Summer 2011 - MS Connection

MOVING TOWARD A WORLD FREE OF MS | 2011 • SUMMER • VOL 3

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

PACIFIC SOUTH COAST CHAPTER

Bike MS PAgE 3

Out & About With MS PAgE 4

Challenge Walk MS PAgE 14

Bob Webster Scholarship Winners PAgE 15

If drinking a glass of worm eggs could help with MS, people might just grimace and swallow. Two recently published studies explore whether infection with relatively harmless parasitic worms, called helminths, can reduce disease activity.

The idea stems from the “hygiene hypothesis,” which suggests that an early lack of exposure to infectious agents may cause the immune system to later overreact and trigger MS.

In the first phase of a clinical trial (Helminth-Induced Immunomodulation Therapy, or HINT) supported by the National MS Society, John Fleming, MD, and colleagues at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, administered a drink containing helminth eggs to five people with recently diagnosed MS. The participants were then monitored with MRI scans.

Study results, published in Multiple Sclerosis Journal 2011 Mar 3, showed that participants tolerated the helminth treatment well and

Yuck FAcTOR: ThE SEquELneurological symptoms did not get worse. However, the small number of participants and the study design made it difficult to draw firm conclusions about the

treatment’s effectiveness. The second phase of this study is now under way.

In a previously reported Argentine study, Jorge Correale, MD, and Mauricio Farez, MD, at the Institute for Neurological Research, Buenos Aires, followed the disease course of 12 people

More research updates PAGE 2

Inspiring words from San Diego Charger’s Coach, Norv Turner PAGE 5

INSIDELOOK

with MS who ingested helminth eggs. They showed fewer relapses, better disability scores and lower MRI activity compared with uninfected people. In a follow-up study published in Journal of Neuroimmunology 2011 Jan 28, the researchers report that in four infected participants who required antiparasitic treatment, MS symptoms and disease-related MRI activity subsequently increased. However, again, because the study was so small, further studies are needed to establish a direct link between parasites and improvements in MS.

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RESEARch

(800) 344-4867

PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETy Pacific South Coast Chapter

chapter Offices: 12121 Scripps Summit Drive, Suite 190 San Diego, CA 92131

3000-C Airway Avenue, Suite 125 Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Vice President, Programs & Services Karen Hooper

MSconnection Editor Jessica Read

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society does not endorse 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 Multiple Sclerosis Society recommends that all questions and information be discussed with a personal physician.

We mobilize people and resources to drive research for a cure and to address the challenges of everyone affected by MS.

© 2011 National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Pacific South Coast Chapter

PACIFIC SOUTH COAST CHAPTER

uPDATE ON ORAL BG-12 In April, Biogen Idec announced that the experimental oral therapy BG-12 significantly reduced relapses in people with relapsing remitting MS in a phase III trial. The results of another study comparing BG-12 with glatiramer acetate against placebo are expected later this year.

AMERIcAN AcADEMY OF NEuROLOGY MEETING The American Academy of Neurology’s annual meeting, held April 9-16 in Honolulu, offered promising results about oral MS medications, treatment of symptoms and better understanding of mechanisms involved in the disease. For example, the first reported results of a phase III trial of oral laquinimod suggested it could significantly reduce disease activity and disability progression, while appearing to be well-tolerated. For more news from the AAN conference, go to www.nationalMSsociety.org/AANews.

Newport Beach Clinical Research Associates are currently enrolling for several Multiple Sclerosis Clinical Studies. If you are interested in hearing about a new injectable medicine for RFMS, or an oral medication for RFMS or PPMS, please contact us at 949-631-2917. All evaluations, tests, care and medication are free. Find more information at www.newportbeachresearch.com.

The Research Center of Southern California in conjunction with The MS Center of Southern California is engaged in three MS research studies at this time. If you would like to learn more about opportunities to participate in meaningful MS research, call (760) 732-0557 ext. 2147.

cLINIcALTRIALS

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FuNDING ThE MISSION

ThE BEST JuST GOT BETTER!

ThANkYOU

Bike MS Bay to Bay Tour -- four time winner of the “Best Cycling Event” awarded by the readers of Competitor magazine -- just got better! Participants have always enjoyed gorgeous coastline routes and now there’s something for everyone including a brand new finish line and festival that is sure to impress! Route options for all levels include 15 or 30 miles on one day, or 100 and 150 miles over two days. Over 2,500 cylists will raise $2.3 million to create a world free of MS.

