Upper Midwest Chapter aNNUaL prograMs aNd resoUrCes gUide

Ms resource guide

Whatever your connection to MS may be, use this guide to get the information and support you need.

MS stops people from moving.

we exist to make sure it doesn’t.

we’re here for youWe know multiple sclerosis doesn’t wait for a convenient moment, so we don’t want you to wait for assistance. We understand how important it is to receive personalized help that comes at the right time. This guide is intended to help you get support when you need it. And if you have questions that aren’t answered here, MS Navigators® are a phone call away.

In these pages, you’ll find information about the programs, resources and services available to anyone affected by MS, plus ways you can contribute to the movement to end the disease forever. We offer in-person support or resources you can access from the comfort of your home, plus opportunities to connect with others and make a difference in your community.

Whether you were recently diagnosed, have been living with MS for years, or are a care partner, friend or family member of someone living with MS, we invite you to explore the MS Resource Guide and the many ways the National MS Society can make life a little easier for everyone who’s affected by the disease.

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. The National MS Society’s medical advisors recommend that people with MS talk with their health care professionals about using these medications and about effective strategies and treatments to manage symptoms. If you or someone you know has MS, visit nationalMSsociety.org or call 800-582-5296 to learn more.

a message from the presidentWhether you were recently diagnosed or have been living with multiple sclerosis for many years, it’s never too early or late to set goals and take action to achieve them. Living your best life with MS means learning how to overcome the challenges a chronic disease can present, and sometimes it means asking for help. When you have questions or need assistance, the National MS Society is the best place to start. It’s a place where people understand, and it’s a community where people move forward, together.

I encourage you to look through this entire guide — you’ll quickly learn about all the ways the National MS Society educates and empowers people affected by MS. We offer more programs and services and fund more MS research than any other MS organization in the world. Plus, we create opportunities for people with MS to make valuable connections within their own communities and even across the world.

When you’re done reading, hold onto this guide and refer back to it as needed. If you don’t see a topic covered, contact us about it. There is no question too big or too small. We want to help everyone affected by this disease to live richer, healthier, more independent lives. Get started by getting connected today.

Holly Anderson Chapter President

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JoiN the MoVeMeNt®

Get startedThere’s a sea of information out there, and it can be overwhelming to sort through it all. Count on the National MS Society to be your partner in facing MS. We’re here to help you navigate the challenges of MS with a personalized response to your unique needs. Simply call us or visit our website to get started.

In addition to the MS Resource Guide, you should receive regular updates and program information by mail and email, including the quarterly MS Connection newsletter. If you’re not receiving timely information, please contact us.

Whether you’re living with MS, or are a care provider,

family or friend of someone with the disease,

connect with the Upper Midwest Chapter by calling

800-582-5296 or visiting MSsociety.org.

table of contentsServices and support 4-5

Connect with others 6-8

Education programs 9

Health and wellness 10

Research and clinical trials 11Advocacy and awareness 12

Get involved 13-15

Services and supportgetting what you need, when you need it.Finding answers and making sound decisions requires having the right information at the right time. If you’re seeking assistance or need to know more before making an informed decision — simply call an MS Navigator®. MS Navigators are highly-skilled professionals equipped to respond to your questions

We know that MS affects not only the person living with the disease, but people closest to them, as well Whatever your connection to MS may be, the National MS Society is your partner in MS care and will help you access the information, resources and support you need.

reliable resources and referralsAn MS Navigator can refer you to a number of different professional services in your local community, including:

n Neurologists and other physicians

n Professional counselors and support groups for people with MS, family members and care partners

n Employment specialists to address workplace challenges

n Financial specialists

n MS-trained fitness and exercise specialists

n In-home services and respite support

n And many more

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Be your own best advocateMS Navigators also can give you the tools, resources, knowledge and confidence to help make decisions concerning your needs, opportunities and rights. Examples include:

n What you need to know when newly diagnosed

n Treatment options and symptom management strategies

n Access to optimal health care

n Understanding benefits such as health insurance

n Handling financial challenges and planning for the future

n Managing life changes

addressing financial challengesLiving with MS can mean unexpected and ongoing financial difficulties for you and your family. The National MS Society may be able to help if you’re struggling to pay for something that helps you maintain quality of life, such as:

n Home and automobile modifications

n Mental health counseling

n Equipment and adaptive tools

n Critical short-terms needs like rent or utility shut-offs

n Transportation to and from medical appointments

n Respite care services (a break for unpaid caregivers)

n Lawn mowing, snow removal and housekeeping

We’re here to help you keep moving. Call 800-582-5296 or visit MSsociety.org.

