Programs. Capitol Conference. Women s Getaway CONNECTION. Plus JOIN THE MOVEMENT. Create change through activism. Girls in the city.

Transcription

1 Programs December 2008 January 2009 Vol. 8 No. 1 CONNECTION Capitol Conference Create change through activism. Women s Getaway Girls in the city. Plus Teen Holiday Bowling Party Managing Fatigue and much, much more JOIN THE MOVEMENT

2 MOVING IS WHO WE ARE Maureen Reeder and former U.S. Rep. Ramstad at the Capitol in Washington, D.C. Unlikely activists took small steps to fuel momentum and make big change. Over the years I have heard people say things like I could never be an MS activist, or I don t know anything about politics. In reality, anyone can become an activist for people living with multiple sclerosis. And sometimes, all it takes is for people to tell their stories. This past year, the Minnesota Chapter received phone calls, s and letters from more than 60 people who saw sudden spikes in prescription co-payments for MS diseasemodifying drugs under some employer-based health plans. They shared their stories about how this affected their day-to-day lives and how they feared it would affect their futures. Thanks to these people who expressed concern, we had plenty to talk about with the health insurance companies. MS activists wrote letters to their insurance companies and several people joined chapter staff in a meeting with health plan representatives. Last spring, we recruited Rep. Rod Hamilton, who lives with MS, to introduce legislation to cap co-payments for MS diseasemodifying drugs. Many of the people who took a stand on this issue didn t consider themselves activists. But by speaking up, this group of unlikely activists took small steps to fuel momentum and make big change. As the chapter prepares for the 2009 legislative session, capping co-pays for MS drugs is a top priority. Join your fellow MS activists and help put an end to co-pay increases. Learn about this year s Capitol Conference on Page 13. I hope to see you there! Sponsorship of society programs or events does not connote that the National Multiple Sclerosis Society recognizes superiority in products or services provided by the sponsoring entity over other entities providing like or similar products or services. Programs Connection Programs Connection is a free publication of the National MS Society, Minnesota Chapter th Ave. S. Minneapolis, MN proconnect@mssociety.org Editors Timothy Holtz Emily Wilson MS Navigators Sarah Danen Jaclyn Groneberg Jill Parkinson Heather Svenson Vice President of Programs Linda Munson Chapter President Maureen Reeder To obtain an audio tape of Programs Connection, call Timothy Holtz at the Minnesota Chapter. Promising treatments for 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. National MS Society medical advisors recommend that people with MS talk with their health care professional about using one of these medications and about strategies and effective treatments to manage symptoms. If you or someone you know has MS, please contact the Society today at or to learn about ways to help manage multiple sclerosis and about current research that may one day reveal a cure.

3 Table of Contents Programs by topic Advocacy Capitol Conference 13 Healthy living Back to Fitness 20 MS Fitness Club and Team 5 What s online? 23 Inspiration Connect Locally 19 Women s Getaway 15 Join the movement Capitol Conference 13 MS Fitness Club and Team 5 Managing MS symptoms Back to Fitness 20 Face Time with Your Local Neurologist 21 Managing Fatigue 11 What s online? 23 Newly diagnosed Clubs and groups 26 Moving Forward with MS 9 Personal connections Clubs and groups 26 MS Camp 17 Teen Holiday Bowling Party 7 Women s Getaway 15 Technology What s online? 23 Youth Teen Holiday Bowling Party 7 Programs by location Hutchinson Connect Locally 19 Maple Lake MS Camp 17 Twin Cities Metro programs Back to Fitness 20 Capitol Conference 13 Connect Locally 19 Managing Fatigue 11 Moving Forward with MS 9 Teen Holiday Bowling Party 7 Women s Getaway 15 JOIN THE MOVEMENT

4 Small steps toward big change We don t decide to get MS, but we can decide how we will approach it. Elizabeth Carlson, diagnosed in 2002 Elizabeth Carlson diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2002 has been fighting to lower the cost of co-payments for prescription drugs for MS and other chronic illnesses under employer-based health plans. In 2008 Carlson received notice from her health insurance company that her prescription co-payment for the MS disease-modifying drug Rebif would increase 1,500 percent causing her annual out-of-pocket expense to jump from $160 to $2,400. After her MS diagnosis, she had to make many life adjustments, but now, Carlson worried she d have to make drastic financial changes as well. Now people with chronic illness may have to make a choice between paying for rent or groceries and getting their medication, Carlson said, That s not right. She felt disbelief, sadness and anger but realized she had the resources and abilities to reverse the change. Carlson took her first step toward becoming an activist; she wrote a letter. Carlson has written eight letters to key state representatives, three of whom serve on the Health and Human Services Committee. She considers her activism on the issue to be Elizabeth Carlson (center) with Becky Quinlan (left) and Carolie Collins at walk MS. a routine part of managing the disease. Though Carlson knows it could be years before she and others with MS see a change in co-pays, she remains hopeful and strong willed. We don t decide to get MS, but we can decide how we will approach it, she said. I have the strength. I am a finisher, I won t quit until we see the change. Get involved Learn more about the Capitol Conference on Page National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Minnesota Chapter

