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SUMMER 2013 CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA CHAPTER MS CONNECTION NEWSLETTER INSIDE THIS ISSUE 04 LOVE, MARRIAGE AND MS 06 THIRTY-SIX YEARS OF MS 10 PARTNERS IN MS CARE 14 WALK MS 2013 - THANK YOU! For cyclists and all those seeking a personal challenge and a world free of MS, Bike MS is the premier fundraising cycling series in the nation. How will you be part of this rewarding event? Whether it be riding a bicycle or volunteering at the event, Bike MS: Mason-Dixon Challenge presented by Capital BlueCross is an experience you don’t want to miss. Registration forms included in this newsletter, see page 12 & 13. REGISTER NOW AT BIKEMSPAC.ORG

MS CoNNECTioN CENTRAL PENNSyLvANiA CHAPTER NEwSLETTER · MS CoNNECTioN CENTRAL PENNSyLvANiA CHAPTER NEwSLETTER iNSiDE THiS iSSUE 04 LovE, MARRiAGE AND MS 06 THiRTy-SiX yEARS oF MS

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Page 1: MS CoNNECTioN CENTRAL PENNSyLvANiA CHAPTER NEwSLETTER · MS CoNNECTioN CENTRAL PENNSyLvANiA CHAPTER NEwSLETTER iNSiDE THiS iSSUE 04 LovE, MARRiAGE AND MS 06 THiRTy-SiX yEARS oF MS

SUMMER 2013CENTRAL PENNSyLvANiA CHAPTER

MS CoNNECTioN NEwSLETTER

iNSiDE THiS iSSUE

04LovE,MARRiAGEAND MS

06THiRTy-SiX yEARS oF MS

10PARTNERS iN MS CARE

14wALK MS 2013 - THANK yoU!

For cyclists and all those seeking a personal challenge and a world free of MS, Bike MS is the premier fundraising cycling series in the nation. How will you be part of this rewarding event?  whether it be riding a bicycle or volunteering at the event, Bike MS: Mason-Dixon Challenge presented by Capital BlueCross is an experience you don’t want to miss. Registration forms included in this newsletter, see page 12 & 13.

REGiSTER Now AT BiKEMSPAC.oRG

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02 MS CoNNECTioN: SUMMER 2013

LETTER FRoM THE PRESiDENTIt is with a mixture of sadness and excite-ment and that I share with you my decision to leave my position with the National MS Society at the end of June to join the Jew-ish Federation of Greater Harrisburg as their new Chief Execu-tive Officer and Executive Director of the Jewish Community Center.

As I look back on my nearly 20 years with the National MS So-ciety, I know how fortunate I have been to have worked with our dedicated staff, Board of Trustees, volunteers and other col-leagues. I have witnessed inspiring courage shown by the many whose lives have been affected by MS, and I have witnessed re-markable generosity from our donors, volunteers, sponsors and participants! I am deeply grateful for my growth and the experi-ences that have come from working with a top-notch group of individuals.

In my heart I will forever be connected to this extraordinary com-munity.  I am proud of the growth we have had at our chapter, the difference we have made in so many lives and the caliber of our commitment. I am so thankful for the privilege of playing a role in this remarkable work.  

I am confident that the work will continue under the leadership of Debbie Garrison who will serve as Interim Chapter Manager. Debbie has been with the Chapter for 20 years this June and most recently has capably served as the Executive Vice President of Mission Advancement. Together with the staff and volunteers she is committed to keeping the momentum going and moving our mission forward.

I look forward to the day when we have a world free of multiple sclerosis and to celebrating with you at the finish line. n

All the best, Margie Adelmann

CoNNECT wiTH US oNLiNE: pac.nationalMSsociety.org Like us: facebook.com/ NMSSCentralPA

Follow us: twitter.com/ NMSSCentralPA

Watch us: youtube.com/user/ nmsscpa

NATioNAL MULTiPLE SCLERoSiS SoCiETyCentral Pennsylvania Chapter 2040 Linglestown Road, Suite 104 Harrisburg, PA 17110

P: 717-652-2108 or 1-800-227-2108 F: 717-652-2590

Chairman: Todd J. Shill, Esq.Chapter President: Margie AdelmannNewsletter Editor: Danielle Wertz© 2012 National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Central Pennsylvania ChapterWe serve over 6,300 people in 30 counties in Central Pennsylvania with offices in Harrisburg, Lancaster and Montoursville.Information provided by the Society is based upon professional advice, published experience and ex-pert opinion. Information provided in response to questions does not constitute therapeutic recom-mendations 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 men-tioned.

Studies show that early and ongoing treatment with an FDA-approved therapy can reduce future disease activity and improve quality of life for many people with multiple sclerosis. The National MS Society’s medical advisors recommend that people with MS talk with their health care professionals about using these medications and about effective strategies and treatments to manage symptoms. If you or someone you know has MS, please contact the National MS Society at nationalMSsociety.org or 1-800-FIGHT-MS (344-4867) to learn more.

