MSWA Bulletin Spring 16

BULLETIN
THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF MSWA mswa.org.au
SPRING 2016
OVERVIEW ON TYPE 2 DIABETES
EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION FORUMS
SELF-COMPASSION: OUR GREATEST ALLY
LIFE SKILLS: WHAT DOES IT REALLY COST?

MSWA’S MAGAZINE FOR PEOPLE LIVING WITH MS
NURSING Our MS nurses are usually the first point of contact after the neurologist’s
diagnosis of MS. We’re committed to providing holistic supports; providing a greater
understanding of what to expect.
Lou Hatter, Manager: 9365 4809 or Community Nurse: 9365 4888
WILSON CENTRE
29 Parkhill Way (08) 9365 4888
Fax (08) 9451 4453
Freecall 1800 287 367
See Health Team Dept contacts on this page
PHYSIOTHERAPY Our team aims to provide treatment interventions to develop and
maintain mobility and function. Our physiotherapists are experts in movement and function,
and work in partnership with you to attain the highest possible level of independence.
Dave Hathron, Manager: 9365 4837 or Physiotherapy Department: 9365 4834
MEMBER SERVICES
DIRECTORY
GENERAL MANAGER – MEMBER SERVICES
Sue Shapland: 9365 4840
INDIVIDUAL OPTIONS
Manager Community Care Programs,
Gail Palmer: 9365 4851
NDIS TEAM 1800 287 367
OUTREACH GROUPS
Wilson Outreach (Mon-Thurs): 9365 4830
Beechboro Lodge (Mon, Fri): 9377 7800
Southside Outreach (Fri): 9592 9202
Bunbury Outreach (Wed): 9791 2472
Albany Outreach (Fri): 9841 6657
BUNBURY OFFICE
9 Ramsay Street 9791 2472
BUSSELTON OFFICE
1/21 Cammilleri Street 9754 2320
MARGARET DOODY RESPITE HOUSE
Manager, Chris Rush: 9385 9574
FERN RIVER ACCOMMODATION
Manager, Liz Stewart: 9356 2747
HAMILTON HILL ACCOMMODATION
Manager, Jayne O’Sullivan: 9331 5780
TREENDALE GARDENS RESPITE &
ACCOMMODATION
Manager, Linda Kidd: 9725 9209
CONTACT US
If you would like to comment
on anything you read in this
Bulletin please email
bulletin@mswa.org.au
or write to
MSWA, Locked Bag 2,
Bentley DC WA 6983
The Bulletin can also be viewed at
mswa.org.au/bulletin
EDITORIAL COMMITTEE
Greg Brotherson (Editor), Marcus Stafford (CEO),
David Bugden, Sue Shapland, Ros Harman,
Libby Cassidy, Sandra Wallace, Narelle Taylor,
Leonie Wellington, Bhavna Jagtiani, and Dawn Burke.
The Editor welcomes unsolicited submissions.
All articles are subject to a reviewing process.
The views expressed are those of the Authors
and do not necessarily reflect the view of the
Society’s staff, advisors, Directors or officers.
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY Occupational Therapists enable Members, and clients,
to continue their work and other interests for as long as possible through advice, aids
and equipment.
Sandra Wallace, Manager: 9365 4804 or OT Department: 9365 4888
SPEECH PATHOLOGY Our Speech Pathologists provide a targeted service addressing
swallowing difficulties of our Members and clients. Education is given to understand the
associated risks, and strategies for safe swallowing are recommended. Information may be
given for language and articulation difficulties.
Jamaica Grantis, Speech Pathologist: 6454 3140
COUNSELLING Talking with a Counsellor creates a safe, respectful and confidential
environment for you and those close to you to explore options, create change or
gain understanding about your life. Attending counselling with our tertiary qualified
practitioners enables opportunity for personal growth and exploration in a nonjudgemental
environment. To make an appointment please call:
Lisa Papas, Manager: 9365 4836 or Main Counselling line: 9365 4811
SOCIAL WELFARE Social Welfare Officers assist people living with MS and their
families to access services and supports to remain living independently at home. They
specialise in case management, advocacy and sourcing funding options. They provide
information on benefits and entitlements through Centrelink and other government
departments.
Irene Gallagher, Senior Social Welfare Officer: 9365 4835
INDIVIDUAL OPTIONS We provide long-term and time limited in-home supports
including assistance with personal care for people with MS, to help them remain in their
homes. Care and supports are provided through a combination of funding from the Disability
Services Commission (DSC) and our own fundraising efforts. We manage both DSC and
NDIS individually funded care packages.
Contact us on 9365 4851 for more information.
THE NDIS TEAM We provide a convenient and fast one stop shop to enable you to
easily transition to the NDIS as it becomes available in your area. We help you determine
whether you are eligible for assistance under the NDIS; we guide you through the application
process and then we help you develop a comprehensive NDIS plan to maximize your
entitlements.
We support people with all neurological conditions.
Mark Douglas, NDIS Operations Manager: 9365 4824
CAMPS & RECREATION MSWA provides separate recreation camps for Members,
carers, and families, primarily funded by Lotterywest, and for a nominal cost to participants.
These camps provide a break from daily routines, and strengthen friendships and support
networks.
Coordinator for Camps & Recreation: 9365 4843
2 | MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016

Letter from the Editor
DR GREG BROTHERSON
According to Professor Bruce Taylor of the Menzies Institute
for Medical Research, disease-modifying therapies with
proven effectiveness that reduce relapse have been available
for people with multiple sclerosis in Australia since 1996.
What is not known is whether those people on treatment will
acquire less disability over the course of their disease than
those who are untreated.
What is known, however, is that worldwide near enough
to half the 2.3 million people with multiple sclerosis have
a progressive type of the disease. That is, if they were not
diagnosed with primary progressive multiple sclerosis in the
first place their relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis has
moved on to secondary progressive multiple sclerosis. There
is no treatment for progressive types of MS which is why the
International Progressive MS Alliance is so important.
Research money raised by the Alliance is being channelled
directly to the problem, Dr Giancarlo Comi from the Department
of Neurology Scientific Institute in Milan tells us to gather
together scientific experts to speed up new treatments to end
progressive MS. You can read more about progressive MS in
Sue’s research roundup article on page 7.
In the previous issue of the Bulletin you may recall I asked for
contributions from people with multiple sclerosis to tell your
story on how you are ‘stronger than MS.’ Well the answers
came, and in a most remarkable manner.
The news from the Outreach Groups, with pictures, are
absolutely fabulous. People are joining in, contributing and
enjoying the organisation set up by their nimble-minded
coordinators, and as people with multiple sclerosis, and as
Inside | Spring 2016
Letter from the Editor 3
From the desk of the CEO 4
A message from the General Manager – Member Services 5
MSWA History Project 5
Round-up of research and other items of interest 6-7
Everything you wanted to know about
the NDIS but were too afraid to ask 8-9
Overview on type 2 diabetes 10-11
Five tips for getting a mental health boost for people with MS 12
Dr Google – To believe or not to believe? 13
Employment Information Forums 14
Purchasing equipment? We recommend you speak to an OT first! 15
News from social welfare 16
New Perth Bus Port Information Links 16
muMS Group - A shared space to talk about motherhood and MS 17
Newly Diagnosed Seminar 17
a group of like-minded people, they convincingly prove that
they are stronger than the disease. Their actions speak louder
than words ever can.
So is Dawn Burke’s news about the volunteers. People enjoy
working as volunteers at MSWA because the people they
are helping are doing their best to be stronger than MS. And
MSWA is all that much better for it, once again proving to be
stronger than the illness, a nasty piece of work at the best of
times.
In this issue of your Bulletin, you will also find a two-page
spread by Nigel Carey, Manager NDIS Business Development,
on page 8 which contains everything you want to know about
the NDIS. There is also an added bonus of a magnificent
hamper, if after having read the article, you are the first
person to email Nigel with the correct answers to the three
questions.
There is an excellent article about self-compassion being
your greatest ally when dealing with MS by MSWA Counsellor
Simon Rolph. Dr Ong joins the conversation and talks about
how important life skills are when dealing with calamitous
situations.
Of course there are our regular contributions from Ros Harman
and Narelle Taylor, neither of whom are ever stopped short
from living life to the fullest. Ros somehow always sees inside
or through a situation to the meaningful side of what life has
to offer. Narelle tells us what she and her family were doing
when she was diagnosed, and she hasn’t taken her foot off
the accelerator ever since. Coming from different directions,
both ladies are inspirational.
Self-Compassion: Our greatest ally 18-19
That’s life with Narelle 20
Anywhere with Colin 21
Life skills: What does it really cost? 22-23
MSWA awards Pharmacy 777 for their ongoing commitment 24
Fundraising Round Up 25
> Mega Home Lottery > Everywoman Expo > Dinner Auction
Volunteering Update 26-27
iPad donation well-received by
Fiona Stanley Hospital Medical Day Procedure Unit 28
Margaret Doody Respite House news 28
South West regional round up 29
Wilson Outreach news 30
Albany Outreach news 31
Beechboro Outreach news 31
Southside Outreach news 31
MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016 | 3