5 MS Fitness Club and Team Join the movement. The Minnesota Chapter offers two great ways to maintain fitness, connect with others and join the MS movement in MS Fitness Club The first opportunity is the MS Fitness Club a sharing group that gives people with multiple sclerosis a chance to discuss individual fitness goals and exercise programs. The club is open to anyone with MS who is presently exercising or who is interested in exercising. Tom Holtackers, a physical therapist who lives with MS, facilitates the sessions. The MS Fitness Club meets the third Saturday of the month at the chapter office from 10 a.m. to noon. Topics may include: 1. Fitness and exercise: what are they, how will they help me, how do I get started and how do I keep going? 2. How do I develop long- and short-term goals? 3. How much is too much or too little exercise? 4. What exercises help improve fatigue? 5. What exercises help improve strength? 6. What exercises help manage spasticity? 7. What exercises help manage bladder symptoms? 8. Exercise of the month 9. Nutritional tip of the month MS Fitness Team The MS Fitness Team provides people with MS an opportunity to connect with others throughout the chapter area from the comfort of their own home. To be a member of the MS Fitness Team you must be a person with MS, commit to some form of physical exercise at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week, volunteer for the MS Society at least 25 hours a year, and raise $250 for the chapter. Members of the team network with one another via message boards and telephone calls. Team members receive certificates of completion and T-shirts to wear at chapter programs and events. Get involved If you are interested in either of these programs, contact Timothy Holtz at or tholtz@mssociety.org. phone or (v/tdd) fax

6 Equipment programs Exchange or borrow the equipment you need, when you need it. Equipment Exchange The Minnesota Chapter Equipment Exchange is available to help people with disabilities purchase new equipment and sell or donate items they no longer need. Equipment ranges from accessible vans to stair glides. Any donated equipment is a non-cash charitable contribution and you may apply it in part to your tax deductions. The Equipment Exchange is open to the public and viewed nationwide. Buy, donate or sell Visit and click on Equipment Exchange under MS Links. To sell or donate an item, click to place the item on the exchange board. To browse available items for purchase, simply scroll down the page. Equipment Loan Program The Equipment Loan program allows people with MS to try out equipment before making an important purchase or to address the everchanging nature of the disease. This program offers equipment in the Twin Cities metro area as well as Brainerd, Hutchinson and Duluth. It is a great way to try before you buy or use something while on vacation. The most popular loan items are three-wheel scooters, walkers and manual wheelchairs. Borrow The process is simple. Just call Scott at Equipment can be used from one week to three months depending on the type of equipment and your needs. 6 National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Minnesota Chapter

7 Teen Holiday Bowling Party Join other teenagers affected by MS for fun and friendship. Jan. 2 n Bloomington The Minnesota Chapter invites teens with a connection to multiple sclerosis to the Teen Holiday Bowling Party. The fun includes cosmic bowling, pizza, refreshments, team bowling games and connecting with one another. Teens may bring a friend. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Join the Teen E-connection list. Nancy Dawn Van Beest at ndvanbeest@mssociety.org. Talkin Teens Chat Room A chat room on MSWorld for teens ages 13 to 18 with MS. Visit phone or (v/tdd) fax

8 Teen Holiday Bowling Party Space is limited. Registration form must be received by Dec. 29. Register online at Please print ID# (from mailing panel) Name Age Address City State ZIP Home phone - - Work phone - - Name Age Address City State ZIP Home phone - - Work phone - - Name Age Address City State ZIP Home phone - - Work phone - - Friday, Jan. 2 Location AMF Southtown Lanes 7941 Southtown Center Bloomington, MN Program fee There is no fee for this program. Register Online or by phone Visit or call By mail Mail registration form to the National MS Society. National MS Society, Minnesota Chapter th Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN :30 10 p.m. Questions For more information, contact Nancy Dawn Van Beest at or ndvanbeest@mssociety.org or Rachel Ring at or rring@mssociety.org. If you need any special accommodations, call (by the registration deadline). 8 MNM0CKTW BLO

9 Moving Forward with MS Move forward together with family, friends, health care providers and others affected by MS. Jan. 10 n Oakdale If you or someone close to you has multiple sclerosis, you probably have a lot of questions and concerns. You may also feel overwhelmed and unsure of what questions to ask. This program gives you the information and support you need to live comfortably and confidently with this change in your life and help you make medical decisions about all aspects of your health. n Learn about MS from an expert neurologist I take one day at a time and continue to live life as normally as possible. Natasha Frechette, diagnosed in 2007 n Team up with your health care providers n Navigate the medication maze n Consider clinical trials n Understand how to talk about MS with your friends and family n Gain information about resources available to you n Learn how to cope with the anxiety MS may bring to your life n Connect with other people whose lives are affected by MS n Achieve optimal wellness ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Information for people newly diagnosed with MS (click on Living with MS) South Metro Newly Diagnosed Self Help Group Meets the last Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at Jo Jo s Rise & Wine, Nicollet Ave., Burnsville. For more information, contact Jennifer at phone or (v/tdd) fax

