• Categories
    • Advocacy
    • Community
    • Education
    • Giving
    • Living Well
    • Research
  • Dr. Karen Lee (Research)
    • Research (2017 and older)
  • Donate
  • Français

Blog – MS Society of Canada

Blog – MS Society of Canada

  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Instagram
Blog – MS Society of Canada
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Instagram

Blog – MS Society of Canada

  • Categories
    • Advocacy
    • Community
    • Education
    • Giving
    • Living Well
    • Research
  • Dr. Karen Lee (Research)
    • Research (2017 and older)
  • Donate
  • Français
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Instagram
Info

About MS

  • MS Information
  • Research
  • Get Involved
  • Support & Services

Canada has one of the highest rates of multiple sclerosis (MS) in the world, with an estimated 77,000 Canadians living with the disease. While it is most often diagnosed in young adults aged 20 to 49, younger children and older adults are also diagnosed with the disease. Learn more…

Instagram

  • "My MS diagnosis motivated me to explore my passion for rock climbing. Through this, I created an #IChallengeMS event that promotes hope and allows people with MS to participate in a healthy, active lifestyle." ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Growing up, Anthony played competitive football. After being diagnosed with MS in 2018, his lack of coordination prevented him from playing with the same performance impact. He decided to adapt to a sport he could enjoy while respecting his physical capabilities. After finding his love for rock climbing, Anthony started his own fundraising event to encourage others to follow his healthy outlook. Today, the physically active 20-year-old studies biology at Laval University, while encouraging others to get involved with his “MS Climb-a-Thon” in Lanaudiere, Quebec. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ "It's easy to feel sorry for yourself, but I prefer to focus on what I can do, rather than what I can't do. Overall, I'm the same person I was before I received my diagnosis. I want to deliver hope to others with MS and change their perception of living with the associated symptoms." ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Like Anthony, be inspired by your passion and create your own fundraising event. Get active, celebrate, throw a party or be creative and come up with your own #IChallengeMS. Whatever you decide, know that your act of greatness will help change lives. Learn more: https://bit.ly/2ICMv8k
  • There is an urgent need for life-changing solutions for those affected by progressive MS. The International Progressive MS Alliance is doing its part in answering that need. On January 23rd, the Progressive MS Alliance will be hosting a Facebook Live to share the latest information on symptom management and rehabilitation research in progressive MS. Featuring Jonathan Strum, a member of the Alliance Scientific Steering Committee, and a caregiver for his wife who lives with progressive MS, the event will discuss the state of progressive MS research and treatment in fatigue, mobility, pain management, and cognition. Tune in to “Symptom Management and Well-Being in Progressive MS” to learn what you can do to positively impact your health while living with MS. Register now: www.msif.org/progressivemsalliance-facebooklive/
  • “It's infusion day! Once every six months, I come to the beautiful Arva Clinic for my IV infusion. I arrive in the morning and take some pre-meds to avoid an allergic reaction. Next, I get hooked up to an IV that pumps through steroids before my actual medicine. Once my IV is in, whoever was lucky enough to drive me to the clinic gets to run to Starbucks for me! My IV stays in for 4.5 - 5 hours, during which time I watch lots of cheesy Netflix movies, eat snacks, and have some lunch. Not too bad eh? To me, this beats trying to remember to take pills, or injecting a needle three times a week. I've also been super lucky that my body works well with this treatment and I haven't had a bad reaction to it! Fingers crossed that it keeps going well! Now you knew where I was going with this, right? This is one of the many reasons that I fundraise for the MS Society. MS treatments, such as IV infusions, wouldn't exist without funding for research. Thank you to everyone who donates to the MS Society, and participates in MS Walk, Bike, or any of the other amazing fundraising events out there. Let's keep working together to find a cure for MS!” ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ - Lindsey, diagnosed in 2018 ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ** The MS Society respects people’s personal autonomy when making decisions about their health, and we are here to provide as much information and support as possible. People are encouraged to maintain open and ongoing discussions with their MS healthcare team when exploring disease management options.
