Valentine`s Day Parties were Red Hot Across the Lone Star Chapter

Transcription

2005 Issue 2
Chapter Calendar p.2
Your Footprints p.4
Tysabri Suspended p.8
New Staff p.108
Urine Control Options p.12
Self Help Groups p.14
Disability and Job Interviews p.18
Medicare Drug Coverage p.21
Dating With MS p.22
Trustee Nominations p.24
Lone Star Chapter
Valentine’s Day Parties were Red Hot Across
the Lone Star Chapter
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22
T
he Lone Star Chapter’s Annual
Valentine’s Day Party in
Houston attracted more guests
than ever before. A total of 550 clients,
friends and family gathered at the
Marriott Westchase on Feb. 12, 2005
for a day of food, fun, entertainment
and plenty of door prizes.
Volunteers greeted guests and staff
who were there to help them register
for the event, sign Pedal Partner
bandanas, and obtain the new MS
Band of Hope wristbands and teddy
bears. Guests’ children used their
imagination to create arts and crafts
while the adults relaxed or danced to
the pulsating sound of the Maria
Williams Band.
When lunch was served, Master of
Ceremonies and Vice
President
of
Development
Doug Suggitt took the
stage to announce the
winners of more than
70 door prizes. This
y e a r ’ s
p r i z e s
included
Houston Rockets
game tickets and overnight stays at La
Quintera.
On the same day, more than 215 guests
attended the Valentine’s Day Party in
San Antonio at the Marriott
Northwest. Guests were welcomed to
the party by the sounds of San Antonio
classical guitarist George Gaytan.
Throughout lunch and afterward,
Valero Energy’s 24-piece
volunteer
band Get Involved
performed a wide variety
Volunteer
of top 10 popular tunes.
with the
More than 125 door
Lone Star
Chapter.
prizes, including gift
Call 1-800certificates from area
FIGHT-MS
businesses, were given
to learn
away. Attendees had the
how!
opportunity to make new
friends, reconnect with
old ones and, of course, have a lot of
fun.
Also on Saturday, Feb. 12,
400 clients attended the
Dallas Valentine’s Party at
the Doubletree Hotel.
The band
Red and the
Red Hots
kept the party
continued on pg. 3
Publication of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society
Lone Star Chapter
8111 N. Stadium Dr., Suite 100
Houston, TX 77054
Houston (Headquarters):
713-526-8967 or 800-323-4873
Corpus Christi: 361-225-2342
Dallas: 214-373-1400
San Antonio: 210-494-5531 or 800-683-1627
Chair - John R. Pearson
Chair Elect - Henry Noey
Secretary - Gerald Merfish
Treasurer - Nick Lomonte
Chair Emeritus - Stephen S. Speier
Chair, Clinical Advisory Committee Victor M. Rivera, MD
Chair, Chapter Programs Committee Raymond Martin, MD
Chapter President - Pat Bertotti
MSConnection Editor - James Black
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society is
dedicated to ending the devastating effects of MS.
As a leading source of cutting-edge information
about multiple sclerosis, the National Multiple
Sclerosis Society, Lone Star Chapter strives to
update the public on MS-relevant news and
events. The chapter, however, does not endorse
specific products, services or manufacturers.
Such names appear here solely because they are
considered valuable information. The National
Multiple Sclerosis Society assumes no liability
for the use of contents of any product or service
mentioned.
Information provided by the Society is based
upon professional advice, published experience
and expert opinion. Information provided in
response to questions does not constitute
therapeutic recommendations or prescriptions.
The National MS Society recommends that all
questions and information be discussed with a
personal physician.
© 2005 National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Lone
Star Chapter
2
L O N E S TA R C H A P T E R
Chapter Calendar
Mark your calendar with the following Lone
Star Chapter events!
Keep current with Chapter news by
subscribing to receive the MS E-Connection
e-mail newsletter and by visiting our website
at www.nationalmssociety.org/txh.
OT/PT Professional Education Program
San Antonio Saturday, June 4
Client & Family Education Program
Del Rio Friday, June 17
OT/PT Professional Educational Program
Valley Saturday, July 16
H-E-B MS 150 Kick-Off Party
Corpus Christi Thursday, July 21
Client & Family Education Program
Laredo Saturday, July 23
H-E-B MS 150 Kick-Off Party
San Antonio Thursday, July 28
Tenet MS Walk
Take a Walk on the Wild Side
Waco September 17
Newly Diagnosed MS Boot Camp
San Antonio September 17
H-E-B MS 150 Bike Tour
San Antonio to Corpus Christi
Saturday - Sunday, October 1-2
MS Walk The Woodlands
Saturday, October 22
MS Walk Downtown Houston
Sunday, October 23
MS Walk Austin
Sunday, October 30
Family Discovery Camp
Friday - Sunday, October 7-9
Toll-Free Number: 1 800 FIGHT MS
CHAPTER & CLINICAL PROGRAMS
cover story continued
jumping; in keeping with the name, was
truly red hot. From the fabulous cuisine to
the swing band music and door prizes, the
event was a fun day for all in attendance. In
addition to the music, other highlights
included
world-renowned
magical
entertainer David McGee, photo buttons, a
cookie-decorating table featuring the
famously delicious Doubletree cookies and
a decadent chocolate fountain.
Overall, perhaps the most
rewarding aspect of the
party was the interaction
throughout the room. The
warmth of the human spirit
and friendship made the
event worthwhile.
The Dallas staff was
honored to work together
on this event and eagerly
look forward to the certain growth of the
2006 Valentine’s Party.
The Annual Valentine’s Party in Austin had
everyone saying, “Elvis is alive and well….
and has joined the Beatles!” Event
participation doubled in size from last year
with 200 people attending the Feb. 5 event
at the Hyatt Town Lake Hotel.
The
party
started
with
entertainment by the Flute
Loops, two flutists who played
a variety of uplifting melodic
tunes. Master of Ceremonies
and Lone Star Chapter Vice
President/COO
Mark
Neagli kept the party
festive as he handed out
many door prizes. The
variety of prizes this
year
included
restaurant
gift
certificates,
Fiesta
Texas tickets, CD
Walkmans, DVD
players and 13-
inch TVs.
The entertainment highlight of the party
was the Waco-based Muddcatts. The band
pays tribute to the most influential
entertainers in the history of rock ‘n’ roll,
the Beatles and Elvis Presley. Performing
live with period costumes, the Muddcatts’
take on the Beatles and Elvis did a
wonderful job in keeping the crowd
singing,
clapping
and
moving to the favorite tunes
of the ‘50s and ‘60s. There
were many requests to have
them back next year.
Children who attended had
the chance to bond with
peers at the children’s activity
table, where Valentine arts
and crafts were available.
