Winter - Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada

MShope
MSheroes To
Winter 2011 Across BC & Yukon
MAKING
CONNECTIONS
to end MS
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Return undeliverables to:
MS Society of Canada, BC & Yukon Division
1501-4330 Kingsway
Burnaby, BC V5H 4G7
be a leader in finding a
cure for multiple sclerosis and
enabling people affected by MS
to enhance their quality of life.
THIS ISSUE
Advocacy update 2
Membership drive 3
Volunteers sharing time and skills 4
Research updates 5
Women Against MS 6
Walk, Bike & Golf to end MS 7
BC & Yukon Round up 8
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MS Heroes with a friend!

2
MS Hope MS Heroes | Winter 2011
MESSAGE FrOM THE CHAIr AnD PrESIDEnT
As the year draws to a close, the MS Society can point to many proud
achievements.
We celebrated the three year anniversary of the endMS Regional Research
and Training Centres, a network initiated in 2007 and now involving over
140 investigators and trainees in BC and Yukon.
A full year of networking among women culminated in the first Women
Against MS (WAMS) Gala Breakfast in October with Cassie Campbell-Pascall.
Cassie inspired all present to look for ways to make a contribution. We
invite you to engage in this new initiative to better connect women in the
business community with the MS Society.
The RONA MS Bike Tour season was a success with tours in Kamloops and
Okanagan doubling amounts raised from last year and news that West
ADVOCACY UPDATE
MS Days on Parliament Hill
Left to right: Jean Crowder, MP Nanaimo –Cowichan; Lynn Hunter, MS Society volunteer with the BC & Yukon Division
Government Relations Committee; Sharon Farrish, Director, Programs, MS Society BC & Yukon Division; and Yves Savoie,
National President and Chief Executive Officer, MS Society of Canada
During the last week of October, MS Society
of Canada representatives met with nearly 50
Members of Parliament in Ottawa. The annual
MS Day on the Hill engages the Society’s
Government Relations staff and volunteers
with elected officials in order to address issues
of importance to people affected by multiple
sclerosis and others living with episodic
disabilities and chronic conditions. Lynn Hunter,
volunteer member of the Division Government
Relations Committee and Sharon Farrish, Director
of Programs met with five BC and Yukon MPs.
This year the discussions focused on:
Left to right: Lynn Hunter, MS Society volunteer with the BC
& Yukon Division Government Relations Committee; Mark
Strahl, MP Chilliwack-Fraser Canyon; and Sharon Farrish,
Director, Programs, MS Society BC & Yukon Division.
“The issue of caregivers is also an important
one for MS patients and it is imperative that
this House work toward giving them the
financial support and resources they need to
be cared for at home as long as possible.” Dr.
Hedy Fry, MP Vancouver Centre, Health Critic
in the House of Commons, October 25, 2011.
Kootenay will launch a new MS Bike Tour in 2012, the “West Kootenay Glacier
Challenge.”
We realize that the economy is not fully recovered and that supporters must
work very hard to raise funds, while those they ask are digging deeper to
push forward on the agenda to find a cure for MS while providing supports
at the local level. Some of you will not that we have already begun recruiting
committee members for the 2012 Scotiabank MS Walks taking place from
April 15 onward.
Looking even further forward, Marilyn Lenzen and Todd Abercrombie,
Executive Director of the South Vancouver Island Chapter, have been
recruited to the newly created “Renewal Task Force.” The task force is a
national level initiative to examine all aspects of the MS Society including its
internal structure, roles and responsibilities to determine the ways that we
can more effectively deliver on our mission. Over the next 18 to 24 months,
clients, members, donors, volunteers, staff and other stakeholders will have
several opportunities to engage in discussion and help shape the future of
the Society.
Janet Palm
President, MS Society, BC & Yukon
• Increasing employment supports for people
with MS and other episodic disabilities by
making Employment Insurance sickness
benefits more flexible by redefining the
benefit to allow for part-time work and income
security for people with episodic disabilities;
• Continuing to support people with MS and
other chronic diseases/disabilities and their
caregivers by making the Disability Tax Credit,
the Caregiver Tax Credit and the Family
Caregiver Tax Credit refundable;
• Ensuring sustainable health care for people
with MS and others who rely on the health
care system by including them in discussions
about a renewed health accord, while, in the
meantime, continuing the commitment to an
annual six percent ongoing increase of health
transfers to provinces and territories.
The issues of increasing support for CCSVI and
MS-related research and patient access to MS
therapies were discussed. We believe that the
adoption of these important recommendations
will assist people, affected by MS and other
chronic diseases and disabilities, to remain part
of the workforce and part of their communities.