  • "As a Doctor of Pharmacy student, I was very disappointed to find out that MS is not a part of our curriculum. After attending the #MSCanBe Youth Summit, I was inspired by the amazing stories, wonderful workshops, and new friendships I developed. I wanted to organize my own event at school for my peers to learn more about MS. Amanda Piron graciously agreed to be the keynote speaker and share her story of living with MS. As well, one of the professors at my school agreed to organize a clinical lecture on the therapeutics and pathophysiology of MS. I was surprised to learn that his mother also had MS, and that he wanted to share her story too. One of the school clubs heard I was organizing an MS event and they even offered to pay for and provide dinner for the students attending! Thanks to the #MSCanBe Youth Summit, I was able to organize an educational event for my peers to learn more about MS! In total, 40 pharmacy students attended the MS Information Night. It was a successful night of sharing stories and learning, and I’m extremely grateful that the #MSCanBe led me here.” - Kelsey-Ann, mother lives with MS
  • It’s our priority to ensure that no one faces MS alone. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Whether you’re a family member, a volunteer, a researcher, a caregiver, or a member of any of these groups, our journey towards a future free of MS is fueled by the collective action of our MS community. Through our new strategic plan, we hope to connect our community and foster an environment that supports those at the centre of our work: people impacted by MS. What’s your role in the MS community? Share your connection to MS with the rest of our community by dropping a comment below. Together, we are working towards a world free of MS. To learn more about our strategic plan, please visit: mssociety.ca/about-us/strategic-plan
  • 👇 It’s time to set those New Year’s resolutions! What will your act of greatness be in 2020? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “My act of greatness is learning to ask for help. I have always been fiercely independent, but when I couldn’t walk and needed help, I had to swallow my pride, check my ego, and reach out to others. That took more effort than any physical barrier I have faced.” ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ - Karah, diagnosed in 2011. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 👇 Share your acts of greatness below for a chance to be featured on our channels and join our movement at actsofgreatness.ca. Together, through actions big and small, we can change the future of MS.
  • "This year, I will run a marathon." ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ "This year, I will host a dinner party." ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “This year, I will learn how to skydive.” ⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ This year, why not turn your New Year’s resolution into an #IChallengeMS and help shape the future for those living with MS? With I Challenge, you can get inventive with your own fundraising! Whether it’s taking on a fitness challenge, hosting a gala, throwing a bake sale, or coming up with your own creative idea, the proceeds will help improve the quality of life for Canadians living with MS. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Last year, Nick created the event “Freefall for MS,” where he experienced the adrenaline rush of jumping out of a plane to raise awareness for MS. He used his living-on-the-edge lifestyle to create an initiative that supported Canadians affected by the chronic disease. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ This year, change the world for those living with MS by signing up for your own I Challenge today: https://bit.ly/2ExnjvT.
  • Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow… As the year comes to an end, the MS Society would like to wish you a joyous holiday season filled with happiness and health. A tremendous thank you to our wonderful MS community for helping make a positive difference in the lives of those living with and affected by MS. Your ongoing support and commitment to the organization does not go unnoticed. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Our offices will be closed for the holidays on December 24 and will re-open on January 2. The Knowledge Network service will be shut down during the office closure. In the meantime, you can find reliable information and support about MS on our website at mssociety.ca, or email msnavigators@mssociety.ca and they will respond to you on January 2. Just a reminder that if you donate to the MS Society before December 31, your gift can be matched (up to $50,000), meaning that your #ActsofGreatness can make double the impact in the fight against MS. To donate, visit: https://bit.ly/2szF5vG We look forward to seeing you all in 2020!
  • As we set sail on the new chapter in our journey, our mission is to connect and empower the MS community to create positive change. Change that brings us closer to a world free of MS. With the launch of the MS Society’s new strategic plan, our impact goals focus on advancing treatment and care, enhancing the well-being of those living with MS, halting disease progression, and preventing MS. Help us spread our mission by sharing this post. Read our strategic plan here: mssociety.ca/about-us/strategic-plan