Whether your needs can be addressed in a few phone calls,

or you’re facing multiple, complex issues, an MS Navigator®

can work with you to develop an action plan.

Ms scholarship programBecause of the rising costs of tuition and the financial strain MS can put on a family, the National MS Society created a scholarship program to help students who have MS or who have a parent with MS achieve their dreams of going to college. Applications and guidelines for eligibility can be found at nationalMSsociety.org/Scholarship.

Connect with othersLocal programsPrograms uniquely designed for people with MS, their families and care partners occur throughout the year. Details are listed at nationalMSsociety.org/mnmcalendar, as well as in the quarterly MS Connection newsletter. Want the information to come right to you? Sign up to receive program announcements via mail and email for upcoming activities in your community.

Volunteer initiated programsDid you know that many local MS programs are coordinated by volunteers? Volunteers are the backbone of our organization. They help build connections in every corner of our 350,000-square-mile chapter area, strengthening both the individual who lives with MS and the entire movement to end the disease.

Do you have an idea for a program or activity in your community? We want to help you make it a reality. Volunteer Initiated Programs (VIPs) are led by people like you who are interested in hosting an educational or social program for people affected by MS.

It’s easy. You come to us with an idea, and we provide you with all the training, tools and guidance to make it happen. No one knows your community better than you, and we want to help you make a meaningful impact.

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Connect with Ms Clubs and groupsClubs and groups provide opportunities to create meaningful connections with other people who share experiences similar to your own. More than 100 Upper Midwest Chapter clubs and groups, as unique and varied as each person’s experience with MS, are already meeting on a regular basis.

For an updated list of clubs and groups in your area, visit nationalMSsociety.org/mnmgroups or call 800-582-5296. At least one MS club or group meets in the following cities:

Carroll

Cedar Rapids

Clinton

Davenport

iowa

Des Moines

Dubuque

Fort Dodge

Iowa City

Knoxville

Mason City

Oskaloosa

North Central Area

Sioux City/ Dakota Dunes

Waterloo/ Cedar Falls

Aberdeen

Brookings

Huron

south dakota

Mitchell

Rapid City

Redfield

Sioux Falls

Spearfish

Watertown

Albert Lea

AlexandriaBarret

Belview

BrainerdBuffalo/Maple LakeCanby

Chaska

Cloquet

Minnesota and wisconsin

Duluth

Faribault

Fergus FallsForest Lake

Grand Rapids

HibbingHutchinsonLittle Falls/Pierz

Luverne

Mankato

Monticello

New Ulm

PerhamPrincetonRochester

Sauk Centre

St. CloudStaples

Stillwater

Superior, WI

Twin Cities metro (40+ groups)Waseca

Willmar

Bismarck-MandanBottineau

North dakota

DickinsonFargo

Grand Forks/Red River Valley

JamestownMinot

8 | MS Resource Guide

MsConnection.orgSocial networking has become one of the most popular ways to connect online. However, public

social networks might not be the most comfortable place to share personal information about living with a chronic health condition like multiple sclerosis. That’s why the National

MS Society created MSconnection.org, a social networking website and online community for people living with MS, their loved ones and health care professionals to connect in a safe and secure environment.

Join thousands of people who are supporting one another and exploring issues that shape our world. Sign up, create a profile and start connecting at MSconnection.org.

one-on-one peer ConnectionsThrough the One-on-One Peer Connections Program, you can search for

and connect with a peer support volunteer who has “been there” and can provide you with helpful tips, suggestions and emotional support for the challenges that MS throws at you. Connections are made through ongoing telephone or email conversations. Start your ongoing peer connection at nationalMSsociety.org/peersupport.

MsFriendsSometimes a person who says “I know what you mean,” is all you need.