From the desk of the CEO
MARCUS STAFFORD
Times of change require strategic vision, steered by the
steady hand of confident leadership.
The disability world is currently going through significant
change via the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The
Scheme represents Australia’s most significant change within
the disability sector, and will mean that people living with a
disability will have the choice and control over how they receive
their services and support. But with any change of this scale,
there are teething problems, delays and sometimes confusion.
I hope, through our continued communication, you feel informed
about the impact of the NDIS and what it means for you.
The Scheme has been in a trial phase in WA since 2014 in
three key areas and in the next couple of years, the whole of
WA will be covered. The next step started this month, with
trials expanding to cover Armadale, Murray and Serpentine-
Jarrahdale and Bayswater, Bassendean, Chittering, Toodyay,
York and Northam.
Prior to the roll-out in your area, we will be in touch to help
you with every step of the process.
The reality, however, is that the NDIS won’t deliver as much as
we’d like for everyone, most notably for the newly diagnosed
and low support Members; and for our Members aged over
65, it won’t deliver at all.
That’s where our service provision to people with other
neurological conditions comes in. While it’s nothing new and
a service we’ve been delivering for years, it takes on an even
greater importance in the current climate.
Basically the NDIS ‘dollars’ that flow from people with other
neurological conditions, and their NDIS funding, will finance
our ability to serve people with MS who aren’t eligible for
inclusion in the Scheme.
This will allow MSWA to more formally extend our service
provision to the people we are here to serve, and continue our
growth plans and ambitions.
I believe now is the perfect time to embrace a new-look logo
that builds on MSWA’s history and reputation, but presents a
more contemporary and accurate look and feel. Put simply,
we need to tell the story of who we are now and what we do.
So, I am delighted to present this first Bulletin to you with our
new logo and branding, which you would have seen from our
cover page, but here it is:
So change definitely awaits us, and we are ready and excited
by the opportunities that this change brings. The strong
foundations that we have built over the last decade position
us perfectly to continue to provide more and more services to
people with MS, and to cement our leadership position as the
highest funder of research in Australia.
We recently consolidated this position, with a record breaking
contribution of $2.2 million towards MS research. That
includes a second year of funding for the five WA based
research projects that received fellowships from MSWA
in 2015. This important work ranges from bio-medical to
applied research and leaves me with an optimism I have not
felt before.
We also continue to grow and develop our Member Services
Team, delivering physiotherapy, nursing, occupational therapy
and care support work – and all points in between, for people
with MS and all neurological conditions. Services have been
going up 12% year on year, with the highest quality rating.
I am also really pleased with our progress for new developments
across WA which are all in various stages of progression:
• our Bunbury Community and Health Services Centre will be
completed before Christmas;
• our northern suburbs accommodation and services facility
in Butler is currently in the hands of the planners and is next
in the pipeline; and
• once the various building requirements have been
met, we will commence the build on our Shenton Park
accommodation facility.
Where some see the problems, we only see the opportunities.
We say that now, but it hasn’t always been that way. A
decade or so ago we were well intentioned, with lofty goals,
but little substance. Today we are acknowledged as a leading
organisation with the finest team of over 600 staff. That
allows us to relish the opportunities that the new world of the
NDIS marketplace presents.
It allows us to continue the strong growth of Member services
and to continue to lead research funding in Australia.
Importantly it also allows us to say, with confidence, that
we will support you on every step of your unique journey.
Whether it’s about grappling with the difficulties of new
diagnosis, struggling with the planning process of the
NDIS, or something else…we will be there for you.
4 | MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016

A message from the General Manager –
Member Services
SUE SHAPLAND RN, BN
“We should always have three friends in our lives - one who walks ahead who we look up to
and follow; one who walks beside us, who is with us every step of our journey; and then,
one who we reach back for and bring along after we’ve cleared the way.” Michelle Obama
There is so much going on at the moment both here and
overseas it’s hard not to get caught up in the hype and feel
that at times we live in a slightly crazy world; but also a pretty
lucky country.
I know you should never talk politics, but the possibility of
Donald Trump being the next President of the USA is a bit of
a challenge for me! The ongoing random acts of terror make
us both concerned but also grateful that for the most part we
live in a country buffered from much of this unpleasantness.
Watching the news isn’t always enjoyable although the
Olympics provided some much needed respite.
I think we can often focus on the negatives and then fail to
appreciate what we can be grateful for both now and into the
future. We are really lucky we have subsidised access to all
of the MS therapies; many countries including the UK don’t.
This provides greater choice and the opportunity to switch
therapies if things aren’t going as planned.
Our health system has its faults and issues but overall it’s
pretty good and the standard is high and access relatively
easy. Although if you have been ramped in an ambulance
waiting to get into a busy ED that may be harder to reconcile!
The NDIS is another reason to be glad we are living in Australia.
When this scheme reaches full roll out, over 400,000 people
with a disability will be participating and receiving funding to
access the supports they need. Whilst access is currently limited
to designated trial sites, the planning for full roll out is underway;
see our double page NDIS spread in this issue on page 8. We
hear many positive stories, from Members and others, who
are now in receipt of individual funding for the first time. This
continually validates the decision for this massive policy change.
MSWA has had another fantastically successful financial
year! The amazing job done by our Fundraising and Events
Teams is envied by most. As a profit for purpose organisation,
this provides additional income for us to support research and
to grow supports and services for our Members.
We delivered a 12% increase in Member Services hours
compared to last year and our staff has grown steadily to
accommodate the increased demand of NDIS and WA
NDIS funded plans. We have, and will continue to grow our
programs and supports. Just recently, we added yoga in
Bunbury and massage in Margaret River and Northam to our
suite of programs.
Construction of our Bunbury Services Hub is steaming ahead
and we look forward to completion towards the end of the
year; the regional staff and Bunbury Outreach Groups can’t
wait! This is really very exciting and MSWA has funded the
land purchase and build through our own funds.
We recently farewelled Marilyn Sylvester, long term Manager
of Physiotherapy. Marilyn had been here at MSWA for 23
years and saw much change and great improvements in what
we could offer, and staffing levels, during her term. We wish
her well in her retirement and thank her for all her hard work
and dedication.
The weather has been pretty cold and the flu season has
been upon us. I hope you have managed to keep warm and
stay well and I know we are all looking forward to having an
enjoyable spring!
Please remember our Member Services team is here
to provide you with information, advice and support;
please don’t hesitate to give us a call on 08 9365 4888.
MSWA HISTORY PROJECT
The History Project has been brewing for some time (since
1987, actually, when MSWA moved from Clontarf to our new
Centre here at Wilson), but now we are getting really serious
about it all. We have assembled a small team of writers and
set the rather ambitious target of completing the project by the
end of next year.
Now we are asking for your assistance. If you have any
photos you think might be useful, you can mail them to
us at MSWA Locked Bag 2 Bentley DC WA 6983. Should
you like to write to us about your recollections our e-mail
address is: bulletin@mswa.org.au
MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016 | 5