  • “It was 1952 when I fell in love with Shirley. I took her to her first formal event and we spent the entire evening dancing the night away. Thirteen years later, she became my wife. After our first child was born, Shirley began experiencing mobility and bladder issues. I recall taking her to the doctor, but they couldn’t provide a proper diagnosis due to the lack of existing equipment. We left feeling disheartened, powerless, and completely in the dark. Two and a half decades went by, and Shirley’s symptoms progressed. By this point, she could no longer stand or walk. Her MS had snuck up like a thief in the night, and suddenly, I couldn’t take her dancing anymore. I felt helpless. Frantically trying to support her, I became involved with the MS Society’s initiatives including flag raising for MS Awareness Month, supplying prizes for MS fundraisers, and acquiring pledges for donations. But in 2013, tragedy struck, turning my world upside down. My dear Shirley passed away, and it felt like someone tore my heart in two. Time passed, but my mourning felt eternal. Through my heartbreak, I continued to stay involved with the MS Society. In memory of my wife, I wanted to continue to do everything I could to help others living with the disease and ensure no one had to go through what she did. To this day, I still support the cause and participate in their fundraising events. I may have lost my inspiration, but I kept my determination. Every spring, I give each Cape Breton University nursing graduate a gold MS pin. I explain the history of the pin and the importance of MS awareness, and ask them to wear it in memory of my wife, who was also a nurse. The nurses relocate across the world for work, spreading awareness of the disease universally. To me, it would mean the world to hear that MS is no more. I hope that I live long enough to see that as it is my ultimate goal.” - Carl, MS Society volunteer ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Carl took his loss and turned it into hope. This #GivingTuesday, join Carl and help those living with MS by giving back. Perform an act of greatness by donating today at www.actsogreatness.ca. Together, through actions big and small, we can change the future.
  • “I can stand for 15 minutes before I need to sit down. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ I can walk one block before I need to rest. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ My MS becomes debilitating about once a week.” ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ For Christine Rutherford, who was diagnosed with MS in 1999, her physical ailments have shown no mercy. But for the sincere and candid woman living with the chronic disease, managing her mental health has been the most strenuous part of her journey. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ "I was lost. Trapped inside my own body. Unable to express how I was feeling. Suddenly, I always had to have someone with me. I remember sitting in a dark room with no TV or music on, my 58-year old mother holding my hand. I couldn’t even speak. Doctors kept giving me different medication, anti-depressants, anxiety medication – I felt so helpless that I kept taking what they gave me. I just wanted to get out of it." ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Since then, Christine has realized that taking care of her mental health is a full-time job. She’s now restructured her life in ways that keep her mentally and physically healthy. She’s also paying it forward by leading two support groups and helping others deal with their healing and mental health. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Sometimes, it's those who have been through the most adversity that come out stronger on the other end. For #GivingTuesday, perform an act of greatness by donating to support those living with or affected by MS like Christine. Together, through actions big and small, we can change the future: www.actsofgreatness.ca. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ To learn more about Christine’s story, visit: https://blog.mssociety.ca/2019/12/my-ms-journey-beyond-the-lesson-plan/
  • When you’re diagnosed with MS in 1988, you don’t have many options. That was the case with Bob, who learned he had progressive MS 31 years ago. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ "The experience was rather worrisome,” explains Bob. “We didn’t have access to a computer or Google. The only information I had on MS was my wife’s old nursing book which had a paragraph or two in it about the disease.” ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ With no information available to him, Bob’s symptoms gradually went downhill, and his mobility declined. “After I got my scooter and wheelchair, I suddenly realized that I couldn’t go anywhere. Everyone I knew had a house that I couldn’t get into. I couldn’t visit people like I used to. I couldn’t even go to my son’s house for dinner. The lack of accessibility changed my life and shifted my relationships.” ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Despite all the adversity, Bob kept going. After his diagnosis, he continued to work as a mechanic until the work became too difficult. He then went back to school to learn computer programming, which he did for 10 years before he went on long-term disability. It was then that he decided to start volunteering with the MS Society, devoting decades to sitting on committees, attending support groups, and joining the Alberta Division council. “A lot of people look at MS and see all the things they lost, but I look at it in all the ways that I have changed. I’ve learned so much since I was diagnosed, so it hasn’t all been negative.” ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Like Bob, Canadians everywhere are performing Acts of Greatness in the fight against MS. Help fund acts of greatness for those living with or affected by this debilitating disease. Together, through actions big and small, we can change the future. Join the movement at actsofgreatness.ca. Learn more about Bob’s story at https://bit.ly/34ApdXT

