MS Connection Spring 2013

Spring 2013 pacific South coaSt chapter

MS connection newSletter

inSiDe thiS iSSue

03an aMazing gift to the chapter

04progreSS on MS therapieS

11victory in MeDicare SettleMent

17welcoMe to our new boarD chair

MS awareneSS week iS March 11-17Learn about the ways to sPreaD awareness at waLK Ms on Page 12

02 MS connection: Spring 2013

Join the MoveMent

MS killS connection. connection killS MS.Anytime is a good time to help create awareness about multiple sclerosis, and we’re kicking off our efforts during MS Awareness Week from March 11-17. Do you know some of the ways you can get involved and get connected?

Connect with MS activists on the frontline by signing up for federal updates and action alerts at http://ntl.ms/MSactivists. Learn more about our advocacy efforts on page 15.

Walk MS connects people living with MS and those who care about them. When you participate in this community event, the funds you raise give hope to the more than 2.1 million people living with MS worldwide. See the different ways to get involved on pages 12 and 13.

Be a part of our online community and get connected with people just like you! By connecting all of our knowledge, hope, and experience, we can gain new understanding of how to move forward. Share why you connect at MSconnection.org today.

With so many ways to get involved, won’t you commit to taking at least one action toward helping us spread MS awareness? With your help we can continue to work towards creating a world free of multiple sclerosis!

Most sincerely,

Rich Israel, Chapter President

Rich at Challenge Walk MS

MS awareneSS week iS March 11-17. what’S your connection? MSconnection.org

connect with uS online:MSpacific.org

Like us: facebook.com/MSpacific

Watch us: youtube.com/MSpacific

On the Cover: Top left: Karen Cooper, Ryan Lindley and another Water Walker enjoy the annual Water Walk. Top right: Jackie and Tim Oates. Bottom left: Dr. Liz Spier from Kaiser Permanente and Dr. Jody Corey-Bloom from UC San Diego. Bottom right: Erum Ahmed (2nd from left) and Team Hot Steppers.

03nationalmssociety.org | 1-800-344-4867

national Multiple ScleroSiS SocietyPacific South Coast Chapter 12121 Scripps Summit Drive, Suite 190 San Diego, CA 92131 1-800-344-4867

Board Chair: Cynthia Perazzo Chapter President: Richard V. Israel Editor & Design: Jessica Ishikawa Associate Editor: Leslie Christofferson

© 2013 National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Pacific South Coast Chapter

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

The Society does not endorse products, services or manufacturers. Such names appear here solely because they are considered valuable information. The Society assumes no liability for the use or contents of any product or service mentioned.

planneD giving

the gift of a hoMe This past year, the chapter received an extraordinary gift from an amazing couple and long-time supporters of our organization, Bud and Cheryl Pry. Because she lived with MS, Cheryl and her husband Bud were frequent attendees to chapter events like Day at the Bay and the Annual Holiday Party. They also committed their time volunteering and fundraising for the Society. However, they didn’t stop there…

Cheryl and Bud were so committed to seeing our mission grow that they included the chapter in their estate plans and donated their own home! After Bud and Cheryl’s passing, the Society worked alongside the estate executor and attorney and when the house sold, the chapter received $360,000. What an incredible and unforgettable gift! The Society is beyond grateful for such wonderful individuals so committed to creating a world free of MS. n

Rich Israel presents a thank you to Dennis and Janet Dix at the chapter’s Annual Meeting. Dennis is Cheryl’s brother and was the executor of the estate.

to learn about the many ways you can give to the Society, contact angela at (760) 448-8434 or [email protected].

04 MS connection: Spring 2013

reSearch

progreSS on MS therapieSBy MEgAn WEIgEL, CnP, ARnP-C, MSCn

In 1993, Betaseron was released to market as the first disease-modifying therapy for multi-ple sclerosis. With the approval of oral teriflu-nomide (brand name Aubagio®) by the FDA in October, 2012, we now have nine disease-modifying therapies to treat relapsing forms of MS—and more on the horizon. The MS Emerging Therapies Collaborative, which includes the Society, provides downloadable information sheets at www.ms-coalition.org/emergingtherapies to facilitate communica-tion between doctors and people with MS about newly approved treatments.

Research on potential treatments for progres-sive forms of MS is also underway and the In-ternational Progressive MS Collaborative, of which the Society is a member, plans to do all it can to speed the development of those treat-ments.

Here are the therapies to keep an eye on as we move forward into 2013:

BG-12 is an oral fumarate that has been used in Europe for over a decade to treat psoriasis. Although its exact mechanism of action is not known, it is thought to inhibit immune cells ac-tive in MS and may even be protective against damage to the brain and spinal cord.