MSFriends is a helpline that connects you with a volunteer who is living with MS or shares your same connection to MS. Connect today

by calling the MSFriends helpline at 866-673-7436. All of your conversations are confidential.

Connect with others (continued)

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Every person’s MS behaves differently. Having the right information at your fingertips will help you feel better prepared for whatever comes along.

teleconference seriesThe National MS Society telelearning program for people with multiple sclerosis and their families aims to provide information and guidance on current matters essential to living one’s best life with MS. Each free telelearning program features topic-area expert(s) by phone with online presentations and a Q&A session.

Empower yourself with education from the comfort of your own home for free. Learn more and reserve your spot at nationalMSsociety.org/telelearning or call 800-344-4867.

access programs any time, anywhereLife gets busy. That’s why the National MS Society has designed a number of informational programs that can be accessed at any time, from anywhere. Learn basic facts about symptom management, treatment strategies, health care and more — or dive right into care partner concerns, intimacy issues and your workplace rights.

Visit nationalMSsociety.org to learn more about:

n My Life, My MS, My Decisions

n Knowledge is Power

n MS Next Step®

n You CAN!

n Everyday Matters

n MS educational videos

Education programs

Health and wellnessWellness is a dynamic state of physical, emotional, spiritual and social well-being that can be achieved even in the presence of chronic disease or disability. The National MS Society can keep you moving forward by helping you stay physically and mentally healthy.

exercise and MsStudies show exercise not only improves your overall health and well-being, but also can help manage many MS symptoms. Health and wellness facilities throughout the chapter area offer water exercise, yoga, Tai Chi and land-based strengthening classes for people with MS. Plus, we can help with the cost of exercise programs. For information about classes held near you, visit nationalMSsociety.org/mnmcalendar.

equipment assistanceMSClassifieds.org is a virtual marketplace to buy, sell and donate goods to help people with MS live their best lives. There is a constantly changing inventory of used equipment and assistance items. If you’re in need of equipment and can’t access it through your insurance or through MS Classifieds, call us — we may be able to help.

Live fully, live wellLive Fully, Live Well is a comprehensive wellness program for people with MS and their support partners. Live Fully, Live Well covers topics — ranging from eating well to planning for your future to traveling — that affect the whole family in order to strengthen relationships, increase understanding and promote improved health and quality of life. Learn more at nationalMSsociety.org/LiveFullyLiveWell.

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exciting developments in researchThe National MS Society is a driving force of MS research and treatment to stop disease progression, restore function and end MS forever. The complexity of MS necessitates a holistic approach when it comes to research — a comprehensive strategy that can propel knowledge, better treatments, health care policies and new disease management therapies forward, faster.

We support and fund research activities spanning all research stages, including early discovery research, translational research that brings promising ideas forward into actual therapeutic solutions for testing, and clinical trials. Our unique approach drives the pursuit of all promising avenues that can impact those living with multiple sclerosis.

As part of the Society’s research fundraising initiative — NOW: An MS Research Revolution — we’ve committed to raise $250 million by 2016 for research aimed at stopping MS, restoring lost function and ending the disease forever.

Become an Ms research ChampionBecome an MS Research Champion and proudly let others know you’re helping to lead the MS research revolution. Visit nationalmssociety.org/research to learn more about the progress we’ve made and major breakthroughs on the horizon.

Clinical trialsClinical trials help determine if a drug is safe and effective for people with MS. People who are willing to volunteer in these studies make it possible for all of us to look forward to new and better drug therapies. For more information about how clinical trials work and how you can participate in local studies, visit nationalmssociety.org/clinicaltrials.

Research and clinical trials

Raise awareness, advocate for changeawareness — every connection countsMultiple sclerosis and the MS movement become better known each year. But more must be done. Every connection counts when it comes to increasing awareness and support. Every hand we shake, every letter we write to an elected official, every person in our Facebook network, every poster we put up, every dollar we raise, every video we share — each connection has the opportunity to change the world for people affected by MS.