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03NATioNALMSSoCiETy.oRG | 1-800-344-4867

ADvoCACy

GET iNvoLvED! GET ACTivE FoR MS!MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRJOHN PLATT, CHAIR,PA GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COMMITTEE

As I sit here, I reflect on the news of Annette Funi-cello’s passing. In Disney’s official statement on the matter there is one line that sticks a knife into my heart. She died peacefully from complications due to Mul-tiple Sclerosis... It takes my breath away to think this line may be as-sociated with my very mortality. Or that my daugh-ters will have to stare at these words wondering, “if only more had been done”. Advocacy in its real definition can be intimidating. Advocacy can be something that may not interest you. Advocacy may be something you never even considered. Advocacy to me can be broken down to its simplest. DOING. That’s all. Telling my MS story. Bringing light to costs and barriers to the very drugs that show hope for the MS community. Cre-ating awareness for MS research dollars in jeopardy of being cut from budgets. By sharing, bringing light to, and creating awareness we can stamp out the “if only more had been done” scenario. I write today knowing... Over 136 emails, and numerous calls, were made to PA State Senators urging them to co-sponsor Sena-tor Mensch’s resolution that would conduct a study on the impact of specialty tiering, co-insurance and co-pays on injectable medications in PA. As a result, there are 17 co-sponsors to this legislation. 20 Proclamations were secured by volunteers across the Keystone State recognizing MS Awareness Week

and the work of the National MS Society. Resolu-tions were also introduced in the PA Assembly and Senate. BUT more importantly, is this enough? I write to-day knowing... There are fundraising events such as Walk MS, Bike MS and Muckfest MS popping up all over the state, providing opportunities for communities to come together to raise funds for a cure. Well, advocacy is another opportunity. One of my favorite books, Hemingway’s ‘The Sun Also Rises’ ends like this: “Oh, Jake,” Brett said, “we could have had such a damned good time together.”“Yes,” I said. “Isn’t it pretty to think so?” Isn’t it pretty? Isn’t it pretty to think WE CAN do more to stop MS in its tracks! I never want to read of someone passing from complications of Multiple Sclerosis. I can do more, together we can do even do more, and won’t you join us? I plead to you, join me in pushing forward. What can you do today? We need stories from people living in the Central PA area who are strug-gling to pay their co-pays for their MS medications. You don’t need to write your story; we have volun-teers who will interview you. Please contact Karen Mariner at [email protected] or call 215-271-1500.Warm regards, John & KarenKaren A. Mariner, MSS, MSCIR Vice-President of Advocacy, PA & NJ National Multiple Sclerosis SocietyJohn PlattChair, PA-GRC National Multiple Sclerosis Society

Visit our website for advocacy in PA: www.msactivepa.wordpress.com

Follow us on Facebook in PA: www.facebook.com/MSPACAN

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04 MS CoNNECTioN: SUMMER 2013

I met my husband Tim about four years ago af-ter a friend had dared me to give online dating a try. I talked online with him for a bit, and then decided to meet him in person since we both wanted to get to know each other better. I thought I’d then tell him my usual spiel about multiple sclerosis just so he’d know what he was getting himself into.

“You know I have this thing,” I began. “It’s not a big deal, but sometimes I feel too fatigued to do anything. I take an injection, and oh, it’s called MS,” I finished in a hurry. I expected Tim to say something like, “Never mind about you — I want someone to go surfing with me, run mar-

athons and do adventure biking.” But I never thought in a million years he would smile and say, “Huh, small world. I have MS, too.”

I remember sitting in stunned silence that the same someone I was interested in was also some-one who understood what life was like with MS. Tim knew about the injections, the doc-tor’s appointments, the fatigue and everything else I experienced daily. I didn’t start dating him because he had MS; I dated him because he was everything I had been looking for. He was intel-ligent, confident, athletic, a record-setting col-lege runner and kind. After just a few months, we realized that we wanted to spend our lives together. When we said our wedding vows a year later, the phrase “in sickness and in health” had a deeper meaning because sickness could strike at any time due to the unpredictability of MS. And soon after we got married, it did.

Within the year, our son, Will, was born. I re-member wondering if I could handle the fatigue, the stress of childbirth and coping with a new little baby who could do nothing for himself. I was scared, but my husband said something to me that I’ll never forget. He said, “You’ll always have me at your side.”

NEwLy DiAGNoSED

LovE, MARRiAGEAND MSBY SUSANNA REDMER

(continued on page 5)SUSANNA AND TiM’S wEDDiNG

“yoU KNow i HAvE THiS THiNG ... iT’S NoT A BiG DEAL, BUT SoMETiMES i FEEL Too FATiGUED To Do ANyTHiNG. i TAKE AN iNJECTioN, AND oH, iT’S CALLED MS.”