Two large phase III studies (the DEFInE trial and the COnFIRM trial, respectively) found that Bg-12 significantly reduced relapses and disease activity as detected by MRI. The most common side effects were flushing of the skin and gastrointestinal upset. In 2012, Biogen Idec applied to the FDA for approval of Bg-12 to treat relapsing MS, and the review process is now underway, with the FDA’s decision ex-pected within the year.

Alemtuzumab, a monoclonal antibody that depletes circulating immune (T and B) cells thought to be responsible for MS attacks, would be administered by IV infusion for five days and then for three days one year later.

genzyme applied to the FDA for approval of alemtuzumab to treat relapsing MS, based on positive results from several clinical trials, in-cluding one that showed a 55% decrease in re-lapses compared to interferon beta 1a (Rebif ); however, the FDA asked the company to re-submit its application, so a timeline has not yet been established. While this therapy is

05nationalmssociety.org | 1-800-344-4867

powerful against MS, there is concern regard-ing adverse events, such as immune thrombo-cytopenic purpura (ITP, a bleeding disorder), and autoimmune thyroid disorders.

Laquinimod is a once-daily oral immune modulator that proved in phase III studies to statistically significantly decrease relapse rates, though not as robustly as investigators had hoped. This drug is about to be tested in an-other phase III study in 1,800 people with re-lapsing-remitting MS.

Daclizumab and ocrelizumab are two other monoclonal antibodies currently under study, with favorable results thus far. A highly con-centrated liquid formulation of daclizumab is under study in relapsing-remitting MS. Ex-perimental ocrelizumab, given intravenously, significantly reduced disease activity on MRI scans in a study of 218 people with relapsing-remitting MS. One person died due to brain edema; however, the relation of this death to the medication is unclear. Additional research, now going on in primary-progressive MS and relapsing-remitting MS, is needed to further determine ocrelizumab’s safety and benefits.

Clinical trials of treatments for progressive forms of MS are currently underway: these include natalizumab (Tysabri), fingolimod (Gilenya) and ocrelizumab.

Making choiceSWhen we consider treatment now, in particular the possibility of switching therapies, we weigh the safety and efficacy of our older, injectable disease-modifying agents against the seeming convenience and perhaps superior efficacy of

newer agents. The sequencing of therapies is a new consideration, as well, as the effects of medications like natalizumab and fingolimod on the immune system may be prolonged. Questions about new therapies may mean lon-ger or more frequent appointments with neu-rologists to discuss their risk-benefit ratios.

Additionally, people with MS may choose to see an MS specialist, or be referred to one by a general neurologist, for treatment recommen-dations.

However, the most encouraging part, in addi-tion to the fact that treatments for MS may be getting more effective, of course, is that the re-search pipeline is full. Thanks to those who are committed to research funding, science is able to continue searching for the cure, and on that search, discover medications that will keep this disease as quiet as possible.

To follow progress on potential MS therapies, sign up for MS enEWS at nationalMSsociety.org/signup, or visit nationalMSsociety.org/research. n

Megan Weigel is a Doctor of nursing Practice and MS Certified nurse who has been caring for people with MS for 12 years. This article was originally published in the north Florida Chapter’s MSConnection newsletter.

06 MS connection: Spring 2013

a perSonal challenge

connect at challenge walk MS: a coMMunity of Spirit & Strength

Challenge Walk MS is the perfect way to connect with others in our community who are passionate about ending MS forever. Challenge Walk MS is a personal challenge of spirit and strength that brings

people together who commit to making a difference in the lives of people living with MS. We encourage you to be part of the most rewarding journey you’ll ever make.

During this all-inclusive weekend, we will walk together for three days and 50 miles alongside a beautiful coastline route to continue our mission and to further pursue a cure for multiple sclerosis.

Register now and start fundraising today by calling 800-486-6762 or visiting myMSchallenge.com.

Be there. Because every connection you make and every dollar you raise supports the mission to create a world free of MS. n

“there are a number of reasons why i participate in challenge walk MS, but the most important is because i can! there are thousands of people who are not able to, and who have the same disease i was diagnosed with back in 2009. i have MS, MS does not have me, and i intend to continue walking every year. i walk to raise awareness. i walk to raise funds so researchers can find a cure! i walk so that assistance will be there for those who need it. there is no road map to show how this disease progresses, as each case is unique. i walk so that one day we won’t need a key for this map.” Keith Baker First Year Walker, Lifetime Member

07Mark your calenDar

local eventSteleconference: iMportant DeciSionS about eMployMent & benefitS when living with MS Thursday, April 4, 2013 6:30-7:30pm Teleconference Unravel the myths and misconceptions about employment and benefits in this important presentation. Learn more about the facts and reality, to the world of opportunity for individuals and workers with disabilities.