15 Miles: No excuses! This is for eVerYoNe! We’re introducing a 15-mile route option for Bike MS! The route features a loop around the beautiful Mission Bay and finishes at Hospitality Point on Sunday, October 23rd with the 2,500 other cyclists! This route will be closed to vehicular traffic where possible.

30 Miles The 30-mile route now starts Sunday, October 23rd and will begin and end at Hospitality Point in Mission Bay. Thirty-mile riders are able to join up and finish with 2,500 cyclists completing Day Two of their journey. The route is complete with roving support-and-gear vehicles and two fully-stocked rest stops.

100 Miles Cyclists embark on Day One with a 50-mile journey along the gorgeous Southern California coast, down Pacific Coast Highway to the Saturday finish line in Carlsbad. On Day Two, riders leave the Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa to ride another 50 coastal miles to the grand finale in Mission Bay!

150 Miles -- challeNge Yourself wiTh a ceNTurY! Bike MS offers one of the most challenging and scenic century rides in California. This is not for the faint of heart with over 6,000 feet of climbing! The route sweeps along the Southern California coast and into San Diego County’s beautiful back country, with a finishing stretch back along the coast. Century cyclists knock out 100 miles on Day One and finish the final 50 miles on Day Two.

The ParTY JusT goT BeTTer wiTh a New oVerNighT locaTioN! All participants will enjoy the Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa on Saturday with a delicious BBQ and beer garden, as well as relaxing at the massage tent, laying by the pool, and listening to live music!

PRESENTING SPONSORS

PLATINUM SPONSOR

est.1935

LEARN MORE AT BIkETOFINIShMS.cOM

Bike MS Bay to Bay Tour Sponsored by

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LIVING WITh MS

OuT AND ABOuT WITh MSDo you have some place to go? Are you having trouble getting there? Or are you no longer able to drive a car? We are here to help! The chapter can get you where you want to go! We have many useful programs that allow those who have special transportation needs to get to their destinations.

VOuchER PROGRAM Our transportation voucher program is specifically designed for individuals who do not drive a car, but can utilize the bus system. In order to qualify for these vouchers, you must become paratransit certified through the district in which you wish to travel. The process is very simple, but requires some effort on your part. After becoming certified, the vouchers are available from the chapter.

In San Diego County, get certified with MTS ACCESS and NCTD LIFT by completing an application with the certification contractor, ADA Ride. You can call (877) 232-7433, or go online to www.adaride.com. ADA Ride requests 21 days to process the application, after which verification of certification status will be mailed to the applicant.

In Orange County, OCTA has a formal certification process that follows ADA guidelines. To request an application, please call the ACCESS Eligibility Office at (714) 560-5956 or download the application from www.octa.net.

VAN PROGRAM The chapter has two modified vans that are available for use by clients. Generously donated, the vans are housed and managed by the Ability Centers of San Diego and Orange County and can be used for a nominal fee for medical appointments, family outings and social events. To reserve an MS van, call Anne Smyth at (760) 448-8427 or email her at [email protected].

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GOLF MS

DRIVER ASSESSMENT PROGRAMS If you are interested in making sure you are safe to drive, take a driver assessment! You can contact any of the agencies below located throughout the region:

St. Jude’s Center for Rehabilitation and Wellness 2767 E. Imperial Hwy, Brea, CA 92821 (714) 578-8720 www.stjudemedicalcenter.org/content/ about-our-rehab-program

Scripps Memorial Hospital Encinitas Rehabilitation Center 354 Santa Fe Drive, Encinitas, CA 92024 (760) 633-6507 www.scripps.org/encinitasrehab

Sharp Adapted Driving Program 2999 Health Center Drive, San Diego, CA 92123 (858) 939-3866 www.sharp.com/rehab/adapted-driving-program.cfm

DRIVER TRAINING PROGRAMS If you are interested in training for your modified vehicle, here are some local options:

A & R Driving School 12525 Knott Street, Garden Grove, CA 92841 (714) 799-9317 www.ardrivingschool.com

Newport Driving School 4340 Campus Drive, Suite 214, Newport Beach, CA 92660 (949) 975-8425 www.newportdrivingschool.com

Sharp Adapted Driving Program 2999 Health Center Drive, San Diego, CA 92123 (858) 939-3866 www.sharp.com/rehab/adapted-driving-program.cfm

No matter what the transportation need, we can help! We will find creative ways to get you where you want to go, and to help keep you MOVING! Please call us at (800) 344-4867 to discuss your specific situation.