You can help build a greater understanding of MS and the Society’s work by participating in easy awareness activities throughout the year. Mark your calendar with the following dates, and pay close attention to Society communication for ways you can Join the Movement®.

n MS Awareness Week, March 2–8, 2015

n World MS Day, May 15, 2015

Ms activists on the frontlineWhether you only have a few minutes or want to make a deeper commitment, you can become an MS Activist and help shape policies and programs that impact people with MS. Join the growing MS Activist Network and get behind efforts that focus on affordable health care coverage, accessibility, employment, transportation and more.

Through State Action Days, in-district meetings and State Advocacy Councils, advocates contact and meet with their members of Congress, state legislators and others to share their stories and support positive change. Visit MSsociety.org/takeaction to learn more.

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Get involvedparticipate in a fundraising event Sign up to walk, bike, run or toast your way to a world free of MS. The Upper Midwest Chapter hosts nearly 50 fundraising events across the chapter territory that help keep people with MS moving forward.

Walk MS connects people living with MS and those who care about them. Nearly 30 Walk MS events are held in the Upper Midwest Chapter area. Be inspired. Get connected. Walk MS.

Bike MS is for cyclists seeking a personal challenge and a world free of MS. Six unique rides in the upper Midwest provide people who love to bike a meaningful way to support people with MS.

Challenge Walk MS is more than just a walk. It’s a two-day, 50k challenge that unites people who are especially passionate about advancing research and support for people with MS.

MuckFest™ MS is a 5k course of pure athletic hilarity, featuring mud and 20+ outrageous obstacles that will spin, swing and fling you up, down and sideways.

Wine tastings, luncheons and auctions provide a unique opportunity for people who are passionate about the MS movement to network while enjoying delicious food, inspiring speakers and more.

Many people say one of the

best ways to feel in control

of your MS is getting

involved and giving back.

The MS community is

strong — but the Society

needs your support so that

we can continue to fund

research, programs and

services that make living

with MS a little easier.

Every person matters!

14 | MS Resource Guide

Get involved (continued)Create your own fundraiser. we’ll give you the tools.

Do It Yourself (DIY) Fundraising provides tools to raise awareness and funds in new and creative ways. From golf outings to dinner parties, bake sales or bowling tournaments, no

DIY event is too big or too small. Start your own DIY event today and receive:

n A DIY fundraising toolkit

n Online fundraising capabilities

n Society staff support

n Opportunities for marketing assistance

If you’re interested in starting your own DIY event or would like to support an existing one, visit nationalMSsociety.org/DIY or call 800-582-5296.

Become a team ambassadorYour story is a powerful tool that can fuel progress to end MS. Let us connect you with a Bike MS team to illuminate the impact of their fundraising efforts. By reaching out to a team through a letter or in person, you can create a personal connection that motivates them to raise more funds.

If you’re interested in learning more about becoming a Team Ambassador, contact volunteer staff at 800-582-5296.

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VolunteerNational MS Society volunteers are critical to the mission and are often the face of the organization. There are a number of one-time or ongoing volunteer opportunities throughout the year — spend a morning slicing bananas for cyclists or help with daily administrative support. Whatever your skill set, by volunteering, you help stretch donor dollars and build a stronger organization.

event volunteerSociety fundraising events would not exist if it weren’t for the hundreds, sometimes thousands, of volunteers who help ensure participants have a smooth, fun and meaningful experience. From photographers to truck drivers, to finish line cheerleaders and massage therapists, there are a number of volunteer positions that need to be filled each year.

administrative and outreach volunteerVolunteers who assist in administrative work help with projects related to community outreach and engagement. Projects include phone calls, data entry, donation solicitation and more.

Volunteer initiated programsVolunteers have a unique understanding of the needs and wants of their community. That’s why volunteers are crucial in coordinating local MS programs. Whether planning a social or educational program, volunteers’ efforts provide a meaningful impact. To learn more about how you can lead your own program, see page 6.

Give the gift of time and talent. To get involved, visit nationalMSsociety.org/volunteer.

The National MS Society knows how

important it is to receive personalized

assistance that comes at the right time.

No question is too big or too small.

2015 MS Resource Guide

we’re here to help.800-582-5296 | MSsociety.org

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@UpperMidwestMS

MS stops people from moving.

we exist to make sure it doesn’t.

2015 MS Resource Guide