Follow Us

Faces Behind the Science: Prenitha Mercy Ignatius Arokia Doss

by Palvasha Shoaib
March 13, 2019
Comments0
Categories Dr. Karen Lee (Research) Education

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

*

Post navigation

Previous Post Behind the research: meet the CanProCo teamPrevious Post
Next Post ACTRIMS Forum 2019 and its focus on precision Medicine in MSNext Post

STAY IN TOUCH

Subscribe to our mailing list and stay in touch by getting email updates.

We respect your privacy and take protecting it seriously.

Instagram

  • "My MS diagnosis motivated me to explore my passion for rock climbing. Through this, I created an #IChallengeMS event that promotes hope and allows people with MS to participate in a healthy, active lifestyle." ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Growing up, Anthony played competitive football. After being diagnosed with MS in 2018, his lack of coordination prevented him from playing with the same performance impact. He decided to adapt to a sport he could enjoy while respecting his physical capabilities. After finding his love for rock climbing, Anthony started his own fundraising event to encourage others to follow his healthy outlook. Today, the physically active 20-year-old studies biology at Laval University, while encouraging others to get involved with his “MS Climb-a-Thon” in Lanaudiere, Quebec. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ "It's easy to feel sorry for yourself, but I prefer to focus on what I can do, rather than what I can't do. Overall, I'm the same person I was before I received my diagnosis. I want to deliver hope to others with MS and change their perception of living with the associated symptoms." ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Like Anthony, be inspired by your passion and create your own fundraising event. Get active, celebrate, throw a party or be creative and come up with your own #IChallengeMS. Whatever you decide, know that your act of greatness will help change lives. Learn more: https://bit.ly/2ICMv8k
  • There is an urgent need for life-changing solutions for those affected by progressive MS. The International Progressive MS Alliance is doing its part in answering that need. On January 23rd, the Progressive MS Alliance will be hosting a Facebook Live to share the latest information on symptom management and rehabilitation research in progressive MS. Featuring Jonathan Strum, a member of the Alliance Scientific Steering Committee, and a caregiver for his wife who lives with progressive MS, the event will discuss the state of progressive MS research and treatment in fatigue, mobility, pain management, and cognition. Tune in to “Symptom Management and Well-Being in Progressive MS” to learn what you can do to positively impact your health while living with MS. Register now: www.msif.org/progressivemsalliance-facebooklive/
  • “It's infusion day! Once every six months, I come to the beautiful Arva Clinic for my IV infusion. I arrive in the morning and take some pre-meds to avoid an allergic reaction. Next, I get hooked up to an IV that pumps through steroids before my actual medicine. Once my IV is in, whoever was lucky enough to drive me to the clinic gets to run to Starbucks for me! My IV stays in for 4.5 - 5 hours, during which time I watch lots of cheesy Netflix movies, eat snacks, and have some lunch. Not too bad eh? To me, this beats trying to remember to take pills, or injecting a needle three times a week. I've also been super lucky that my body works well with this treatment and I haven't had a bad reaction to it! Fingers crossed that it keeps going well! Now you knew where I was going with this, right? This is one of the many reasons that I fundraise for the MS Society. MS treatments, such as IV infusions, wouldn't exist without funding for research. Thank you to everyone who donates to the MS Society, and participates in MS Walk, Bike, or any of the other amazing fundraising events out there. Let's keep working together to find a cure for MS!” ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ - Lindsey, diagnosed in 2018 ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ** The MS Society respects people’s personal autonomy when making decisions about their health, and we are here to provide as much information and support as possible. People are encouraged to maintain open and ongoing discussions with their MS healthcare team when exploring disease management options.
  • "As a Doctor of Pharmacy student, I was very disappointed to find out that MS is not a part of our curriculum. After attending the #MSCanBe Youth Summit, I was inspired by the amazing stories, wonderful workshops, and new friendships I developed. I wanted to organize my own event at school for my peers to learn more about MS. Amanda Piron graciously agreed to be the keynote speaker and share her story of living with MS. As well, one of the professors at my school agreed to organize a clinical lecture on the therapeutics and pathophysiology of MS. I was surprised to learn that his mother also had MS, and that he wanted to share her story too. One of the school clubs heard I was organizing an MS event and they even offered to pay for and provide dinner for the students attending! Thanks to the #MSCanBe Youth Summit, I was able to organize an educational event for my peers to learn more about MS! In total, 40 pharmacy students attended the MS Information Night. It was a successful night of sharing stories and learning, and I’m extremely grateful that the #MSCanBe led me here.” - Kelsey-Ann, mother lives with MS