Also on Feb. 5 at the Omni
Marina in Corpus Christi, chapter clients
gathered for yet another festive Valentine’s
Day Party. More than 100 people enjoyed
the festivities that included entertainment
by a local DJ and an Elvis impersonator.
The children who attended kept busy with
plenty of activities while the adults
reminisced about the days of Elvis gone by.
Each guest received a heart-decorated bud
vase filled with chocolate kisses as a
keepsake.
More than 35
participants won door prizes
consisting of restaurant meals,
home electronics and hotel stays.
The kids even had prizes
specifically for them.
For the staff, this party will
certainly be an event to
remember
since
San
Antonio
Development
Director Tony Ralf dressed
up as the King of Hearts
to serve as Master
of Ceremonies.
Visit our Website at: www.nationalmssociety.org/txh
3
2005 Issue 2
DEVELOPMENT
Your Footprints
Everyone leaves footprints on the sands of
time. A person is remembered for the
weight of his or her character — For
indentations of accomplishment — For
shapes of kindness — For length of
compassion — For width of personal
warmth — For generosity
— For values.
When we leave positive
impressions behind, we
enhance the lives of our
friends and loved ones.
We give them footprints
to follow.
Thoughtful
estate
planning is one means we
have to make a print in
the sand to help others
recall our priorities. For
example, consider the
effect of even a simple
will or trust that includes
provision for family
members and resources
for the charitable causes
you support, like the
National
Multiple
Sclerosis Society.
gifts, but also because they often come at
critical times. They provide that extra boost
to the budget that can make the difference
between
research
and
program
advancement and retrenchment.
Estate gifts can be
designated for a specific
purpose such as a local
program, research Your
Footprints or college
scholarships, or they can
be unrestricted for use
where needed most. An
estate gift encourages
imitation.
There’s
something about a wellplanned estate gift that
influences others to “go
and do likewise.” As
friends
and
family
members plan their own
estates, they may recall
your generosity and
thoughtfulness. Your gift
may unlock resources
from other estates that
help us to end the
devastating effects of MS.
Dedicated staff is available
to provide you with the
An estate gift makes a
information
and
positive statement. When
you include the Society in the final materials you need to include charitable
disposition of your estate, you declare to giving in your overall estate plan.
your family and friends that you believe in
and care about our mission. Your parting To request a complimentary brochure
gift becomes a clear declaration of your entitled “Creating A Legacy for
Tomorrow”, contact the Gift Planning
values.
office at 1-800-923-7727, or visit our
An estate gift provides needed funding. website at nationalmssociety.org and click
Estate gifts are especially valuable, not only on the “Donate” button and then explore
because they tend to be larger than annual the “Guide to Giving” section.
4
Train the Trainer Program
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society,
Lone Star Chapter was chosen by its
national office to be one of the host
chapters for the Train the Trainer
Program. The program was part one of
two educational programs designed to
teach mental health professionals about
psychosocial strategies for treating
people living with multiple sclerosis.
On April 1, 2005, the Lone Star Chapter
was honored to have Dr. Rosalind Kalb
and Dr. Deborah Miller for a day of
intense training. Drs. Kalb and Miller
shared their knowledge with 12
applicants who, in return, will train other
mental health providers in the second
stage of the program, Train the Providers.
The Lone Star Chapter, as well as other
Society chapters, will be responsible for
hosting the Train the Provider program
sometime between September 2005 and
December 2007.
Make Your
Voice Heard!
Join the MS
Action
N e t w o r k.
Among the highlights of the day was the
uniting of Dr. Kalb with one of her
biggest fans, Lone Star client Hilton
Fabian. When Hilton heard that Dr. Kalb
would be at the Lone Star Chapter office,
his eyes lit up. The request to meet Dr.
Kalb and have her sign Hilton’s book was
made by a Lone Star Chapter staff
member to Dr. Kalb.
With team
cooperation, the chapter staff was able to
make a small dream come true.
Another interesting event was the
interactive session in which attendees
participated.
For most of their
counseling careers, attendees have heard
of the many trials that persons living
with MS face throughout their lives. At
the Train the Trainer Program, the
attendees were able to sample a taste of
what it feels like to have MS and the
challenges clients face everyday.
Join the National MS Society’s advocacy
efforts to maximize your impact on public
policy issues affecting individuals with
multiple sclerosis. MS Action Network
members receive via e-mail all legislative
alerts and federal and state updates. Sign
up today at www.nationalmssociety.org You can make a difference.
5
2005 Issue 2
EVENTS
Chapter Events Spring into Action in
Fight Against M S
S
pring brought a flurry of activity
in the Lone Star Chapter. Several
large events capped off
a
successful season in the mission to end the
devastating effects of multiple sclerosis.
The eventful season began when the
2005 Tenet Healthcare Foundation MS
Walks stepped off throughout North
Texas in March and April. Presented by
Brink’s
Home
Security, Heritage
Bank and WalMart, the 2005
Tenet MS Walks
a l l o w e d
participants from
all walks of life to
take steps in the
fight
against
multiple sclerosis.
This year, the
National
MS
Society, Lone Star Chapter welcomed
thousands of walkers in Killeen, Denton,
Tyler and Dallas. For the first time, the
Dallas and Plano MS Walks were
combined into one central location in
Addison, providing a great venue for the
Tenet MS Walk and entertainment
afterward. The Tenet MS Walk in Dallas
featured the first MS “Walk the Blues
Away” Festival with some of Texas’ best
blues bands. Dallas-area participants
also enjoyed such activities as a vintage
auto show, a video game zone,
children’s play area and great food from
area restaurants.
6
SoleMates bandanas were bright,
popular accessories as participants
proudly walked on behalf of their
SoleMates living with MS.
The 2005 MS Walk Corpus Christi was
held Saturday morning, April 9, at Cole
Park. More than 250 people joined
the Lone Star Chapter on a five-mile
walk to raise money for research and
client programs.
It was a beautiful
and colorful day.
Michelle Johnston,
Chapter
and
Clinical Programs
Manager from the
Corpus
Christi
office, issued a
fund-raising
challenge that was
met by MS Walk
C o m m i t t e e
Chairwoman Ellen Eckiss. Ellen raised
more than $3,000 prior to the April 9 MS
Walk. By doing so, Ellen got to choose
Michelle’s hair color for the following
month. Ellen chose to have Michelle’s
hair tinted in four shades – red, green,
yellow and pink -- to signify the four
classifications of MS.
On the same day, Laureen Pedrotti met
another
money-raising
challenge.
Development Director Tony Ralf had
challenged someone to raise and turn in
$6,000 prior to the MS Walk. In return,
Tony would shave off his hair. Laureen
EVENTS
rose to the challenge, turning in the Kinko’s MS 150 Bike Tour. One of the
requested funds shortly before the MS only MS 150s in the United States to
begin in one state and end in another,
Walk began.
the FedEx Kinko’s MS 150 is a two-day
Also in April, the largest MS 150 in North ride from Dallas to Ardmore, Okla.