ScrippS Spring lecture SerieS 6:30-8:30pm San Diego Join neurologist Charles Smith, MD and the national MS Society’s Pacific South Coast Chapter for a free series of seminars that will offer valuable information to people who want to better manage their MS symptoms and improve their quality of life.

• Thursday, April 11: Rehabilitation in Multiple Sclerosis: How Can it Help My MS?

• Thursday, May 9: Complementary & Alternative Treatments in MS: Is There a Role in My Multiple Sclerosis Treatment Plan?

• Thursday, June 13: new Disease Modifying Therapies for MS: Where Do I go From Here?

to regiSter for or get More inforMation about any of the eventS liSteD, aS well aS learn about aDDitional eventS, viSit http://calenDar.MSpacific.org or call 1-800-344-4867 (1-800-fight-MS) anD preSS “1.”

Save the Date! annual Day at the bay Saturday, May 11 Mission Bay, San Diego Join other families affected by MS for a day of fun in the sun. Enjoy adaptive sailing on the bay and a festive luau. More information will be coming soon!

Moving forwarD: a SeMinar for the newly DiagnoSeD Saturday, May 18 8:30am-12:30pm Costa Mesa Moving Forward is an educational seminar offered at no cost for individuals who have been diagnosed with MS within the past three years, and their family members. you will learn about the emotional aspects of MS and maintaining physical wellness, with the opportunity to listen to Dr. Jack Florin speak about understanding MS.

08

orange county Anaheim: En Español Familiares y amigos bienvenidos. La segunda martes de cada mes. Anaheim Adventist Church 900 S. Sunkist St, 6:30 - 8pm Rosa Ferreras 714-758-0829 [email protected] Susana Pérez 714-235-7570 [email protected]

Corona Del Mar: Minimal Symptoms/Newly Diagnosed 3rd Wednesday 1:30 - 3:30pm Sherri Brash 714-846-2064 [email protected] Ana: Man to Man 1st & 3rd Wednesday 10am-12pm Mike Milne 949-215-8502 [email protected] Jack Santos 949-786-3421 [email protected]

Dana Point: Minimal Symptoms/Newly Diagnosed 4th Thursday, 10am - 12pm Jerry Dowd 949-584-4619 [email protected] Susan Watson 949-493-1299 [email protected]

Fullerton: Christian MS Support group 2nd Tuesday, 7:00pm - 8:30pm Sara Minton [email protected]

Huntington Beach: Minimal Symptoms/Newly Diagnosed 2nd Wednesday, 10am - 12pm Jeanne Archibald 714-842-7198 [email protected] Priscilla Wolz 714-846-6526

Huntington Beach: Working with MS 1st Tuesday, 6:30 - 8:30pm Laurie Cable 714-969-8298 [email protected] Karen Patterson 714-377-4006

Irvine: Walkers & Rollers 2nd & 4th Wednesday 10am - 12pm Jack Santos 949-786-3421 [email protected]

Irvine: Girl Talk Contact Tabitha for date & time Tabitha Evans 714-669-5618 [email protected] Maggie Finn 949-748-7591 [email protected]

Laguna Hills 1st Tuesday, 10am - 12pm Francine grasso 949-278-6935 [email protected] Karen Harlas 949-498-9583

Lake Forest: MS with Christ 3rd Monday, 6:30 - 8pm Bill Bisch 949-218-5020 Cathy Varela 949-842-2296

Midway City 1st & 3rd Tuesdays 10am - 12pm Pat Howard 714-968-0277 Linda Logan 714-374-0430 [email protected] Carolyn Cassell 714-963-8624 [email protected]

Mission Viejo: Minimal Symptoms/Newly Diagnosed 2nd Wednesday, 6:30 - 8pm Jerry Dowd 949-584-4619 [email protected] Susan Watson 949-493-1299 [email protected]

Newport Beach 3rd Sunday, 2 - 4pm Harriet Pavidis 714-839-5529 [email protected]

Stanton/Los Alamitos 1st (Stanton) & 3rd (Los Alamitos) Tuesday 12:30 - 2:30pm Rosa Ferreras 714-758-0829 [email protected]

Yorba Linda: Family & Friends Welcome 2nd Monday & 4th Friday, 10am - 12pm Kathy Kelby 714-525-0686 [email protected] Rob Lammers 714-990-2933 [email protected]