For further information on the key issues see
webpage mssociety.ca/advocacy, select “position
papers and links” from the left hand menu.
Marilyn Lenzen
Chair, MS Society, BC & Yukon
“… our government is investing in research
such as funding and developing a MS
monitoring system providing new tech
support for care givers and are working closely
with provincial and territorial governments,
medical associations and the MS Society of
Canada.” LaVar Payne, MP Medicine Hat, in
the House of Commons, October 25, 2011.
Government of Canada Funds National
Neurological Study
In late September, the Government of Canada
announced investment of almost $6 million to
support ten studies on neurological conditions
including multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease,
Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy and neuromuscular
conditions. The funding is part of the $15 million
National Population Health Study of Neurological
Conditions which began in 2009.
The funding will support research being carried
out across Canada. The Public Health Agency
of Canada is collaborating with Neurological
Health Charities Canada (NHCC), a coalition of 26
neurological charities, including the MS Society of
Canada, to implement these studies.
Expected to be complete in 2013, the National
Population Health Study of Neurological
Conditions will provide new and significant
information to further assist governments,
neurological health charities, caregivers and those
living with neurological conditions. Findings from
these studies will provide a clearer understanding
of the effects of neurological conditions on the
lives of Canadians and their families and the
ability of health, social and community services to
support them.
YOUr MEMbErSHIP IS IMPOrTAnT
The voices of people living with MS are
strengthened by your membership when the
MS Society advocates on important issues that
include winning better income security, access to
appropriate housing and funding of MS research.
Membership is $10 per person each year.
Note: Fee can be waived if you are dealing with
financial hardship. To renew your membership,
contact your local chapter office or call 1-800-268-
7582 (BC) or 1-866-991-0577 (YK).
STAY In TOUCH WITH US On

MEMbErSHIP IS POWErFUL
Over 60 years ago, Evelyn Opal learned she had multiple
sclerosis. At the time, little was known about MS. Evelyn was
told to go home and hope for the best. Instead, Evelyn took
action, she formed a group and raised money to fund research
into MS. Today, the group she founded is the MS Society of
Canada, one the most respected health charities in Canada.
You receive this newsletter because you are currently a member of the
MS Society or you have given valuable support some other way, perhaps
as one of many enthusiastic TeamMS captains who rally others to support
the dual mission to fund research and enhance quality of life for those
living with MS.
Today, we ask you to renew your membership or to consider becoming
a member of Evelyn Opal’s legacy. The MS Society is valued across
the country for providing reliable, accurate trusted information; for
providing free supports in communities small and large; and for creating
opportunities for researchers to advance their search for the cause and
cure for this life-changing disease. Your support is powerful.
Is the membership form missing? Please feel free to contact us by
phone, e-mail or in person at any MS Society office to get or renew
your membership.
MS Society of Canada offices
BC & Yukon Division Office
1501-4330 Kingsway, Burnaby, BC V5H 4G7
info.bc@mssociety.ca
T: (604) 689-3144 / F: (604) 689-0377
Central Island Chapter
P.O. Box 39046, Nanaimo, BC V9R 7B7
info.centralisland@mssociety.ca
T: (250) 722-2214 / F: (250) 722-2214
Fraser Valley Chapter
PO Box 373
Abbotsford, BC, V2T 6Z6
info.fraservalley@mssociety.ca
T: 1-877-303-7122
Kamloops and Area Chapter
180-546 St. Paul St., Kamloops, BC V2C 5T1
info.kamloops@mssociety.ca
T: (250) 314-0773 or 1-888-304-6622
F: (250) 314-0722
Okanagan Chapter Chair Tracey Tremble at one of many
information and education sessions offered by the MS Society.
Lower Mainland Chapter
1501-4330 Kingsway, Burnaby, BC V5H 4G7
info.bc@mssociety.ca
T: (604) 689-3144 or 1-800-268-7582
F: (604) 689-0377
North Vancouver Island Chapter
PO Box 656, Campbell River, BC V9W 6J3
judy.spencer@mssociety.ca
or cherie.kamenz@mssociety.ca
T: (250) 339-0819 or 1-877-339-0819
F: (250) 890-3437
The more members joined together in the MS Society, the stronger our voice
when we ask for support or lobby for change on behalf of people affected by MS.
The benefits of membership include:
Okanagan Chapter
#230-1855 Kirschner Road, Kelowna, BC V1Y 4N7
info.okanagan@mssociety.ca
T: (250) 762-5850 / F: (250) 762-5897
Prince George Chapter
105-490 Quebec St., Prince George, BC V2L 5N5
info.princegeorge@mssociety.ca
T: (250) 564-7074 / F: (250) 564-7005
1. Being a member in good standing means that you are able to vote at
annual general meetings at the national, divisional, and chapter levels.