17Th ANNuAL MS GOLF INVITATIONAL SPONSORED BY SYcuAN cASINO A huGE SuccESS!On May 2, the weather was perfect as 120 golfers took to La Jolla Country Club and raised over $150,000 toward a world free of MS. San Diego Chargers’ Head Coach and chapter board member, Norv Turner, chaired the event for the third consecutive year. Vicky Turner, Norv Turner’s mother, lived with MS for over 30 years before passing away in 1989. A single parent, she raised five children despite the physical limitations resulting from MS. Turner’s oldest sister Janis, who lives near Sacramento, also lives with MS.

MS Champion Tim Salmon spoke at the banquet that evening, sharing the challenges he’s encountered living with MS since 2003. An emotional Turner related Salmon’s plight to his mother’s and expressed gratitude for those in attendance. “I was touched listening to Tim. He reminds me of my mom. What she wanted is what Tim wants. He wants hope. He wants a chance,” Turner said. “Everyone who is diagnosed with this disease wants a chance to be cured. You helped and I appreciate it.”

To learn more about the MS Golf Invitational, visit golfMS.org.

Tim and Norv shake hands after Tim’s speech

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SuPPORTING ThE MISSION

ThOSE WhO cAN, DO. ThOSE WhO cAN DO MORE, VOLuNTEER.We need volunteers for our upcoming fall events. Come join the fun at Challenge Walk MS or Bike MS Bay to Bay Tour!

• Challenge Walk MS 2011 Participants journey 3 days and 50 miles down the gorgeous San Diego coastline on September 23-25. You can volunteer as little as a few hours or as many as all three days! Registration and volunteer job descriptions are available online at www.myMSchallenge.com.

• Bike MS Bay to Bay Tour 2011 We need over 1,000 volunteers to support the 2,500 cyclists as they ride 15, 30, 100 or 150 miles on October 22 & 23! We have many opportunities throughout Orange and San Diego county. For more information visit www.biketofinishMS.com.

Want to take your volunteering to the next level? We want motivated people who have (or want to gain) great leadership skills! You must be able to inspire people, but more importantly, we want you to have fun! Be a volunteer leader at the Challenge Walk MS or Bike MS. There are many opportunities that need a take-charge leader!

Schleping at an event just not your thing? Help out by being an office volunteer! Do you have a skill, talent, company relationship but you are not sure the chapter can use you? Call us! Whether you’re a professional who has some time on your hands or you’re a college student who wants to beef up your resume, we can use you!

For all volunteer inquiries, contact Linda Ingram, Director of Volunteer Resources, at [email protected] or (760) 448-8416.

INTERN WANTED FOR VOLuNTEER DEPARTMENTLooking for the perfect internship experience? Look no further! We need an enthusiastic intern who wants to gain first-hand knowledge of non-profit work at our San Diego office. You’ll learn how to recruit and organize volunteers for Challenge Walk MS and Bike MS and will play an integral part at each event. Hours between Monday and Friday are flexible. Email a cover letter and your resume to Linda Ingram.

Thank you to the 1,300 fantastic volunteers who supported Walk MS on April 9 in Irvine, April 30 in San Diego and May 1 in Carlsbad. They showed up with their enthusiasm and ready-to-work attitude and work they did! We couldn’t put on this event without their time, efforts & talents.

ThANkYOU

Volunteers enjoy fun in the sun at Challenge Walk MS

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MOVING TOWARD A WORLD FREE OF MS | PROgRAM HAPPENINgS

To register for any of the programs listed, as well as learn about additional programs available, visit calendar.MSpacific.org or call us at 1-800 344-4867 (1-800-FIGHT-MS) and press “1.”

REGISTERTODAY

MARkYOURcALENDARSPROFESSIONALY-LED SuPPORT GROuPS When MS Progresses: A 6-Week Support Group for People Experiencing Worsening MS Symptoms San Diego Every Monday July 11 - August 15 5:30 - 7:30pm

First Steps: An 8-Week Support Group for People who are Newly Diagnosed with MS San Diego Every Tuesday July 12 - August 30 5:30 - 7:00pm

TELECONFERENCE SERIES Working with MS: Protect Yourself and Plan Ahead Get support through the continuum of your work experiences while living with MS. From staying employed, to retraining and on to post-employment options, we will help you understand how to access vital resources to help you make the best choices at any stage of your workforce journey.

