Programs Connection -- January/February/March 2010

ProgramsConnection

January • February • March

2

Discover the Benefits of ExercisePage 6 TeleconferencePage14 Exercise Classes

Virtual Book Club Page13

Managing MS in a Tough Economy

Financial AssistanceA Helping Hand When It’s Needed Most

We offer financial assistance through the Direct Assistance Program to individuals with MS and their families to help access needed services that are not available using other resources (private insurance, Medicare, MediCal). The program is based on financial need and offers funding for the following services:

Rhoda Goetz Personal Care Fund: • Beauty/Wellness: A fund to assist individuals who are faced with

financial, logistical or physical barriers to maintaining healthy personal hygiene and care. Gain access to services such as hair, skin and nail care.

• In-Home Assistance Support: 8 consecutive days, 4 hours/day after a hospital stay or exacerbation. Must use licensed home care agency.

• Chore Service Program: Assistance for house cleaning service. Limit: up to $300 per fiscal year.

Durable Medical Equipment: Share of cost for durable medical equipment (wheelchairs, hand rails, etc.) if not covered by insurance. Limit: up to $400 per year.

Sherak Emergency Fund: Funding for unexpected one-time situations (food, rent, utilities). Official documentation demonstrating proof of emergency is required with application. Limit: up to $300 per year.

Physical/Occupational/Speech Therapy: In-home evaluation and five to six follow-up visits for a person who cannot leave home and whose insurance will not cover this service.

Grisanti Respite Fund: Provided through a licensed home care agency for the family member who is a full-time care partner and needs time off. Share-of-cost basis. Up to 6 days/year, up to 12 hours/day.

Supporting the Family: A fund to take care of special out-of-the-ordinary family needs (i.e. school pictures, sports uniforms, etc.). Limit: up to $300 per year.

Checks are made out and sent directly to the vendor. For more information about any of these financial assistance programs, please call 800.344.4867 or 310.479.4456.

National Multiple Sclerosis SocietySouthern California Chapter310.479.44561.800.344.4867nationalMSsociety.org/cal

If You or Someone You Know Has MS...

Studies show that early and ongoing treatment with an FDA-approved therapy can reduce future disease activity and improve quality of life for many people with multiple sclerosis. Talk to your health care professional or contact the National MS Society (NMSS) at 800.344.4867 or www.nationalMSsociety.org to learn about ways to help manage MS and about current research that may one day reveal a cure.

Information provided by the NMSS is based upon professional advice, published experience and expert opinion. Information provided in response to questions does not constitute therapeutic recommendations or prescriptions. The NMSS recommends that all questions and information be discussed with a personal physician. The NMSS 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.

© 2009 NMSS, Southern California Chapter, Issue 2 - Published Triannually

Programs Connection 3

Access these programs from the comfort of homeGetting the Most out of Social Security 5Benefits of Exercise 6Living with Progressive MS 7Book Club 13Dodgers Tickets 13 Peer Support 22Talk with a Professional 23Caregiver Support 24MS Awareness Week 26

Channel Islands Serving Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties

Living Well with MS 4FallProof 8Clinical Trials 10CogniFitness 11Tough Economy 12 Active Choices 15Community support groups 21 Art of Safe Transfer 25

Inland Empire/Coachella ValleyServing Riverside, San Bernardino and Inyo Counties

Living Well with MS 4Optimal Living with MS 9 CogniFitness 11Tough Economy 12 Active Choices 16 Ask the Pharmacist 19 Managing MS Symptoms 19Community support groups 21

Los Angeles CountyLiving Well with MS 4FallProof 8Clinical Trials 10CogniFitness 11Tough Economy 12 Active Choices 14 Day Wellness Programs 17 Mind-Body Skills 17Community support groups 20

San Joaquin Valley Serving Bakersfield, Fresno, Kings, Madera and Tulare Counties

Living Well with MS 4Clinical Trials 10CogniFitness 11Tough Economy 12 Active Choices 16 BAMS 18 MS Service Day 18Community support groups 22

SIGN ME UP! You can register for all of the programs listed inside by:

Mail or fax

Phone

Online

Table of Contents

What’s inside? Find programs near you...

Table of Contents

A life interrupted…doesn’t need to be a life deferred. Discover what you can do to positively impact your health and well-being. Living Well with MS is an extraordinary program designed to help those newly diagnosed better understand MS and develop lifestyle strategies that can help diminish the effects of the disease. In just 12 weeks you will gain the tools and knowledge you need to build your personal plan for living well with MS.

A team of highly skilled medical, fitness, nutrition and behavioral health specialists in MS will help you:

develop a comprehensive personal •fitness and nutrition plan understand and better manage •MS symptoms

develop positive emotional and spiritual •health practices to use across your lifetime

increase your ability to cope with the •diagnosis and unpredictability of MS

meet others living with MS, just like you, in •a setting of shared support

Experience the online and in-person combination this course has to offer. Online you will meet all of your classmates and access up-to-date and current information in a user-friendly, highly interactive classroom. In-person you will meet fellow participants in your local area each week for the fitness component of the course.

Enrolling NOW for classes beginning in mid-January in the following cities:

BakersfieldFresnoPalm DesertPomona (San Gabriel Valley)San Luis ObispoThousand OaksWest Los Angeles

Sign me up!

Mail or fax form on page 27.

Call your local office (see page 27).