ROUND-UP OF RESEARCH
AND OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST
SUE SHAPLAND RN, BN
Here we bring you some interesting research updates from
various sites around the world.
Does the month you were born affect your risk of
developing MS?
A large study which included a very detailed survey was
undertaken to determine whether there is a pattern to birth
month for people with multiple sclerosis.
Data from more than 21,000 people with MS in the UK was
included and the study found that people diagnosed with MS
are more likely than average to have been born in April, and
less likely than average to have been born in November.
The results of the study suggest that environmental factors very
early in life contribute to the risk of MS. One of these factors
could be low sunlight exposure during winter pregnancies,
leading to low maternal vitamin D levels which in some way
increase the risk of developing MS later in life. Other factors
such as the mother’s exposure to seasonal infections or
seasonal differences in diet could also play a part.
Comment by authors: Birth month is only one of a number
of environmental factors that could influence the risk of
developing MS. Others include smoking and exposure to
infections, especially Epstein-Barr virus which causes
glandular fever.
Rodríguez Cruz PM, Matthews L, Boggild M, et al.
Are headaches more common
during a relapse?
Headaches are more common in
people with MS and this study
investigated if headaches were
more likely to occur during a
relapse than remission.
The study in Iran compared the reports from
57 people with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis and 57
people without a neurological condition (controls).
People with MS were questioned during a relapse and again
three months later. It was found that headaches were more
common during a relapse, particularly migraines. However,
headaches were also more common in people with MS during
remission, when compared to the general population.
Nearly 50% of people with MS having a relapse also
experienced a headache, compared with 38.6% in remission
and 27.7% in the control group. The most common type of
headache to experience during a relapse was a migraine,
followed by tension headache.
Headaches during a relapse were reported to be severe and
described as compressing. People who had been diagnosed
with MS in the last three years were more likely to experience a
headache during relapse than those who had been diagnosed
for longer.
Togha M, Abbasi Khoshsirat N, Moghadasi AN, et al.
Could Pilates have cognitive
benefits as well as physical?
In the past, people with MS
were advised to avoid exercise,
especially activities that might
be tiring. However, a number of
studies have shown that regular,
moderate exercise is a good thing.
Pilates is one of many options
available to stay active.
This study included 20 people with MS, split into two groups.
The first adhered to clinical Pilates and the second a traditional
exercise program for eight weeks.
The study found that both clinical programs improved
performance on some physical tests. Those in the Pilates
group had significant improvements in balance, fatigue
and tiredness and they had greater improvements in their
cognitive symptoms and quality of life when compared to the
traditional exercise group participants.
Küçük F, Kara B, Poyraz EÇ, Idiman. J Phys Ther Sci. 2016
Mar;28(3):761-8. Epub 2016 Mar 31.
Some forms of MS may be hereditary
After many years of saying that MS is not passed down the
generations, new research is now saying the opposite.
Researchers from Canada, led by Prof. Carles Vilariño-Güell,
report they have proven that MS can result from a single genetic
mutation on a gene called NR1H3. This, they say, produces a
protein that acts as an ‘on-off switch’ for other genes.
6 | MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016

Just one in 1,000 people with MS have this specific mutation
according to the researchers. However, the finding uncovers the
biological pathway that leads to the rapidly progressive form of
MS, which accounts for 15% of people with the disease.
The researchers used blood samples from 4,400 people with
MS and 8,600 blood relatives as part of a 20-year project
funded by the MS Society of Canada and the Multiple Sclerosis
Scientific Research Foundation.
They found the mutation in two Canadian families in which
several members lived with a rapidly progressive type of the
disease. In these families, two-thirds of the people with the
genetic mutation developed MS.
Childhood obesity linked to higher risk of MS
A collaboration between researchers from Canada and the
UK has found a causal relationship between obesity and the
risk of developing multiple sclerosis. Several observational
studies suggest that obesity (measured by Body Mass Index
or BMI) in a person’s earlier stages of life is associated with an
increased risk of developing MS. The research also suggested
a relationship between the decrease in vitamin D levels as a
person’s weight increases as a possible mechanism for the
increased risk.
The Progressive MS Alliance Updates
More than 2.3 million people live with MS worldwide; over one
million have progressive MS. Up to 15% are diagnosed with
primary progressive MS. Whilst there have been advances in
understanding other forms of MS, progressive MS remains
difficult to understand and treat.
The International Alliance was set up to focus research efforts
on progressive MS; Australia is represented through MSRA.
Initial funding was allocated for 22 projects designed to
improve understanding of genetic and biological processes,
repurpose existing drugs and speed up clinical trials. These
one to two year research projects began in 2015, and focus
on six areas:
• Clinical trials and outcome measures
• Biomarkers of progression
• Gene studies
• Rehabilitation trials
• Underlying pathology of progression
• Developing new disease models
Cancer risk associated with Mitoxantrone
Mitoxantrone is an anti-cancer drug that was sometimes
used to treat active MS. Dosage was limited as it is known to
cause damage to the heart muscles. It is already known that
there is an associated increased risk of cancer. This study
followed a group of German patients for a number of years.
They reported that 5% of people or 1 in 20 got cancer. Whilst
life is associated with a cancer risk, this appears high and is
one of the reasons that use of this agent has dwindled.
Conclusion: While the overall incidence of malignancies
was only mildly increased, the risk of leukaemia and
colorectal cancer was heightened. If confirmed, post-therapy
colonoscopy could become advisable.
Buttmann M, Seuffert L, Mäder U, Toyka KV. Malignancies
after mitoxantrone for multiple sclerosis: A retrospective
cohort study. Neurology. 2016 Jun 7;86(23):2203-7.
Websites of interest:
MS in children online resources from MSIF
Here you can find information about MS in children and
download a parent’s guide.
Visit: msif.org/about-ms/childhood-ms/
MStranslate
This Australian website seeks to bring together “the wealth of
information on MS in a way that makes it accessible to every
element of the community”.
There are a range of links and summaries of various research
studies including those looking into lifestyle modification e.g.
the multiple benefits of exercise.
They collaborate with a range of Australian researchers
including Professor George Jelinek, head of the
Neuroepidemiology Unit at the University of Melbourne.
Visit: mstranslate.com.au
Read more at:
mswa.org.au/researchupdate
MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016 | 7