America rolled out from Houston to
Austin. The 21st Annual BP MS 150 Bike
Tour included a record field of 12,100
cyclists. Joining the BP MS 150 riders
this year were Gov. Rick Perry, Texas
Senator Rodney Ellis, Houston Mayor
Pro-Tem Carol Alvarado, Harris County
Judge Robert Eckels and renowned
country singer and songwriter Clay
Walker.
BP MS 150 participants
enjoyed warm, gorgeous
Texas weather on their
two-day, 180-mile trek.
Cyclists proudly sported
their colorful Pedal
Partner bandanas along
the route.
Nearly
12,000
cyclists
participated in the Pedal
Partners
program,
another
substantial
Tour record. Thousands
of
Pedal
Partners,
families, friends and
supporters lined the
streets of Austin to cheer
the riders across the
Capitol Finish Line.
The Spring 2005 event
season wraps up in midMay with the FedEx
7
2005 Issue 2
RESEARCH
Biogen Idec Suspends Marketing of Tysabri
B
iogen
Idec
and
Elan
Corporation, the makers of
Tysabri (natalizumab), have
voluntarily stopped clinical trials
of the drug and suspended its
commercial distribution. Tysabri had
been approved by the FDA last
November in an accelerated process after
one-year reports from two two-year
studies demonstrated the drug’s safety
and effectiveness as a treatment for MS.
people have been taking Tysabri in
clinical trials of MS, Crohn’s disease and
rheumatoid arthritis. There have been
no other reports of PML in anyone in the
MS trials taking Tysabri (either alone or
in combination with Avonex or any
other medication) or in participants in
other clinical trials.
Moreover, there have been no reports of
PML in people taking Avonex alone,
either during clinical trials or during
The decision to pull Tysabri was post-marketing follow-up.
announced on Feb. 28, 2005, after one
person died from progressive multifocal In addition to clinical trial participants,
leukoencephalopathy (PML), a rare Biogen Idec and Elan report that since
nervous system disease, and another the November 2004 approval of Tysabri,
person became seriously ill with possible the medication has been prescribed to
PML. Both of these individuals had been 5,000 patients living with MS by their
treated with Tysabri in combination with personal physicians. These patients are
weekly Avonex (interferon beta-1a) advised to consult their physicians about
injections during the SENTINAL trial. other treatment options.
They
developed
these
serious
and
Elan
made
the
complications after the end of the trial, Biogen
when they were being followed for a announcement after consulting with the
post-marketing study. Each person had FDA. The companies are currently
all
Tysabri-treated
been taking the combination therapy for evaluating
participants from their clinical trials and
more than two years.
bringing together a panel of experts to
PML is a rare, rapidly progressive disease better understand the possible risk of
of the central nervous system that PML in people who have taken Tysabri.
primarily affects people with a severely The outcome of these evaluations will
compromised or suppressed immune determine the future of the drug.
system (such as individuals who have
received organ transplants, patients with The National MS Society was
cancers such as leukemia or patients with distressed to learn of these very sad
AIDS). PML is caused by the activation of events and our deepest sympathies go
the JC virus, which is a latent virus out to both families.
present in 80 percent of healthy adults.
How and why the JC virus becomes We commend the quick action taken by
Biogen Idec and Elan in voluntarily
active is not fully understood.
suspending the use of Tysabri while they
According to statements from Biogen investigate the possible link between
Idec and Elan, approximately 3,000 Tysabri and PML.
8
RESEARCH
Biogen
and
Elan
made
the
announcement after consulting with the
FDA. The companies are currently
evaluating all Tysabri-treated participants
from their clinical trials and bringing
together a panel of experts to better
understand the possible risk of PML in
people who have taken Tysabri. The
outcome of these evaluations will
determine the future of the drug.
The National MS Society was
distressed to learn of these very sad
events and our deepest sympathies go
out to both families.
We commend the quick action taken by
Biogen Idec and Elan in voluntarily
suspending the use of Tysabri while they
investigate the possible link between
Tysabri and PML.
It will be disappointing if the
investigation suggests that Tysabri cannot
be safely returned to the market to treat
MS. There are, however, five other
disease-modifying drugs currently
approved and available for MS. There are
also more than 100 clinical trials
currently underway on new or improved
therapies for the treatment of the disease.
The National MS Society will continue to
advise members and the public as new
information becomes available. For
updates, check the Society’s Web site,
www.nationalmssociety.org, or call our
nearest chapter at 1-800-FIGHT-MS.
Information from the FDA is available
at www.fdagov/cder/drug/infopage/
natalizumab.
Power to take charge of
multiple sclerosis
The Knowledge Is Power program is a
free, at-home educational series for
those newly diagnosed with MS and
their families. KIP is written by wellreguarded professionals who know
about MS and the effect it can have
on your life and the lives of people
around you.
For more information or to register,
pelase call 1-800-FIGHT-MS or visit
us at nationalmssociety.org.
9
2005 Issue 2
Introducing new Chapter & Clinical
Programs Staff
10
Lissa Cameron, LMSW Coordinator,
Chapter & Clinical Programs
Houston
Schuyler Kleinpeter
Manager, Chapter & Clinical Programs
Houston
• Originally from Michigan
• Lived in Houston since age 3
• Graduate of University of Houston with a
Master of Science in Social Work, with a
concentration in mental health. Graduate
of University of Houston with a B.A. in
psychology
• Involved with MS support groups, MS
clinics and wellness programs in the role
of programs coordinator
• Past work experience as a hospital social
worker.
• Past volunteer work with Crisis Hotline of
Houston
• Interests include the arts, spending time
with friends and family, and
cycle/Spinning class
• Originally from Lafayette, La
• Graduate of University of Louisiana at
Lafayette with a B.S. in Psychology and a
minor in English
• Began working in the non-profit sector in
1996. Worked for PVA for more than
three years, serving veterans living with MS
• Interests include cooking, working out,
fishing, and spending time with friends
and family
Becky Morales, LMSW
Coordinator, Chapter & Clinical Programs
Betty LeMaster, LMSW
Manager, Chapter and Clinical Programs Austin
Austin
• Originally from El Paso, Texas
• Native Texan
• Lived in Houston for 8 1/2 years
• Austin resident for 5+ years
• Graduate of the University of St. Thomas
with a B.A. in Liberal Arts in Political
• Bachelor of Social Work from Lamar
Science and Communication
University – Beaumont, TX
• Master of Social Work from University of • Graduate of The University of Texas at
Austin with a Master of Science in Social
Houston Graduate School of Social Work
Work, with a concentration in
Administration and Planning
• Experience working with children and
families; program development and
• Has worked with families of children with
management; direct and administrative
special health care needs
services; quality assurance; and
• Has interned with Child Protective
community collaboration
Services and the National Association of
• Hobbies include reading, gardening,
Social Workers/Texas Chapter
camping
• Interests include working out, watching
• Interests include music and theater
sports, reading, and spending time with
family and friends
11
2005 Issue 2
PROGRAMS
Urine Control for Individuals with MS
U
rine control is often a challenge
for people with multiple sclerosis.