Through this process, members shape the path of the MS Society.
2. Members receive advance notice to free special events such as live
educational seminars and webinars.
3. Membership also means that your voice is added to the collective
pool of members when we lobby the municipal, provincial and
federal governments for changes that benefit people with MS, such as
improvements to income security. Some examples of our work in the BC &
Yukon Division this year include:
• Supporting over 140 MS investigators (in BC & Yukon) to advance research
into MS.
• Providing assistive equipment to enhance quality of life for over 220 people
in financial need.
• Assisting over 250 people deal with MS-related legal issues through the
Division’s Volunteer Legal Advocacy Program.
• Connecting with people living with MS, caregivers and families over 31,000
times to provide support and information.
• Securing a commitment from the BC government for a patient registry to
help ensure the best possible care for people who have undergone CCSVI
treatments.
Read the latest “Advocacy Update” on page 2 for more about current key
issues.
4. Members receive newsletters that help you stay in touch with MS Society
activities including MS Canada, MS Hope MS Heroes, and the newsletter for
your local chapter. Most newsletters are available electronically if you prefer
not to get paper copies.
You will find a membership form and postage
paid return envelope tucked into this newsletter
for your use. Membership is $10 per person.
Volunteers help organize fundraising events that support free
program and services offered by the MS Society in communities
throughout BC and Yukon.
South Okanagan/Similkameen Chapter
3373 Skaha Road, Penticton, BC V2A 6G6
info.penticton@mssociety.ca
T: (250) 493-6564 / F: (250) 493-6584
South Vancouver Island Chapter
1004 North Park Road, Victoria, BC V8T 1C6
info.victoria@mssociety.ca
T: (250) 388-6496 or 1-800-665-5788
F: (250) 361-2661
South Vancouver Island (Cowichan Valley Office)
321 Coronation Avenue, Duncan, BC V9L 2T1
T: (250) 748-7010 / F: (250) 748-7010
West Kootenay Chapter
Box 202, Balfour, BC V0G 1C0
info.westkootenay@mssociety.ca
T: (250) 229-4994 or 1-866-352-3997
F: (250) 229-4959
With support from the MS Society, Cornelia
Laule, PhD, is a physicist whose research in
magnetic resonance imaging is advancing
the search for the cause and the cure for MS.
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MS Hope MS Heroes | Winter 2011

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MS Hope MS Heroes | Winter 2011
APPLICATIOnS: VLAP CLOSE TO 100% SUCCESS rATE WITH CAnADA
PEnSIOn PLAn DISAbILITY bEnEFITS
Theresa needed to apply for Canada Pension
Plan Disability Benefits (CPP-D) but, like so many
people with multiple sclerosis, she became
completely overwhelmed by the complexity of
the questions. She contacted the Volunteer Legal
Advocacy Program at the MS Society for help:
“I was so grateful to learn about this program as
the long forms had completely overwhelmed me”.
Each year, VLAP staff receive calls from clients who
applied for CPP-D on their own but were denied;
or they just learned about these benefits, many
years after they stopped working. Going through
an appeal or tribunal or applying under the “late
provision” can be extremely stressful. Call VLAP
when you are considering leaving work. VLAP can
help you learn about your options and guide you
to the help that is available.
MOnTHLY DOnATIOnS SUPPOrT THE MISSIOn
Carole Hourigan is an active grandmother of six who enjoys baking
muffins, hiking and supporting great causes. Mrs. Hourigan is an
MS Society monthly donor because she knows more than her
share of people with MS. A retired nurse, Mrs. Hourigan worked
with two colleagues living with MS. Her daughter-in-law’s brother
lived with MS. And her niece, Joanne has been living with MS for 17
years. Seventeen years ago is about when Mrs. Hourigan decided
to make a monthly donation to the MS Society. “I believe research
into multiple sclerosis and programs to help people living with
MS are the best ways to help,” she says. We take our hats off to Mrs.
Hourigan!
To learn more about monthly giving, please contact Brenda Jebsen,
Director of Leadership Giving for the BC & Yukon Division of the MS
Society, 1-800-268-7582 or email Brenda.jebsen@mssociety.ca
STrEnGTH COMES FrOM SHArInG
SAY CHAPTEr VOLUnTEErS
by Melissa Huang
Four times a year, the boardroom in the office of
the Lower Mainland Chapter of the MS Society is
populated by seven dedicated volunteers with a
common vision: to tell stories that inform, advise,
and entertain people affected by MS. The product
of these quarterly meetings is Shared Voices (SV),
a free, 12-page newsletter focused on current MS
research, updates from the Society, and real-life
stories and tips from people living with MS.