EVERYTHING YOU WANTED
TO KNOW ABOUT THE NDIS
BUT WERE TOO AFRAID TO ASK
NIGEL CAREY, MANAGER NDIS BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
There may still be some confusion and uncertainty about the
National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and what it can
deliver for MSWA Members.
We hope the following article cuts through any misconceptions
about the NDIS and clearly outlines how it will increasingly
benefit you.
As an extra incentive, you also have a chance to win a
magnificent hamper! Read further to find out more.
What is the National Disability Insurance Scheme or NDIS
for short?
In a nutshell, it’s a Government scheme to support those
people living with a disability which affects their ability to take
part in everyday activities.
This includes people living with all neurological conditions
including MS, Stroke, Parkinson’s Disease, Motor Neurone
Disease, Huntington’s Disease, and Acquired Brain Injury.
The NDIS can provide funding for supports to assist you with
your daily living, home help, personal care, carer respite, allied
health interventions, community participation and funding for
aids, equipment and home modifications.
There is also a focus on early intervention where access to
early supports can potentially reduce the longer term impact
of disability on individuals.
This is highly relevant for people with MS. For example, NDIS
can provide funding to help people with MS who want to stay
in the workforce but struggle with fatigue. NDIS then comes
in to play to fund home help, transport assistance and even
aids in the workplace.
What is so different about the NDIS from what happens now?
There are a number of important differences. Firstly, more
timely access to funding for necessary supports.
And for the first time, you will be in the driver’s seat! You
will have choice and control on how, when and where your
supports are provided; and by whom.
Funds are allocated directly to you for this purpose.
You can also choose the service providers you want. As MSWA
is a registered service provider, we hope you will allow us to
continue to provide you with the services and supports you need.
Another important difference - once you enter the NDIS, it is
an entitlement for the remainder of your life. You do not need
to keep applying for the services and you can have increased
supports if your needs change.
Sounds great. There must be a catch. What are the eligibility
criteria and what will it cost me?
To be eligible you must be under 65 years of age and a
resident of Australia.
The scheme is free and there is no co-payment required for
services.
The scheme is currently available in the following areas:
• Shires of Kalamunda, Shire of Mundaring and the City of Swan
• Lower Southwest, Cockburn and Kwinana
• Armadale, Murray and Serpentine-Jarrahdale (as of 1 October)
From 1 Jan 2017, it will also be available in Bayswater,
Bassendean, Chittering, Toodyay, York and Northam.
The full state roll-out will take place from July 2017.
Am I eligible for NDIS supports even if I am employed full
time or part time?
Yes, the NDIS is not means tested and there is no co-payment.
It is based on need and what is reasonable and necessary for
achieving your goals.
It seems to open up supports and services for a lot more
people. So how do you apply? Is it complicated?
All you need to do is complete a simple eligibility form.
What then?
If you are eligible, you meet with an NDIS planner and review
the following:
• What do you want to improve in your life?
• What are the personal goals you want to achieve?
• What are the barriers to achieving these goals?
• What support do you need to help you achieve your goals?
Can you provide some examples of goals?
They can be wide and varied.
A goal can be aspirational such as, “I want to return to the
workplace” or “I want to go on holiday with my family with
supports in place”.
A goal may relate to maintaining your current life activities,
your social network or your garden.
A goal may even relate to everyday activities such as getting
dressed, taking a shower, making meals or getting out of bed.
8 | MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016

That certainly seems a more comprehensive approach!
Do you then put in supports to help achieve these goals?
That’s right!
For example, if your goal is to be more social, say to go to
family events or join in on social outings, your funding can
provide in home cleaning, shopping assistance, relevant
mobility equipment and transport. This enables you to more
fully participate in the community.
Another example; say you run your own business but fatigue
issues are affecting your ability to manage both work and
home life. NDIS can provide funding to support you to manage
fatigue and cognitive issues, including OT assessments of
your work place and transport for the days you can’t drive.
This sounds ok in theory but what about in practice? Does it really
work? Do you have any real life examples of how its worked?
Later in this article; you can read about the lived experiences
of two MSWA Members who have been through the process.
They have certainly enjoyed and benefitted from their NDIS
journey!
So how can MSWA help its Members navigate the NDIS?
We know many Members don’t know what the NDIS is all
about and even what they can ask for.
We now have a dedicated NDIS team ready to help you assess
your eligibility and to understand your goals and develop a
comprehensive plan with a range of supports.
Our team is here to answer all your questions and help you
develop tailored plans which maximize your entitlements.
We also understand MS, its individuality, its variable course
and unpredictable nature. This experience allows us to more
effectively advocate for you.
Incidentally, we will also work with you after the plan is
implemented, to ensure it remains relevant and meets your
changing needs.
In summary, the MSWA NDIS team ensures a smooth and
easy NDIS customer journey.
I want to contact the MSWA NDIS team immediately! How
do I do this?
You can contact any of the following MSWA NDIS team
members:
Mark Douglas: Operations Manager
Email: mark.douglas@mswa.org.au Ph: 08 9365 4824
Christine Richards: Client Relationship Coordinator
Email: christine.richards@mswa.org.au Ph: 08 9365 4867
Pranjal Pawar: Client Relationship Coordinator
Email: pranjal.pawar@mswa.org.au Ph: 08 9365 4810
The MSWA NDIS team has sent out letters to our Members
in Armadale, Murray and Serpentine-Jarrahdale. These areas
are in the new trial site which began on 1 October. We hope
to have the opportunity to meet up with you personally if you
live in these areas.
We will also be present at a number of expos and events in
the upcoming months. Please contact us to find out more.
We would be happy to talk further with you!
Finally, your chance to win a magnificent hamper!
Just answer the following three questions about the NDIS:
• What does the acronym ‘NDIS’ stand for?
• What is the age limit for the NDIS?
• Which areas did the NDIS expand to on 1 October?
Email your answers to nigel.carey@mswa.org.au
However, be quick!
Only the first correct reply wins!
My NDIS Story: The Lived Experiences of MSWA Members
Anita Gamba
Before MSWA and the NDIS I was sad, scared, isolated and lonely.
My body and my life were atrophying. My future looked bleak.
Enter MSWA and the NDIS and immediately life exploded with
possibilities and potentials. I was nurtured, cared for and befriended.
Let me list a few of the gifts I have received through the NDIS and
MSWA partnership. I have had railings installed in my bathroom,
pool, and walkways. I receive physio and occupational therapies.
A bespoke wheelchair was designed and gifted to me. I can now
move safely around my home and in the broader community.
What greater gift is there other than rekindling my passion for life?
I only hope that I can give back as much as I have received
from these dedicated people.
Kylie
Kylie lives in the Lower South West. She experiences cognitive
symptoms as part of her MS. She is very aware of these
symptoms and they are a cause of great stress and anxiety
for her.
Kylie’s WA NDIS plan included a transdisciplinary approach
to allow her to maintain her independence and well-being at
home and in the community.
Over the last 12 months Kylie’s MSWA OT has been able to
provide the following services:
• Custom scripting of a new light weight manual wheelchair
to maintain independent mobility within the home.
• Trial, scripting and purchase of a mobility scooter to allow
Kylie independent access to the community. She is now
able to independently take her puppy for walks and venture
into town without having to rely on others for assistance.
• In-home strategies to help Kylie manage her cognitive symptoms.
One of Kylie’s therapy goals was to be able to prepare a meal
independently for her husband and herself, one day a week.
Kylie’s MSWA OT completed a home visit and task analysis of
Kylie cooking a recipe which she selected.
Her OT was able to provide strategies during this task to support
Kylie in:
• Managing MS cognitive and physical fatigue
• Reducing anxiety
• Managing cognitive symptoms which make this seemingly
mundane task very difficult and overwhelming for Kylie
Outcome:
Kylie is now able to prepare a meal independently for her and
her husband, using individualised strategies put in place by
her OT.
MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016 | 9