10 Moving Forward with MS Space is limited. Registration form must be received by Jan. 2. Register online at Please print ID# (from mailing panel) Name Address City State ZIP Home phone - - Work phone - - # of people $10 per person $ enclosed Complete names and addresses of others attending: Name Address City State ZIP Name Address City State ZIP Special accommodations: If you need any special accommodations, please call to make arrangements. Requests must be received by the registration deadline date. Saturday, Jan a.m. 4:30 p.m. 8:30 a.m. Check-in begins with continental breakfast 9 10:30 a.m. My life, my MS, my decisions Timothy Holtz 10:45 a.m. noon Understanding MS in your life Sara Heinzen Noon 1 p.m. Networking lunch 1 2:30 p.m. Learning about MS Dr. Adam Carpenter 2:45 3:45 p.m. Connecting with others discussion groups 4 4:30 p.m. Conquering the anxiety and fear of MS Sara Heinzen Location Hilton Garden Inn St. Paul/Oakdale 420 Inwood Ave. Oakdale, MN Program fee $10 per person. Fee adjustments are available upon request. Make checks payable to MS Society. Do not send cash. Register Online or by phone Visit or call By mail Mail registration form to the National MS Society. National MS Society, Minnesota Chapter th Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN DVD or video A DVD or video of the program is available in the chapter s Lending Library. Visit and click on Library and Literature or call Questions For more information, contact Timothy Holtz at or tholtz@mssociety.org. Made possible with a restricted educational grant from 10 MNM0CNDW OAK

11 Managing Fatigue Get tools for managing fatigue. Jan. 15 n St. Paul Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of multiple sclerosis. It can severely interfere with both work and home activities. Learn how to manage fatigue and curb its effects on daily living at the Managing Fatigue program. The Managing Fatigue program is a six-week group course designed by experts in the field of MS rehabilitation. Participants will learn ways to manage this common, complex and sometimes disabling symptom. The series includes five videos highlighting the most important aspects of MS fatigue. There will be six one-and-a-half-hour sessions led by Kathleen Matuska and occupational therapy students from the College of St. Catherine. The format includes video viewing, group discussions, individual goal-setting and homework activities designed to help you manage fatigue. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Fatigue: What You Should Know Contact the chapter for a free copy. phone or (v/tdd) fax

12 Managing Fatigue Space is limited. Registration form must be received by Jan. 7. Register online at Please print ID# (from mailing panel) Name Address City State ZIP Home phone - - Work phone - - Complete names and addresses of others attending: Name Address City State ZIP Thursday, Jan. 15 Location Fairview MS Achievement Center 2200 University Ave., Suite 140 St. Paul, MN Program fee There is no fee for this program. Register Online or by phone Visit or call By mail Mail registration form to the National MS Society. National MS Society, Minnesota Chapter th Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN :30-8:30 p.m. Questions For more information, contact Jeannie Zank at or jzank@mssociety.org. Name Address City State ZIP Special accommodations: If you need any special accommodations, please call to make arrangements. Requests must be received by the registration deadline date. 12 MNM0CWES STP

13 Capitol Conference Create change through activism. Feb. 3 n St. Paul Every year at the National MS Society, Minnesota Chapter Capitol Conference, Minnesotans come together to speak with lawmakers about issues affecting people with multiple sclerosis. At this year s conference, MS activists will focus on two key issues: a bill to cap prescription co-payments for MS disease-modifying drugs under employerbased health plans and a tax credit for people who care for loved ones with disabilities. This conference is for anyone who wants to speak up for people living with MS in Minnesota. No experience is necessary. Group leaders guide participants throughout the day. Before visiting the Capitol, activists must participate in one teleconference training and one in-person training. New this year, the Minnesota Chapter offers three date options for both teleconference and in-person trainings. Training sessions include tips for meeting with legislators and an overview of this year s hot issues. Conference requirements: n Participate in one teleconference training n Participate in one in-person training n Commit to at least one follow-up meeting with your legislators The chapter will provide: n Hotel accommodations for participants from greater Minnesota n Lunch at the Capitol n Transportation from greater Minnesota where feasible n Materials and supplies for conference visits n Training materials and trainings phone or (v/tdd) fax