Yorba Linda 1st Friday of the month, 10am - 12pm Denise Kish 909-519-4410 [email protected] Jim Langdon 714-392-2052 [email protected]

San DiegoCarlsbad: Newly Diagnosed 1st & 3rd Saturday, 12 - 1pm [email protected] 760-448-8403

Chula Vista: En Español Llame para más información. Fernando Palomino 619-691-7964

Chula Vista St. Marks Lutheran Church 850 Hilltop Dr. 3rd Wednesday, 11am - 1pm Susan Lipp 619-426-0930 [email protected] Bonnie Kuhn 619-737-9262

if you woulD like More inforMation about Support groupS in your area, call 1-800-344-4867, anD preSS ‘1’ or contact a liSteD leaDer.

Self-help groupS

09nationalMSSociety.org | 1-800-344-4867

Encinitas San Diego County Credit Union Community Room 501 north El Camino Real 1st Thursday, 6 - 7:30pm Melinda Brizendine 760-944-4549 [email protected]

Escondido Joslyn Senior Center, Room 5 210 Park Avenue 3rd Wednesday, 1 - 3pm Beth Bradsher 760-747-9096 [email protected] Michele Easterling 760-805-6390 [email protected]

Escondido: Christian Group HopeKeepers Escondido 4th Saturday, 11am - 1pm Cross Connection Escondido 1675 Seven Oakes Rd. Room 4 Jim Johnston 760-746-4279 [email protected]

Oceanside Oceanside Library 3861 Mission Avenue 2nd Wednesday, 12 - 2pm Juanita Hamilton 760-754-1911 [email protected]

Poway Weingart Center 13094 Civic Centre Drive 1st Tuesday, 6:30pm Peggy green 858-748-4009 [email protected]

Ramona 2nd Tuesday, 11am - 12pm Van Reeder 760-789-9129

San Diego: I Can’t Remember Group national MS Society 12121 Scripps Summit Drive 1st & 3rd Wednesday, 11am - 12:30pm David Ries 619-997-3483 [email protected]

San Diego (Clairemont/La Jolla) Denny’s Restaurant 4280 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. 1st Thursday, 9:30 - 11:30am Denise Kish 909-519-4410 [email protected]

San Diego: Mens Group Kaiser Education Center San Diego 10990 San Diego Mission Road 1st Tuesday, 6:30pm Bill Homer 858-571-1867 [email protected]

San Diego (Mid-City) Kaiser Education Center San Diego 10990 San Diego Mission Road 4th Monday, 2 - 4pm Stephanie Russell 619-224-6156 [email protected]

Spring Valley new Seasons Church 2300 Bancroft Drive 2nd Saturday, 12:30 - 2pm Debbie Centeno 619-460-4123 [email protected]

profeSSionally-leD Support groupS in orange & San Diego countieS

Support Group for People Experiencing Progressing MS Symptoms 2nd Tuesday of Every Month 10:00am - 12:00pm Facilitator: Debbie Hornstein, MSW neighborhood Community Center 1845 Park Avenue Costa Mesa, CA 92627 714-689-9602

Women’s Caregiver Group 2nd Wednesday of Every Month 6:30 - 8:00pm Facilitator: Deborah LeFevre, MFT national MS Society Costa Mesa Office 3000-C Airway Avenue, Suite 125 Costa Mesa, CA 92626 (714) 689-9602

Caregiver Support Group 3rd Thursday of Every Month 6:30-8:00pm Facilitator: Seraphina galante, MSW, Family Consultant Southern Caregiver Resource Center 3675 Ruffin Road, Suite 230 San Diego, CA 92123 (858) 268-4432, ext. 112

10 MS connection: winter 2012

aquaticSCarlsbad: Indoor Waterworks Aquatics 2704 gateway Road Tuesdays & Thursdays 11:45am - 12:45pm

Chula Vista: Outdoor Loma Verde Pool 1420 Loma Lane Tuesdays & Thursdays 12 - 1pm

El Cajon: Outdoor/Indoor St. Madeline Sophie’s Center 2119 East Madison Avenue Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays 11:30am - 12:30pm

Irvine: Indoor Arthritis Foundation Approved Class Waterworks Aquatics 25 Waterworks Way Tuesdays & Thursdays 10:30 - 11:30am no lift available at this time.

yoga & pilateSCosta Mesa yoga Works 1835 newport Blvd, #A208 Mondays, 10:45 - 11:45am

Dana Point Dana Point Community Center 34052 Del Obispo Road Wednesdays, 8:00 - 9:15am

Fullerton Friends in Christ Lutheran Church 2311 E. Chapman Avenue Wednesdays, 10:30 - 11:30am