  • It’s our priority to ensure that no one faces MS alone. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Whether you’re a family member, a volunteer, a researcher, a caregiver, or a member of any of these groups, our journey towards a future free of MS is fueled by the collective action of our MS community. Through our new strategic plan, we hope to connect our community and foster an environment that supports those at the centre of our work: people impacted by MS. What’s your role in the MS community? Share your connection to MS with the rest of our community by dropping a comment below. Together, we are working towards a world free of MS. To learn more about our strategic plan, please visit: mssociety.ca/about-us/strategic-plan
  • 👇 It’s time to set those New Year’s resolutions! What will your act of greatness be in 2020? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “My act of greatness is learning to ask for help. I have always been fiercely independent, but when I couldn’t walk and needed help, I had to swallow my pride, check my ego, and reach out to others. That took more effort than any physical barrier I have faced.” ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ - Karah, diagnosed in 2011. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 👇 Share your acts of greatness below for a chance to be featured on our channels and join our movement at actsofgreatness.ca. Together, through actions big and small, we can change the future of MS.
  • "This year, I will run a marathon." ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ "This year, I will host a dinner party." ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “This year, I will learn how to skydive.” ⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ This year, why not turn your New Year’s resolution into an #IChallengeMS and help shape the future for those living with MS? With I Challenge, you can get inventive with your own fundraising! Whether it’s taking on a fitness challenge, hosting a gala, throwing a bake sale, or coming up with your own creative idea, the proceeds will help improve the quality of life for Canadians living with MS. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Last year, Nick created the event “Freefall for MS,” where he experienced the adrenaline rush of jumping out of a plane to raise awareness for MS. He used his living-on-the-edge lifestyle to create an initiative that supported Canadians affected by the chronic disease. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ This year, change the world for those living with MS by signing up for your own I Challenge today: https://bit.ly/2ExnjvT.
  • Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow… As the year comes to an end, the MS Society would like to wish you a joyous holiday season filled with happiness and health. A tremendous thank you to our wonderful MS community for helping make a positive difference in the lives of those living with and affected by MS. Your ongoing support and commitment to the organization does not go unnoticed. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Our offices will be closed for the holidays on December 24 and will re-open on January 2. The Knowledge Network service will be shut down during the office closure. In the meantime, you can find reliable information and support about MS on our website at mssociety.ca, or email msnavigators@mssociety.ca and they will respond to you on January 2. Just a reminder that if you donate to the MS Society before December 31, your gift can be matched (up to $50,000), meaning that your #ActsofGreatness can make double the impact in the fight against MS. To donate, visit: https://bit.ly/2szF5vG We look forward to seeing you all in 2020!
  • As we set sail on the new chapter in our journey, our mission is to connect and empower the MS community to create positive change. Change that brings us closer to a world free of MS. With the launch of the MS Society’s new strategic plan, our impact goals focus on advancing treatment and care, enhancing the well-being of those living with MS, halting disease progression, and preventing MS. Help us spread our mission by sharing this post. Read our strategic plan here: mssociety.ca/about-us/strategic-plan
  • “It was 1952 when I fell in love with Shirley. I took her to her first formal event and we spent the entire evening dancing the night away. Thirteen years later, she became my wife. After our first child was born, Shirley began experiencing mobility and bladder issues. I recall taking her to the doctor, but they couldn’t provide a proper diagnosis due to the lack of existing equipment. We left feeling disheartened, powerless, and completely in the dark. Two and a half decades went by, and Shirley’s symptoms progressed. By this point, she could no longer stand or walk. Her MS had snuck up like a thief in the night, and suddenly, I couldn’t take her dancing anymore. I felt helpless. Frantically trying to support her, I became involved with the MS Society’s initiatives including flag raising for MS Awareness Month, supplying prizes for MS fundraisers, and acquiring pledges for donations. But in 2013, tragedy struck, turning my