14 Capitol Conference Space is limited. Interest form must be received by Jan. 16. Complete interest form online at Please print ID# (from mailing panel) Name Address City State ZIP Home phone - - Work phone - - Special accommodations: If you need any special accommodations, please call to make arrangements. Requests must be received by the registration deadline date. Tuesday, Feb. 3 MS activist training Capitol Conference participants must complete one teleconference training and one in-person training. Teleconference trainings Wednesday, Jan. 21, 4 5 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 22, 7 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 23, a.m. 9 a.m. 5 p.m. In-person trainings Saturday, Jan. 31, 2-4 p.m., Bloomington Monday, Feb. 2, 2 4 p.m. or 7 9 p.m., St. Paul Tuesday, Feb. 3, 8 9 a.m., St. Paul* *This session intended only for those who have participated in the Capitol Conference in previous years. Program fee There is no fee for this program. Transportation and lodging is provided to people traveling from greater Minnesota or outside the Metro Mobility service area where feasible. Register If you are interested in participating, complete the interest form. After registering, you will receive a detailed packet of program information. Online or by phone Visit or call By mail Mail interest form to the National MS Society. National MS Society, Minnesota Chapter th Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN Questions For more information contact Kari Harju at , or kharju@mssociety.org. 14 INTEREST FORM

15 Women s Getaway Girls in the city. March n Minneapolis If you are a woman with multiple sclerosis, take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to socialize with other women affected by MS, have fun, build supportive relationships and learn ways to cope with the changes MS brings to life. At the Women s Getaway, speakers and activities provide participants with motivation, inspiration and positive ways to cope with MS. The weekend theme is girls in the city. The getaway will be held at the Radisson Plaza Hotel a prime location in the heart of Weekend includes: n Entertainment n Fun n Big city activities and cuisine n Motivational, humorous and educational speakers n Opportunities to build friendships downtown Minneapolis just steps away from shopping and entertainment. The hotel offers warm hospitality, an inviting atmosphere and top-notch service. phone or (v/tdd) fax

16 Women s Getaway Space is limited. Interest form must be received by Feb. 20. Complete interest form online at Please print ID# (from mailing panel) Name Address City State ZIP Home phone - - Work phone - - Do not send payment with this form. March Minneapolis Friday, March 27 Check in, connect with other women and enjoy a big city dinner and show. Saturday, March 28 Learn positive ways to cope with MS in your life. Participate in afternoon activities or shop and then enjoy the evening dinner and special guest speaker. Sunday, March 29 Get inspired and motivated at the morning brunch. Location Radisson Plaza Hotel 35 S. Seventh St. Minneapolis, MN Program fee $150 per person. Fee adjustments available upon request. Register If you are interested in participating, complete the interest form. Do not mail check with this form. After registering, you will receive a detailed packet of program information and a billing invoice. Online or by phone Visit or call By mail Mail registration form to the National MS Society. National MS Society, Minnesota Chapter th Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN Questions For more information, contact Timothy Holtz at or tholtz@mssociety.org. 16 INTEREST FORM

17 MS Camp Connect with old and new friends. May 4 8 n Maple Lake Aug n Maple Lake MS Camp is a five-day program for people with multiple sclerosis at Camp Courage, near Maple Lake, Minn, May 4 to 8 and Aug. 24 to 28. MS Camp provides an opportunity to take a vacation from the challenges of the disease, connect with others and enjoy daily activities. MS Camp includes outdoor activities, like canoeing or horseback riding, and indoor activities such as crafts, educational workshops and games. Professional entertainment and theme parties are just a couple of the exciting nighttime events. Camp Courage complete with an indoor pool, farm, health center, gymnasium and recreation area is fully accessible, and cabins feature a comfortable lounge and sleeping area. If you would like to learn more by speaking with past participants, contact the Minnesota Chapter. To see photos of MS Camp 2008, visit the MS Camp page at MS Camp 2009 will be smoke free To learn about smoking cessation resources, call the chapter or visit or phone or (v/tdd) fax

18 MS Camp Interest forms for the May and August camp sessions must be received by Feb. 13. Please print ID# (from mailing panel) Name Address City State ZIP Home phone - - Work phone - - I want to participant in camp: May 4-8 q Yes q No Aug q Yes q No q Both dates work for me, fit me in where space is available. Do not send payment with this form. May 4-8 and Aug Location Camp Courage, Maple Lake, MN Maple Lake Assistance Trained volunteers are available to assist campers with personal care needs and recreational activities. Nurses are available to provide on-site medical care and a camp doctor will be on call. Home health aids are available in the morning and evening to provide personal care in the cabins. Campers are also invited to bring their own care helpers to provide personal care. Program fee $200 per person. Fee adjustments are available upon request. Applications If you are interested in participating, complete the interest form. Professional staff and volunteers review the applications to determine if the Minnesota Chapter can meet the medical and safety needs of participants. In some cases, individual medical needs may be greater than we can provide at MS Camp. Upon acceptance you will receive a billing invoice. Do not send a check with the interest form. Online or by phone Visit or call By mail Mail interest form to the National MS Society. National MS Society, Minnesota Chapter th Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN Questions For more information, contact Jeannie Zank at , or jzank@mssociety.org Please note that we will make every effort to accommodate the camp of your choice, but we cannot guarantee space will be available. If a camp date has already been filled, you will have your choice of being placed on a waiting list or participating in the alternative camp. 18 INTEREST FORM