American Disability Act •and Disclosure Wednesday, July 13 12:00 - 1:00pm

Secrets to a Successful •Career Change Wednesday, July 20 6:00 - 7:00pm

Volunteering -- A •Win-Win: Putting Your Skills and Passion to Work Wednesday, August 3 6:00 - 7:30pm

Applying Through Your •Employer’s Long-Term DisabilityBenefitsWhenMS Progresses Wednesday, August 10 6:00 - 7:00pm

Facts About California’s •State Disability BenefitProgram Wednesday, August 17 6:00 - 7:00pm

Women’s Wellness Weekend This two-night retreat for women living with MS will focus on rediscovering your inner strength with topics that will include physical wellness, nutrition, caring for yourself, cognition, parenting, the unique issues of being a woman with MS, and self-defense. It’s also an opportunity for you to relax in a breathtaking setting, meet new friends and most of all, have fun! The cost is $250 per person for a single room and $150 per person to share a room. For more information, call Amy Keller at (760) 448-8403. Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa 5480 Grand Pacific Drive Carlsbad, CA 92008 September 16 - 18

Orange County Research Symposium Santa Ana July 16, 2011 8:30am - 12:30pm This educational symposium gives participants the chance to learn about the history of MS treatment, symptom management with a focus on heat and fatigue, and hear a local research update that is sure to be exciting!

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ORANGE cOuNTY

Anaheim 1st & 3rd Tuesday 12:30 - 2:30pm Rosa Ferreras 714-758-0829

Anaheim: En Español Familiares y amigos bienvenidos El segundo y cuarto martes de cada mes Anaheim Adventist Church 900 S. Sunkist St, 6 - 7:30pm Rosa Ferreras 714-758-0829 Susana Pérez 714-235-7570

Brea: Family & Friends Welcome 2nd Monday & 4th Friday 10am - 12pm Kathy Kelby 714-525-0686 Rob Lammers 714-990-2933

Brea As of May 7 1st Friday of the month 10am - 12pm Denise Kish 909-519-4410 Jim Langdon 714-392-2052

Costa Mesa: Man to Man 1st & 3rd Wednesday 1:30 - 3pm Frank Austin 714-925-4100 Mike Milne 949-215-8502

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

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

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

Irvine: Mature Group 2nd & 4th Wednesday 10am - 12pm Betty Brusco 949-481-0143 Jack Santos 949-786-9593

Irvine: Girl Talk 3rd Monday, 11am - 1:30pm Tabitha Evans 714-669-5618

Laguna Hills 1st Tuesday, 10am - 12pm Francince Grasso 949-278-6935 Karen Harlas 949-498-9583

Lake Forest: MS with Christ 3rd Monday, 6:30 - 8:30pm Bill Bisch 949-218-5020 Cathy Varela 949-496-3810

Midway City 1st & 3rd Tuesdays 10am - 12pm Pat Howard 714-968-0277 Linda Logan 714-374-0430

Mission Viejo: Early-Retired with MS 1st Wednesday 11am - 1:30pm Celine Miller 949-361-0878

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

Newport Beach 3rd Sunday, 2 - 4pm Harriet Pavidis 714-839-5529 Norma Mucia 714-641-9171

Newport Beach: Minimal Symptoms / Newly Diagnosed 2nd Tuesday, 11am - 1pm Sherri Brash 714-846-2064

SELF-hELP GROuPS

MOREINFOIf you would like more information about support groups in your area, then call 1-800-344-4867 press ‘1’ or contact a leader listed.