world upside down. My dear Shirley passed away, and it felt like someone tore my heart in two. Time passed, but my mourning felt eternal. Through my heartbreak, I continued to stay involved with the MS Society. In memory of my wife, I wanted to continue to do everything I could to help others living with the disease and ensure no one had to go through what she did. To this day, I still support the cause and participate in their fundraising events. I may have lost my inspiration, but I kept my determination. Every spring, I give each Cape Breton University nursing graduate a gold MS pin. I explain the history of the pin and the importance of MS awareness, and ask them to wear it in memory of my wife, who was also a nurse. The nurses relocate across the world for work, spreading awareness of the disease universally. To me, it would mean the world to hear that MS is no more. I hope that I live long enough to see that as it is my ultimate goal.” - Carl, MS Society volunteer ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Carl took his loss and turned it into hope. This #GivingTuesday, join Carl and help those living with MS by giving back. Perform an act of greatness by donating today at www.actsogreatness.ca. Together, through actions big and small, we can change the future.
  • “I can stand for 15 minutes before I need to sit down. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ I can walk one block before I need to rest. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ My MS becomes debilitating about once a week.” ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ For Christine Rutherford, who was diagnosed with MS in 1999, her physical ailments have shown no mercy. But for the sincere and candid woman living with the chronic disease, managing her mental health has been the most strenuous part of her journey. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ "I was lost. Trapped inside my own body. Unable to express how I was feeling. Suddenly, I always had to have someone with me. I remember sitting in a dark room with no TV or music on, my 58-year old mother holding my hand. I couldn’t even speak. Doctors kept giving me different medication, anti-depressants, anxiety medication – I felt so helpless that I kept taking what they gave me. I just wanted to get out of it." ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Since then, Christine has realized that taking care of her mental health is a full-time job. She’s now restructured her life in ways that keep her mentally and physically healthy. She’s also paying it forward by leading two support groups and helping others deal with their healing and mental health. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Sometimes, it's those who have been through the most adversity that come out stronger on the other end. For #GivingTuesday, perform an act of greatness by donating to support those living with or affected by MS like Christine. Together, through actions big and small, we can change the future: www.actsofgreatness.ca. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ To learn more about Christine’s story, visit: https://blog.mssociety.ca/2019/12/my-ms-journey-beyond-the-lesson-plan/
  • When you’re diagnosed with MS in 1988, you don’t have many options. That was the case with Bob, who learned he had progressive MS 31 years ago. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ "The experience was rather worrisome,” explains Bob. “We didn’t have access to a computer or Google. The only information I had on MS was my wife’s old nursing book which had a paragraph or two in it about the disease.” ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ With no information available to him, Bob’s symptoms gradually went downhill, and his mobility declined. “After I got my scooter and wheelchair, I suddenly realized that I couldn’t go anywhere. Everyone I knew had a house that I couldn’t get into. I couldn’t visit people like I used to. I couldn’t even go to my son’s house for dinner. The lack of accessibility changed my life and shifted my relationships.” ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Despite all the adversity, Bob kept going. After his diagnosis, he continued to work as a mechanic until the work became too difficult. He then went back to school to learn computer programming, which he did for 10 years before he went on long-term disability. It was then that he decided to start volunteering with the MS Society, devoting decades to sitting on committees, attending support groups, and joining the Alberta Division council. “A lot of people look at MS and see all the things they lost, but I look at it in all the ways that I have changed. I’ve learned so much since I was diagnosed, so it hasn’t all been negative.” ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Like Bob, Canadians everywhere are performing Acts of Greatness in the fight against MS. Help fund acts of greatness for those living with or affected by this debilitating disease. Together, through actions big and small, we can change the future. Join the movement at actsofgreatness.ca. Learn more about Bob’s story at https://bit.ly/34ApdXT

Follow Us

  • © 2019 MS Society of Canada
    Charitable registration - MS Society of Canada: 10774 6174 RR0001
    Quebec Division: 10 490 2523 RR0001
Follow us
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Instagram