Huntington Beach yoga Works 301 Main Street Wednesdays, 1 - 2pm

Santa Ana goodwill Fitness Center 1601 E. St. Andrew Place Fridays, 9:45-10:45am

San Diego Addie’s Personal Training Studio 4440 Ingraham St. Sundays, 10-11am $5 per session

Fullerton: Indoor Aquatics north Orange County yMCA 2000 youth Way Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays 9 - 10am $6 per session

La Jolla: Yoga Scripps Memorial Hospital 9888 genesee Avenue Thursdays, 9 - 10am $10 monthly fee Cardiac Rehab 858-626-6493

San Diego: MS FITT Addie’s Personal Training Studio 4440 Ingraham Street Tuesdays, 5:30pm Thursdays, 12:00pm Saturdays, 11:30am Fee-based class. Call 858-483-2711 for more information.

San Diego: Outdoor Aquatics Peninsula Family yMCA 4390 Valeta Street Monday-Friday, 11am - 12pm $5 per session

San Diego: Pilates Comprehensive Therapy Service Inc. 5677 Oberlin Dr. Suite 106 Mondays, 12pm Thursdays, 5pm Mandy Johnston 858-457-8419 $10 per class

San Marcos: Lebed Method Meadow Lark Community Church 1918 Redwing St. Tuesdays, 10am Diana Dean-naú 760-809-9176 $5 per class

in your neighborhooD

balance & Strength trainingLa Jolla Ability Rehab Specialists 737 Pearl St, #108 1st, 2nd, 3rd Tuesdays, 6 - 6:45pm

Costa Mesa Healthy Balance 1599 Superior Avenue, Suite B Thursdays, 10:30 - 11:30am

health & wellneSS claSSeS

to attenD any of the liSteD claSSeS, a waiver iS requireD. pleaSe contact 800-344-4867 to requeSt a waiver toDay.

11nationalMSSociety.org | 1-800-344-4867

aDvocacy

victory in MeDicare SettleMentBy MARCELLA DURAnD

A settlement to end Medicare’s so-called “Improvement Standard,” which denied coverage of certain treatment services to people with multiple sclerosis and other diseases, was officially approved January 24th by Chief Judge Christina Reiss of the U.S. District Court in Vermont.

The settlement to end the standard was reached in a nationwide lawsuit in which the national MS Society was a plaintiff. The Society had joined other organizations including the Parkinson’s Action network, the Alzheimer’s Association, United Cerebral Palsy and Paralyzed Veterans of America in a class-action suit to challenge the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) over the standard.

The standard had denied Medicare coverage for services such as skilled nursing facilities, home health and outpatient therapy benefits like physical or occupational therapy to Medicare beneficiaries living with MS if they did not show improvement. However, these often-expensive services can be critical to prevent decline or maximize independence.

The settlement’s approval effectively means that any denial citing the “improvement standard” can be appealed moving forward and even dating back to Jan 18, 2011 (the date the case was filed). CMS is now tasked with revising its Medicare Benefit Policy Manual and other policies, guidelines and instructions to ensure that Medicare coverage is available for skilled services in home health, nursing home and outpatient settings. CMS must also develop and implement a nationwide education campaign to ensure beneficiaries with chronic conditions are not denied coverage for critical services.

For more information, visit MSActivist.org. n

Marcella Durand is the content planning and development manager for the Society.

MS activists make change happen

12 MS connection: Spring 2013

a coMMunity coMing together

the Many faceS of walk MS Sixteen years ago, an aquatic therapy instructor had the idea to host a walk in the pool, allowing those who could not participate in Walk MS on land to do so in the water. Thus, Water Walk was born! Karen Cooper (pictured with former SDSU and current Arizona Cardinals quarterback, Ryan Lindley), a woman living with MS since 1984, was there from the beginning and helped to keep the event going through the years. She shares, “I feel good to be a part of Team Water Walkers and see so many people having a positive attitude, having a good time, and working toward beating this disease. It is a very fun and rewarding experience.” Anyone can join the Water Walkers on April 5 at Waterworks Aquatics in Irvine, or April 19 at The Wave House Athletic Club in Mission Beach.

Jackie and Tim Oates are extraordinary volunteers who support Walk MS at all three sites! Jackie’s mother, Patricia Luther, lived with MS for over three decades, and was a long-time member of the chapter and the Brea & yorba Linda support group. Jackie first got involved by joining the caregiver support group in 2007 and her involvement, as well as her husband’s, grew from there. They help by leading groups of volunteers as Captains, and Tim even sang the national Anthem the past two years! There’s nothing they won’t do to help create a world free of MS.