Brenda Worthington, Linda McGowan, Anne
Stopps, Ralph Hurtig, Ellen Frank, Ron Jones and
Julia Hall agree on the importance of maintaining
a volunteer-produced newsletter.
“As volunteers, we bring only our own input,” said
Hall. “It’s important that those who submit articles
bring their own voice - not a larger agenda!”
Accordingly, SV serves as more than a resource for
the latest research and treatments. The newsletter
also showcases a wide range of stories reflecting
the SV volunteers’ personal philosophies.
For over ten years, VLAP Volunteers have helped
people with multiple sclerosis apply for CPP-
Disability benefits with an almost 100% success
rate. We have helped many people qualify even
after they were denied when they applied the first
time without any assistance. VLAP volunteers are
very knowledgeable and understand MS well.
“What advocates have to do is transfer who the
client is and what their living situation is like
into something definable on paper, so that the
adjudicators understand what the challenges are
for the client and what a difference the financial
aid is going to make,” explains Ann, a VLAP
volunteer.
To learn more, contact Satya Redekop,
Coordinator, Volunteer Legal Advocacy Program
at 604-602-3236, or toll-free 1-800-268-7582. In
Yukon toll-free 1-866-991-0577.
by Karen Koch
Carole Hourigan, gives monthly to
support research and programs in her
community.
“My basic goal in life is to motivate others, with or
without a disability, to maximize their potential
and participate in the gifts that are around us,”
said McGowan, who frequently writes about travel
and recreational events in the Lower Mainland.
The sentiment is echoed by Stopps, whose beat
is reviewing books about “swimming, yoga and
alternative therapies - anything that will make
readers think about trying something new”.
For the SV volunteers, the benefits of their work
run deep. While contributing to a knowledgesharing
culture within the larger MS community,
the SV volunteers also experience a significant
sense of rapport from collaborating as a team.
“I value the SV members’ intelligence and diverse
life experiences,” said Worthington. “Because of
this volunteer work, I have no need for support
groups, and appreciate my alternate MS family.”
As the SV volunteers continue to build their team,
they hope people realize that all stories deserve to
be heard.
Applying for CPP Disability Benefits?
• Every person who has worked may
qualify for CPP-D when they stop working
due to a disability.
• Many complex rules determine who
may qualify for CPP-D, such as strict time
limits to apply, credit splitting in case of
divorce, or the child drop-out provision.
• The forms are long and complex and
many MS-related symptoms are difficult
to explain on paper, such as fatigue or
cognitive problems.
• It may be possible to qualify for CPP-D
even if you are applying after the
deadline.
You may qualify for assistance through
the Equipment Provision Program.
Contact us at 1-800-268-7582,
1-866-991-0577 (YK) or visit
mssociety.ca/bc/epp.htm
Dear Sonja,
Coordinator,
Equipment Provision Program
I just can’t thank you enough for
providing the scooter for me, at this
time nothing could have improved
my life more. I live in a wonderful
area near many amenities that I never
had the chance to visit before because
I didn’t want to be a burden to my
family and friends. I feel like a bird
that has just been let out of its cage.
I have met so many new people.
You have opened up a whole new
world for me and without the expense
of taxi cabs. It is absolutely like a new
beginning for me.
I can’t tell you how much this has
also helped to improve my mood
and sense of independence. I feel like
I won the lottery!
Don’t ever doubt that the work
you do is absolutely essential and
beneficial to people in my position.
Susan in Penticton
Susan in her new scooter
“Don't be shy, share your personal experiences
with the world,” said Hurtig. “Other people afflicted
with MS want to listen to what you have to say - it
gives them comfort to know they are not alone in
the world and there is hope for all of us.”
Please note: In 2012, Shared Voices will be a 16page
newsletter produced three times per year. To
view past and current Shared Voices newsletters,
visit the Lower Mainland Chapter of the MS
Society website at http://mssociety.ca/lmc.

C HOSTS FIrST CAnADIAn MEETInG On nEUrOMYELITIS OPTICA
On June 14, 2011 the UBC Hospital Neuromyelitis
Optica (NMO) Program, in conjunction with the
Western Pacific endMS Regional Research and
Training Centre, held the inaugural “Canadian
NMO Workshop” in Vancouver, BC.