For some individuals, MS affects
urinary function. For others, limited
mobility makes getting to a restroom in
time a significant challenge.
For people with MS, bladder
related problems include:
• Frequency, the urge to urinate frequently
• Retention, the inability to completely
drain the bladder
• Free flow, the inability to hold urine
• Functional incontinence, the inability to
reach a restroom in time once you have
gotten the signal
The primary goal of health care
professionals treating MS patients is to
preserve proper bladder function. It is
important that a person experiencing
urinary problems have a thorough
evaluation by a urologist to exclude causes
of bladder dysfunction other than MS, and
to diagnose whether the problem is failure
to store or failure to empty. The most
common method of dealing with urinary
problems is the use of anticholinergic and
other drugs for bladder control (Ditropan,
Detrol, etc.) Surgery, exercise and diet are
often beneficial in restoring bladder
function as well.
When proper urinary function cannot be
preserved, a continence management
product may be necessary. Many methods
of bladder management exist, including
recent innovations designed to help keep
people dry, secure and active.
Adult diapers/absorbent briefs
and pads
Adult diapers or absorbent briefs are a
temporary option for individuals who
experience incontinence. They are available
in multiple sizes and capacities to meet the
individual’s amount of urine loss. Adult
diapers hold significant amounts of liquid.
However, moisture held against the skin
can be uncomfortable and may result in
skin breakdown with problems such as
rashes or infections. Diapers are not
recommended for individuals who use
wheelchairs due to the potential for
pressure sores.
Adjunct products, such as wipes and
skincare products may help to reduce
diaper complications. Many brands of
adult diapers are available.
Foley Catheters
The Foley catheter, or indwelling catheter,
is an aseptic tube inserted through the
urinary opening and into the bladder to
drain urine. Indwelling catheters are held
in place by an attached balloon, inflated in
the bladder.
Although Foley catheters are inexpensive
and convenient due to their extended
wear time, prolonged use of Foley
catheters for the management of urinary
incontinence can be dangerous. Foley
catheter use results in a high incidence of
infection. Infection-causing bacteria can
be introduced into the urinary tract and
bladder by an indwelling catheter. Foley
catheter users must closely monitor their
catheter use for signs of infection.
continued on page 20
12
VOLUNTEER NEWS
Volunteers with MS Empowerment Day
Get involved with the Lone Star Chapter and have fun while you’re doing it! Join us every
third Tuesday of the month from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. to work on a variety of accessible
volunteer projects. It’s not only work, it’s an opportunity to meet other people affected by
MS or catch up with friends. Every month, we’ll provide lunch and you can contribute to
the fight against MS!
Volunteers with MS
Empowerment Day is
every 3rd Tuesday of
the month, 11:00 a.m.
to 2:00 p.m. in Dallas
and Houston. Join us
for a day of fun!
For more information please contact:
Dallas: Kristen at 214-373-1400 or [email protected]
Houston: Kelly at 713-526-8967 or [email protected]
Have you been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis?
You may be eligible to participate in a multi-center study being
conducted throughout North America to evaluate treatments
for MS.
Eligible Participants:
• Relapsing remitting Multiple Sclerosis
• Currently Treated with Avonex for at least 6 months
• At least one relapse in the past 2 years or active disease
by MRI scan
For more information, contact Shell Laday at 713-798-6069
13
2005 Issue 2
SELF-HELP GROUPS
SELF-HELP GROUPS
The Lone Star Chapter has self-help groups throughout Northeast, Southeast, Central
and South Texas. We encourage you to call the self-help group of your choice before
you attend to ensure that the topic meets your individual needs and to reserve a space
for yourself. These groups provide an opportunity to share common experiences and
concerns, receive and provide emotional support, and obtain MS-related information
from your peers and professional speakers.
The groups are listed in alphabetical order by city.
Austin (Central)
Mildly Affected
3rd Tuesday, 6:00 p.m.
Lower Colorado River Authority
3700 Lake Austin Blvd.
Austin, TX 78703
Jeff: 512-589-3409
Piper: 512-473-3200
Austin (Central)
Wellness Group
4th Thursday, 7:00 p.m.
St. David's Medical Center
Private Dining Room
basement level
1005 E. 32nd St.
Austin, TX 78705
Vonda: 512-821-2854
Austin (Northwest)
2nd Monday, 7:30 p.m.
Peace Lutheran Church
10625 Ranch Road 620 N
Austin, TX 78726
Douglas: 512-267-4801
Austin (South)
1st Monday, 6:30 p.m.
Carestone Assisted Living Center
7017 Manchaca Rd.
Austin, TX 78745
Janet: 512-292-4637
17
14
Bay Area/ Clear Lake/
Nassau Bay
2nd Saturday, 10:00 a.m.
Gloria Dei Lutheran Church
18220 Upper Bay Rd.
Nassau Bay, TX 77586
Mike: 281-334-3686
Bear Creek
4th Saturday, 1:00 p.m.
The Church Without Walls
5725 Queenston Blvd.
Houston, TX 77084
Paula : 281-530-3857
Beaumont
HealthSouth Center
3340 Plaza 10 Blvd.
Beaumont, TX 77707
Virginia: 409-892-4901
Boerne - Social Group
3rd Thursday, 3:00 p.m.
St. Mark’s Presbyterian Church
208 W. Bandera St.
Boerne, TX 78006
Edye: 830-249-3307
Brazosport Area
2nd Tuesday, 6:30 p.m.
Brazosport Memorial Hospital
100 Medical Dr.
Lake Jackson, TX 77566
Melissa: 979-824-3115
Lori: 979-480-9176
Brenham
Trinity Medical Center
board room
700 Medical Pkwy.
Brenham, TX 77833
Cherry: 979-836-1804
Dory: 979-836-9211
Bryan/College Station
2nd Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
St. Joseph’s Health Education
Annex
3030 E. 29th St., Suite 100
Bryan, TX 77802
Sharon: 979-693-6733
Columbus
3rd Wednesday, 6:30 p.m.
Columbus Community
Hospital - meeting room
110 Shult Dr. Columbus, TX
78934
Carol: 979-732-5945
Corpus Christi - Coastal
Bend Connection
4th Saturday, 11:30 a.m. YWCA
4601 Corona St., Suite 230
Corpus Christi, TX 78411
Shea: 361-937-6082
Beth: 361-853-9616
Debbie: 361-265-9154
Dallas
3rd Saturday, 10:00 a.m.