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05NATioNALMSSoCiETy.oRG | 1-800-344-4867

After a few months, I saw that friends who had had children around the same time were start-ing to bounce back, training for half marathons and triathlons, and going back to work. On my side, I was having an MS relapse, on top of the strain of giving birth and being a new mom.

I felt isolated in my daily struggles. I worried that Will would miss out on things because I couldn’t do them, and I was upset that I had yet another relapse. Through it all I had my hus-band at my side, and still do. I also had a team of doctors who cared about me and helped me to recover.

Since my last relapse, there are some things I can’t do anymore, but I can look at my son and find joy through the way he experiences life. And I also came up with the idea of Café MoMS during my recent relapse. It’s a support group where mothers who have MS and who have children of any age can go to express their concerns, listen to new research and find sup-port in a nurturing environment with people who know what it’s like to walk in your shoes. Most of all, at Café MoMS, mothers find they’re not alone. n

Susanna Redmer is a freelance reporter and the author of the young adult historical fiction novel, The Time the Earth Shook.

Originally published in the Wisconsin Chapter’s Summer 2012 MS Connection Newsletter.

DoN ’T Go iT ALoNEIf you’re feeling isolated, reach out. Call an MS Navigator at 1-800-344-4867 to find a support group near you, or call MSFriends at 1-866-673-7436 to talk to a peer with MS. You can learn more about MSFriends and other ways to connect with others like you at www.nationalMSsociety.org/connec-tionprograms.

Moms with MS can join the “Moms with MS” group at www.MSConnection.org and find resources for families at www.nation-alMSsociety.org/FamilyMatters.

(continued from page 4)

THE REDMER FAMiLy

“i woRRiED THAT My SoN woULD MiSS oUT oN THiNGS BECAUSE i CoULDN’T Do THEM, AND i wAS UPSET THAT i HAD yET ANoTHER RELAPSE.”

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06 MS CoNNECTioN: SUMMER 2013

GAiL iSAACSoN wiTH HER CANiNE CoMPANioN MAGGiE

I have had multiple sclerosis for 36 years. I was diagnosed in 1976 when I was 26 years old. That means I have officially had MS longer than I have not had MS. Whew.

If you asked me who I was before the world came to an end, I’d probably say active, tal-ented, theatrical — the same words I’d use to describe myself now. You see, the world did not come to an end for me. Even though no one could assure me it wouldn’t.

The title “drama queen” was invented for me. My plan was to spend my life singing and danc-ing on a stage. I was so stagestruck almost any stage would do. I was working toward this goal when, one summer day in 1976, I had trouble balancing on my toes and I couldn’t make my fingers sign my name. Oh yes, and my head had a spacy feeling, as though air had been pumped into it. Had I morphed into an immense beach ball?

The following day I was back to normal. A few weeks later, I was an airhead again, but now I was a beach ball with a limp. Was I crazy? I con-sulted a shrink to try to make sense of the melee my life had become. But he thought my symp-toms were real and sent me to the man to whom I owe my ability to have lived a relatively normal life with MS — my neurologist, Dr. Neil Allen.

After a spinal tap (there were no MRIs back then), Dr. Allen diagnosed me with multiple sclerosis, words that, after 35 years as a profes-sional writer, I still cannot spell. In 1976 there were no MS support groups to welcome me to the club, no injectable wonder drugs, no cat-egories like relapsing-remitting or secondary-progressive.

Dr. Allen treated me with prednisone*. I loved it because it beat back the madman. I hated it because it made my face look like

LiviNG wiTH MS

THiRTy-SiXyEARS oF MSBY GAIL ISAACSON

(continued on page 7)

“i HAvE oFFiCiALLy HAD MS LoNGER THAN i HAvE NoT HAD MS.”

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Humpty Dumpty. And make no mistake; I have always been exceedingly vain. I came by this trait honestly from my beautiful mother, who had made it her life’s work to see her only child betrothed to a Jewish doctor or lawyer.

Now that MS was in the first line of my bio, what was my life like? I had bad days, when I resembled an extra from Monty Python’s “Min-istry of Silly Walks.” Other days, I was so dizzy I did a sloppy tango with walls and refrigerator doors. But then I had good days, days so good that it seemed like I didn’t have MS at all.

The best advice, and what has kept me going for 36 years, was given to me by Dr. Allen. “Get on with your life. Don’t let MS define who you are. MS is unpredictable and affects everyone differently, so you must learn to know your MS and be your own doctor.” This last statement was incredibly ahead of its time, and remains so today.

I took his advice and carried on. I hung up my tap shoes for good and focused on another tal-ent, writing. I procured a job at an advertising agency and moved downtown so I could walk, or sometimes limp, to work.