19 Connect Locally Connect with people in your community and learn about MS-related research, symptom management and ways to cope with MS. Moving Forward Film Festival St. Paul n Wednesday, Jan.14 Hutchinson n Monday, Feb. 9 In 2007, the National MS Society launched an MS Film Festival to give people affected by multiple sclerosis a platform to tell their story and show the world how they move forward. A film committee made up of people with MS who work in the entertainment industry selected five finalists to be paired with a production company to help bring their stories to life. Sharpen your movie critic s tongue, find inspiration in other people s stories or just sit back and relax. Join the St. Paul Care to Share self-help group or the Hutchinson self-help group for a screening of the five winning films. Popcorn will be served. For information and to R.S.V.P. to the St. Paul self-help group, contact Beth at or bajensen2001@earthlink.net. For information and to R.S.V.P. to the Hutchinson self-help group, contact Ann at or annlha@yahoo.com. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Can t make this program? To view the five short films, visit and search for Moving Forward Film Festival. phone or (v/tdd) fax

20 Back to Fitness Discover the benefits exercise can bring to your life. as the Multiple Sclerosis Treatment and Research Center, with Dr. Gary Birnbaum. Program participants receive instructions for home fitness, health club recommendations, lessons in body mechanics and posture, and education about their condition and how exercise plays an important role in managing symptoms. How it works n After a one-on-one consultation, the Back to Fitness team develops a need-specific program just for you. n The program generally runs six weeks or longer depending on how often you are able to attend sessions. Physical fitness is an important aspect of your overall health care strategy. It is known to reduce pain levels, strengthen and stabilize muscles and improve work and recreational activities. Join others with multiple sclerosis by participating in the Back to Fitness program. The Back to Fitness program at the Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology is a medically supervised therapeutic exercise program that helps people with medical conditions that require rehabilitation to improve functional tolerance for daily activities. The Back to Fitness program specializes in treating people with neurological conditions, including MS. Center staff work closely with the Schapiro Center for Multiple Sclerosis, with Dr. Randall Schapiro and Dr. Jonathan Calkwood, as well n The Back to Fitness team modifies the program in the event of insurance or financial issues or if participants need little supervision. Centers are located in Burnsville and Minneapolis. Call to set up an appointment. Prescriptions are needed for services. Back to Fitness Center Golden Valley The Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology, Ltd Golden Valley Road, Golden Valley, MN Back to Fitness Center Burnsville The Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology, Ltd. 675 East Nicollet Blvd., Suite 100, Oak Ridge Professional Building, Burnsville, MN National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Minnesota Chapter

21 MS Treatment and Research Center at the Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology Join Dr. Gary Birnbaum and Jane Iverson, R.N. Dr. Gary Birnbaum Face Time with Your Local Neurologist Get answers straight from the source. Neurologists from local MS clinics host these informal, question-and-answer style sessions about living with MS and research. Monthly at 6 p.m. Perpich Center for Arts Education, Glass Box Conference Room 6105 Hwy. 55, Golden Valley, MN 55422, Topics: Jan. 14 Multiple faces of MS Feb. 18 MRI, what it is, what it is not Please R.S.V.P. at , ext University of Minnesota MS Center Join Dr. Gareth Parry and Denice Wax, MS-certified nurse Dr. Gareth Parry Every other month at 6 p.m. Kingsley Commons, 4550 Humboldt Ave. N. Minneapolis, MN Topics: Jan. 12 Exercise and nutrition For more information, contact the University of Minnesota MS Center at phone or (v/tdd) fax

22 Face Time with Your Local Neurologist The Schapiro Center for MS at the Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology Join Dr. Randy Schapiro and Dr. Jonathan Calkwood Dr. Randy Schapiro Every Wednesday from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Regency Hospital, 4101 Golden Valley Road, Golden Valley, MN 55422, Topics: Jan. 7 What is MS? Jan. 14 Managing injectable medications Jan. 21 The challenges of disability insurance and Social Security Jan. 28 Exploring a new concept: group appointments Feb. 4 The role of physical therapy in MS Feb. 11 What is an MS attack? For more information, contact the Schapiro Center for MS at Dr. Jonathan Calkwood 22 National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Minnesota Chapter