N. Dallas Rehabilitation
Hospital - dining room
8383 Meadow Rd.
Dallas, TX 75231
Shirley: 214-361-1539
Dallas (Carrollton)
Care Partners
2nd Thursday, 6:30 p.m.
National MS Society
2105 Luna Rd., Suite 390
Carrollton, TX 75006
Paula: 972-231-7572
Dallas (Carrollton)
Moving Forward
2nd Thursday, 6:30 p.m.
National MS Society
2105 Luna Rd., Suite 390
Carrollton, TX 75006
Cecelia: 972-231-7572
Angela: 214-941-2261
Del Rio
3rd Friday, 4:00 p.m.
Sul Ross State University
Rio Grande College
205 Wildcat Dr
Del Rio, TX 78840
Cindy: 830-298-2200
Fernando: 830-768-4076
Denton
4th Saturday, 10:00 a.m.
Denton Commmunity
Hospital
Professional Building, 1st floor
2501 Scripture St.
Denton, TX 76201
Nancy: 972-625-0742
Jean: 940-243-2234
Flower Mound
3rd Monday, 7:00 p.m. p.m.
Crossroads Bible Church
8101 Justin Rd. (Hwy 407)
Lewisville, TX 75077
Melissa: 972-539-2144
Ft. Bend County (Sugar Land)
First United Methodist
Church - room 602
431 Eldridge Road
Sugar Land, TX 77478
Lori: 281-240-8828
Houston
But You Look So Good
1st Saturday, 10:00 a.m.
Cy-Fair College – Fairbanks
14955 Northwest Fwy., room 221
Houston, TX 77040
Andrea: 832-969-5845
Houston - Care Partners
National MS Society
8111 N. Stadium Dr.
Houston, TX 77054
Lissa: 713-526-8967
Houston - MS & Cancer
3rd Saturday, 12:00 noon
Grace Presbyterian Church
Sanctuary Bridal Parlor
10221 Ella Lee Ln.
Houston, TX 77042
Margaret: 713-278-7548
Houston Ups & Downs
of MS
National MS Society
8111 N. Stadium Dr., Ste. 100
Houston, TX 77054
Lissa: 713-526-8967
Houston
Under 40 with MS
Second Baptist Church
Woodway Campus
6400 Woodway
Houston, Texas 77057
Jessica: 713-579-1026
Houston
(Medical Center) V.A.
everyone welcome
2nd Wednesday, 2:00 p.m.
Veterans Affairs Medical Center
2nd Floor Nursing Unit,
Dining Room
2002 Holcombe Blvd.
Houston, TX 77030
Lisa, MSW: 713-794-7951
Fe, MSN, RN, CNRN: 713137-1414, ext. 4559
Victoria
Citizen’s Hospital
2701 Hospital Drive
Victoria, TX 77901
Wendy: 361-575-7469
Waco
HealthSouth
Rehabilitation Hospital
7003 Woodway Dr., Suite 306
Waco, TX 76712
Valerie: 254-881-5971
Waxahachie – MS Warriors
3rd Saturday, 10:00 a.m.
Waxahachie Bible Church
621 N. Grand St.
Waxahachie, TX 75165
Sherri: 972-617-7436
15
2005 Issue 2
SELF HELP GROUPS
Houston (Northeast)
Lamb of God Lutheran Church
1400 E. FM 1960
Houston, TX 77073
Jack 281-361-4595
Susan: 281-360-5301
Houston (Northwest)
3rd Saturday, 1:30 p.m.
Memorial Springs Shadows
Hospital
3033 Gessner Dr.
Houston, TX 77080
Bill: 281-496-4506
Katy
Holy Covenant Church - room 101
22111 Morton Ranch Rd.
Katy, TX 77449
Sherry: 281-345-2043
Sandy: 281-347-3495
Killeen - Heart of Texas
Robertson Avenue Baptist Church
305 E. Robertson Ave.
Copperas Cove, TX 76522
Peggy: 254-542-5465
New Braunfels
4th Thursday, 12:00 noon
Ryan's Steakhouse Restaurant
485 Hwy 81 East
New Braunfels, TX 78130
Don: 210-566-3053
16
Pharr
Valley Association of
Independent Living
105 E. Expwy. 83
Pharr, TX 78577
Mario: 956-969-0977
Cyndy: 956-686-1260
San Antonio - Newly
Diagnosed & Beyond
Northeast Methodist Hospital
Community Health Center
12412 Judson RoadSan
Antonio, TX 78233
Elaine or Mary: 210-494-5531
Plano But You Look So Good
Schimelpfening Public Library
5024 Custer Rd.
Plano, TX 75023
Deb: 972-633-9203
Renee: 972- 253-1010
Texoma Area
1st Monday, 6:00p.m.
Senior Passports Center
3305 Calais Rd.
Sherman, TX 75090
Jennifer: 903-227-4576
Phyllis: 903-893-2837
Plano/Richardson
West Plano Presbyterian Church
2709 Custer Rd
Plano, TX 75075
Bill: 972-612-0194
Rockport
Rockport Public Library
701 E. Mimosa
Rockport, TX 78382
Michelle: 361-225-2342
San Antonio - Life After MS
HealthSouth RIOSA
9119 Cinnamon Hill
San Antonio, TX 78240
Theona: 210-826-4547
Temple
Temple Collegeconference room
2600 S. 1st St.
Temple, TX 76504
John: 254-771-5150
Texarkana
1st Tuesday, 4:00 p.m.
St Michael’s
Rehabilitation Hospital
2223 Morris Ln.
Texarkana, TX 75503
Juanita: 903-614-4409
SELF-HELP GROUPS
Waco
1st & 3rd Tuesday
Lakeshore United
Methodist Church
3311 Park Lake Drive
Waco, TX 76708
Mary/Jeff: 254-863-0910
The Woodlands/
Spring / Conroe
Luby’s Restaruant
922 Lake Front Cr.
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Janis: 281-364-8737
Weslaco
KNAPP Medical Center
1401 E. 8th St.
Weslaco, TX 78596
Mario: 956-969-0977
MS Band of Hope Wristbands and Angel Bears of Hope
Now Available!
The National MS Society is
pleased to announce a new
nationwide multiple sclerosis
awareness tool, the MS Band of
Hope. Similar to colorful
wristbands for other organizations, the red
MS Band of Hope wristbands promote the
National MS Society's non-profit mission
year-round. The red wristbands are engraved
with the word "HOPE" on one side and
"nationalmssociety.org" on the other. The
wristbands cost $1 each
with a minimum order
of five.
Another new item is
the MS Angel Bear of
Hope. These plush winged teddy bears hold
blue stars bearing the word "HOPE." They
also have a Ribbon of Hope pin attached.
The MS Angel Bears are $7.
The original MS Bears of Hope, wearing their
sporty Society logo shirts, are also available
for $5 each.
Please add $5.00 flat fee for shipping.