Visit livingwellwithMS.com

Living Well with MS Moving forward after an MS diagnosis

4 National MS Society, Southern California Chapter


Are you thinking about leaving the workplace because of the challenges around MS?

Are you wondering how and when to apply for Social Security Disability?

When is the best time to leave a job and ensure your financial stability moving forward?

These questions are topics of concern for many people living with MS. This informative teleconference will address the questions you should be asking yourself before, during and after applying for Social Security Disability.

Featured presenter:Judith Leland, JD, APLC was appointed as a Supplemental Security Income judge with the Social Security Administration in 1974. In that capacity, she presided over numerous Social Security Disability and SSI hearings in California. Ms. Leland has handled over 2,000 Social Security Disability cases at all adjudicatory levels, including the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. She currently heads a law practice with offices in Downey, Santa Ana, and Ontario.

Cost: FREE

Tuesday, January 12, 20106:00 – 7:00 pm At-home, toll-free teleconference

Sign me up! One week prior to the program you will receive the toll-free dial-in number.

Mail or fax the form on page 27.

Call Tiffany Jordan at 800.344.4867.

Visit nationalMSsociety.org/calendar

Getting the Most out of Social Security

Learn from Home: Teleconference


What will I learn?• If you aren’t moving, how can you start?• If you are moving a little, how can you move a

little more?• If you quit moving, how can you start again?

Featured presenter:Richard W. Hicks, Ph.D. became Director of Research and Education of The Heuga Center, Edwards, Colorado in 1988 and was named Executive Director in 1990. Throughout his eleven plus years with the Center, Dick held adjunct faculty appointments at several universities where he directed graduate students, doctoral, and post-doctoral fellows researching the effects of exercise in persons with MS. Dr. Hicks served as national board chair of Physically-Challenged Access to the Woods and on the National MS Society’s Clinical Advisory Committee in Colorado.

Currently, Dr. Hicks is President of The Heuga Center Endowment Board, as well as, a Heuga Center Research and Education Consultant.

Cost: FREE

Thursday, February 18, 20106:00 – 7:30 pmAt-home, toll-free teleconference





Learn from Home : Teleconference

The Benefits of Exercise It’s Hard to Hit A Moving Target, So Keep Moving


To find exercise classes in you community, see pages 14-16

Progressive MS manifests itself differently in each person. While there are still no effective medical treatments to repair nerves or reverse permanent losses of function, there are many useful strategies and treatments. It is possible to alleviate many symptoms, to improve some functions, and — just as important — to compensate for disabilities and thus lessen their impact on your life.

What will I learn?• How to live well with progressive MS • Medical management of progressive MS • Managing the emotional issues that arise

when Ms changes

Featured presenter: Patricia K. Coyle, MD, is a professor and acting chair of neurology, and the director of the MS Comprehensive Care Center at the Stony Brook University Medical Center, Stony Brook, NY. Dr. Coyle is the author of numerous articles on clinical and basic research aspects of MS and neurologic infections and she is recognized as a leading expert on MS and neurologic infections. She is currently involved in a number of therapeutic trials testing new immunotherapies for MS, as well as studies addressing neurologic aspects of Lyme disease.

Cost: FREE

Monday, March 8, 20106:00 – 7:30 pmAt-home, toll-free teleconference





Living with Progressive MS


Learn from Home: Teleconference

If you are living with progressive MS, you may be interested in these programs: • Optimal Living with MS (Page 9) • FallProof (Page 8) • CogniFitness (Page 11)


FallProof ™Comprehensive balance and mobility training programs

Do you have poor balance? Have you lost your balance or fallen in the last year?

Falls are a leading cause of injury in those with MS and can result in broken bones and further disability. Don’t let the misfortune of a bad fall compromise your health or independence. Learn how to improve balance and mobility and reduce your risk of falling.

What will I learn?Strategies to improve your ability to •recover from loss of balanceThe various body systems that contribute •to balance and mobilityPostural alignment and center of gravity •control trainingExercises to improve balance, strength, •and flexibilityTips to increase safety and confidence •with walking

Simi Valley For individuals who use a cane or a walker:8 Wednesdays, January 6 - February 24 or March 3 - April 21 12:45 – 1:45 pm

For individuals who walk unassisted:8 Wednesdays, January 6 - February 24 or March 3 - April 212:00 – 3:00 pm2880 Blackstock Ave., Simi Valley

Greater Los AngelesFor those who walk with or without a cane:10 Mondays, January 25 – April 5, 2010 (no class 2/15)1:00 – 3:00 pmThe Marilyn Hilton MS Achievement Center at UCLA1000 Veteran Ave., Suite 11-62

“FallProof gave me the best gift ever: independence. I went from being at an extreme risk of falling to a moderate risk!”

“Both my gait and my confidence have improved so much that friends and family have noticed!“

Sign me up!

Call Jeanette Chian at 805.682.8783 for the Simi Valley classes.

Call Kara Kenton at 310.267.4071 for the Los Angeles class.


Little changes that creep into life with MS often get swept under the rug. Over time these physical changes can accumulate and slowly erode a person’s independence and interfere with life’s everyday activities.

Optimal Living with MS helps you improve performance, regain and maintain independence, and overcome challenges. In just 12 weeks, you will learn practical tips and strategies to make life at home and in your community easier, safer and more productive.