OVERVIEW ON
TYPE 2 DIABETES
Type 2 diabetes is a progressive condition in which the body
becomes resistant to the normal effects of insulin and/or
gradually loses the capacity to produce enough insulin in
the pancreas. We do not know what causes type 2 diabetes,
but it is associated with several modifiable lifestyle risk
factors. Type 2 diabetes also has strong genetic and family
related risk factors.
It is diagnosed when the pancreas does not produce enough
insulin (reduced insulin production), the insulin does not work
effectively, and/or the cells of the body do not respond to
insulin effectively (known as insulin resistance).
Type 2 diabetes represents 85 to 90 percent of all cases
of diabetes. It usually develops in adults over the age of 45
years but is increasingly occurring in younger age groups
including children, adolescents and young adults. It is more
likely in people with a family history of type 2 diabetes or from
particular ethnic backgrounds.
For some people the first sign may be a complication
of diabetes such as a heart attack, vision problems
or a foot ulcer.
Type 2 diabetes is managed with a combination of regular
physical activity, healthy eating and weight reduction. As type
2 diabetes is often progressive, most people will need oral
medications and/or insulin injections in addition to lifestyle
changes over time.
What happens with type 2 diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes develops over a long period of time.
During this period, insulin resistance starts and this is where
the insulin is increasingly ineffective at managing the blood
glucose levels. As a result of this insulin resistance, the
pancreas responds by producing greater and greater amounts
of insulin to try and achieve some degree of management of
the blood glucose levels.
As this over production of insulin occurs over a very long
period of time, the cells in the pancreas that produce
insulin wear themselves out, so that by the time someone
is told that they have type 2 diabetes, they have lost
50-70% of those insulin producing cells. This means that
type 2 diabetes is a combination of ineffective insulin and
not enough insulin. It is a progressive condition and the
progression is related to the ongoing destruction of the
cells in the pancreas that produce insulin.
Type 2 diabetes can often initially be managed with healthy
eating and regular physical activity. However, over time most
people with type 2 diabetes will also need tablets and many
will also need insulin. It is important to note that this is just
the natural progression of the condition, and taking tablets or
insulin as soon as they are required can result in fewer long
term complications.
What causes type 2 diabetes?
There is no single cause of type 2 diabetes, but there are
well established risk factors. Some of the risk factors can be
controlled and other people are born with it. People are at a
higher risk of getting type 2 diabetes if they:
• have a family history of diabetes;
• are older (i.e. over 55 years of age) as the risk increases as
we age;
• are over 45 years of age and overweight;
• are over 45 years of age and have high blood pressure;
• are over 35 years of age and are from the Pacific Islands,
the Indian subcontinent or Chinese cultural background; and
• have given birth to a child over 4.5 kg, had gestational diabetes
when pregnant, or have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome.
Symptoms
In type 2 diabetes many people have no symptoms at all.
As type 2 diabetes is commonly, but not always, diagnosed
at a later age, signs are sometimes dismissed as a part of
getting older. In some cases, by the time type 2 diabetes
is diagnosed, the complications of diabetes may already be
present. Symptoms include:
• being excessively thirsty
• passing more urine
• feeling tired and lethargic
• always feeling hungry
• having cuts that heal slowly
• itching / skin infections
• blurred vision
• gradually putting on weight
• mood swings
• headaches
• feeling dizzy
• leg cramps
10 | MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016

Eating Well
Healthy eating and an active lifestyle are important for
everyone, including people with diabetes. Having a healthy
diet and being active is an important part of managing
diabetes because it will help manage the blood glucose levels
and body weight.
Meals that are recommended for people with diabetes are
the same as for those without diabetes; there is no need to
prepare separate meals or buy special foods.
Everyone including family and friends can enjoy the
same healthy and tasty meals together. As a guide, it is
recommended people with diabetes follow the Australian
Dietary Guidelines - Healthy Eating for Adults and Children.
What should I be eating?
Eating the recommended amount of food from the five food
groups will provide you with the nutrients you need to be
healthy and prevent chronic diseases such as obesity and
heart disease.
To help manage your diabetes:
• Eat regular meals and spread them evenly throughout
the day
• Eat a diet lower in fat, particularly saturated fat
• If you take insulin or diabetes tablets, you may need
to have it between meal snacks
• It is important to recognise that everyone’s needs are
different. For individualised advice, all people with
diabetes should see an Accredited Practicing Dietitian
in conjunction with their diabetes team.
Energy balance
Matching the amount of food you eat with the amount of
energy you burn through activity and exercise is important.
Putting too much fuel in your body can lead to weight gain.
Being overweight or obese can make it difficult to manage
your diabetes and can increase the risk of heart disease,
stroke and cancer.
Limit foods high in energy such as takeaway foods, sweet
biscuits, cakes, sugar sweetened drinks and fruit juice, lollies,
chocolate and savoury snacks. Some people have a healthy
diet but eat too much. Reducing your portion size is one way
to decrease the amount of energy you eat. Being active has
many benefits. Along with healthy eating, regular physical
activity can help you to manage your blood glucose levels,
reduce your blood fats (cholesterol and triglycerides) and
maintain a healthy weight.
Exercise
Everybody benefits from regular exercise. For people who
have diabetes, or are at risk of diabetes, it plays an important
role in keeping them healthy.
For a person with diabetes, exercise helps:
• insulin to work better, which will improve your diabetes
management;
• maintain a healthy weight;
• lower your blood pressure;
• reduce your risk of heart disease; and
• reduce stress.
Taking care of the feet
Ulcers or other lesions on the feet are a serious danger for
people with diabetes. It is important to avoid foot damage
especially for middle-aged and elderly people.
It is important to:
• always inspect your feet before and after exercise
• avoid exercise that causes stress to the feet (e.g. running)
Exercise which poses minimal weight or stress on the feet
is ideal i.e. riding an exercise bike or brisk walking in good
footwear. Wear comfortable and well-fitting shoes. See a
podiatrist for foot care and advice.
Maintaining a healthy weight
One of the most important aspects of diabetes management
is to maintain a healthy body weight. Being overweight not
only increases the risk of heart disease, stroke and some
cancers, it also makes diabetes harder to manage. Small
changes in diet such as reducing portion sizes and swapping
to low fat dairy products, can help to achieve a healthy body
weight and manage diabetes.
A small weight loss (5-10% of body weight) can make a big
difference to diabetes management and, as a consequence,
reduce the risk of developing complications like heart
disease, stroke and some cancers. If there is a risk of
pre-diabetes (impaired fasting glucose or impaired glucose
tolerance), losing 5-10% of a person’s current body weight
can prevent type 2 diabetes in up to nearly 6 out of 10 people.
Article Credits:
Diabetes Australia
Dee Lucey, Community Access Nurse
MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016 | 11

FIVE TIPS FOR GETTING
A MENTAL HEALTH BOOST
FOR PEOPLE WITH MS
LISA MARSHALL
Multiple sclerosis is a condition that affects approximately 2.5 million people worldwide. It is by no means a rare condition, yet it
can make daily life stressful and overwhelming. Maintaining mental health is very important for all people but maybe even more
so for those with a physical ailment. Here are some ways to help improve your mental health and positive outlook when you’re
living with multiple sclerosis.
1
2
3
Find a support network
When no one around you truly understands what it’s like
to have MS, your mental well-being can suffer. Finding
an MS support group puts you in contact with people
who may have been dealing with the effects of MS
longer than you, or are experiencing similar challenges.
These groups offer advice, support, and empathy which
can be hard to find in loved ones who do not fully
understand the impact of MS.
Support groups do not necessarily have to meet in
person. With the unlimited connections the Internet
provides, online support groups are also a suitable and
equally beneficial alternative for many people who are
living with this ailment.
Meditate regularly
Meditation has been shown to both improve mental
health and lessen chronic pain. Additionally, regular
meditation can result in a more positive outlook and
decreased stress levels. Learning to meditate without
guidance can be a challenge, but with the rise of
meditation in mainstream culture, it’s likely you have a
knowledgeable instructor near you. You can also turn to
online guided tutorials to learn how to meditate properly
from the comfort of your home.
Find a form of exercise that works for you
Though exercise with MS can prove difficult, simply being
outdoors can improve your mindset. If possible, exercise
provides added endorphins which have been shown to
benefit mood. Even mild exercise such as a relaxed hike
along a well-kept trail will work as an excellent mental
health break. It’s difficult to be negative when surrounded
by beautiful scenery, particularly if you make outings a
part of your regular routine.
Another great form of exercise for people with MS is
swimming. Spending some time in the pool, whether
you’re doing leisurely-paced laps or water walking,
provides a great cardio workout while being easy on
the joints.
Play games for your memory
Memory loss is a fairly common symptom of MS, which
can be both debilitating and frustrating. The ability to
recall information is a key component to independence,
which is something no one wants to lose. Playing games
meant to maintain memory can help eliminate the
aggravation of forgetfulness.
Remember the positives in your life
Making a list of things you love, appreciate, and are
grateful for can be a useful prop for bad days. Taking
the time to remember how many things you have to be
happy about is often one of the most mentally helpful
activities a person can do. Pin the list somewhere
you see it regularly and don’t be afraid to add to it.
Positivity plays an enormous role in mental health
and while it can be difficult to maintain, having
a physical reminder or motivation, like a list, can
help. Some studies are even showing that a positive
outlook can improve your physical health alongside your
mental wellbeing.
Giving in to frustration can be easy, but remembering to
care for your mental health and overall well-being is an
important part of living. MS may mean more physical
difficulties but it does not have to affect your mental
health. With support, beneficial routines, and a positive
outlook, you can live a more fulfilling life.
Lisa Marshall wanted to start AussieWell.net after meeting some of her long-distance online friends on a trip. Being from
the States, they had a lot of ‘typical’ questions about living in Australia, and so Lisa decided to provide a newcomer’s
guide, a go-to for any and all info on moving to or living in the country. Now that she invests a lot of time in her site,
she continues to think about the safety, wellness, and overall lifestyle advice she can spread to Aussies and their visitors.
Online resources: artofliving.org/au-en/benefits-meditation-0
intheswim.com/eGuides/burning-calories-in-the-pool
4
5
12 | MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016

