paid $50 upon completion of the study appointment. Study sessions will be held at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, the Landon Center at KU Med, or may be held at the home of the participant.

Contact: Please email blrp7c@mail.umkc.edu with your name and best phone number.

EARLY DETECTION OF VISUAL CONTRAST SENSITIVITY IMPAIRMENT OF MS PATIENTS Dr. Billi Wallace (neuro-ophthalmologist) is conducting a research study to find out if microperimetry (MP) technology assists in detecting early vision impairment in patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). We are looking for MS patients and any individuals who do

not have MS to be enrolled in the study for comparison. The study has been approved by the Institutional Review Boards of University of Missouri – Kansas City (UMKC) , Truman Medical Center and Saint Luke’s Hospital.

STUDY REQUIREMENTS: A 2-hour appointment for eye exam and testing at Sabates Eye Center in building 1 of the Saint Luke’s Hospital complex in Kansas City, Missouri.

If you choose to participate, you will receive a complete, dilated eye exam. In addition to the dilated exam, you will have the following tests performed:

•Optical Coherence Tomography (taking a photo of the inside of your eye)

•Microperimetry (test your central field of vision)

•Humphrey Visual Field 24-2 (test your peripheral field of vision)

•Hardy-Rand-Rittler plates (test your color vision)

•Brief neuropsychological assessment

Your participation may add to the medical knowledge about MS and vision and may help patients in the future.

Contact: Malea Barnard Executive Staff Assistant Vision Research Center (UMKC) Phone: 816-404-1834, 9 AM - 4 PM. n

11

MS CONNECTION: SPRING 201412

BY KIMBERLY ROBBEN VOLUNTEER Twenty-two can be a pivotal age. Many people are graduating from a university asking themselves questions such as, “What career will I pursue with my degree? Will I continue into higher education? How is the job market in my city of choice?”

Questions I asked myself at 22 were slightly different. “Should I move back to my hometown to help my mom take care of my dad? How will they handle me being far away with his declining health? Would I ever be interested in taking over the family business? How will our life change now that we’re (because we’re all in it together) wheelchair bound?”

Rewind about 30 years to when my dad was 21. The questions he asked himself were unlike few others his age. “How many more years will I be able to walk? How do I explain my diagnosis with everyone I know?” Although my father was diagnosed when he was 21, it wasn’t until he was in his early 50s that we really started noticing a dramatic change. See, my father has relapsing-remitting MS, and from a young age we knew our world would be a little different.

Fast forward about five years and many of my questions were answered, even if only partially. Although I chose not to move back home, I chose to take an active role in helping others fighting MS along with their families. I gathered a couple friends, and we helped serve/greet/call bingo numbers at my first volunteer event, the Snowflake Social. It was the first time I’d connected to such a community, and in serving others I learned that we were the ones leaving most changed. Since then, I’ve volunteered at Walk MS, Talk MS, Trend Symposium, and in the near future, Bike MS. 

Talk MS has become one of my favorite events! Talk MS empowers the MS community by educating and equipping people to encourage change.

At the most recent event, Dr. Bruce Bebo, Associate Vice President of Research for the National MS Society, presented information to local researchers and community members about where research is headed. It was exciting and encouraging to hear the work that’s been done and is being done on behalf of all of us affected by MS. The talks last around an hour, snacks or some goodies are provided, and there is always a great presenter. Guaranteed. 

VOLUNTEER

CONNECTING AND MAKING A DIFFERENCE

VOLUNTEER KIMBERLY ROBBEN, WHOSE FATHER LIVES WITH MS, TAKES AN ACTIVE ROLE IN TRYING TO CREATE A WORLD FREE OF MS.

013MSMIDAMERICA.ORG | 1-800-344-4867

As volunteer host of the Talk MS program, I invite you to come out to the next event and see what it’s all about! Meet us March 31st at the Mid America Rehab Hospital. And if you’re willing to do one better, find a role that your gifts can be used in and volunteer. We’re always looking for people to advocate, educate, and change the course of MS. 

Of all the questions that plague my curious mind, I’ve found one answer that gives me more hope than anything. It’s not a matter of if we can stop MS, it’s really a matter of when. For all of us in our uniquely pivotal moments, WE can help the MS Society free the world of MS... and THAT is pretty incredible.

Do you want to be a part of freeing the world of MS?

Every day, our volunteers make meaningful contributions of talent and time in a multitude of ways. Your personal experience and examples can give hope to someone living with MS, give motivation to an event participant, give a voice to our media outreach efforts, and give a face to our advocacy efforts at the local, state or national level. You may not think you can make a strong impact but by simply being part of the MS movement, you can make a lasting difference.

By volunteering your time, ideas, stories in your area, you can truly make a difference whether you become an advocate, organize Talk MS, or create a social event unique to your talents and location, you can share hope with those around you.