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SELF-hELP GROuPS

SAN DIEGO cOuNTY

Cardiff by the Sea: Women’s Group Future meetings put on hold For more information, please contact Jessica Goodrich 714-689-9602

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 619-248-0669 Bonnie Kuhn 619-749-8806

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

Escondido: Christian Group 3rd Friday, 1-3 pm Calvary Chapel of Escondido 1675 Seven Oakes Rd, Room 4 Dawn Vallely 760-390-1777

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

Poway Weingart Center 13094 Civic Centre Drive 1st Tuesday, 6:30pm Peggy Green 858-748-4009

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

San Diego (Clairemont/ La Jolla) Denny’s Restaurant 4280 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. 1st Thursday, 10am - 12pm Denise Kish 909-519-4410

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

San Diego (Mid-City) Kaiser Education Center San Diego 10990 San Diego Mission Rd 4th Monday, 2 - 4pm Stephanie Russell 619-224-6156

Spring Valley New Seasons Church 2300 Bancroft Drive 2nd Saturday, 12:30 - 2pm Kris Hodge 619-933-2601 Debbie Centeno 619-460-4123

PROFESSIONALLY-LED GROuPS

Support Group for People Experiencing Progressing MS Symptoms 2nd Tuesday (beginning May 10) 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 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 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

IN ORANGE & SAN DIEGO COUNTIES

10 | JOIN THE MOVEMENT: nationalMSsociety.org

AquATIcS

Chula Vista: Outdoor Loma Verde Pool 1420 Loma Lane Tuesdays & Thursdays 12 - 1pmKatie Freiert 714-689-9601

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

Vista: Indoor Bally’s Fitness Center 1932 Hacienda Drive Tuesdays & Thursdays 11:45am - 12:45pm

YOGA

Costa 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

IN YOuR NEIGhBORhOOD

La 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, 10:45 - 11:45am

BALANcE

STRENGTh TRAINING

San Diego: MS F.I.T.T Addie’s Personal Training Studio 4440 Ingraham St. Saturdays, 11:30am - 12pm $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: Outdoor Aquatics Peninsula Family YMCA 4390 Valeta Street Monday-Friday, 11am - 12pm $5 per session

San Marcos: Lebed Method Meadow Lark Community Church 1918 Redwing St. Diana Dean-Naú 760-809-9176 $5 per class

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FuNDING ThE MISSION

ThE quEST FOR A WORLD FREE OF MSSuzanne and Paul Schulman are role-model supporters of the Society. “We simply try to help in any way that we can,” said Suzanne, a career educator who has served on the chapter’s Board of Trustees since 1990; the year their daughter Jenna was diagnosed with MS.

Over the past two decades, Suzanne has volunteered for a variety of assignments through her board involvement. To name a few, she was chairperson of the annual auction for several years, a member of the Chapter Service Committee and a participant in their numerous activities, she’s currently an “MS Angel” with regular visits to a person living with MS, has personally visited neurology offices to distribute client service information for patients, and writes correspondence for the Golden Circle Campaign.

Suzanne and Paul have been regular Walk participants and supporters, even collecting and counting dollar bills donated at Walk sites in past years. Paul, a retired Radiologist, walked 50 miles in the three-day Southern California Challenge Walk MS event last year.

The Schulmans feel fortunate that their daughter Jenna has been able to live an active lifestyle over the years. Not long ago,

they decided to contribute their support to the Society for future generations. Suzanne and Paul became members of the Lawry Circle, named

after Sylvia Lawry, founder of the National MS Society in 1946.

The Lawry Circle is composed of people who have included the Society in their will, trust or estate plan with a deferred gift, which

“The quest for a world free of MS must continue,

even beyond our lifetimes.”

can include bequest intentions in a will, charitable gift annuities, charitable trusts or designating the Society as a beneficiary of a retirement account or life insurance policy.

The Lawry Circle requires no minimum gift levels, and membership is for life. If you’re interested in joining the Schulmans with an expression of lifetime commitment to the Society, contact Karen Barton with the Chapter at (760) 448-8412 or (619) 980-2037. According to Suzanne, “The quest for a world free of MS must continue, even beyond our lifetimes.”

Paul and Suzanne Schulman at the MS Dinner Auction

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WALk MS TOP FuNDRAISERS AND TEAMS ShINE!Thanks to our amazing individual top fundraisers and top teams! They were a huge part in helping us raise nearly $1.6 million. We’d like to give them a shout out and thank them for all their hard work!

The Elite Feet (our top 50 fundraisers out of over 12,000 people) went above and beyond this year, raising over $408,000! Great job!