DR GOOGLE –
TO BELIEVE OR
NOT TO BELIEVE?
LIESL MURDOCH, MSWA COUNSELLOR
Which of you reading this article would put your hand up
if asked, “Have you googled MS?” I imagine that most of
you would. And you would not be alone in answering in the
affirmative. In fact, recent research suggests that 8 out of 10
internet users have looked online for health information and
that 66% of these searches were related to a specific disease
or medical problem. 1
Information found on the net can be helpful. It can increase
your knowledge about MS, its possible causes, current and
future drug treatments and help with symptom control and
management. This new found knowledge can also improve
your communication with health professionals, assist you to
make better, more informed decisions regarding your care
and provide you with a sense of control and mastery over this
often unpredictable illness. However, access to this digital
library is not without its pitfalls.
Entering ‘multiple sclerosis’ into the google search engine
will, in 0.41 seconds, produce a staggering 21,200,000
results! But are all these entries verified and accurate?
Regrettably not, for much of what is on the net is unverified,
inaccurate and often contradictory. It is an urban myth that
all that is written on the web has its foundations in honesty
and integrity.
So how does one decide what is reputable? This can be done
by following a few simple guidelines.
Visit reputable websites
Sites ending in edu.au, gov.au and org.au will take you to
dependable Australian websites e.g. mswa.org.au
• edu – pertains to an educational site such as a university
• gov – government bodies
• org – prominent health organisation
American sites: use the above but drop off the ‘au’
UK sites: replace ‘au’ with ‘uk’.
Look at the credentials of the author
• Articles written by people who are specialists in their fields
will post their qualifications and usually supply an address
for correspondence.
• Thorough academic research is usually undertaken by
a team of researchers so multiple authors suggest the
information may be of greater quality and reliability.
• ‘Testimonials’ may give a personal edge to a story but one
person’s experience cannot be broadly applied across a
greater population.
Look at the date of publication
• It’s hard to believe but the internet has been around for
over 20 years so the more recent the date of publication
the better.
Look at what type of language is being used
• Academic information is often presented using formal/
scholarly language.
• Simplified language and sweeping generalisations or claims
can infer a lack of accurate and plausible research and
information.
Does the site feature online/interactive ‘click on here’ ads?
• Often, less reputable sites have ads which make
unreasonable promises. e.g. “lose 10 kg in 10 days”.
Such ads would suggest the accuracy of featured
information may also be as improbable.
• Ads also suggest the web page would not be in existence
without them. Reputable sources have large organisations
and corporations funding their websites.
Avoid sites that require payment for information
Payment for information implies that someone is trying to
make money from the site and their motives in sharing their
information may be less than noble.
Navigating the web for solid and accurate information can be
a daunting task but it can be done. By using these guidelines,
you can increase the integrity of the information you are
reading. The main thing to remember is to be selective in what
you browse through and take on board. Dr Google should be
seen as a complementary tool to your MS management and
not the principal source of information and understanding
about MS. The internet can assist you but it cannot be
an adequate substitute for the knowledge and clinical
guidance by your doctor and other health professionals
involved in your care.
Don’t forget the MSWA Health Team can help source
trusted articles, links and verify information for you.
Contact us on 9365 4888 or via our website mswa.org.au
1
www.pewinternet.org/files/old-media//Files/Reports/2011/PIP_Health_Topics.pdf
MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016 | 13

EMPLOYMENT
INFORMATION FORUMS
LISA MARSHALL
Earlier in the year, an Employment Forum planned for Bunbury
became an informal gathering better suited to the smaller
numbers who attended. Joshua Boyes, a lawyer from Maurice
Blackburn Lawyers, shared his knowledge and experience of
legal issues on a variety of topics including:
• The potential availability of multiple disability insurances
through Superannuation accounts
• The potential consequences on insurance benefits if you
roll over your Superannuation accounts and/or lower your
working hours per week
• Eligibility requirements included in insurance policies
• Definitions to be met by claimants for the approval of
disability benefits
• Reasonableness in informing an employer of a recently
diagnosed condition and each party’s obligations
The MSWA Employment Forums are a great opportunity
for Members to find out more information on issues such
as disclosing your MS to an employer, your rights and
responsibilities at work as well as accessing your
superannuation and travel insurance. The Forums provide an
explanation of the services offered by the MSWA OT Team;
supporting people living with MS to stay in the workforce
longer. These include fatigue management programs,
employment assistance, assistive technology solutions and a
sleep advisory service.
The next Employment Forum which will be facilitated by
MSWA and Maurice Blackburn Lawyers, is planned for 1
November 2016 from 5.30 - 7.30pm in Perth. If you are
interested in attending, please contact Sarah Lorrimar
on 9365 4858 or Sarah.Lorrimar@mswa.org.au.
Superannuation Insurance Benefits Joshua Boyes, Maurice Blackburn Lawyer
The typical Australian is severely under-insured for disability,
and it is important to explore every avenue of potential benefit
available to a person when they are unable to work due to a
medical condition. Gaining some monetary benefit to replace
a person’s income-earning capacity can become especially
difficult at times when the condition is such that a person is
unable to take advantage of statutory schemes, such as claiming
for WorkCover payments or a claim through the Insurance
Commission of WA after a motor vehicle accident, for instance.
With the introduction of MYSUPER in January 2014, it is now
compulsory for Super Funds to provide members with default
life and disability insurance. This means when you join with an
employer nominated fund, insurance will be included by default
without the need to fill out a medical questionnaire. However,
Funds have been providing default life and disability insurance
for many years prior to the introduction of MYSUPER.
Not only is life and disability insurance offered by default, but
it is also usually provided with automatic acceptance, meaning
as long as you meet basic eligibility requirements such as being
‘at work’ and doing your usual hours and duties when you join
the fund, you will likely be covered. Pre-existing conditions
are often covered which is a huge advantage, especially for
those people suffering from chronic illness or a family history
of illness which would otherwise limit their insurance options
if seeking cover elsewhere in a stand alone policy.
There are two common types of disability insurance offered
by Super Funds:
• Income protection (IP) which generally provides monthly
payments of 75-85% of your previous earnings (capped at
a specified amount) while you can’t work for a period of 2
years, 5 years or sometimes even up to the age 67
• Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) insurance is a lump sum
you can claim if you cannot return to any work that you are
educated, trained or experienced in as a result of injury or illness
Most Australians have more than one super fund so it’s
important to remember that you could have multiple TPD
insurances if you hold multiple superannuation accounts, and
if so, you can make multiple lump sum claims. IP policies,
however, will usually have an offset clause meaning you can
only claim on one policy and your overall payments could not
exceed 75-85% of your previous income. If you have several
super funds and are thinking of consolidating them all into
one, it is important to check what insurance entitlements you
might lose so you can make an informed decision.
If you or someone you know has already stopped work and the
insurance ceased or the account has been closed, you may still
be able to claim. As long as your account and insurance were
active on the date you stopped work due to health reasons you
should be entitled to claim, even if it was years ago.
If you make a claim and it is rejected, you can lodge an internal
complaint. If you are still not happy with the decision or if you
think the fund or insurer is stalling the claim, you can appeal
to the Financial Ombudsman Service or Superannuation
Complaints Tribunal or take your case to a Court.
Contact Maurice Blackburn on 1800 196 050 for free
advice on any superannuation or insurance questions, to
check your cover or to help with a claim.
14 | MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016