23 What s online? Resources for managing MS symptoms and smoking cessation. MS Learn Online MS Learn Online is the National MS Society s online educational webcast series featuring three channels of programming Feature Presentation, Daily Minute and Question and Answer. Transcripts (.pdf) and podcasts (.mp3) are available for most programs. Check out the latest webcast, Managing Your Symptoms featuring Dr. Patricia Coyle. Coyle is acting chair, professor of neurology and director of the Stony Brook Multiple Sclerosis Comprehensive Care Center. Her areas of expertise include neurologic infectious disease, specifically Lyme disease and multiple sclerosis. This video webcast series includes: Part 1: Fatigue Length: 12 minutes Topics: n Different types of MS fatigue n Effects of depression, heat and lack of sleep on fatigue n Strategies for managing fatigue Part 2: Numbness, dizziness and vertigo Length of program: 11 minutes Topics: n Numbness and tingling as initial symptoms n Explanation of dizziness versus vertigo n Managing numbness, dizziness and vertigo How to stop smoking QUITPLAN Minnesotans have free access to this service, which provides tools and information to help you quit smoking. phone or (v/tdd) fax

24 Exercise Studies show exercise not only improves your overall health and well-being, but can also help to manage many MS symptoms. Read about people with MS who are moving forward through exercise and find an exercise program in your community. Featured group Mankato water exercise The Mankato water exercise group meets every Wednesday from 5 to 6 p.m. at the YMCA in Mankato. The group does water walking, stretching, balance and strengthening exercises. What is your exercise group doing to move forward with MS? If you want to be the next featured group, your stories and photos to Emily at ewilson@mssociety.org. WATER EXERCISE Albert Lea Family YMCA Bill Villarreal, T/R, 1-2 p.m. Alexandria Lakes Area Recreation held at Arrowwood Resort Pool Kelly Wencl, M/W 4:30-5:30 p.m. T/R 9-10 a.m. Andover YMCA Delores Smith, R, 11 a.m.-noon Burnsville Minnesota Valley, YMCA Nanette Denk, T/R, 9-9:45 a.m. Coon Rapids Emma B. Howe Northtown YMCA Joel Giedlinski, T/R, 11 a.m.-noon Detroit Lakes Detroit Lakes Community & Cultural Center Kim Bettcher, Call for details. Duluth Duluth Clinic, Fitness & Therapy Center Kelly Fugere, Low impact M/W, a.m., Water exercise F, a.m. 24 National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Minnesota Chapter

25 Eagan Southwest Area YMCA Trenne Fields, T, 9-10 a.m. Eden Prairie Community Center Beth Witt, M/W, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Golden Valley Courage Center Kaari Hilgert, T/R, 1-2 p.m. Grand Rapids Itasca County Family YMCA Sue Beer, T, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Inver Grove Heights The Grove Amy Crary, M/W, 10:10-11 a.m. Mankato Mankato Family YMCA Joy Leafblad, W, 5-6 p.m. New Hope Northwest YMCA Erin Thune, T/R, 11 a.m.-noon Perham Community Center Marie Hanson, T/R, 8:30-9:30 a.m., W, 11-11:45 a.m. St. Cloud Family YMCA Will Hurst, M/W/F, 9:30-10:30 a.m. St. Paul Humboldt Senior High School Pam Weiss, M/R, 5:30-6:20 p.m. S, 8:30-9:20 a.m. Staples Staples Community Center Kevin Grondahl, W/F, 11 a.m.-noon Stillwater Courage St. Croix Joanie Kiminski, T/R, a.m. Virginia Mesabi Family YMCA Becky Zubich, T/R, 1-2 p.m. Waconia Safari Island Sara Johnson, M-F, 8:30 a.m. YOGA Bemidji Dionne s OM Yoga Studio Dionne Daly, S, 10-11:30 a.m. Eden Prairie Eden Prairie Community Center Beth Witt, F, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Minneapolis Kingsley Commons Jeanine Farrell, F, 2:30 p.m. Uptown YWCA Lisa First F, Noon New Hope Northwest YMCA Amy Bakken, W, 11:25 a.m.-12:25 p.m. Stillwater Courage St. Croix Joanie Kiminski, W, 10 a.m., R, 6:30-7:30 p.m. GROUP EXERCISE Shoreview Harbor Suites Megan Frost, M/W, 10:30-11:30 a.m. TAI CHI Mankato Tai Chi for balance Centenary United Methodist Church Rich & Pam Schreiner M, 5:30-6:30 p.m M= Monday R = Thursday T = Tuesday F = Friday W= Wednesday S = Saturday phone or (v/tdd) fax

26 Featured group Mankato The Mankato group offers a positive and uplifting source of support for people living with multiple sclerosis. The group is made up of people of all ages who love to be social and help new members become more comfortable. They are always eager to answer questions that new members may have about MS. Clubs and Groups Join an MS club or group to connect with other people affected by MS, enjoy lively discussions, learn valuable information and ways to cope with challenges, have fun and be inspired. Read about groups and clubs that are moving forward together and find a club or group in your community that s right for you. Brenda Fruhwirth, group facilitator BOOK CLUBS Apple Valley First Friday of the month 10 a.m. Barnes & Noble Cindy Duluth Fourth Tuesday of the month 11 a.m. Barnes & Noble Betsy Maple Grove Fourth Monday of the month 10 a.m. Barnes & Noble Mary Mahtomedi Fourth Tuesday of the month 6:30 p.m., Betty s Pies Donna Mary Minneapolis Third Tuesday of the month Kingsley Commons Pat National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Minnesota Chapter