Being a part of Walk MS isn’t only about walking. Learn about people who are making the walk their own.

nationalMSSociety.org | 1-800-344-4867 13When local neurologists and health care providers were asked to join a unique challenge at the Walk, they stepped up for people with MS! What began only a few years ago with 6 teams and 200 people raising $27,000 has grown to 10 teams recruiting over 400 people and raising over $50,000! Care providers from all over Orange and San Diego county participate, including Dr. Jody Corey-Bloom at UC San Diego (pictured 2nd on the right with Dr. Liz Spier), who has served people living with MS for more than 15 years. This year, the 4th Annual Physician’s Challenge will bring on more of the friendly competition. Do you want to walk with your care provider? get them to start a team today!

Team Captain Erum Ahmed (pictured 2nd from left) was unable to join her friends and family, Team Hot Steppers, at Walk MS 2012 when she had a sudden MS flare-up that landed her in the hospital for 5 days. With some ingenuity and technology, Erum, who was diagnosed in 2006, was able to attend the event as a virtual walker; her team streamed their walk through UC Irvine live to her computer! They also allowed the chapter to share the link with our Facebook fans, so they could be a part of the walk too!

Join us at one of our three amazing locations, in the water, or virtually; donate; or volunteer! learn more at MSwalk.com.

april 6: University of California, Irvine

april 21: LEGOLAND® California Resort, Carlsbad

april 27: NTC Park at Liberty Station, San Diego

MS connection: Spring 201314funDing the MiSSion

30 yearS of bike MS The Bike MS Bay to Bay Tour celebrated its 30th year this past October, with 2,300 cyclists of all levels raising over $2.1 million. The cyclists enjoyed a 15, 30, 100 or 150-mile ride down the picturesque coastlines of Orange and San Diego counties. We are especially proud of our corporate partnerships, top fundraisers, and top teams, recognized here.

Join us October 19 & 20 for the 2013 ride. Visit biketofinishMS.com to register and learn more! n

Special thankS to theSe SponSorS

est.1935

Presenting Sponsors

Diamond Sponsors

1. Al Basso - $49,1472. Doug Peterson - $31,5433. John & Jodi Most - $29,2474. Franklyn gottbetter - $26,5735. Paul Dechary - $25,2186. Rona Kay - $22,2057. Jack Babbitt - $12,1008. Tim Salmon - $11,2259. Daniel Abrams - $10, 89510. David Lee - $10,82011. glenn Arnold - $10,31212. Jim Heaton - $10,27013. Kenneth Tudhope - $10,21914. Dan Fischer - $10,20015. Bob Moore - $10,14016. Douglas Loreman - $10,09117. Jay McCabe - $10,06618. Mark neilson - $10,05019. Bryon Barnes - $10,02520. Steve Malloy - $10,00321. Tim Dolan - $9,65022. Matthew Fein - $9,26823. Benjamina Bambauer - $9,05024. Mark Malbon - $8,89525. Bob Ott - $8,34026. Keith Sherwood - $8,05427. Michael Verachtert - $7,90028. greg Ferree - $7,87829. Sheila Aresh - $7,82530. Mark Whittemore - $7,75031. Tim Bockhold - $7,50032. Peter goemans - $7,38533. Kimberly Roush - $7,22534. Kirk Evans - $7,11535. Roland Hoffman - $7,01136. David Brooks - $6,87137. Steven Seibert - $6,80538. Wesley Fleming - $6,65539. Debbi Kemp - $6,63440. Ken McKinley - $6,50041. Victoria Roberts - $6,41742. Mary Storm - $6,341

150 club top funDraiSerS43. Peter Albini - $6,24044. Kevin gaffney - $5,97245. Hugh neuharth - $5,78046. Roger Waterman - $5,68547. David Hopkins - $5,45848. Phil Ohme - $5,42049. Jeff Smith - $5,39050. Jay Carr - $5,36051. Leonard & Stephanie Wong - $5,30052. David Wright - $5,15053. Vance Mcneilly - $5,11054. Mark Mahoney - $5,10555. Richard Pesavento - $5,07156. John Hampton - $4,75057. Michael Stilwagner - $4,65058. Joseph Monier - $4,64959. Skypp Cabanas - $4,61060. Kerry Fisher - $4,55061. Robert Torres - $4,50562. Roger Voet - $4,45063. Christopher Paskach - $4,42764. Che-Chyl Cortes - $4,305.9865. Terri gaydon - $4,30566. Sharon Joy - $4,26067. Jeffrey Parker - $4,24568. Donna Beshgetoor - $4,24369. Staci Beech - $4,23070. Sheila Parker - $4,10071. Donald Kolehmainen - $4,09072. William Fischbeck - $4,04073. Eric Dangott - $4,02674. Susan Sevi - $4,02075. Rick Solomon - $4,01076. Amy Blase - $4,00577. gary Myers - $3,94778. Lyle Sandlin - $3,86579. Terry Krieger - $3,81380. Bruce Kahn - $3,78281. Alexi Varanko - $3,70182. Bruce Strauss - $3,70082. Kristin Zandbergen - $3,700