From my vantage point of 60 years, my life has not been very different from anyone else’s. I have continually tried to challenge myself, physically as well as mentally. It hasn’t always been easy, but MS has not ruined my life. I inject a disease-modifying drug three times a week, which has taken away many of the sur-prises. I still experience fatigue and a handful of other manageable demons, but through a strict dietary regime and endeavoring to write and exercise most days, mine is a fine life.

Oh and did I mention my wonderful husband of 17 years? Heart disease is part of his life, just as MS plays a role in mine. We hold hands on life’s roller coaster, take long walks with our baby, a yellow Labrador Retriever, and hold on to the wonder of it all, trying not to fall down. What more can anyone ask for? n

Gail Isaacson can be heard reading her essays on Chicago Public Radio, Iowa Public Ra-dio and Radio Harbor Country in southwest Michigan. Her essays have been featured in the Chicago Tribune and many literary magazines. Visit her website at www.gailisaacson.com.

* Editor’s Note: prednisone is often used to treat relapses in MS today.

(continued from page 6)

“i HAD BAD DAyS, wHEN i RESEMBLED AN EXTRA FRoM MoNTy PyTHoN’S ‘MiNiSTRy oF SiLLy wALKS.”

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08 MS CoNNECTioN: SUMMER 2013

An increasing number of medical centers across the United States are collaborating on research on how and why multiple sclerosis happens in young people. Their work is already yielding valuable information on early MS triggers.

A CoLLABoRATivE APPRoACHThe Network of Pediatric MS Centers was initi-ated in 2006 through a grant from the National MS Society. Thanks to its multidisciplinary ap-proach, researchers at participating institutions are gathering important data on the disease.

“We have been able to unravel key features, such as distinct characteristics of the disease on the MRI and in the spinal fluid of patients younger than 11,” says Emmanuelle Waubant, PhD, professor of Neurology and Pediatrics at the University of California – San Francisco (UCSF), which is currently running a large study aimed at unraveling the triggers of pediat-ric MS. [See box at right, “What triggers MS?]

Thus far, the network has learned that MRIs of patients under 11 show larger and more poorly defined MS scars compared to adults,

and that MS scars in young patients often go away within a few months, which is very rare in adults. They also observed that the spinal fluid of young patients can show more inflammation than in adults.

These findings have helped make the way for-ward clearer. “Now that these distinct features in younger patients have been identified, ac-curate diagnosis in children with MS is made easier, and early treatment can better prevent disability onset,” says Dr. Waubant.

To learn more about pediatric MS and research in the field, visit www.nationalMSsociety.org/pediatricMS.

Originally published in the Gateway Chapter’s MSConnection newsletter. n

wHAT TRiGGERS MS?The Network of Pediatric MS Centers is currently recruiting 640 children with re-lapsing-remitting MS or clinically isolated syndrome (a single episode of MS-like symp-toms) and 1,280 children without MS for a multiyear study to determine risk factors for developing MS. “We expect the study will provide precious pieces of information on risk factors for MS in general, and maybe help develop new treatments or preventative strategies,” says lead investigator Emmanu-elle Waubant, PhD. For more information about participating, and the 13 participat-ing locations, contact [email protected] or call (415) 514-2476.

RESEARCH

MAKiNGADvANCES iNPEDiATRiC MS

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CHAPTER NEwS

woRKiNG wiTH MS:THE LAw iS oNyoUR SiDEIf you are working, or considering a return to the workforce, it is important to know that you have certain legal protections in the workplace. While this is not an exhaustive list of all the le-gal protections that might be available to you, it does include several of the most common laws that people with MS should familiarize them-selves with in case they may need to be tapped into in the future.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has several sections that are designed to protect people with disabilities from discrimination in a variety of settings. Title I deals with employ-ment issues. The ADA applies to private-sector employers with 15 or more employees, state and local government employers, and the legislative branch of the federal government. The ADA is intended to allow employees equal access in the workplace and applies to job applicants, new employees, and employees who become im-paired while employed. The ADA was recently amended to clarify who is considered an “indi-vidual with a disability” and certain conditions were listed in the final regulations. MS was in-cluded in that list; therefore the assumption is that someone with MS is protected by the ADA. Key components of the ADA apply to disclosure and accommodations. Simply put, the ADA states that an employee with a disability has to be able to perform the essential function on the job with or without reasonable accommoda-

tions. If a person does not require accommoda-tions, there is no legal requirement to disclose. However, if accommodations are necessary, it’s the employee’s responsibility to disclose and ask for them. Employers can deny those accommo-dations if they determine they will cause an “un-due hardship” but that is decided on a case by case basis. Seeking and getting accommodations should be a dialog with management.

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) applies to employers with 50 or more employees. The employee needs to have been employed for one year and worked at least 1250 hours during that year. Under FMLA, the employee can request up to 12 weeks unpaid leave, during which time the employer still maintains benefits for that in-dividual. FMLA is job-protected leave without pay so upon release from a doctor, the employee is to return to their previous position or a similar position with equivalent pay and responsibility. FMLA is available for the employee with a med-ical condition, or for a family member caring for a loved one with a medical condition. FMLA does not have to be taken all at once but can be taken in increments. If you are on FMLA your job will be there for you when you return.

Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconcilia-tion Act (COBRA) provides for continuation of coverage for employees, their spouses and de-pendents.  The length of time a person can main-tain COBRA varies depending on the qualifying event that triggered their option to elect their COBRA rights. Typically, the initial time pe-riod is 18 months. To be eligible for COBRA, that employer must have 20 or more employ-ees and your employment ended, voluntarily or involuntarily, for reasons other than gross mis-conduct. Those insured through groups of fewer than 20 may have comparable rights under their state law. During COBRA, you are responsible (continued on page 10)

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MS CoNNECTioN: SUMMER 201310woRKiNG wiTH MS (continued from page 9) for the full cost of the coverage plus the health plan can add an additional 2% administrative fee.

Health Insurance Portability and Account-ability Act (HIPAA) is an extensive law that also provides protections regarding health insurance, as well as the use of personal health information.  One section of particular importance deals with exclusions for pre-existing conditions, although these will end by year 2014. Check with your employer, health plan, or other reliable source to make sure you are getting the most out of these consumer protections.  

State laws may also afford persons with MS pro-tections. These often cover employers not cov-

ered by Federal laws. Not all states have the laws discussed here so check with an attorney in the state where you work. More detailed informa-tion about these legal protections can be found at the following website: http://www.nation-almssociety.org/living-with-multiple-sclero-sis/employment/knowing-your-rights/index.aspx. Each law is enforced by a different agency so if you feel your rights in the workplace have been violated, it’s important to act quickly and get the help you need.

The National MS Society can provide assistance and support regarding your employment ques-tions. Call 1-800-344-4867 to speak with an MS Navigator. You can discuss disclosure is-sues, accommodation strategies, learn more about legal protections, and obtain referrals to other employment resources. Get educated, get informed, and get connected. n

CHAPTER NEwSPARTNERS iN MS CAREThe Central PA Chapter of the National MS Society is thrilled to announce our first Partners in MS Care. The Partners in MS Care program recognizes and supports quality MS care. The program involves health care professionals in the areas of neurology, mental health and reha-bilitation, as well as sites that provide multi-dis-ciplinary, comprehensive MS care. Health care professionals recognized as Partners in MS Care demonstrate knowledge and experience in MS care; have a special interest in treating people liv-ing with multiple sclerosis and work closely with the National MS Society.

A Partner in MS Care designated as a Center for Comprehensive MS Care has additionally shown the ability to offer a multi-disciplinary model of care to address the often complex needs of many people with MS. They offer access to a

full array of medical, psycho-social and rehabili-tation services delivered in a coordinated fashion where providers share common goals for patient outcomes. Look for upcoming announcements for more Partners in Care in mental health, al-lied health and neurological care in the very near future. n

Pictured is Carl Hoegerl, MD, from Geisinger Health Sys-tem, Danville; Robin Unangst, Director of Programs and Services, Central PA Chapter; Venkatachalam Mangesh-kumar, MD, Neurology and Stroke , Lititz; and Mar-gie Adelmann, Chapter President, Central PA Chapter. Missing from photo: Ravi Dukkipati, MD- Wellspan Neurology

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CHAPTER NEwS

CENTRAL PA iSPRoUD To ANNoUNCE oUR MS SCHoLARSHiPRECiPiENTS FoR 2013Along with the emotional toll, the financial toll that Multiple Sclerosis can have on a family can be devastating, which can make funding a col-lege education even more difficult. Each year, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society awards scholarships to high school seniors who are per-sonally, or have a parent affected by MS. It is also open to any person living with MS who has not yet had the privilege of attending a secondary school. Our Scholarship Program aids students in pursuing a higher education.

The Central Pennsylvania Chapter of the Na-tional Multiple Sclerosis Society is proud to an-nounce the scholarship recipients of 2013.

Sal Polit-Moran, a senior at Wyoming Area High School in Exeter, PA, will be attending Rochester Insti-tute of Technology in Roch-ester, New York. Sal plans to study Information Systems. His life goal is to become a network and system manager for a large company and assist in the technology department. Lisa Anderson is a person living with MS and graduated from Red Lion High School in 1986. Lisa will begin her secondary education at the Consolidated School of Business, in York, PA. She plans to complete her degree as a Medical Assistant and hopes to work in the neurological

field. Erika Silvi is currently a senior at North Pocono High School. Erika will be attend-ing Northampton Community College and will be studying Economics and plans to be a

corporate at-torney. Cody Seibert, a se-nior at Dover Area High School will begin his secondary school-ing at Shippensburg University. Cody plans to major in business. Juliana Carvajal has been living

with MS since she was a junior in high school. She will be at-tending Philadelphia Univer-sity in the fall of 2013. Juliana is a student at Ephrata High School and will be entering in the Pre-Med field and plans to be a pediatrician or neurologist someday.