27 Rochester Fourth Tuesday of the month Barnes & Noble Apache Mall Larry Roseville First Tuesday of the month 10 a.m. Barnes & Noble Har Mar Carol SELF-HELP GROUPS New group MS Fitness Club Third Saturday of the month 10 a.m. Chapter Office For care partners Bemidji Care Partners Third Saturday of the month 10 a.m. North Country Regional Hospital Elk River Care Partners First Wednesday of the month 6:30 p.m. Senior Center Men s Care Partner Breakfast Third Saturday of the month 10 a.m. Different restaurant each month Contact Dan for location at or dbr@danielrude.com Perham Care Partners Last Tuesday of the month 1 p.m. Calvary Lutheran Church St. Louis Park Care Partners Third Tuesday of the month 6:30 p.m. St. Louis Park City Hall St. Paul Care Partners at MSAC Second Tuesday of every other month MS Achievement Center For couples Stillwater Couples Second Saturday of the month Noon Courage Center For GLBT St. Paul GLBT: Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Living with Chronic Illnesses and Disability First Tuesday of the month 6 p.m. Metropolitan Center for Independent Living For men Metro Area It s Just Breakfast (with the guys) Various Saturdays of the month 10 a.m. Different restaurant each month Contact Rick for location at or rleaf@msnet.org For newly diagnosed South Metro for Newly Diagnosed Last Wednesday of the month 6:30 p.m. Jo Jo s Rise & Wine For people of color Metro Area MS Group for People of Color Second Saturday of the month 10 a.m. Wayman AME Church in Minneapolis For people mildly affected by MS Southwest Metro MS group for mildly affected Third Saturday of the month 10 a.m. United Methodist Church in Eden Prairie For professionals Let s Lunch: professionals living with MS Third Saturday of the month 11 a.m. Chatterbox Pub in St. Paul phone or (v/tdd) fax

28 For women Maplewood Peer Emotional Support Women s Group Third Thursday of the month 6:30 p.m. Gustavus Adolphus Lutheran Church General self-help groups Aitkin First Wednesday of the month,, and third Monday of the month, 1 p.m. Access North Albert Lea Second Monday of the month Grace Lutheran Church Alexandria Second Monday of the month 5 p.m. St. Mary s Office Building Apple Valley First Thursday of the month 9:30 a.m. Christ Church Arrowhead region Second Friday of the month 1 p.m. Babbitt Municipal Building Austin First Monday of the month 6:30 p.m. Grace Lutheran Church Belview Third Thursday of the month 7:30 p.m. Parkview Home No meetings Nov. Feb. Bemidji Third Saturday of the month 10 a.m. North Country Regional Hospital Benson Fourth Tuesday of the month Westwood Manor Apartments No meetings Nov. Feb. Bloomington First Wednesday of the month Nativity of Mary Church No meetings July Aug. Brainerd MS Breakfast at the Mill Third Monday of the month 9:30 a.m. Sawmill Inn Burnsville/Apple Valley First Tuesday of the month 6:30 p.m. Fairview Education Center in Burnsville Cambridge Third Thursday of the month Cambridge Medical Center Canby Second Thursday every other Month, April through December 4 p.m. Sanford Canby Medical Center Chaska Third Tuesday of the month 12:30 p.m. Chaska Library Coon Rapids North Suburban Second Wednesday of the month Coon Rapids City Center Detroit Lakes Second Monday of the month 6 p.m. Lincoln Park Assisted Living Duluth First Tuesday of the month 11:30 a.m. (bring a bag lunch) Bethany Baptist Church Eden Prairie Third Tuesday of the month Wooddale Church Fergus Falls Second Wednesday of the month 11:30 a.m. United Church of Christ Forest Lake Area Second Thursday of the month 6:30 p.m. The Meadows for Assisted Living 28 National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Minnesota Chapter