nationalmssociety.org | 1-800-344-4867 1583. Roger Kays - $3,68584. Joel greiner - $3,68085. Jim Horstman - $3,63786. Joe Cucinotti - $3,63587. Christopher Torres - $3,62588. Sharon Virtue - $3,58989. Peter Droog - $3,53590. Arthur Rosten - $3,50491. Chris Hillock - $3,44092. Charles nugent - $3,42093. Mitch Rickard - $3,34194. Anne Coleman - $3,32595. Sean Callan - $3,31596. Ken Trotman - $3,20897. Annamaria Ferree - $3,20598. Thomas Bloomer - $3,20099. Julie Flaiz-Windham - $3,195100. Mark Reden - $3,190101. Lynn Pressey - $3,169102. John Laino - $3,160103. Travis Wasson - $3,100104. Robert Fleming - $3,065105. Steven Brown - $3,062106. Thomas Obkircher - $3,053107. Mike Mautner - $3,033108. Ray Freiwirth - $3,020109. Jerry giovaniello - $3,000110. Danna Kipnis - $2,985111. Hee-Won Lim - $2,960112. Hank Jones - $2,955113. Andrew Stout - $2,930114. Thomas Lilly - $2,915115. Anthony guiliani - $2,900116. Scott Campbell - $2,871117. Mike Malinick - $2,870118. Clarence Schwab - $2,855119. Craig Utterson - $2,850120. Mark Firger - $2,838121. Dave Alden - $2,835122. Steven noeldner - $2,825123. Chris Lenkeit - $2,820124. Charles Martinson - $2,802

125. John Rice - $2,800126. Tim Zandbergen - $2,785127. Stacie Treposkoufes - $2,780128. Marty Kessell - $2,730128. Anthony naff- $2,730129. Tony Montenegro - $2,728130. Don graham - $2,725131. David Wade - $2,720132. Bradley Pensak - $2,698133. Sam Rubin - $2,696134. Judy Simpson - $2,684135. Charles Kennedy - $2,665135. Scott Scheer - $2,665136. garrett Allen - $2,660137. gary Lynn - $2,650138. Rhonda Angell - $2,630139. nicole Sweeney - $2,628140. Daniel Moore - $2,625141. Cynthia Tidball - $2,604142. Bob Marmor - $2,600143. Elizabeth giovaniello - $2,585144. Brian Driscoll - $2,575144. Joel Eisenberg - $2,575145. Melissa Friedman - $2,561146. Kim guse - $2,559146. Lisa Jenkins - $2,559147. Linda Hernandez - $2,533148. Jim Caraccio - $2,529149. Steve Louis - $2,500149. Matthew Waller - $2,500150. Ron Wilsie - $2,495

top teaMSMission Possible Award Level ($100,000+)Howard’s Team - $124,466Team Disney - $112,310

Diamond Award Level ($50,000-$99,999)Team Basso - $95,259Still Kicking for Gordo - $82,380Power Peddlers - $65,85624 Hour Fitness - $60,885Team Intuit - $52,932

Gold Award Level ($25,000-$49,999)HD Supply Facilities Maintenance - $45,305KPMG All Stars - $44,472Team Crash - $40,059OutSpokin’ For A Cure - $38,787Team Hansen’s - $37,116MOST: Team Top of the Hill - $36,812Team Wescom - $36,020NetApp - $33,177Annie’s Gang - $31,639Team Gottbetter GOTTARIDE! - $29,568Team Beckman Coulter - $29,560Terry’s Team - $27,868HS Power Spinners - $27,587DELOITTE - $25,122

Silver Award Level ($15,000-$24,999)Team SHOEBACCA.com - $24,738Mitsubishi Motors - $24,458Bill’s Biker Backers - $24,217Saddle Soars - $24,025KTLA - $22,438SchoolsFirst FCU - $21,735Team Tiki Ha Ha - $19,655Anthem Blue Cross Rebels - $18,781Team Trek Superstore - $18,635Land Rover San Diego - $17,865Health Advocate - $17,573Team LAPD and Friends - $17,553Clark Blue Coming Thru - $16,441teaMSeaside - $15,723Love 4 Lisa - $15,676Wells Fargo - $15,508

16 MS connection: Spring 2013

Supporting the MiSSion

our volunteerS are aMazing!