On behalf of the Central Pennsylvania Chap-ter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Soci-ety, we say: CONGRATULATIONS and best wishes in your future endeavors! n

UPCoMiNG EDUCATioNAL, wELLNESS/EXERCiSE AND SoCiAL PRoGRAMSWe have a variety of family socials, educational programs as well as physical health that will ap-peal to all audiences. Please visit our web site for a complete listing of all programs that are offered through our chapter as well as other programs offered by other organizations that might be of interest to you. Visit our website at pac.nation-alMSsociety.org to find upcoming education, wellness/exercise and social programs offered in your area.

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MS CoNNECTioN: SUMMER 201312

A copy of the official registration and financial information of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Central Pennsylvania Chapter, may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling, toll free within Pennsylvania, 1-800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.

Name:_____________________________________________ Date of Birth: _______/________/________ Sex (circle): M F

Address:______________________________________ City:_____________________________ State:_______ Zip:__________

Address Type? (PLEASE CIRCLE ONE) Home / Business / Seasonal or Temporary This will be my __________year riding

Email Address:____________________________________________________________________________________________

Phone: (home) (_______) _________________________________ (work/cell) (_______) _______________________________

Shirt Size (Circle One): S M L XL XXL ___ I will be riding as an individual ___ I will be riding on a team Team Name: __________________________________________ Team Captain: __________________________________

Register online at: bikeMSpac.org

Mail Registration Form to: National MS Society

Central Pennsylvania Chapter 2040 Linglestown Rd., Suite 104

Harrisburg, PA 17110

Fax Registration form to: 717-652-2590

Or call us at:

717-652-2108

WAIVER AND RELEASE FROM LIABILITY With respect to the bike MS event to be held on July 13, 2013 with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (“NMSS”), Central PA chapter, for consideration of participation, I freely accept and voluntarily assume the risks of personal injury or property damage that may result from this potentially hazardous activi-ty. I further agree to waive and release from all claims and liabilities of any kind arising out of my participation and agree to hold harmless the National MS Society, corporate sponsors, cooperating organizations and all parties connected with this event from any liability as a result of my participation. I will per-mit emergency treatment in the event of injury or illness while participating and give permission to use my image and photo taken during the event in any promotional material, publication, or on the website. I do agree and accept full responsibility to obey the traffic and rules of safety for the event and under-stand that the National Multiple Sclerosis Society withholds the right to dismiss anyone that may cause disturbance during this event or disregard the rules with respect to safety.

I certify that I have read and understand the intent of this waiver and release.

Participant Name: ________________________________ Participant Signature: _________________________________ Date: ___________

Participants ages12-17 will receive an additional waiver that MUST be returned to the NMSS signed by a Parent or Legal Guardian and notarized by Notary Public in order to participate in bike MS. No Child under the age of 12 will be permitted to ride in bike MS.

Credit Card: Visa MasterCard Discover AMEX Expiration Date: _______________ Card #: ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ V code:________________ Signature: ________________________________________________________________________________________________

- - - - - - - - - - FEES & PLEDGES - - - - - - - - - -

Rider Registration Fee Minimum Pledge for Riding

Friday Night Dorm Room (double*)

Friday Night Dorm Room (single*)

Additional Pledges

Total Payment

$25

$150 (due by July 13, 2013)

$40

$50

$

$

*Dorm space is limited and will be offered on a first come first serve basis. All rooms will include 1 pillow, 2 sheets, 1 blanket and 2 towels. If you are staying in a double room, please provide your roommate choice: ________________________________________

- - - - - - - - - - PAYMENT OPTIONS - - - - - - - - - -

Bike MS: Mason-Dixon Challenge presented by Capital BlueCross>>>Gettysburg, PA>>>July 13, 2013

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NATioNALMSSoCiETy.oRG | 1-800-344-4867 13

- - - - - - - - - - Volunteer positions- -- - - - - - - -

Name:_____________________________________________ Date of Birth: _______/________/________ Sex (circle): M F

Address:______________________________________ City:_____________________________ State:_______ Zip:_____________

Address Type? (PLEASE CIRCLE ONE) Home / Business / Seasonal or Temporary Shirt Size (Circle One): S M L XL XXL Email Address:______________________________________________________________________________________________

Phone: (home) (_______) ____________________________________ (work/cell) (_______) ______________________________

I would like to be recognized as a team member of: ___________________________ Team Captain:___________________________

Register online at: www.bikeMSpac.org

Mail Registration Form to: National MS Society

Central Pennsylvania Chapter 2040 Linglestown Road, Suite 104

Harrisburg, PA 17110

Fax Registration form to: 717-652-2590

Or call us at:

717-652-2108

A copy of the official registration and financial information of the National MS Society, Central Pennsylvania Chapter, may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling, toll-free 1-800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.