Work with a team of rehabilitation professionals in occupational and physical therapy to:

Develop a comprehensive personal •fitness programUnderstand fatigue and integrate pacing •and energy conservation strategies into everyday activitiesEvaluate your home environment for •efficiency and safety and more!

Enroll today for upcoming sessions starting in Los Angeles on January 22nd and in Pomona in March.

Los Angeles USC’s Health Science CampusOffered in collaboration with USC’s Departments of Neurology, Kinesiology & Physical Therapy, and Occupational TherapyFriday mornings, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm

San Gabriel Valley ~ PomonaCasa Colina Centers for RehabilitationFridays, 11:00 am - 1:30 pm

Sign me up!

Call Julia Santigo at 800.344.4867 or 310.479.4456 for Los Angeles.

Call Jill Jones at 909.949.1363 for Pomona.

Positive Changes in 12 weeks

Optimal Living with MS When MS changes


Clinical trials help determine whether a drug is safe and effective for MS. Without people living with MS who are willing to serve as volunteers in these studies, we could not look forward to new and better therapies.

In this DVD program, you will learn from MS experts:

“What You Need to Know about Clinical •Trials” – the clinical trials process, the challenges to current clinical trials, and profiles participants of past trials

“Therapeutic Strategies in Clinical Trials” •– specific medical treatments and their strategies to slow, stop, and repair the effects of multiple sclerosis

Each participant will receive a workbook full of valuable information.

Cost: FREE This year’s North American Education Program was made possible through unrestricted educational grants from Bayer HealthCare, Biogen Idec, Eli Lilly and Company, EMD Serono/Pfizer Inc, Genetech, Genzyme Corporation, Novartis, and Teva Neuroscience.

Arroyo Grande Tuesday, February 9, 2010 6:00 – 8:00 pm United Methodist Church, 275 N. Halcyon Fresno Thursday, February 18, 2010 10:00 am – 12:00 pmSan Joaquin Valley Rehab, 7173 N. Sharon

HanfordThursday, February 11, 2010 10:00 am – 12:00 pm 1st Christian Church505 W. Cameron St

Palmdale Wednesday, January 20, 2010 6:30 – 8:00 pm Larry Chimbole Cultural Center 38350 Sierra Hwy.

Sign me up!




Clinical Trials:Solving One Piece of the MS Puzzle


Realize your optimal thinking skills utilizing techniques that have everyday applications.

Learn to: Facilitate focus and concentration •Improve memory using new strategies • Improve organization, problem solving •& critical thinking skills

Cost: $25.00 per person

8-week courses enrolling now:

Santa ClaritaTuesdays, February 2 – March 23 6:00 – 8:00 pm Blessed Kateri Catholic Church 22508 Copper Hill Dr.

BakersfieldThursdays, February 11 – April 1 2:00 – 4:00 pmHEALTHSOUTH Bakersfield Rehabilitation Hospital, 5001 Commerce Dr.

Pomona and Loma LindaFridays, February 19 – March 9 11:00 am – 1:00 pmLocations TBD

Santa BarbaraClass forming NOW. Call Francine Sullivan or Jeanette Chian at 805.682.8783 to learn more.

Sign me up!




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 & appointments?If you answered yes to any of these questions, then this program is for you...

CogniFitness Keeping the Mind Moving


The downturn in the economy has no doubt brought changes to your life. You aren’t alone. We have assembled a panel of local experts to help you navigate through these tough times with topics such as budgeting, financial planning, credit management, home mortgages and drug co-pays. This program has something for everyone!

Learn about... • Creating a budget and managing debt • Financial planning and managing investments

in a volatile market • Asset protection, Medi-Cal and you • Understanding mortgage modification • Advocating for your health care in a

tough economy

Cost: FREE program

BakersfieldSaturday, March 6, 20109:30 am – 12:30 pmKern County Department of Public Health 1800 Mt. Vernon Ave. Also includes Kern County Volunteer Appreciation

Fresno location TBDSunday, March 14, 20101:00 – 3:00 pm Also includes San Joaquin Valley volunteer appreciation

Palm DesertSaturday, March 13, 20109:00 am – 12:00 pm 73-710 Fred Waring Drive, Suite 115

PalmdaleSaturday, March 13, 20109:00 am – 12:00 pmLarry Chimbole Cultural Center38350 Sierra Hwy.

PasadenaSaturday, February 27, 20109:00 am – 12:00 pm Pasadena Senior Center, 85 E. Holly St.

Rancho CucamongaSaturday, March 13, 20109:00 am – 12:00 pmGoldy S. Lewis Community Center 11200 Base Line Dr.

San Luis ObispoSaturday, March 13, 20101:00 - 4:00 pmFrench Hospital Medical Center1911 Johnson Ave., Auditorium

Santa MariaSaturday, March 6, 20101:00 – 4:00 pmMinami Community Center, 600 W. Enos Dr. Sign me up!




Managing MS in a Tough Economy

Virtual Book Club If you love to read and enjoy discussing books with other book lovers,

join the MS Book Club!

Participate from the comfort of your own home. Book club meetings take place every other month via conference call. Group members are asked to read the selection before the meetings. Please call Tiffany Jordan at 800.344.4867 to sign up and receive the dial-in number.

You may also call Tiffany to request the club’s selection from the Chapter’s lending library. Paperback copies or the book on CD are both available. We’ll even provide a return postage-paid envelope.