NMO is an uncommon, severe demyelinating
central nervous system disease affecting the
optic nerve and/or spinal cord. It is an important
form of multiple sclerosis and BC has the highest
number of patients with this disease documented
in Canada. It is one of the many unique features
of the care and expertise available in BC. NMO is
different from “classic” MS in the severity of the
attacks and its tendency to solely strike the optic
nerves and spinal cord at the beginning of the
disease. The prognosis, course and treatment of
NMO differs from “classic” MS as well.
The recent discovery of an antibody NMOimmunoglobulin
G (NMO-IgG), which targets the
water channel protein, aquaporin-4 (AQP4) in the
serum of those with NMO has provided a way to
differentiate NMO from other similar autoimmune
diseases such as MS.
Dr. Tony Traboulsee, Director of the UBC Hospital
NMO Program and the UBC Hospital MS Clinic,
and his team are currently investigating causes
and consequences of NMO in patients. This
provided the opportunity to invite NMO specialists
from around the world to Vancouver to discuss
early diagnosis, management, and international
experiences and to foster global NMO research
collaborations during the “Canadian NMO
Workshop”.
The invited panel of experts hosted by Dr.
Have a question about MS? The MS Society’s website, msanswers.ca, may be able to
help. Email your questions, sign up for updates as the experts respond, and search the
database of questions and topics.
Questions recently answered include:
Q : Can the interferon treatments cause thyroid problems?
Q : I was diagnosed with MS less than 6 months ago. My first symptom last year was
numbness and a very tight feeling in my right arm which affected me with most daily
functions including writing, typing, putting on makeup, getting dressed etc. I am now
experiencing the same feelings in my feet, not to the degree my arm was yet, but it still
affects me. So far, most days I am only walking slower but not noticeably to most others.
My question has to do with dealing with symptoms invisible to others. Last year with my
arm, I could not sign credit card slips, grab bags or fill out forms etc. and just last week I
found myself standing in a full waiting room with no available chairs and sore feet. I am
finding it difficult to deal with invisible symptoms - especially in public places. Do you
have any suggestions?
Q : Does the number of lesions on your MRI correlate to your symptoms and level of
disability?
Q : My husband has an allergy to Prednisone is there other steroid that he could take in
place of it?
DISCLAIMER: Please be aware that information on msanswers.ca does not necessarily represent
the opinion of the MS Society of Canada, and is not intended as medical advice. For specific advice
and opinion, always consult a physician.
SELF-HELP AnD SUPPOrT GrOUP PHOTO COnTEST
Lower Mainland Family Member Care Partner Group
October 1, 2011 – January 31, 2012
Open to all self-help and support
groups where members or the
majority of members are dealing with
MS. For information, please contact
your local chapter office or got to
mssociety.ca/bc/SHG_photo.htm.
prizeS!
Traboulsee included Dr. K. Fujihara (Japan), Dr. M.
Boggild (London), Dr. B. Bell (Calgary), Dr. B. Cree
(San Francisco), Dr. Z. Wu (China), and Dr. Dessa
Sadovnick (Vancouver). This wide range of global
expertise provided an ideal forum for Canadian
neurologists, neurology resident trainees, research
trainees and other healthcare professionals to
gain a better understanding of the diagnosis
and management of NMO as well as to develop
research priorities and refine treatment guidelines
for Canadian clinics managing NMO. There is a
strong interest in NMO in Canada as increased
numbers of patients with NMO are being referred
and diagnosed, particularly in regions with a
diverse ethnic population such as the Greater
Vancouver Area.
Article provided by the Western Pacific endMS RRTC.
LEAVInG A LEGACY OF HOPE:
THE EGLI FAMILY
The profound changes that Barb Egli experienced
with multiple sclerosis inspired her husband and
son to contribute to the MS Society of Canada.
Kurt and Barb Egli met in Kimberly, BC and were
married in 1965. Kurt’s job as a chef meant that
the family of four travelled the world living and
working in such far-flung places as Venezuala and
Iran. Their son, Chris, recalls that the family left Iran
just as the Shah was deposed.
Barb was diagnosed with MS in her late thirties in
1970. The diagnosis came after a year of varying
symptoms and testing. It was a frustrating and
sometimes scary experience. Chris saw his
mother’s world shrink as the disease prevented
her from travelling with her husband to work
in locations around the globe. The disease also
interfered with their ability to dance together. A
scooter later helped her regain a sense of freedom
and for a time, re-expanded her world.
Kurt retired after five years of almost unbearable
separation due to his work. He became Barb’s
primary caregiver. When the woman he called
“angel” passed away suddenly on Christmas eve
2005, he was devastated. Kurt passed away shortly
thereafter in 2008.