29 Gaylord First Sunday of the month Lakeview Home No meetings Nov. Feb. Gibbon Third Saturday of the month 9:30 a.m. Gibbon Community Center Golden Valley Second Monday of the month Golden Valley Lutheran Church Grand Rapids Second Thursday of the month 12:30 p.m. Grand Rapids Public Library Hibbing Last Thursday of the month 1 p.m. Open Door Church Hutchinson Second Monday of the month 6:45 p.m. Christ the King Lutheran Church Inver Grove Heights/ West St. Paul First Monday of the month 7:30 p.m. Good Shepherd Lutheran Church No meetings Dec. Feb. Lake Elmo Third Wednesday of the month Noon Christ Lutheran Church Litchfield Fourth Tuesday of the month 3 p.m. Meeker County Memorial Hospital Luverne Third Thursday of the month 7:30 p.m. Rock County Family Services Mankato Second Thursday of the month ISJ Physical Medicine, Madison East Center Maple Grove Second Saturday of the month 10 a.m. St. Joseph the Worker Church Maple Lake/Annandale Third Monday of the month Noon Maple Manor East in Maple Lake Minneapolis Last Saturday of the month 10 a.m. Kingsley Commons Mora Second Monday of the month Kenebec Hospital New Hope Third Saturday of the month 10 a.m. Caribou Coffee New Ulm Third Tuesday of the month Oak Hills Living Center Oakdale First Saturday of the month 10:30 a.m. Oakdale Library Perham Last Tuesday of the month 1 p.m. Calvary Lutheran Church Pierz/Little Falls First Wednesday of the month 1 p.m. Bethel Lutheran Church Princeton Third Saturday of the month 10 a.m. Fairview Northland Regional Hospital Rochester Second Wednesday of the month Meadow Lake Senior Living Roseville Second Wednesday of the month 6:45 p.m. Roseville City Hall St. Anthony/New Brighton Fourth Tuesday of the month 6 p.m. Christ the King Lutheran Church in New Brighton phone or (v/tdd) fax

30 Staples Second Thursday of the month 3:30 p.m. Lakewood Care Center No meetings June Aug. St. Cloud Second Wednesday of the month St. Cloud Public Library St. Cloud-Granite City First Tuesday of the month 4 p.m. Whitney Center St. Croix Falls Third Saturday of the month 2 p.m. Good Samaritan Nursing Home St. Paul Second Saturday of the month 10 a.m. Fairview MS Achievement Center St. Paul Care to Share Second Wednesday of the month Macalester Plymouth Church Contact Mary Lynn at to verify location Stillwater Third Wednesday of the month 6 p.m. Courage Center Superior Second Tuesday of the month 6 p.m. Superior Public Library Waseca Third Tuesday of the month Waseca Medical Center Wayzata-Suburban West Hennepin First Thursday of the month 1 p.m. Wayzata Community Church Willmar First Tuesday of the month Bethesda Pleasant View Nursing Home Windom/Cottonwood County Third Tuesday of the month ALC Lutheran Church Woodbury A.M. Second Thursday of the month 9:30 a.m. King of Kings Lutheran Church Woodbury P.M. Fourth Tuesday of the month St. Ambrose of Woodbury Additional resources Book clubs For more information about book clubs, visit Click on Client Programs, Clubs and Groups and then Book Clubs. If you would like to start a book club in your area, contact Jeannie Zank at or jzank@mssociety.org. Self-help groups For more information about self-help groups, visit Click on Client Programs, Clubs and Groups and then Self-help Groups. If you would like more information about a group or would like to start one in your area, contact Jeff Fisher at or jfisher@mssociety.org. 30 National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Minnesota Chapter

31 Didn t find what you re looking for? Use this all-in-one directory to find the programs, services and resources that are right for you. Advocacy Kari, Camps and getaways Getaways for care partners, couples, families, men and women Timothy, MS Camp Jeannie, Youth Camp Nancy Dawn, Chore services Kari, Clubs and groups Book clubs Jeannie, Self-help groups Jeff, Education programs Timothy, Emergency assistance Scott, Equipment programs Equipment Loan Equipment Exchange Scott, Exercise programs Jeannie, Rachel Ring, Family, youth and care partner programs Nancy Dawn, Giving to the MS Society Shannon, Rachel Hughes, Housing Steve, Independent Living Grants Grants are available for care partner relief, aids for daily living, adaptive equipment and home modification. Scott, Information and Referral Center MS Navigators can answer questions about living with MS and connect you to resources. Heather, Jaclyn, Jill and Sarah, Inservices for companies and organizations Steve, Lending Library Heather, Jill, Mentor Program Connie, Professional education Steve, Teen programs Rachel Ring, Volunteer opportunities Timothy (Programs), Will (Events), Walk MS, Bike MS and motorsport events Cortney, Calling from Greater Minnesota? Call phone or (v/tdd) fax

32 Are you a Movement Ambassador? n Do you often talk with people about your involvement with the MS Society? n Are you interested in sharing your story about how MS affects your life? n Do you enjoy mobilizing and engaging people in the MS movement? If so, you should be a Movement Ambassador. The Movement Ambassador program is an exclusive opportunity for people who are committed to engaging others in the MS movement. Learn more and sign up at MSsociety.org. For more information, contact Jenna at or jwashnieski@mssociety.org look at life insurance in a whole new way There are many ways to support the movement to create a world free of multiple sclerosis. But did you know you can make a significant gift through your insurance policy? Let it go. Make an outright gift of a paid-up life insurance policy. Start anew. Take out a new policy with the National MS Society as owner and beneficiary. Your continuing premium payments, usually gifted directly to the society, are income tax deductible. With small annual payments, you can yield a sizable gift to the society. To learn more, contact Shannon at or swolkerstorfer@mssociety.org.