The next books we’ll read and meeting dates are:

Wednesday, January 20 at noonThe Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams

Wednesday, March 17 at noonThe Great Santini by Pat Conroy

Dodgers TicketsOur generous trustees Dave Perren and Scott Perren have once again donated pairs of seats for the 2010 Dodgers season. Reserve free, accessible tickets for your favorite game.

Please contact Tiffany Jordan at 310.479.4456 x130, 800.344.4867 or [email protected] to request your seats. Tickets are available on a first call, first serve basis.



Los Angeles County

Glendale – Yoga Yoga at the Village, 1306 Sonora Ave.Thursdays, January 7 - March 117:30 - 8:30 pm

Long Beach-Pilates Mat & ReformerJohn Garey Pilates Studio,6539 E. Pacific Coast Hwy.Wednesdays, January 6 - March 10Participants must be ambulatory.

Marina Del Rey – Yoga Angel City Body Kinetics, 4143 Glencoe Ave.Thursdays, January 7 - March 116:30 - 8:00 pm

Newhall – Yoga Yoga Yoga Studio, 24421 Walnut St.Wednesdays, January 6 - March 10noon - 1:00 pm

Redondo Beach – Pilates Mat & ReformerBeach Cities Pilates Center514 N. Prospect, 1st FloorSaturdays, Jan. 6 - Mar. 10, 11:00 am - noon5 weeks of mat work & 5 weeks of Reformer

Studio City – Feldenkrais Studio City Library, 12511 Moorpark St. Wednesdays, January 6 - March 1011:00 am - noon

Walnut – Yoga Walnut Senior Center, 21215 La Puente Rd.Wednesdays, January 6 - March 10noon - 1:00 pm

Exercise is key to your overall health and wellness. So get moving—and have fun while doing it. Take advantage of a Chapter-sponsored or community-sponsored physical activity class.

The following pages highlight just a few of the many resources for physical activity classes available in your community. When noted, contact the facility or instructor directly to register. Or call 800.344.4867 for additional classes near you.

Active Choices

Eric Small Adaptive Iyengar Yoga Improve your balance, endurance, posture, flexibility, mobility and quality of life. Please bring a mat or beach towel. Cost for 10 weeks: $30.00*

FeldenkraisGentle, non-strenuous movements help improve flexibility & stability and manage stress & pain. Please bring a thick mat and beach towel to class. Cost for 10 weeks: $30.00*

PilatesImprove balance, flexibility and strength. Movements in Pilates reformer classes are done on specialized pieces of equipment and require strong seated balance and transfer skills.Cost for 10 weeks: $45.00*

Training & ConditioningImprove functional levels of fitness. A trainer will create a customized fitness program for each participant in a semi-private group setting.Cost for 10 weeks: $30.00* unless noted


Channel IslandsSanta Barbara – Yoga Vista Del Monte, Patio Room3775 Modoc RoadMondays, January 4 - March 811:00 am – 12:00 pm -or-Wednesdays, January 6 - March 1011:00 am – 12:00 pm

Santa Barbara – Training & ConditioningCottage Rehabilitation Hospital2415 De La Vina StreetTuesdays, January 5 - March 912:00 – 1:00 pm -or-Thursdays, January 7 - March 1112:00 – 1:00 pm

Simi Valley – Yoga Yoga Nook, 2472 Sterns StreetSpecial Yoga Mat SeriesTuesdays, January 8 - March 1211:30 am – 12:00 pm - or -Postures for Torso Strength & BalanceFridays, January 8 - March 1212:00 – 1:00 pm

Westlake Village – Yoga TrueYoga3625 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., #322Wednesdays, January 6 - March 102:00 - 3:00 pm

Channel Islands Community Classes

Grover Beach – Yoga Adaptive Yoga at Tullius Chiropractic & Pilates Center, 902 W. Grand Avenue. Meets each Tuesday at 11 am. Call the Center at 805.481.1566 for more information.

San Luis Obispo County – YogaSan Luis Obispo Veterans Memorial Building, 804 Grand Ave. Meets Mondays & Wednesdays, starting January 11. Beginners: 5:15 - 6:15 pm; All levels: 6:30 - 7:45 pm. Contact instructor Shoosh Crotzer, who has trained with Eric Small and has extensive experience with MS at 805.772.3560.

San Luis Obispo - AquaticsThe San Luis Obispo Parks and Rec Dept. offers a water exercise class which can accommodate special needs. (Note: pool temp is 88 degrees.) Call the SLO Swim Center at 805.781.7288. The Swim Center is located at Sinsheimer Park, 902 Southwood. Call San Luis Sports Therapy at 805.788.0805 if you wish to use the pool with instruction/supervision from a physical therapist.


Palm Desert Tuesdays, January 5 - March 9 10:30 - 11:30 am Haberkorn Health Center, 41555 Cook St. #160

Inland Empire Community Classes

Claremont – Yoga for people with MSMondays, 6:00 – 7:00 pmPomona Valley Health Center, 1601 Monte VistaCost: $65 for 10 classesNext 10-week series begins in February. For more information call 951.235.1117.

Riverside – Yoga FUN Yoga studio, 75 W Blaine St.~ or ~ Inland Yoga, Tibbetts studio 3742 Tibbetts St., Suite 202Classes taught by Christie Hall, who has trained with Eric Small and has extensive experience with MS. For info about which classes might be best for you and a schedule, please e-mail [email protected] or call 909.534.6952.