After taking care of his children, Kurt left the MS
Society a portion of his estate so others wouldn’t
have to suffer the “pain and grief the illness had
caused them.” Chris Egli followed suit. “I saw how
my mother suffered and the impact it had on my
parents’ freedom and was happy to make my own
gift in honor of my mother.”
If you are interested in learning more on how
to make a legacy gift please call Brenda Jebsen,
Director of Leadership Giving, at 604-602-3207 or
toll-free 1-800-268-7582. In Yukon toll-free 1-866-
991-0577.
Kurt and Barb Egli.
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MS Hope MS Heroes | Winter 2011

6
MS Hope MS Heroes | Winter 2011
Genevieve Sigalet, sets the bar high as 2011 WAMS
Honouree in BC.
Hockey, women and teamwork were themes
that ran through the first WAMS Gala breakfast in
Vancouver. Featured speaker, Cassie Campbell-
Pascall, former captain of Canada’s two-time
Olympic Gold medal hockey team, inspired
the audience of 150. The first woman colour
commentator for Hockey Night in Canada and
new mom talked about facing challenges and
achieving seemingly impossible goals, including
winning gold medals and working to end MS.
The morning was perfect for recognizing Genevieve
Sigalet, of Surrey, BC as the 2011 WAMS Honouree.
Since 2004, Genevieve has worked with her family
and friends to raise over $180,000 for MS research.
The dynamic mother of three took action when
her son, NHL prospect Jordan Sigalet, made his
diagnosis public, bringing North America-wide
attention to MS.
2012 SCOTIAbAnk
MS WALk DATES
Lower Mainland
North Shore April 29
Langley April 29
Tri Cities April 29
Vancouver April 29
Powell River April 15
Richmond April 29
Surrey April 29
White Rock April 29
Vancouver Island
Comox Valley April 15
Victoria April 15
Duncan April 15
Nanaimo April 29
Port Alberni April 29
Port McNeill May 13
Fraser Valley
Abbotsford April 29
Chilliwack May 5
Hope June 10
Interior BC
Trail April 29
Kelowna May 6
Cranbrook April 29
Nelson May 27
Penticton May 6
Kamloops April 29
Northern BC & Yukon
Prince George June 10
Whitehorse June 10
Register for 2012 at mswalks.ca
GOrDOn FOOD SErVICES
rEMArkAbLE WOMEn InSPIrE AT THE
FIrST WOMEn AGAInST MS (WAMS)
GALA brEAkFAST In VAnCOUVEr
presented by
Dr. Helen Tremlett (back row left) and research colleagues
at breakfast.
“Genevieve demonstrates the type of relentless
determination that pushes the research agenda
ahead and for that we are all very grateful,” said Dr.
Cornelia Laule, as she introduced Genevieve to
the audience.
Dr. Laule was one of the first researchers to
receive the WAMS endMS Research and Training
Network Transitional Career Development Award.
She noted that WAMS fundraising allows her to
continue her work with other researchers to help
find ways to improve diagnosis, find causes and
eventually develop a cure for MS.
True to form, Genevieve turned the moment
around and presented Janet Palm, President
of the BC & Yukon Division with a cheque for
$14,000. The funds were raised at a summer
concert and BBQ event organized by good friend
and co-organizer of Shut Out MS, Judy Chucko.
On July 6, managers at Gordon Food Services stepped away from their desks, rolled up their
sleeves and washed employees’ cars to raise money in support of the MS Society’s dual
mission to fund research and provide support to enhance quality of life for those living with
MS. The GFS management team in partnership with “GFS to give” raised over $3,700 in one
day! A hot dog sale made the day’s events complete.
TAkE A HIkE MS
In May 2011, three intrepid guys
set out to hike the Pacific Costal
Trail in order to raise awareness
and funds to end MS. Just a couple
days before the trio were to start
their trek, they had to overcome
another challenge - the theft of
Mitch’s pack and specialized gear.
Five months later, Mitch Ouellette,
Gab Ostafew and Adam Ziorio
completed the 2,627 mile hike
from Mexico to Canada.
izaki
s & ReacH-ins
Betty and Kristine Thompson (below)
won the 50/50 draw and the raffle for the
coveted silver necklace and bracelet set,
generously provided by Tiffany and Co.
It was a mother daughter morning! (Above) Gina
Neumann with mom Belinda was the lucky winner of
$500 Anne Klein fashions. Just in time for fall.
2012 WAMS Gala Breakfast is October 18.
Contact Kristina Keith for information and to get involved.
Kristina.keith@mssociety.ca or 604-602-3220.