PURCHASING EQUIPMENT?
WE RECOMMEND YOU SPEAK
TO AN OT FIRST!
A large part of an Occupational Therapist’s (OT) work is
providing information, doing assessments and recommending
and prescribing the correct equipment to match the
individual’s needs.
The wide range of equipment includes chairs and seating, rails
and ramps, aids in the kitchen and bathroom, beds, computer
access, scooters and so on. Every assessment is unique and
correct prescription makes all the difference. To make a good
selection, it is advantageous to know what equipment options
are available and what different suppliers stock.
Members and their carer or family need to be involved in the
equipment assessment and selection process because they
know what they require the equipment for, and how it will be
used. It is this working together that leads to the best outcome.
Funding of equipment is a separate issue to the assessment
and selection of equipment. Funding bodies have different
criteria on grant eligibility, which is usually based on income.
Members who are not eligible for these funding grants often
feel alone and disappointed when it comes to accessing
equipment. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
subject to eligibility criteria, will hopefully resolve many of
these issues for Members as it rolls out in the future.
We also occasionally meet Members who have spent a lot
of time and money on equipment but have not made a good
selection, based on their needs.
Our OTs can provide information, assessment and
recommendations to Members and their families even when
the equipment will need to be self-funded. We would like
to help you get it right and to save you from unnecessary
expense and frustration.
Contact the MSWA Occupational Therapy Team via
reception on 9365 4888 or email enquiries@mswa.org.au
Rome
wasn’t seen
in a day
Fold, Pack, Travel
1300 622 633
www.scootersAus.com.au
WH20241/MSWA
MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016 | 15

NEWS FROM
SOCIAL WELFARE
IRENE GALLAGHER (WILLIS), SENIOR SOCIAL/WELFARE OFFICER
The MSWA Social Welfare team provides psychosocial
interventions that facilitate a Member and their family’s
wellbeing.
We assist individuals, families and groups experiencing social,
emotional or financial difficulties to improve quality of life, by
educating and supporting them and working towards change
in their social environment. The Social Welfare Department
look at what benefits, entitlements and supports are available
for Members and their families.
What do we do?
• Case Management
• Advocacy support
• Carer Support
• Support Coordination of funded NDIS plans
• Take and make referrals from various departments where
they have identified welfare support is required
• At home visits to carry out an assessment. Our goal is to
keep people in their own homes for as long as possible and
maintain their family relationships
We source information and facilitate access to supports
including:
• Accessing support following an exacerbation of MS
• Looking into respite services/residential care/aged care
facilities
• Arranging funding applications and HACC/ACAT assessments,
CAP applications, support in the home
• Provide advice on benefits and support for people on low
income and how to access these supports
• Meet with social workers/other hospital teams to help with
planning discharge
• Providing carers support
• Provide information and direction on financial issues
• Information on benefits and entitlements
• Signpost to other professionals/organisations to enable the
best and most appropriate support
The Social Welfare department has been kept very busy
keeping up with the increased workload. Our department
has now grown to six Social Welfare Officers, including
Gerald who is based in Bunbury and is covering the
South West.
NEW PERTH
BUS PORT
INFORMATION
LINKS
The new Perth Bus Port is opening soon. Because of the
new queueing system, people with disability might need
a bit of extra help to use it.
A short information video can be viewed on the Transperth
Online YouTube channel here: youtu.be/cMc00yHQVB0.
It includes closed captions and an AUSLAN translation.
Full details on the opening of Perth Bus Port,
including upcoming service changes, can be also
found at transperth.wa.gov.au/PerthBusport
16 | MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016

muMS GROUP - A SHARED
SPACE TO TALK ABOUT
MOTHERHOOD AND MS
SARAH LORRIMAR, HEALTH EDUCATION AND PEER SUPPORT COORDINATOR
The MSWA muMS group is a newly formed support group for
women living with MS who are expectant mothers or mothers
of babies and children under the age of seven.
Held every two months at Heathcote Reserve in Applecross,
the group is facilitated by two MSWA Counsellors, Liesl
Murdoch and Jean Hudson. Each meeting is semi-structured
but the focus is on the mums sharing their experiences with
each other.
Coming together as a group provides an opportunity for
mums living with MS to meet with others living in similar life
circumstances. The group members offer support to each
other and discuss their concerns, thoughts and feelings. It is
also a place to learn new information, not only on parenting
but also to share their tips on how they manage MS symptoms
that influence their day to day activities. For example, sharing
knowledge on fatigue management and meal preparation.
The muMS group provides a sense of belonging, reminding
Members there are other mums out there living with
MS and when needed, mums can draw on this support.
To keep in contact between meetings, the mums can be part
of a muMS Facebook group that is overseen by one of the
group participants.
The dynamic group has mums who are both new and
experienced, with children aged from infant years through to
preschool. This provides a welcome diversity and variety of
experiences to be shared. Group members come from across
Perth; including Northern and Southern suburbs and out to
the Swan Valley.
Previous meetings have seen around six to eight mums attend
and the group is hoping to expand, warmly welcoming any
new Members.
To make sure you are updated with upcoming events and
groups such as the muMS group, please keep MSWA updated
with any new additions to your family to ensure you don’t
miss out!
If you are interested in coming along to the next muMS
group, please contact Sarah Lorrimar on 9365 4858 or
Sarah.Lorrimar@mswa.org.au
Upcoming meetings
Tuesday 18 October, 10am-12pm,
Swan House Meeting Room, Heathcote Reserve, Applecross
Tuesday 13 December, 10am-12pm,
Swan House Meeting Room, Heathcote Reserve, Applecross
NEWLY DIAGNOSED SEMINAR
SARAH LORRIMAR, PEER SUPPORT AND EDUCATION COORDINATOR
On August 11 the Living Well with MS seminar, for people
newly diagnosed with MS, was held at The Boulevard Centre
in Floreat.
These sessions provide an overview of MS and treatments,
an introduction to living with MS and the MSWA supports
available. Fortunately, the heavy rains didn’t deter people
from coming along, with a great turnout of 38 attendees,
including some friends and family.
Professor Allan Kermode, an MS Neurologist, started the
evening off by providing a very informative overview of MS. His
presentation explained the different types of MS, symptoms
and potential causes of MS which have appeared over time.
He also discussed the history of treatments for MS and the
range of options available now, including new medications
and current research into improving the management of MS.
Representatives from the MSWA Nursing, Counselling,
Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy teams then provided
brief summaries of the services available at MSWA. These
included services such as fatigue management programs,
exercise programs, massage, education and various therapy
options…just to name a few!
The seminar was a wonderful opportunity for people to
meet others living a similar experience whilst being able to
receive useful and valid information from informed health
professionals.
If you would like to attend the next Newly Diagnosed
Seminar or would like any further information for yourself
or someone you know, please contact 9365 4888.
MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016 | 17