Temecula - AquaticsSW Family YMCA, 29119 Margarita Rd.Water Therapy Class in a cool pool with a lift offered twice a week. Cost: free for members; $5 non members. Call 951.677.YMCA (9622) for more info.

San Joaquin Valley Bakersfield – YogaArthritis Adaptive Aquatics Center1800 Westwind Dr., Building 500Thursdays, January 7 - March 11, 10:30 - 11:30 am

Bakersfield – Training & Conditioning Total Woman Fitness, 9901 HagemanTuesdays, January 5 - March 9Sessions between 10:30 am - 12:30 pmCost: $45.00

San Joaquin Community Classes

Clovis - VarietyClovis Adult School offers adaptive fitness classes: dance, Pilates, t’ai chi, yoga and much more. Call 661.327.2842 for more information.

Bakersfield - YogaCatholic Healthcare West offers free adaptive yoga classes at Mercy Hospital, Mercy Southwest Hospital, and Memorial Hospital. Contact Sally Baker at [email protected] or 661.332.5371 for day, time, and location.

Fresno - Training/StretchSan Joaquin Valley Rehabilitation Hospital has an adaptive gym with two locations, and offers circuit training classes and “Stretch It Out” classes. Cost; $100 Initiation fee and $35 monthly dues. Contact 559.431.2635 ext. 119 for more information. Hanford - Personal TrainingIn Shape Health Club, 325 N 11th Ave. Personal trainers for adaptive one-on-one training. Call 559.585.6555 for info.

Visalia1616 W. Mineral King AveYoga for MS classes offered Tuesdays, 11:00 am - 12:15 pm. Cost: $50 for 6 classes (good for 3 months). Visit www.valleyyoga.net or call 559.561.1010 for info.

Sign me up for Chapter-sponsored classes!


Call your local office (see page 27.


Inland Empire/Coachella Valley


Day Wellness ProgramsThis empowering program could be the best thing

you do for yourself each week

Explore a new approach to healthy living-staying fit, having fun, finding balance and becoming more the person you want to be!

In just one day each week, you can take part in activities that can enhance your overall health,improve or stabilize function, increase independence and optimize your ability to live well with MS, including:

adaptive exercise (yoga, tai chi, strength • training)memory enhancement• group support• art therapy• stress management• health education • …and more!

An experienced team of professionals who understand MS and can help bring your personal goals to life with a customized a program that’s right for you.

Empower Yourself...Enroll Today!

West Los Angeles The Marilyn Hilton MS Achievement Center at UCLA“REACH to Achieve” program ~ open Tuesdays through Fridays

Contact Elise Herlihy, RN at 310.267.4071 for more information.

Downey The Eric Small Center for Optimal Living with MSon the Rancho Los Amigos Rehabilitation Center campus

Call Julia Santiago at 1.800.344.4867 or 310.479.4456 for details or to arrange a tour.

The Eric Small Centers for Optimal Living with MS are supported in part by a generous grant from the Flora L. Thornton Foundation.

Mind-Body Skills for Stress Management

Learn from licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Carolyn Roberts, PhD to deal with life changes, stress and illness in a supportive group setting. Wellness involves not only the body, but also the mind, emotions and spirit. This group focuses on helping mobilize inner resources for healing and wellness. 10 Monday evenings, February 22 - May 3 at The Marilyn Hilton MS Achievement Center at UCLA

Cost: $120 per person, with scholarships available. Contact Stephanie Fisher at 310.267.4071 or [email protected] for more information.

In Los Angeles


BAMSDo you have a special talent, an excellent connection, available resources or creative ideas which can help us raise MS awareness in Kern County to create a world free of MS? If so, Bakersfield Against Multiple Sclerosis (BAMS) can use your help! Join brainstorming meetings to help generate ideas for raising MS awareness in our community throughout the year. For more information, contact Fotini Alfieris at 661.321.9512 or [email protected].

In the San Joaquin Valley

If you are living with MS and need a helping hand inside or outside the house, the MS

Service Day volunteers are here to help!During MS Awareness Week (March 8 – 14, 2010), teams of boy scouts and their dads will complete projects for people with MS in Bakersfield, including:

Interior chores •Outdoor jobs •Light repairs and chores •De-cluttering & organizing •

James O’Rourke, a Boy Scout with Troop 484, is working with the Kern County office to organize these special projects. James’ mother was diagnosed with MS several years ago. He said, “She could no longer do many of the things that we loved to do together as a family, but the MS Society has been very helpful to her in those years. Naturally, I came to them first, hoping help those who had helped my family. Although this MS Service Day will last but one day, I hope it lasts forever, blooming into an annual program for the MS Society to help those in their reach.”

Call Kim Kotrla at 661.321.9512.

MS Service Day

MS Awareness Week Kick-Off Please join us on March 8, 2010 at 12:00 pm on the corner of Chester & Truxtun Avenues, at the Liberty Bell in front of the courthouse. We’ll release orange balloons to kick off MS Awareness Week.

James ORourke


Managing MS Symptoms

Multiple sclerosis can cause various symptoms that may benefit from state-of-the-art management. Learn approaches to several common MS symptoms including fatigue, bladder issues, cognitive changes and difficulties with mobility.

Featured speaker: Elizabeth Morrison, MD, MSEd worked as an MS physician at Northwest Neurology in 2008 after moving to Bellingham from Los Angeles.After completing fellowship training in MS at the UC, Irvine in 2005, she conducted clinical research and practiced at the LA County-USC MS Center, where she was Voluntary Clinical Associate Professor of Neurology.