Enjoy more event photos atflickr.com/photos/
mssociety_BCYukon
rEFrIGErATIVE SUPPLY
WAnT TO
rAISE MOnEY
AnD SUPPOrT
FOr THE
MS SOCIETY?
Call us –
we want to help you
succeed.
Contact Caitlin
Langridge at
604-602-3202 or
Caitlin.langridge@
mssociety.ca
Get some great tips
on our website:
mssociety.ca/bc/
YourEvent.htm
For the past 5 years, Judy Chang
and the team at Refrigerative
Supply have hosted a golf
tournament with proceeds going
to the MS Society. With the help
of sponsors and participation of
approximately 150 golfers, the
2011 event raised over $9,000. Congratulations to
a team that has contributed over $24,000 towards
practical supports and MS research.

msbiketours.ca
Fraser Valley Grape escape June 2 & 3
For information contact Jason Hulbert
604-602-3211, email jason.hulbert@mssociety.ca
Cowichan Valley Grape escape July 7 & 8
For information contact Sukhi Tomana
250-388-6496, email sukhi.tomana@mssociety.ca
Vancouver Scenic City August 12
For information contact Jason Hulbert
604-602-3211, email jason.hulbert@mssociety.ca
Okanagan Grape escape September 8 & 9
For information contact Miriam King
250-762-5850, email miriam.king@mssociety.ca
Kamloops Thompson river ride September 9
For information contact Trina Radford
250-314-0773 email trina.radford@mssociety.ca
Enjoy event photos online at flickr.com/photos/mssociety_BCYukon
MEETInG THE CHALLEnGE: MS 100 HOLE GOLF
On Monday, September 12, Golfers enjoyed a fabulous day
at Northview Golf & Country Club, a wonderful catered lunch
donated by Earls Guildford and massage donated by Legacies
Sports Massage & Chiropractic. Congratulations to 25 golfers
and some amazing sponsors who together raised $117,000 in
the 15th annual MS 100 Hole Golf Challenge.
The Fairmont Whistler Hotel, Tin Creek Vineyards and Blast
Sailing, along with several other generous companies, partnered
with the MS Society to provide some exciting raffle prizes. The
draw generated over $3,000 with prize winners well rewarded
for their efforts on the course and in the fundraising arena. Top rookie Ray Murell raised over $9,000.
The lunch provided and served by Earls Restaurant in
Guildford kept everyone’s energy up all day.
BUILD A
Golf committee member, McGregor Wark (holding sign)
and Dave Major stay driven to end MS with Lauren from
the Northview Golf and Country Club.
The 2012 Scotiabank MS Walk
is just around the corner.
Register now at mswalks.ca
Lynn Reeves and Ali Watson enjoying the course and
the challenge.
7
MS Hope MS Heroes | Winter 2011

8
MS Hope MS Heroes | Winter 2011
bC & YUkOn rOUnDUP
West Kootenay Chapter
Supporters came out to enjoy the delicious food
and beverage at the West Kootenay Chapter’s “A
Taste of Nelson.” This popular annual event lets
guests sample the fares of local restaurants and it
raised $5,800 to help support people living with
MS in the West Kootenay & Boundary areas.
Come out to the Nelson & District Community
Complex on Friday, December 9, to cheer on the
MS Society while the Nelson Leafs take on the
Castlegar Rebels! The evening hockey game will
feature several fundraising activities for the local
chapter!
Danielle Goodman of Sage Tapas & Wine Bar serving
guests an Arachcini risotto ball.
Fraser Valley
We have 100 tickets for sale for the Abbotsford
Heat hockey game on Friday, November 25.
Partial proceeds from the sale of each ticket will
help support the Fraser Valley Chapter. Watch the
Heat play the San Antonio Rampage from behind
the goalie during this fun night out! Tickets are
$21 each. Please call Deanna McIntyre at 604-
746-9331 or email Deanna.mcintyre@mssociety.ca
On Friday, October 14, Thomas Bunn of Chilliwack
held a MS Society at fundraiser at G.W. Graham
Secondary School. At the “Help Demolish MS”
event, participating students and teachers took
turns smashing a car, by donation. Bunn came
up with the idea earlier in the spring, in support
of his baseball coach who has MS. Steve’s Towing
and Autobody donated the car. Thomas raised
$243.93. Way to go, Thomas!
ArE YOU A MEMbEr?
Annual membership $10
Become a member today!
1-800-268-7582 (BC)
1-866-991-0577 (Yukon)
Look for your membership renewal
enclosed with this newsletter. See
page 3 for more information.