I understand and have agreed to participate in the bike MS as a volunteer and have read and understand my responsibilities to be performed. I hereby consent to and permit emergency treatment in the event of injury or illness while participating in the event. I also hereby give permission to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and the Central PA Chapter to use my name and any photograph, likeness or image taken of me during the event in any promotional materials, publication or via the website. It is my further understanding that NMSS reserves the right to refuse or dismiss anyone that may cause any disturbance or hindrance in any manner that could jeopardize the safety of oneself or others. It will be my sole responsibility to obtain the necessary mode of transportation to perform these responsibilities. If for whatever reason I am unable to perform as agreed, I will advise the Central PA chapter, event coordinator immediately. Name: _________________________________Signature: _____________________________________________Date:_________ Parent/Legal Guardian Name:_______________________________ Signature: ________________________________Date:______ (Signature of parent/legal guardian is required if volunteer is under the age of 18)

Bike MS: Mason-Dixon Challenge presented by Capital BlueCross >>> July 13, 2013 >>> Gettysburg, PA

- - - - - - - - - - Volunteer information- - - - - - - - - -

- - - - - - - - - - Volunteer consent form- - - - - - - - - -

Pre-Event

∑ Planning Committee

∑ Promotional Team

∑ Route Marking (week prior to event)

∑ Route Design

Friday, July 12

∑ Set-up (3pm-5pm)

∑ Registration

∑ As needed

Saturday, July 13

∑ Communications/Ham Radio Operator

(6am-4pm)

∑ Set-Up

∑ Finish Line (9am-4pm)

∑ Lunch (9:30am-4pm)

∑ Registration (5:30am-10am)

∑ SAG Driver (6am-4pm)

∑ Traffic Control (6am-4pm)

∑ Massage Therapy

∑ EMS (Emergency Medical Services)

∑ Rest Stop

∑ Safety Marshall

∑ As needed

(Times subject to change)

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014 MS CoNNECTioN: SUMMER 201314

Over 4,500 participants and volunteers came together at our 10 walk sites across the Central PA Chapter this year. The steps you took at walk MS will make a huge impact on those living with MS. Our goal is to raise more than $800,000 and we are confident that with friends like YOU, this goal WILL be reached! Your support enables us to provide programs and fund research for those who live with multiple sclerosis every day of their lives. We are so very fortunate to have so many individuals joining us in the movement to create a world free of MS. On behalf of the 6,300 people living with MS in Central Pennsylvania, THANK YOU!

Didn’t make it out to the walk? Still have do-nations to turn in? There is still time to turn in your donations! All donations should be sent to:

National MS Society, Central PA Chapter2040 Linglestown Road, Suite 104Harrisburg, PA 17110  Be sure to include a note with your name and walk site listed on it, so that the donations are properly credited.

Double . . . or TRIPLE . . . your donation!Many companies have a Matching Gift and Vol-unteer Incentive Programs and will match their employee’s donations to non-profits, thereby in-creasing your donation to walk MS. Visit www.nationalMSsociety.org/employermatch to see if your company is on the list! We are happy to

complete the forms and submit them for you to help double your gift!

Tell us what you thought!Your feedback is important to us! If you partici-pated in the walk, please take a few moments to fill out our walk MS evaluation. A link to the evaluation can be found on our walk homepage at www.walkMSpac.org. If you are unable to fill out the evaluation online, give us a call – we’d be happy to mail you a copy! Your comments and suggestions will help us plan for 2014! n

SPECiAL EvENTS

THANK yoU To THoSE wHo PARTiCiPATED iNwALK MS 2013 PRESENTED By GiANT FooD SToRES!

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015NATioNALMSSoCiETy.oRG | 1-800-344-4867 15MEMoRiALS & TRiBUTESMEMORIALSKay E. MohlerRonald & Judith McClain

Betty Ann Ross PetersonVictor Engel

Frances D. MorganJean M. Brumbaugh

Joseph J. WarmusClement & Mary Ann Szczecinski

Betty Lou OvermeyerEdward & Lucille Keller; Anna Kiscaden; Roy & Mary Latshaw; Stephanie Schen-kinar; Diane Dunn; Deb Metzgar; Carol Gerhart; Co-workers of Fran Hohen-warter

Chester J. BielovitzNancy Delivorias; Janet & Jeremy Bielo-vitz

Judith Stewart HulseRobert Ramsay; Stephanie Percival; L. Riegel Haas; John Hulse; Darlis Diodato; Hugh Roberts & Sarah Hulse Roberts; Joanne & Lee Campbell; Suzanne Riccio; Joseph & Karen Sadowski;

Stella SteslowNorman & Kathleen Rodowicz

Andrea R. GoodmanSheila & William Dodge

Norma M. TroxellDiane Graff; Florence Solt; Karen George; Richard & Virginia Wetzel; Douglas & Donna Arnwine; Lillie & Roger George