Cost: FREE program, includes light refreshments

Palm DesertTuesday, February 16, 20106:00 – 8:00 pmUniversity of California, RiversidePalm Desert Campus75080 Frank Sinatra Drive, B114-117

Table of ContentsIn the Coachella Valley

Do you have questions about medications? Then this program is the one for you. Join us for an open question and answer session with an experienced pharmacist from A-Med Healthcare, a medical supply delivery service, who will be available to answer questions about prescriptions you are currently taking as well as medications you might be considering. Learn about side effects, drug interactions as well as the latest in state of the art symptom management medications.

Presented in collaboration with A-Med Health Care

Learn about... • Drugs prescribed for MS treatment and

symptom management • The role of generic drugs • Possible drug interactions • Why prescription drugs are so expensive • Important drug side effects

Cost: FREE program, includes light refreshments

Palm DesertTuesday, January 19, 20106:00 – 8:00 pm 73-710 Fred Waring Drive, Suite 115

PharmacistAsk the

Sign me up!

Mail or fax form on page 27. Call Suellen Evavold 760.776.5740



Los Angeles CountyPlease contact the group’s facilitator(s) to learn more about a specific self-help group listed below, or contact area Chapter coordinator Mary Ann Holm at 310.479.4456 or 800.344.4867.

Beach Cities 2nd Sunday, 10:00 am, Beach Cities Health District Call Dena at 310.376.8426 Burbank 4th Wednesday, 3:00 pm Call Nan at 818.762.5432

Central LA 4th Saturday, noon, Bilbrew Library Call Alva at 323.233.5413

GLAMS (Gay and Lesbian Support Group) 2nd Saturday, 1:00 pm, Location varies Contact Ronni at 626.392.4321 or [email protected]

Glendora 2nd & 4th Saturdays, 10:00 am Contact Laura at 626.335.0613 or [email protected]

Lakewood/Long Beach 2nd Sunday, 1:00 pm, Lakewood Youth Center Call Fran at 562.925.4405

Lancaster/Palmdale 1st Wednesday, 6:30 pm, Chimbole Cultural Center Call Colleen at 661.225.9826

Los Angeles 3rd Thursday, 6:00 pm, Fairfax Branch Library Call Michael at 213.804.1249

LA – Spanish Speaking Group 2nd Saturday, 10:00 am Salvation Army/Red Shield Community Center Contact Maria at 818.781.0181 or [email protected]

North Hollywood - Drumming Group Learn a unique way to express yourself. No musical experience needed. Last Thursday of each month, 10:15 am, Remo Drum Center Please call Beth at 818.219.1715

Northridge last Thursday, 10:15 am, Mid Valley Regional Library Call Carolyn at 818.348.6628 orLinda at 818.989.6044 before attending.

Pasadena 2nd Monday, 10:00 am, California Assistance League Call Aynn at 626.303.4343

Santa Clarita 2nd Thursday, 6:30 pm, Blessed Katari Catholic Church Call Linda at 661.297.3040

Sherman Oaks (Social Group)3nd Saturday, 11:30 am - 2 pm, Sherman Oaks Library Call Linda at 818.222.7678

Do you ever wish you could talk with others who understand what it’s like to live with MS and the challenges the disease brings?

Community Self-Help Groups

Connect with others...


Torrance 2nd Tuesday, 1:00 pm, North Torrance Library Call Pattie at 310.769.0694

West Covina 2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 11:00 am Senior Center North Building Call Tadd at 626.962.7909

West LA Last Monday, 6:30 pm, National MS Society Contact Nancy at 310.827.5714 or [email protected]

West LA – Men’s Group 3rd Tuesday, 6:00 pm, National MS Society Call Larry at 310.423.3425

West Hills/Woodland Hills 1st Thursday, 7:00 pm, First United Methodist Church Call Mary Ann at 310.479.4456

Channel Islands Please contact the group’s facilitator(s) to learn more about a specific self-help group listed below, or contact area Chapter coordinator Jeanette Chian at 805.682.8783 (Ventura & Santa Barbara) or Devin Wallace at 805.772.2046 (San Luis Obispo).

Arroyo Grande2nd Tuesday, 6:00 pm, United Methodist Church Call Ellen at 805.343.6094

Morro Bay 4th Saturday, 10:30 am, St. Peters by the Sea church Call Devin at 805.772.2046

Ojai2nd Thursday, 7:00 pm, Oak View Community Center or 4th Tuesday, 12:45 pm, Eggs and Things Call Donna at 805.646.3750

Paso Robles 2nd Saturday, 11:45 am at Touch of Paso or 4th Tuesday, Park Grill Call Judy at 805.468.4555

MS Community Circle – this group is open to people with MS, caregivers, friends and family. • Meets Fridays at 10:00 am at First Presbyterian

Church in San Luis Obispo. Call Devin at 805.772.2046.

• Monthly meetings begin in Santa Barbara on January 20 at 11:30 am at the Chapter office, 14 W. Valerio St. Will then meet monthly 3rd Wednesday, 12:00 pm. Call Francine at 805.682.8783.