FuNDING ThE MISSION

1. Dick & Lynn Gordon - $57,811 2. Samuel Brusco - $46,570 3. Dawn Beattie - $16,301 4. Betty Brusco - $14,180 5. Cindy Roper - $12,856 6. Philip & Arlene Bresnick - $12,805 7. Ann Pockros - $12,000 8. Natalie Eansor - $11,957 9. Suzanne Shepela - $11,730 10. Joe Perry - $10,379 11. Maggie Perez - $10,000 12. Bob Wailes - $9,455 13. Lizbeth Najm - $9,001 14. Carol Loewenstein - $7,230 15. Mary Smigliani - $6,991 16. Kathy Huyssoon - $6,516 17. Diane Ward - $6,435 18. Jim Hansen - $6,170 19. Natalie Tolar - $6,150 20. David & Helen Pierce - $5,960 21. Tricia & Jake Chandler - $5,815 22. Alan Grossberg - $5,740 23. Pam Fair - $5,605 24. Scott Sheehy - $5,531 25. Mary Ramsay - $5,500 26. Robert Verbarg - $5,325 27. Kathy Dagestino - $4,820 28. Lynda Misajon - $4,287 29. Joella McNally - $4,273 30. Liz Lee - $4,200 31. Julie Ann Skalko - $4,186 32. Donna Roberts - $4,110 33. Robert Batchelder - $4,100 34. Victoria Mastrocola - $4,000 34. Jeffrey Blattner - $4,000 34. Mark Fischer - $4,000 35. Steve Wimmers - $3,700 36. Teri McKinney - $3,680 37. Justin Reckers - $3,641

38. Melissa Jones - $3,527 39. Anne Odermatt - $3,395 40. Toshiye Estes - $3,305 41. Barbara Katz Maurais - $3,270 42. Shauna Woodward - $3,230 43. Andrew Evans - $3,205 44. Edward & Ruth Evans - $3,200 45. Karen Lafferty - $3,190 46. Bryan Misajon - $3,155 47. David & Linda Harding - $3,150 48. Mary Alice Dube - $3,110 49. Delara Ostowari - $3,092 50. Dina Giangregorio - $3,060

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FuNDING ThE MISSION

MISSION POSSIBLE AWARD LEVEL ($25,000+) Team Dick Gordon $66,221 65 team members Team Captain: Lynn Gordon

The top teams did well too! check out our Mission Possible and Diamond Award Level Winners!

Betty's Builders $61,625 27 team members Team Captain: Samuel Brusco

DIAMOND AWARD LEVEL ($10,000 - $24,999) Uncle Phil's Feat $23,697 36 team members Team Captains: Phil & Arlene Bresnick

Team Evans $22,625 30 team members Team Captain: Suzanne Shepela

Team Gordo $20,887 44 team members Team Captain: Teri Coakley

SDCCU Community Crew $20,178 218 team members Team Captain: Shaun Copans

Team Smig $18,891 7 team members Team Captain: Mary Smigliani

Aviara Angels $17,946 11 team members Team Captain: Dawn Beattie

SAMS $16,169 9 team members Team Captain: Sally Brown

American Flyers for MS $14,881 9 team members Team Captain: Cindy Roper

Bobby V and Friends $14,495 58 team members Team Captain: Lauren Verbarg

Team Hope $12,608 42 team members Team Captain: Tricia & Jake Chandler

Team Ann $12,325 15 team members Team Captain: Ann Pockros

Judy's Tribe $12,297 28 team members Team Captain: Lynda Misajon

Pacific Pain Medicine Pain Busters $11,687 76 team members Team Captain: Bob Wailes

Natasha's SuperStars $11,111 16 team members Team Captain: Lisa Tuthill-Schenck

PVH Cares $10,530 25 team members Team Captain: Joe Perry

We Believe Team $10,495 19 team members Team Captain: Miki Gorman

Big Jim's Jammers $10,470 14 team members Team Captain: Jim Hansen

Kathy's Team $10,406 6 team members Team Captain: Kathy Huyssoon

Bob's Buddies $10,130 16 team members Team Captain: Toshiye Estes

The Amblers $10,116 9 team members Team Captain: David & Helen Pierce

14 | JOIN THE MOVEMENT: nationalMSsociety.org

FuNDING ThE MISSION

TAkE ThE chALLENGE OF A LIFETIME!CELEBRATING ITS 10TH ANNIVERSARY, CHALLENGE WALK MS HAS SET THE BAR HIGH, DRIVING WALKERS TO RAISE $10 MILLION IN TEN YEARS.