To purchase, please mail a check to the
National MS Society, 8111 N. Stadium Dr.,
Suite 100, Houston, TX 77054 indicating
your order in the memo section of your
check.
17
2005 Issue 2
EMPLOYMENT
Disability Disclosure and Interviewing Techniques
for Persons with Disabilities from JAN – Job
Accommodation Network, a service of the U.S. DOL’s
Office of Disability Employment Policy
D
eciding when to disclose a
disability can be a difficult choice
for a person with a disability
who is job hunting. If you have a
hidden disability such as a learning
disability or a psychiatric impairment,
when and how to disclose your
condition can be a real dilemma. Below
are some guidelines for dealing with
disability issues in the pre-employment
process:
Step One: Start with a Good Resume
Take time to write a good resume. This is
a written summary of your education,
training, work experience, and most
importantly, contact information. A
resume should have three basic
components:
1) Name, address, telephone number,
and e-mail address;
2) Education and training experiences;
and
3) Work history and experience.
Do not overlook the value of non-paid
work experience such as internships,
volunteer activities, and work that you
have done for non-profit organizations
such as a church, civic organization, or
political party.
Step Two: Write a Cover Letter
A cover letter is used to introduce you to
the prospective employer. It should
briefly identify who you are and why you
are applying for the position. It also
should invite the employer to contact
you for an interview. Enclose a copy of
you resume with this letter.
A cover letter also gives you your first
opportunity to disclose your disability.
This would be to your advantage if:
• You are applying for a job with a state
or federal agency that must comply with
affirmative action policies;
• The job you are applying for directly
relates to your experience as a person
with a disability such as a rehabilitation
counselor; or
• Having a disability is a qualification
for the position.
18
EMPLOYMENT
Step Three: Completing Applications
Remember that you have about a minute to
For most people, the employment process make a good first impression, and first
begins with a company's job application. impressions mean everything during this
How you obtain and fill out this application stage of the employment process.
can be the first impression the employer has
Disclosure of your disability is critical at this
of you.
point if accommodations, such as access to
If you go to the job site to obtain an the building, are necessary to do the job. Do
application, be mindful of your appearance. your homework. If you know the location for
While it may not be necessary to wear your the interview is not accessible to you, contact
best interview suit, it is
important to wear clothes that
are clean, ironed, and free from
tears or holes.Be polite and
come prepared with a pen or
pencil and a copy of your
resume. If possible, take the
application home with you. This
will allow you to complete the
information in a calm, stress-free
environment. Remember that
neatness counts.
The Americans with Disabilities
Act prohibits employers from
asking medical or disabilityrelated questions on a job application. The
exception to this is that a government agency
can ask an applicant to voluntarily disclose a
disability for affirmative action purposes.
Otherwise, if you encounter specific
questions about your disability or medical
history, leave them blank. If necessary, this
can give you the opportunity to explain why
you did not answer the questions instead of
why you intentionally gave false answers.
the person who will interview you and
request an alternative location. It is a good
idea to have a location in mind, just in case
the interviewer needs some suggestions.
If you do not know if the location is
accessible, call and ask questions about
whether there are accessible parking spaces
available or whether the building has an
elevator. It is better to deal with these issues
ahead of time than 15 minutes before your
interview. This also shows your prospective
Step Four: The Interview
employer that you aer able to deal with these
For most job seekers, the interview is the situations effectively.
"make or break" point.
continued on page 27
19
2005 Issue 2
Urine Control for Individuals with MS
continued from page 12
Suprapubic Catheters
A suprapubic catheter is a permanent
device inserted into the bladder through a
surgical incision in the abdominal wall by
a urologist during an outpatient surgery or
office procedure. These catheters drain into
standard urine collection bags. Suprapubic
catheters need to be closely monitored by
a healthcare professional, such as a
urologist to avoid complications such as
bladder or kidney infection, catheter site
leakage, skin breakdown or blood in the
urine (hematuria).
Condom Catheters
Condom catheters are a method of urine
control for men. Also known as penile
sheaths or Texas catheters, these products
are rolled over the penis like a condom. An
opening at the tip connects to a urine
drainage tube that leads to a collection bag,
usually a small leg bag. Adhesives are
applied to the inner surface of many
condom catheters to attach the device to
the penile shaft. Other condom catheters
use a strap made of foam, rubber or
adhesive materials that wrap around the
condom and penile shaft to hold the
condom in place. Condom catheter users
should be careful and consult with their
doctor to avoid complications such as
rashes, wounds or skin irritations that can
arise from repeated application and
removal. Condom catheter use can also
lead to urinary-tract infections.
External Continence Device for
Men (ECD)
The External Continence Device for Men is
a new method for urine control, used
successfully in NASA manned space
20
missions. The ECD seals to the tip of the
penis using hydrocolloid, a gentle adhesive
used in wound and ostomy care. Urine is
directed immediately into a leg or bedside
collection bag. The seal around the urinary
opening keeps the skin dry, eliminating
shaft wounds or infections. Intermittent
catheterization can be performed while the
ECD is in place. The ECD is typically a
daily-use product. The ECD must be applied
accurately to ensure proper urine drainage.
Intermittent Catheterization
Difficulty emptying the bladder is known
as urinary retention. This can occur for
individuals with MS when demyelination
affects the area of the spinal cord that
signals the urinary reflex. Retention can
result in complications including damage
or infection to the bladder or kidneys.
Intermittent catheters, or straight catheters,
can be a solution for men or women who
either partially or completely retain urine.
In this method, an aseptic or clean reusable
catheter is introduced into the bladder to
drain retained urine. After the bladder is
empty the catheter is removed. This process
is typically performed 3 - 5 times daily.
Intermittent Catheterization seldom causes
infection if used properly, which is one of
the main attractions as opposed to
indwelling catheters.
Clamps and Squeezers
Male compression devices, often referred
to as penile clamps or cuffs, are made of
foam or metal. The clamp is applied to the
penile shaft and tightened to exert pressure
sufficient to prevent urine flow. These
devices must be released every 2-4 hours in
order to empty the bladder and prevent
crush injuries to the penis. Significant risks
CHAPTER & CLINICAL PROGARAMS
exist for penile clamp users. Improper use
of these devices can cause penile and
urethral tissue damage, penile edema
(swelling), pain, and obstruction.
Additionally, bladder problems and
infections can occur if the clamp is left on
too long and the bladder is not allowed to
drain.
Pessaries
Women with MS may experience pelvic
prolapse, a stretching or weakening of the
muscles that support the pelvic organs.
Pelvic prolapse can result in stress
incontinence, the involuntary release of
urine during physical exertion (coughing,
lifting, laughing). A pessary is a soft, rubber
compression device inserted into the
vagina that rests against the cervix. Pessaries
lift and support the pelvic organs,
improving urinary control for women who
have had limited success with pelvic floor
strengthening or Kegel exercises.