Simi Valley1st Monday, 10:00 am Sunrise Christian Fellowship Church Call Dennis Zurcher at 805.584.2526

Thousand Oaks4th Tuesday, 11:00 am, Location varies Call Darcy at 805.368.7918

VenturaLast Friday, 11:30 am, Carrow’s Call Vincy at 805.340.9627

Inland Empire/Coachella Valley Please contact the group’s facilitator(s) to learn more about a specific self-help group listed below or contact area Chapter coordinator Todd Eckel at 909.949.1363 for Inland Empire groups or Suellen Evavold at 760.776.5740 in the Coachella Valley.

Hemet3rd Saturday, 10:00 am, Hemet Public Library Call Lori at 951.658.6007 High Desert 4th Saturday, 10:00 am, High Desert Church Contact Dorothy at 760.241.6247 or [email protected]

Lake Arrrowhead1st Friday, 4:30 pm, Mountain Community Hospital Call Joyce at 909.337.7573

Montclair 1st Saturday, 10:00 am, Montclair Community Center Call Ginny at 909.981.7035


Murrieta/Temecula 4th Saturday, 10:00 am, Chancellor Place Call Bonnie at 951.674.5959

Palm Desert2nd Thursday, 10:00 am, IHOP Call Richard at 760.899.4174

Riverside1st Saturday, 10:00 am, Kaiser Call Gilbert at 951.544.1441

Temecula1st Wednesday, 10:00, Trinity Luthern ChurchCall Denise at 951.698.9725

UplandLast Wednesday, 10:00 am, Calvary Chapel Contact Kathleen at 909.986.2125 or [email protected]

Yucaipa 3rd Tuesday, 2:00 pm, Good Shepherd Church Call Clare at 909.795.5128 or Tom at 909.795.1717

San Joaquin Valley Please contact the group’s facilitator(s) to learn more about a specific self-help group listed below, or contact area Chapter coordinator Susan Wallis at 559.439.2154 (Fresno, Kings, Madera & Tulare) or Kim Kotrla at 661.321.9512 (Kern).

Bakersfield – African American GroupCall Kim at 661.321.9512 Bakersfield1st Thursday, 7:00 pm, Health South Rehab Hospital Call Carol at 661.363.9747

Bakersfield 2nd Wednesday, noon or 4th Wednesday, 9:30 am Lorene’s Coffee Shop Call Mary at 661.397.0489

Bakersfield - Family Support Group4th Saturday, 10:30 am, Call Kim at 661.321.9512

Fresno 1st Monday, 7:00pm, San Joaquin ValleyRehab CafeteriaCall Karen at 559.871.115 of Jeff at 559.261.2695

3rd Thursday, 9:30 am Call Yolanda at 559.908.4644 or Doris at 559.299.2072

Hanford -- NEW day/location! 1st Thursday, 10:00 am, First Christian Church Call Barbara at 559.584.1903 or Debra at 559.585.8054

Lake IsabellaCall Jennifer at 760.549.3838

Tehachapi1st Wednesday, 6:00 pm, St. Jude’s Anglican Church Call Kimberly at 661.822.7178 or [email protected]

Visalia2nd Saturday, 10:00 am, Call Jim at 559.734.7576

Talk to Someone with MSChat one on one with someone else who has MS! In our Peer Support program, you are matched with a trained volunteer who has MS and is dedicated to helping you navigate the challenges of the disease. This long running program has successfully paired hundreds of clients with a peer who can truly understand what it means to live with MS. Peer Support all takes place via phone, so there is no need to travel to get the support that you need and deserve. Please call Mary Ann Holm at 1.800.344.4867 for details or to sign up.

Talk with a ProfessionalFind a Telecounselor

Have you been thinking about talking with a licensed professional therapist who understands MS?

Have you been unsure about how to find such a person, or have been unable to find someone in your area?

Have you been hesitant to seek out counseling due to lack of finances or insurance to do so?

Is transportation an issue for you in seeking this service?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may qualify for our TELECOUNSELOR program!

This exciting opportunity allows for 8-10 individualized sessions via telephone with a licensed therapist provided by the National MS Society. Many people with MS have greatly benefited from receiving counseling from someone who understands the emotional challenges related to the disease. Improve your ability to cope with MS—with all of the comfort and ease of calling from your own home.

Newly Diagnosed Phone GroupAn 8-week evening group will begin soon. A professional counselor will facilitate this group for people diagnosed in the last two years, who are looking for accurate MS information in addition to fantastic emotional support. Guest speakers include an MS neurologist and an employment specialist.

Living with the Challenges of MSAn 8-week afternoon group will begin soon. This group is designed for those who are facing significant challenges and disability surrounding their MS diagnosis. This convenient phone group offers professional support and a great way to connect with others who may be feeling isolated and alone, and have difficulties leaving home.

Sign me up!

For any of the resources listed above, please call your local office (see page 27) for more information or to register by



Life is stressful enough. Family responsibilities, career obligations — even the everyday grind of battling rush-hour traffic, racing to the supermarket and getting the laundry done — can contribute to raising our anxiety level. When you add in the responsibility of caring for a loved one with a chronic illness, life can sometimes seem overwhelming. Talking and sharing with others can alleviate some of the stress and isolation that we sometimes feel.

Join us Monday evenings via teleconference and connect with others with similar experiences, share resources and receive information that can help you support your loved one.

Monday evenings, 5:30 -- 7:00 pmSupport group facilitated by caregiver and caregiver coach Jon Strum (1st Mondays facilitated by Ann Gerstenfeld, LMFT)

Cost: FREE

Sign me up!