Second Annual Ski to end MS
fundraiser will take place at
Hemlock Resort on Saturday,
January 28, from 9:00am to
4:00pm. For this event, teams
and individual participants
canvas for donations and ski/
board/tube all day, depending
on their means and capacity.
Qualified participants will
receive a free lift pass and
equipment rental for the day. Prizes will be
awarded for top fundraising teams and individuals
at the après ski party. Registration will open soon!
Contact Deanna McIntyre at 604-746-9331 or
email Deanna.mcintyre@mssociety.ca for more
information.
Central Island
The weather, golf, dinner and camaraderie at the
Central Island MS Golf Tournament was fantastic!
Raising over $14,300, the third annual event
was held August 31 at the prestigious Nanaimo
Golf Club. A fabulous door prize of one nights
accommodation in the Bungalow with a Grotto
Spa package for two was generously donated by
Tigh-Na-Mara Spa Resort. The Champion’s trophy
was sponsored by Corinne and Al Jensen. Thanks
to everyone who participated, to all our sponsors
and the efforts by the Golf Committee members
including Director Al Jensen, Coordinators,
Corinne Jensen, Jim Follis and Yvonne Hedley.
See our website for photos of the event.
mssociety.ca/centralisland
nAVIGATInG THE MS MAzE
National education series. The Expert panel will
discuss current treatment options and information
on where and how people impacted by MS can
seek and obtain credible information to assist
them in better managing their MS. The session
will also provide valuable information on how to
make informed decisions about MS and what new
therapies are expected to be in the marketplace
within the coming months.
Saturday, November 19, Coquitlam, BC.
Navigating
the MS Maze
MShope MSheroes Winter 2011
North Vancouver Island
Ski for MS on Sunday,
January 22, 2012.
Registration is now open!
Raise funds and enjoy a
great day at Mount
Washington Alpine Resort.
Proceeds from Ski for
MS help the chapter to
provide local programs
and services to those
affected by MS on North
Vancouver Island and
increase our annual
research donation to find
a cure for MS.
Please contact Cherie Kamenz for a pledge form
at 250-339-0819, toll-free at 1-877-339-0819 or by
email at cherie.kamenz@mssociety.ca.
See our website for photos of the event.
mssociety.ca/northvanisl
Lower Mainland
The Holiday Assistance Fund is a special fund
through which we are able to assist individuals
and families affected by MS by providing gift
certificates redeemable at Save on Foods stores in
the Lower Mainland.
The fund is limited. Please contact us to register
your name at 604-689-3144 if you require this
assistance.
Get your holiday gifts
wrapped by a merry
gang of MS Society
volunteers. By donation
at the Metrotown Mall in
Burnaby.
A national education series
offered by the Multiple Sclerosis
Society of Canada
SAVE THE DATE
Annual General Meeting
of Members in Kelowna
May 26, 2012
More information available
soon in the next issue of MS
Hopes MS Heroes and at our
website mssociety.ca/bc.
175 Bloor Street East
Suite 700, North Tower
Toronto, Ontario
M4W 3R8
Editor Suzanne Jay I Contributors Katie Lapi, Al McLeod, Mark Flexhaug, Kevin Ly, Nelson Agustín, Jim Wolfgang, Karen
Koch, Sharon Bunn, Melissa Huang, Matt Grono, Michelle Eisner, Eric Grass. I Cover Design Katie Lapi I
Design Nelson Agustín
Published 3 times a year, MS hope MS heroes is intended to provide news and information to people living with MS, their families, caregivers,
medical professionals and other stakeholders. Information/opinions contained in this newsletter are obtained from sources believed to be
reliable, but their accuracy cannot be guaranteed. The MS Society does not approve, endorse or recommend specific products or services and
respects an individual’s right to make their own health management decisions. However, we can provide information to assist people in their
decision process. For specific, personalized information, please consult your physician or other health care professional.
MS Society of Canada I BC & Yukon Division I 1501-4330 Kingsway, Burnaby BC V5H 4G7
Ph. 1-800-268-7582 (BC) 1-866-991-0577 (Yukon) I email: info.bc@mssociety.ca I www.mssociety.ca
Charitable Registration # 10774 6174 RR0002
If you are receiving a copy of MS hope MS heroes for the first time – it is because you have been identified as one of our MS heroes who has made a real difference in the fight to end MS. As a
member, donor, sponsor, volunteer, event participant, or researcher – you are part of our world - a world that wants to end MS. If you would prefer to receive this newsletter as an e-mail – or
simply wish to be removed from our mailing list – please contact us at 1-800-268-7582 (BC) 1-866-991-0577 (Yukon) or info.bc@mssociety.ca. Thanks for your support.
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