Any method used for managing incontinence
should be chosen after consulting your
healthcare professional. If you have any further
questions about the methods of managing
incontinence, there are a number of sources of
product and procedure information.
National Association for Continence
(NAFC) – www.nafc.org 1-800-BLADDER
Simon Foundation for Continence www.simonfoundation.org 1-800-23-SIMON
National Multiple Sclerosis Society –
1-800-FIGHT MS
NMSS Brochure - Controlling Bladder
Problems in Multiple Sclerosis
by Nancy J. Holland, RN, EdD
Medicare Coverage
For MS Drugs
F
unding is still available in the
nationwide Medicare demonstration project covering certain
therapies for patients who have multiple
sclerosis. Applications will be accepted
until the patient slots or funds for this
project run out.
For those selected to participate in the
demonstration, Medicare will cover 75% of
MS drug costs – more for those with low
incomes – and coverage will allow patients
to inject MS therapies at home. Copayments under the demonstration project
may be an obstacle for some people,
however, there is financial assistance
available if you qualify.
For those with limited incomes at or under
150% of the federal poverty level (about
$14,000 individual/$19,000 couple),
Medicare will provide co-payment
assistance. For individuals with annual
incomes above 135% of the FPL who
cannot afford co-pays under the
demonstration project, assistance may be
available
through
the
National
Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD).
For additional information concerning this
demonstration project, please visit:
http:// www.nationalmssociety.org/
medicare_demo.asp or
call (NORD) at
1-800-634-7207, or
Trailblazer Health Enterprises at
1-866-563-5386,
TTY Number: 1-866-563-5387
21
2005 Issue 2
How I Survived Dating with MS
By Kai Duponte
I
was diagnosed with MS seven years
ago. I was married then, I thought
happily. I remember feeling grateful
that I was with someone who would stick
with me through this Life Challenge. I
realize now that a huge red flag that should
have clued me into the future was my exhusband’s reaction to the diagnosis. I
needed to comfort him. It was all about
him then and continued that way for the
next four years, and then he
was gone.
Paving a future for myself alone
was scary. The thought of
dating again was even scarier. I
focused on my friends and my
work and stayed away from the
dating scene at first. When I did
start to date, I found the ‘scene’
very different than before, when
I was younger and I didn’t have a chronic
disease hanging over my head. I couldn’t
hang out at ‘discos’ (I’m aging myself just
using the term) and find another husband. I
am finally in a good relationship now and
am ready to share some suggestions that
may help others.
Some experiences that I’ve had and
suggestions for others follow:
• Depending on the apparentness of your
symptoms, you may have the dilemma of
when to ‘disclose’ your illness. I tried the first
date—that was a sure way to ensure I
wouldn’t get a second (I have heard the first
date does work, though, for some, and may
be necessary if your symptoms are apparent).
22
• HOW do you tell your date? I tried the
light, airy approach—”it’s really not a big
deal, thought you might wanna know, but
it’s REALLY not a big deal…” (the problem
with this approach is that there are some
bad times and you want someone who will
stick with you through them). I tried the
serious approach, hoping to bring forth the
knight in shining armor I hoped would be
there. Maybe I don’t attract the knights (I
have a very self-sufficient
personality). When you run
into the right person, a sign will
be that talking about your
illness will come naturally.
• You will want to realize that
you will lose out on the
possibility
of
some
relationships because you
cannot do the things that your
date likes to do; don’t take it
personally. I live in Hawaii, where hiking is
a popular hobby. I used to love to hike. Now
that I can no longer do so, I lost a
commonality that did mean (I believe) the
end of one potential relationship. You will
want to make sure that you don’t
jeopardize your health to try to do things
your date likes to do, such as exposing
yourself to the hot sun or hiking (I
suggested that I try to accompany my date
hiking, which would have been a disaster).
• Another dilemma is how and when to be
more descriptive about your symptoms. I
struggled with telling my partner about my
bladder problems. Talking about those
kinds of issues was a turn-off for my exhusband; was I willing to ‘turn off’ another
man? Explaining the depression and the
How I survived Dating with MS
fatigue that comes and goes with MS is
important, preferably at a time when you
are emotionally stable.
modeling how I want to be treated by
showing sincere concern when my
boyfriend experiences health problems.
• Another relationship issue was the
balance between being a caregiver and
needing to be taken care of. I am a caregiver
by nature. I love to cook, serve and clean up.
All of this is more than fine when I am well.
The dilemma here is that I am not always
well. I found the key here to be
communication with my boyfriend while I
was feeling well. I told him that I don’t
always feel able to take on the care giving
role and that I hoped he would be
supportive during those times. His response
to all of the above concerns was one of
acceptance. He said that he would be glad
for the opportunity to take care of me—
good response, and one of the reasons he’s
still around (in my life).
• A situation I know will be difficult, but
has not come up yet, will be having to take
care of my mate with a contagious illness
(cold, flu) without exposing myself to it. I
will need to ask cooperation from him
with this.
• One of the areas that I need to be careful
of is the feeling that I need to ‘make up’
having the deck stacked against me by
being extra-cheerful and fun to be around
whenever possible. That can be draining
and can’t continue forever.
• Another challenge that I’ve had is the
understanding the challenges my potential
mate was facing. Those of us with MS need
to realize that the friends and family of
those who are dating us may be advising
them to stay away from us and that our
potential mate may be having to make the
difficult decision to ignore that advice in
order to stay with us.
• Another area I’ve found helpful is in
• I find that I try to limit my complaining
about things to the times when I am REALLY
hurting. I’m always conscious about not
wanting to be viewed as a hypochondriac.
I have found that I no longer have energy for
the fluff that other women put up with. A
man who does not show himself early on as
someone who is worth my time and effort
will not last long in my dating life. It’s just
too much wasted effort, and I don’t have
that kind of energy to burn. The
characteristic that I look for now in a mate
is very different than the ones I valued
before. The most important characteristic to
me in a mate is a certainty that the person
will stick with me through the bad times. I
have had one man run away when times got
tough; I’m not willing to repeat history.
Kai Duponte has a Master’s degree in Social
Work, and is the Project Director of the Hawaii
Child Welfare Education Collaboration at the
University of Hawaii School of Social Work. She
became a voice for people with MS in 2000,
when she advocated for equal access to the ABC
drugs and to end discrimination against people
needing injectable medications.
23
2005 Issue 2
Nominees for Lone Star Chapter’s Board of Trustees
Now Being Accepted
At the Annual Meeting and Research
Symposium on November 19, 2005 at the
Embassy Suites Hotel Dallas - Frisco, the
Governance Committee of the Lone Star
Chapter will present a slate of candidates
from which the Chapter members will elect
the Board of Trustees. Board members serve
one-year terms.