Call Mary Ann Holm at 800.344.4867 or 310.479.4456.

For the Care Partner

Caregiver Telephone Support Group



The Art of Safe Transfer


There is a science to lifting, and failure to learn the basics can lead to unnecessary and often severe injury. Care giving is challenging enough in itself without adding physical risks!

In this workshop, you will receive one-to-one coaching from licensed physical therapist Julianna Winninghoff, PT on how to properly help your loved one transfer, get up after a fall, and how to assist her/him with walking when necessary. These techniques take practice before they become second nature, and that’s what the workshop will provide. You’ll learn to cue yourself each time you assist so you won’t fall back into bad habits when the stress is on.

Don’t miss this valuable training opportunity. Even if you learned these basics before, a refresher course will ensure that you haven’t forgotten important information that can preserve your back and your peace of mind.

Grover BeachSaturday, February 27, 2010 10:00 am – 12:00 noon Grover Beach Community Center1230 Trouville Ave.

Cost: FREE

Sign me up!


Call Devin Wallace at 805.772.2046.


For the Care Partner

How will you move it?nationalMSsociety.org/cal

NationalMultiple SclerosisSociety

Kathryn, MS Activist,diagnosed with MS in 1984

Sign Me Up! Mail or fax registration to your local National MS Society office. Or register online at

www.nationalMSsociety.org/cal.

Name: __________________________________

Date of diagnosis: ______________ Age: _______

Address: _________________________________

City: ___________________________________

Zip: ____________________________________

Phone: __________________________________

E-mail: __________________________________

Mobility device used (if any): ________________

________________________________________

I’d like to register for these program(s):

Social Security (teleconference – 1/12)

Benefits of Exercise (teleconference – 2/18)

Progressive MS (teleconference – 3/8)

Clinical Trials _____ # attending

Names of guest (if any): __________________

_____________________________________

Choose one:

Arroyo Grande (2/9)

Fresno (2/18)

Hanford (2/11)

Palmdale (1/20)

The Southern California Chapter has seven offices serving 14,500 people with MS and their loved ones in 12-county area. For more information, call 800. 344.4867 or visit www.nationalMSsociety.org/cal.

Southern California Chapter2440 S. Sepulveda Boulevard, Suite 115Los Angeles, CA 90064310.479.4456, 800.344.4867310.479.4436 fax

Channel Islands Office14 West Valerio StreetSanta Barbara, CA 93101805.682.8783 • 805.563.1489 fax

San Luis Obispo office 805.772.2046

Inland Empire Office869 E. Foothill Boulevard, Suite IUpland, CA 91786909.949.1363 • 909.949.0766 fax

Coachella Valley Office73-710 Fred Waring Drive, Suite 103Palm Desert, CA 92260760.776.5740 • 760.776.5742 fax

Antelope Valley & Santa Clarita Valley Office1669 West Avenue J, Suite 309Lancaster, CA 93534661.945.9111 • 661.948.6875 fax

Kern County Office1800 30th Street, Suite 105Bakersfield, CA 93301661.321.9512 • 661.321.9518 fax

San Joaquin Valley Office690 E. Bullard Avenue, Suite 103Fresno, CA 93710559.439.2154 • 559.439.1745 fax

Registration form comtinued on next page

Total Enclosed $ _______________ Check enclosed or

Charge my: Visa MasterCard AmEx Discover

Account # _________________________________ Exp. Date __________________________

Name on Card ____________________________________________________________________________

In consideration of your acceptance of this application, I hereby, for myself, my heirs, executors and administrators, waive and release any and all rights and claims for damages I may have against the National MS Society, Southern California Chapter (NMSS) or any other people connected with this program, their agents, representatives and assign for any and all injuries suffered by, or illness to, myself resulting in participation in this program. I give the NMSS permission to use my name and my guests’ names, photograph or other media taken of us during the event for promotional materials, publications or on the NMSS Web site.

Signature: _____________________________________________________Date: _______________________

CogniFitness ($25/person, pay below) Choose one: Santa Clarita Bakersfield

Tough Economy _____ # attending

Name of guests (if any): _______________

__________________________________

Location (city): ______________________

Ask the Pharmacist (Palm Desert – 1/19) _____ # attending


__________________________________

MS Symptoms (Palm Desert – 2/16)_____ # attending


__________________________________

Safe Transfer (Grover Beach – 2/27)

Name of caregiver: __________________

_________________________________ Relationship to person with MS:

spouse/partner parent

child sibling friend

Active Choices Pay below for Chapter-sponsored physical activity classes. Check pages 14 - 16 for cost.

Fitness series type: __________________

City: _____________________________

Day: _____________________________

Fitness series type: __________________

City: _____________________________

Day: _____________________________

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Southern California Chapter2440 S. Sepulveda Boulevard, Suite 115Los Angeles, CA 90064

If not you, then who?We need you now, more than ever.• MS research is moving at record speed, but

for the first time is more than 50 years, we can’t keep up. That’s why events like Walk MS are so critical — to fund research for a cure.

• Just think, of people affected by MS don’t drive the movement forward, who will?

• This year, we will call on everyone — especially people affected by MS — to join the movement.

• We need your drive. We need your passion. We need you now.

Walk with us April 2010. If not you, then who?

Register today for Walk MS: Southern California

walkMSsocal.org • 800.344.4867

Programs Connection -- January/February/March 2010

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Transcript of Programs Connection -- January/February/March 2010