For more information about becoming a volunteer, please email the chapter at midamericachapter@nmss.org. n

talk MS

KANSAS CITY, KS- MARCH 31, 5-6:30 P.M.LOCATION: Mid America Rehab. Hospital, 5701 W 100th Street. Overland Park, KS 66211SPEAKER: Deanna Markley, Physical Therapist with emphasis on MSTOPIC: Staying Fit with MSQUESTIONS: Jean at Jean.Long@nmss.org.

OMAHA, NE - APRIL 10, 5-7 P.M.NEW LOCATION: Aflac Nebraska State Office, 14710 West Dodge Road Suite 200, Omaha, NE 68154SPEAKER: Dr. Christoper FisherTOPIC: Physical Disabilities & Sexual HealthQUESTIONS: Amy at amy.kruse@nmss.org

JOPLIN, MO - MAY 15, 6-8 P.M.LOCATION: Joplin City Hall Conference Room - 5th Floor 602 S Main St. Joplin, MO 64801SPEAKER: Jennifer K Theis, NP TOPIC: Heat & MSQUESTIONS: Mel at melody.scofield@nmss.org

UPCOMING PROGRAMS

TALK MS Whether you are newly diagnosed or looking to connect with others, TALK MS is an opportunity to join others living with MS for an informal conversation about various topics related to MS. A complimentary, light dinner will be provided. Registration is free and required. To register for an upcoming TALK MS, call 1-800-344-4867 and press 1, or e-mail midamericachapter@nmss.org.

014 MS CONNECTION: SPRING 2014

“Walk MS is an opportunity build up our community with our family and friends - a day to celebrate our accomplishments in living with this disease and combat our challenges.”

Meghan Melone Captain, Team Ohana

“Walk MS has given us an incredible sense of community. It’s amazing how many people are so eager to help.”

Nick Cucci Member, Team Forza

“I used to walk for the advancement of new medications, and I’m proud of how far we’ve come. Now I walk for a cure.”

Beverly Johnson Captain, Bev’s Crew

BE INSPIRED.

GET CONNECTED.

WALK MS.

JOIN THE MOVEMENT.“I never dreamed it could be such a phenomenal thing. It was amazing to get all the hugs. When you’re in a wheelchair people are kind of stand-offish. So it’s pretty cool standing up. It was truly amazing.”

Sharon Greene Captain, Team If You Think It - You Can

MSMIDAMERICA.ORG | 1-800-344-4867 15

APRIL 5 Emporia, KS

Flint Hills Mall

Greater Kansas City, KS Sporting Park

Hutchison, KS Carey Park

Manhattan, KS Anneberg Park

Springfield, MO Mercy-Montclair

APRIL 12 Hays, KS

Auble-Bickle Park

Maryville, MO Northwest Missouri University

Norfolk, NE Bel Aire Elementary School

Omaha, NE Stinson Park

Salina, KS Jerry Ivey Park

St. Joseph, MO Heritage Park

Topeka, KS Big Gage Shelter

APRIL 26 Chillicothe, MO Simpson Park

Grand Island, NE Barr Middle School

Hiawatha, KS

Hiawatha High School

Joplin, MO Landreth Park

Lawrence, KS Sunflower Elementary

Marshall, MO Indian Foothills Park

Neodesha, KS Wilson Medical Center

North Platte, NE

Cody Park

Scottsbluff, NE Riverside Walk

Seymour, MO Seymour Nazarene Church

Wichita, KS

Sedwick County Park

APRIL 27 Kearney

Yanney Heritage Park

MAY 3 Branson, MO

Table Rock State Park Pavilion

Dawson County, NE Lexington

Liberty, MO Mosaic Life Center

Lincoln, NE Antelope Park

JUNE 7 McCook, NE Norris Park

Gateway AreaWalk 2014

THERE’S ONE NEAR YOU!

REGISTER TODAYwalk.MSmidamerica.org or 1.800.344.4867

7611 State Line Rd., Ste. 100 Kansas City, MO 64114

MSmidamerica.org1-800-344-4867midamericachapter@nmss.orgfacebook.com/MSmidamerica

RESEARCH

BEBO ADDRESSES RESEARCH POINTSThe Mid America Chapter hosted a compelling Talk MS on Tuesday, February 19, 2014 featuring an expert in MS research, Dr. Bruce Bebo. Dr. Bebo is the Associate Vice President for Discovery Research at the National MS Society. Dr. Bebo came to the Society with 25 years of experience in biomedical research. Currently, he directs the Society’s diverse portfolio of biomedical research focused on stopping MS, restoring function, and ending this disease forever.

After dinner with local researchers, participants gathered to hear what Dr. Bebo calls new and exciting in MS Research. The MS Society has

committed $50 million to research that focuses on the following three priorities:

1. Progressive MS2. Myelin Repair3. Quality of Life

This research focus complements scientific discoveries being pursued by other agencies including the National Institutes of Health which has spent about $115 million on MS-specific research.

For more information about National MS Society research priories and recent discoveries, visit the National MS Society’s website, http://www.nationalmssociety.org/Research. n

DR. BRUCE BEBO WAS THE FEATURED SPEAKER AT A RECENT TALK MS PROGRAM. SEE PAGE 13 FOR A LIST OF TALK MS EVENTS.