Individuals interested in being considered for
nomination should submit a letter of interest
including a biography, along with your name,
mailing address and phone number.
Nominees will be notified of board member
expectations, responsibilities, fiduciary and
time commitments and asked to complete a
Candidate for Board of Trustees form. Final
candidates will be interviewed by a member
of the Governance Committee.
All
candidates will be notified of their status
prior to the Annual Meeting.
Nominations for the Board of Trustees
should be submitted by Sept. 1, 2005 to:
Governance Committee Chair
National Multiple Sclerosis Society
Lone Star Chapter
8111 N. Stadium Drive, Ste. 100
Houston, TX 77054
Stay Connected with the MS E-Connection
Stay connected to the Lone Star Chapter by
signing up to receive the MS E-Connection,
our monthly e-newsletter.
You will get updated Lone Star Chapter
information on educational, wellness and
social programs; special events; advocacy
and recent advances in MS research.
To receive MS E-Connection, visit
www.nationalmssociety.org/txh. Enter your
e-mail address in the box under the “Stay
Connected” headline.
If you have any questions, please feel free
to contact the Lone Star Chapter at 713526-8967 or 1-800-323-4873.
www.nationalmssociety.org
Get the facts on multiple sclerosis research, disease management, advocacy,
professional education and more.
24
PUBLIC POLICY & ADVOCACY
Let Government Hear Your Voice!
Lone Star Chapter Advocacy Action Network Members make a difference by making
their voices heard! The Texas Legislature meets for only 140 days, or approximately
five months, during odd-numbered years. During this limited time, thousands of
decisions are made which affect Texans. The bills considered by state legislators
impact health insurance, prescription drugs, Medicaid, long-term care and other issues
that affect everyone but are critically important to people living with MS. When your
state senator and representative do not hear that these issues matter to you, they make
decisions without your input.
Join the Advocacy Action Network!
Members of the network respond to
occasional calls to action with letters and/or phone calls to representatives, making
their voices heard!
Advocacy Action Network Members are informed by the chapter on:
• WHAT is happening in Texas and Washington, D.C.;
• WHY the issues are important to people with MS;
• WHO to contact to let your views be known; and
• HOW to get in touch with your representatives.
Want to do make an even bigger difference? Become an Issue
Ambassador and commit to making two in-person visits to your
legislators per year in addition to calling, writing letter or sending
e-mails to legislators.
Do you have a personal experience to share? Become a Story
Bank Contributor and share your story with the chapter about
challenges you have encountered in accessing health care.
Your story will be used as supporting documentation for
lawmakers introducing bills or by media to raise
awareness about the issues.
Get started making a difference today!
Contact Amber at 512-692-6242 or
[email protected].
25
2005 Issue 2
FUND RAISING
MS RIBBON OF HOPE
Purchase the MS Ribbon of
Hope lapel pin for only one
dollar for your family, friends,
MS 150 Pedal Partners, MS
Walk SoleMates and yourself to
help raise awareness and fund
research for multiple sclerosis!
To purchase the pins please mail your
check, payable to the
National MS Society
8111 N. Stadium Drive, Suite 100
Please denote the pin quantity in the
memo section of your check. Pins can
also purchased online by visiting
www.nationalmssociety.org/txh and
selecting the Donations link on the left.
The rainbow colors seen in this pin
symbolize hope. The prism effect
signifies that MS is an ever-changing and
unpredictable disease which can be seen
in many different lights. The ribbon is
also symbolic of the hope the Lone Star Please add $5.00 flat fee for shipping.
Chapter has as we press forward toward
our goal to end the devastating effects
of MS – forever. We hope you will wear
it often.
FOR SALE
• Tubmate bathlift chair , never used,
New $500, will sell for $200. Hope
Exerciser, $200 rarely used. Buyer must
be able to pick up items. Call Dorothy
at 361-906-0930. Corpus Christi Area.
• 2000 Ford E-150 full size van with
belt hoist motor-driven scooter lift,
24K miles, upgraded interior, smoke
free. Asking price: $11,000. Call for
photos. Ross Smith 512-475-4426.
Austin Area.
• Free Brudlift located in Houston
area. Call 281-337-4787.
26
K
eep S’myelin, a newsletter for
children about MS, is available
through NMSS chapters as well
as on the National MS Society’s
website. Designed for children 5-12
years old, who have a parent or loved
one with multiple sclersosis.
Keep S’myelin includes regular articles
about different aspects of MS, puzzles
and games, photos, book reviews, tips,
and more.
For a copy of the latest issue call
1-800-FIGHT-MS, or to access the
newsletter through the internet, go to
www.nationalmssociety.org.
ADVOCACY
Medicaid Buy-In Signed by Governor
Texas advocates for the National
Multiple Sclerosis Society scored their
first major victory of the 79th legislative
session. On May 9, Gov. Rick Perry
signed Senate Bill 566 into law. This law
allows certain people with disabilities
who want to work, but cannot get
health insurance through their
employers, to purchase insurance
through the Texas Medicaid program.
The National MS Society has long
supported a Medicaid Buy-In (MBI) in
Texas. Lone Star Chapter staff members
have served on two workgroups at the
Texas Health and Human Services
Commission. The chapter has worked
to develop an MBI model that balances
the needs of people living with
disabilities and available state resources.
During this session, advocates from all
Texas chapters put on a “full court
press.” Advocates called and wrote
legislators at every turn as this bill made
its way through the legislative process.
Thanks to the Lone Star Chapter
advocates, as well as the bill’s sponsors
in the Senate and House (Sen. Bob
Deuell and Rep. Dianne White Delisi),
for their help in establishing this
important Texas program.
To learn more about the Medicaid BuyIn and other important health care
issues that the Lone Star Chapter is
currently working on at the Texas
legislature, visit
www.nationalmssociety.org/txh
Disability Disclosure
For example, if you are asked about a gap
in your work history, this is an
opportunity to talk about what you have
been doing during that time. Think about
valuable life experiences that you have
gained. Have you been taking care of
children or a parent, going to school,
taking art classes or volunteering? This
question may prompt you to disclose
your disability if you have not already
done so. Be sure to do it in a way that
shows how you have dealt with a difficult
situation in a positive manner.
Remember to keep the past in the past,
stating that you are ready to move
forward, are qualified and able to do the
job you want.
Talk about your abilities, not your
disabilities. Employers need qualified,
capable individuals to fill positions. Find
a way to show that you are that person.
Sell them on what you can do, not on
what you cannot do and the interview
will go better than you expect. Be positive
about yourself and be honest.
27
Lone Star Chapter
National Multiple Sclerosis Society
Chapter & Clinical Programs
8111 N. Stadium Drive, Suite 100
NON-PROFIT
ORGANIZATION
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
Houston, Texas
Permit # 7017

Valentine`s Day Parties were Red Hot Across the Lone Star Chapter

Transcription

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