Frank H. Plastino Jr.John Zook; Pyfer, Straub, Gray & Farhat, P.C. Partners; Jeffrey & Julie Primaldi

Eugene Howe

N.D. Yingling; Thomas & Shirley Wertz; Lester & Jean Condon; Donald McAu-liffe, Jr.; Leonard Kuhn Jr. & Pamela Kuhn; M.H. Rupel & J.D. Rupel Jr.,; Barbara & Thomas Yingling; Mark Snyder; Friends at Summit Physician Services; Crissty Johns; Wendy Vaughn; Rhonda Veirtz; Kathy McKula; Tina George; Penny Harmon; Tami McDan-nell; Jill Flaugher; Sheila Jamison; Teresa Lane; Sue Paulson; Carol Flory; Patti Stouffer; Cathy Williams; Carol Crow; Mary Mowery, Misty Mowery; Jennifer Rogers; Tara Perry; Terri Shoop; Debby Grimm; Alma Stanford; William & Jane Murphy

Merry C. QuerryDavid Forbes; Rose Rineer; Donald & Patsy Miller

Mary E. MullallyEleanore Huddy

Cathy Lee GrimsleyKirby & Diane Kiefer

Reuben “Spikes” StroupFrye’s Interiors; Farnsworth Camping Center, Inc.; Jay & Cynthia Russell; Dai-sy Gressler; Jeffrey & Bethany Edmunds; David & Nancy Tressler

Frank Williams Sr.Greater Beneficial Union District 45

Jack DavisMarjorie, Elliot & Alyssa Ecker

Eli CrossRobert Geneczko; Robert Krehley; Louis & Denise Cremard; Jeanette Blossi; Charles & Gretchen Watters; John & Cheryl Woloski; Patrick & Donna Marie Shirdon; William & Maria Fender; Mi-chael & Jill Gagliardi; Vince & Mari-anne Lurasky; Adam Turasky; Theodore Sod; Burke Pearson; Economy League of Greater Philadelphia; Pennsylvania

Economy League; Patricia Swandick; Gerald Yanoshak; Marianne Snipes; Wyo-ming Valley Sanitary Authority; Douglas & Amy Hill; Martin & Karen McBride; Arthur & Paula Jump Edward BurattiJoseph & Barbara Halesey; The Sunshine Club – Kingston Surgery Center; Edward & Patricia Buratti

Veronica M. WinslowMarjorie, Elliot & Alyssa Ecker

Donna RineerDaryl & Jane Girton

Sigrid Schwarz SproulNaomi Wirth; Dorcas Beck

Gail D. WalkerAmy & Anthony Hepp

Larry GettleBernard & Linda Banks; E. Kathleen Hoover; Donald & Nancy Line

Diane L. ApicellaJeffrey & Christina Kearns; Gina Wil-liams; John Vice; Mark & Cynthia Kutek; William & Eleanor Resser; Kearns & Ashby D.D.S., P.C.; Jay & Patricia Schaffer; Hilton-Diminick Orthodontic Associates, P.D.

Margaret (Peggy) GruverMr. & Mrs. Barry Gruver; Mr. & Mrs. Marshall Gruver; Fritz & Joann (Gruver) Daube; Mr. & Mrs. Scoop Gruver; Barry & Sally (Gruver) Griffith

William J. Taafe Jr.Aimee Delach

IN HONORKeith & Rhonda Jagdhuber – best wishes on your recent marriage. Marlene Meyer

Carol M. GarmanSarah E. Garman

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NON-PROFITORGANIZATION

U.S. POSTAGEPAID

Harrisburg, PAPermit #467

Central Pennsylvania Chapter2040 Linglestown RoadSuite 104Harrisburg, PA 17110

Join the movement to end MS at the eighth annual George F. Hempt Memorial MS Polo Match on Saturday August 10th.  Pack your favorite “tailgate” food and beverages, gather your friends and family, and enjoy the “Sport of Kings” to benefit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.  The match will be held at the Hempt Farm Polo field, along the Carlisle Pike, in Mechanicsburg.  Gates open at Noon for tailgating, and the cost of admission is $30 per car.  Bring your Jack Russell Terrier to enter the Terrier Races at 1 pm and cheer on your furry companion to the finish line.  Children can enjoy special activi-ties from Noon to 2 pm sponsored by Chick-fil-A, and the Polo Match will begin at 2 pm.  All are welcome to participate in the traditional stomping of the divots at halftime as well as a raffle. Don’t miss the exceptional sight of this unique game and its skilled players. Not only will you learn about the game of Polo, you will experience an unforgettable day. This is a fun-filled event for all ages! 

For additional information, call the Central Pennsylvania Chapter of the National MS Society at 1-800-227-2108 or visit pac.nationalMSsociety.org n

8TH ANNUAL GEoRGE F. HEMPT MEMoRiAL MS PoLo MATCH