January 2013

Congratulations to our incredible Volunteers of the Year! We honored fantastic individuals, corporate, and community partners at the Annual Meeting this past January. Want to see your name here next year? Get involved as a volunteer today by contacting Linda at 760-448-8416 [email protected].

Self-Help Group Leader of the Year: Jim Langdon Jim was diagnosed with MS at the age of 34. In 2001, he met Mike Milne, who led a Man 2 Man group. In 2004, Jim (pictured bottom center) became a co-facilitator of the Yorba Linda Self-Help Group. He is always happy, positive and uplifting, which helps his group members feel comfortable and at home. He sees the good in any situation and is fully supportive of his friends with MS. In the words of his co-facilitator Denise Kish: “How blessed I am to volunteer with this wonderful man. My life is made better every day because he is in it.”

Special Events Volunteer of the Year: Motorcycle Amateur Radio Club (MARC

Special Events Volunteer of the Year: Coastal Amateur Radio Emergency Services (C.A.R.E.S.)

Philanthropic Dedication Award: Boy Scouts of America, Troop 45

Bike MS Volunteer of the Year: Bruce Witt

Wellness Provider of the Year: Water Works Aquatics

Corporate Excellence Award: Pacific Ambulance

Passion for the Mission Award: Charlotte Freifeld

Organizational Alliance Award: GMI

Mentorship Partner of the Year: Sharon Griggs

Corporate Champion of the Year: BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse

MS Ambassador of the Year (In Memoriam): Gwen Rollins

Corporate Partner of the Year: Sycuan Casino

Media Partner of the Year: Sam Rubin

Lifetime Commitment Award: Dr. William Hornstein & Mrs. Debbie Hornstein

Chapter Star Volunteers of the Year: Linda and Rick Milson

17nationalMSSociety.org | 1-800-344-4867

funDing the MiSSion

golf with Dr. brownDr. Tom Brown was recently recognized as the Strategic Philanthropy Department Volunteer of the Year because of his dedication to ensuring the MS Golf Invitational is a success. As a member of La Jolla Country Club, Dr. Brown sponsors the chapter to use the course for the Invitational, in addition to hosting golf committee meetings and other small outings throughout the year. With his generosity, Dr. Brown donates auction items such as opportunities to play at the exclusive club to both our golf and auction events. Join Dr. Brown on Monday, May 6 at La Jolla Country Club and enjoy the incredible cocktail reception, gourmet dinner, and live auction after a wonderful day on the course with fellow supporters of the Society. To learn more about the MS Golf Invitational visit golfMS.org.

volunteeriSM

welcoMe to our new boarD chair!Cynthia Perazzo (pictured with her son Zachary at Walk MS) first got involved with the Society not because of a connection to MS, but because of her commitment to volunteerism, when, in 2001, she joined her company’s Walk MS team. Since then, she’s gotten to know many people and their families living with MS and it’s made the cause all the more personal.

In 2007, Cynthia took her volunteerism to the next level by joining the chapter’s Board of Trustees, participating as the Chair of the Investment Committee and Board Secretary. This year, she begins her term as Board Chair, and she intends to keep her eye on the mission. Cynthia shares, “The cost of living with MS and providing programs continues to rise, regardless of what’s happening with the economy and we need to make a bigger

difference.” Cynthia knows we can accomplish this by embracing the National campaign around “MS Kills Connection. Connection Kills MS.” She declares, “We all need to be engaged and connected to each other if we’re going to be successful as an organization. We need to get re-inspired and re-engaged. And for those who are already engaged, we need them to be more engaged.”

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Mark your

calenDarS n Thursday, April 4: Important Decisions about Employment & Benefits Teleconferencen Saturday, April 6: Walk MS Irvinen Thursday, April 11: Rehabilitation in MS (Scripps Lecture Series)n Sunday, April 21: Walk MS Carlsbadn Saturday, April 27: Walk MS San Diegon Monday, May 6: MS golf Invitationaln Thursday, May 9: Complimentary & Alternative Therapies (Scripps Lecture Series)n Saturday, May 11: Day at the Bayn Saturday, May 18: Moving Forward: Program for the newly DiagnosedSee more events and programs at http://calendar.MSpacific.org.

get connecteD

VISIT MSCONNECTION.ORG TODAY TO CONNECT WITh OThER PEOPLE AFFECTED BY MS. ShARE YOU STORY. ShARE YOUR CONNECTION.