“It is truly a life changing experience and will change you for the better. You don’t take things for granted when you appreciate what you have done for yourself and what others have done for you, walking, donating time and money, supporters of every kind. It is an awe inspiring feeling.” - Erin Barone

Erin at the 2010 event at mile #3

“I have participated all nine years so far because I got hooked on the incredible people who make this commitment to help themselves and their loved ones. It is like no other fundraising event and it is a very emotional experience.” - Chris Serocke

Chris at the Day 2 finish line with a teammate

Caren raises her top fundraiser mile marker!

“I began my Challenge Walk experience walking to honor my friend Kristi. Now I walk to honor her memory and end MS. My favorite thing about Challenge is the friendships I have made over the past 10 years. By the way, you really don’t have to walk ALL 50 miles!” - Caren Landrum

“My favorite thing about Challenge Walk is the new ‘family’ I have that grows every year. Challenge Walk will change your life! I promise.” - Jodi Pearce

Jodi with husband, Greg, who also volunteers as a crew member

SouthernCalifornia 2011

10th Anniversary

ThESE PARTIcIPANTS hAVE WALkED ALL 10 YEARS! hERE’S WhAT ThEY hAVE TO SAY!

Each year, 300 participants unite to walk 50 miles over 3 days to create a world free of MS. Challenge Walk MS, taking place September 23-25, is an all-inclusive weekend, where walkers enjoy hotel stays and banquet meals, all while experiencing one of the most inspirational weekends of their lives. Learn more at myMSchallenge.com.

TOLL FREE NUMBER 1 800 344 4867 | 15

LIVING WITh MS

GEARING uP TO cOOL DOWNDon’t let the heat of summer keep you from enjoying the fun! We have some valuable articles available that offer tips on how to beat the heat, as well as resources that can help you obtain necessary equipment to keep cool.

Many individuals with MS find that cooling garments can be a great help in keeping their body temperature down. We can also connect you to vendors that can help identify necessary cooling equipment such as fans and portable air conditioners. In some cases, financial assistance can also be provided to those incurring increased utility fees.

Please call (800) 344-4867 for more information on how to keep cool.

INcREDIBLE STuDENTS REcEIVE SOcIETY SchOLARShIP AWARDSProviding an opportunity for students to continue their education has been a priority of the Society and the Bob Webster Scholarship Fund for more years then we can count. This year, the chapter is thrilled to announce the award of $23,000 to 11 incredible students who excel in their academics as well as demonstrate tremendous character. Nationally, 811 applications were received with $741,450 awarded to 439 deserving students who have a parent with MS or have MS themselves.

One student shared, “Having a parent with MS is like living in an earthquake prone environment. You hope and pray every night that there will be no earthquake and the majority of the time your prayers are answered, but when an earthquake does come, it’s enormous and destroys your whole way of life.” This student didn’t let MS rule her life, or that of her brothers, even when her mother passed away in 2008. She continues to make education her priority and looks forward to being a physical therapist after college.

Another student’s philosophy, so wise already at age 17, states, “You always have a choice in

life, [with] each path, one gains something for the loss of another: help or ignore, challenge yourself or take the easy ways out, continue or give up. When true hardship develops, your options become more apparent and your choices have a bigger impact on the rest of your life.” He goes on to share that while be believes his mother’s disease has made him more reliable and patient, he has also learned to push himself to be his very best. After spending his formative years supporting his mother and working in the family business, he plans to become a marine biologist.

Congratulations to the following Bob Webster Scholarship recipients:

Alicia Friedman•

Robert Giangregorio•

Vanessa Green•

Jolene Guilana•

Jessica Hodges•

Stephan Horn•

Jennica Lindqvist•

Max Linsenbard•

Julianne Mendonca•

Justin Mojonnier•

David Wlischetz•

16 | JOIN THE MOVEMENT: nationalMSsociety.org

cALENDAR OF EVENTS

JuLY16 Research Symposium 23 Caregiver Education Day

AuGuST10 Social Security Disability Insurance Day13 Moving Forward: Newly Diagnosed Seminar

SEPTEMBER16-18 Women’s Wellness Weekend23-25 Challenge Walk MSTBD Living Well OcTOBER22 & 23 Bike MS Bay to Bay Tour

FOR MORE EVENTS, VISIT THE MARk yOUR CALENDARS SECTION ON PAgE 7

NON-PROFITORGANIZATION

U.S. POSTAGEPAID

San Diego, CAPermit # 451

Pacific South Coast Chapter

12121 Scripps Summit Drive, Suite 190San Diego, CA 92131