SELF-COMPASSION:
OUR GREATEST ALLY
SIMON ROLPH, MSWA COUNSELLOR
Compassion cannot cure multiple sclerosis (MS). There we
go. I’ve stated the obvious but with expectations now set
realistically low, I will now explain why compassion can be
one of our most powerful allies in our response to a diagnosis
like MS.
Paul Gilbert is a British psychologist, university professor,
founder of compassion focused therapy, and author of books
such as The Compassionate Mind. So it’s safe to say he
knows a little bit about compassion. Paul defines the essence
of compassion as “a basic kindness, with deep awareness
of the suffering of oneself and of other living things, coupled
with the wish and effort to relieve it”.
I’ll start off by addressing the deep awareness of suffering.
I am guessing that if you are reading this you either have an
MS diagnosis or know someone with one. If so, you will be
all too aware of the impact a diagnosis of MS can have with
the potential for emotional pain, physical pain, grief and loss.
Take away the reality of living with MS and we still live in a
world full of suffering. Read a newspaper or watch the news
on any given day and you will witness ongoing tragedy and
pain. Given the world we live in and the hard truth of living in
a body that is susceptible to disease and illness, suffering is
an inevitability. Throw in a highly complex but tricky brain that
has the capability of producing a range of painful thoughts
and feelings, and suffering is but one painful memory away
from being a reality.
Fortunately, it isn’t all doom and gloom. As soon as we are
able to recognise and become aware of our own suffering,
we have choice of how we want to respond. So much of
our lived experiences are out of our control; the world we
are born into, the genes we inherit, the autoimmune
diseases we can develop, but we still have choice of how
we can respond.
Holocaust survivor and author of ‘Man’s search for Meaning’
Viktor E. Frankl famously said:
“Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of
the human freedoms – to choose one’s attitude in any given
set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.”
This last human freedom provides us with the choice to try
and relieve our suffering with compassion, with kindness. So
what does this look like in real life?
One of the most common MS symptoms is fatigue and in my
role as a counsellor I have had the opportunity to listen and
witness a range of responses to this symptom. These have
included frustration towards the limitations of fatigue, feelings
of guilt towards reduced capabilities, beating themselves up
(metaphorically) as a result of reduced capabilities, pushing
beyond their capabilities with the consequence of exhaustion,
and fear of the future implications of fatigue. Does any of this
sound familiar? Replace fatigue with physical pain, change
in mobility or cognitive changes and many of the described
experiences are still potentially relevant. Frustration, guilt, fear,
self-criticism and many more painful thoughts and feelings
have the ability to show up.
All of these responses are entirely normal and natural and
there is nothing we can do to stop them from showing up
from time to time. However, getting caught up in these painful
thoughts and feelings is often unhelpful and can actually
contribute to further suffering.
A compassionate alternative then is to recognise our initial
response to a symptom such as fatigue (or any form of
suffering), and choose to offer ourselves some kindness.
Rather than beating ourselves up with self-criticism, offer
some words of comfort and support. Rather than push
beyond our capabilities, allow ourselves to have a break and
perhaps a shift in expectation. Rather than getting caught up
in frustration, guilt and fear, acknowledge the presence of
these painful emotions and do something kind and helpful.
This could be something as simple as taking a few deep
breaths, having a glass of water, going for a walk, making
contact with someone who is important to you.
Self-compassion can look very different depending on
the context and isn’t always warm and fuzzy. Sometimes
being compassionate towards ourselves is making the
hard choice; not eating that very tasty chocolate bar but
instead going out in bad weather to get some exercise.
Sometimes it is quitting a job to allow for a new start, leaving
a bad relationship or making painful sacrifices for long
term benefit.
We have many different relationships, whether with friends
or family but the most important relationship we have is with
ourselves. We are constantly in our own company and at
some point we all experience pain. At that point we have a
choice. We can criticise ourselves, beat ourselves up, react
in an unhelpful way, or we can recognise our suffering, offer
ourselves some support and kindness and be our own best
friend. Neither will change the initial cause of the suffering
18 | MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016

ut depending on the approach, the experience itself can be
vastly different.
Being compassionate towards ourselves can be challenging.
Maybe we haven’t had much practice at being self-compassionate.
Maybe we have a belief that kindness and compassion are a
sign of weakness. Maybe we believe that self-criticism can be
motivating and to be honest, it can be at times. But take a moment
and imagine having a donkey to carry your goods to market
(trust me, this is relevant).
For your career as a trader to succeed, you need your donkey
to transfer your products on a daily basis. How do you do
this? Well, you could whip the donkey and cause pain as
motivation to move forward. Or you could dangle a carrot
in front of the donkey, offer support, encouragement and
kindness and reward your trusty steed when you arrive at
the market. Either of these approaches can get the desired
result but in the long term the punished donkey will likely
feel anxious, depressed, have no desire to be loyal and
ultimately lead a rather unhappy existence. The rewarded
donkey may not always get the goods to market on time,
but will be motivated, have a far kinder and trusting
relationship with its owner and will likely have a more
content and meaningful life than the punished donkey.
The choice we have then is what kind of owner do we want
to be to ourselves?
If you would like to learn more about how to have a
greater capacity for compassion and self-compassion,
you can contact the MSWA Counselling department
on 9365 4811 to organize an appointment with one of
our counsellors.
For further information on Paul Gilbert, compassion
and a range of relevant books, audio and video content,
please visit the following website:
compassionatemind.co.uk/about-us
MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016 | 19

THAT’S LIFE
WITH NARELLE
NARELLE TAYLOR
I haven’t always lived in a nursing home, neither have I always
had to live with multiple sclerosis. I was quite normal and just
before my diagnosis, I lived a robust, even adventurous life
that I thought I would tell you about.
It was 1982 and my husband Greg and I had built and launched
the boat we planned to live on with our three children. We’d
then been and visited both sets of the children’s grandparents.
One set in Sydney, NSW and the other set in Kalgoorlie, WA and
in doing so, we’d given the children a rushed familiarisation
with mainstream Australia’s culture.
We felt that because they’d spent most of their lives in
eastern Arnhem Land in a remote mining community
and had never seen things like a double-decker bus or an
ice-skating rink we were obliged to broaden their horizons.
We’d arranged distance education for them whilst on-board
and had bought the latest technological devices for safety and
labour-saving, whilst we’d be ‘under way’. Consequently, our
suitcases were very heavy and bulging with our goodies and
we flew into Darwin planning to get a connecting flight to
our settlement, board our boat and then commence on the
wonderful adventure we’d planned.
We arrived in Darwin to find the town was full. There were
‘Men At Work’ concerts and a Tax Agents Convention
both happening in the same week. The town being so
popular decidedly inconvenienced us. It was Darwin’s
busiest weekend since cyclone Tracy. Lots of repairs to
cyclone-damaged buildings had been done over the past
few years but to be phoning around town for accommodation
whilst waiting for vacancies on a plane out, was what we
regarded as nightmarish.
One morning, after failing once more to get on a flight, we’d
secured, by phone, one night’s accommodation at a motel just
around the corner. We decided to walk. The streets seemed
to be crowded; Greg and I each carried a heavy, bulging,
suitcase. Greg carried two actually, but neither of us said
anything. We both knew things were bad enough without
embroidering our circumstance by grizzling.
I was tempted to groan though in the sub-tropical heat,
the dense pedestrian traffic, the suitcases that were so heavy
and three children to keep an eye on. The fact that we’d be
able to navigate our boat by satellite, because of what we’d
just bought, but technology had not advanced sufficiently to
put wheels on our suitcases, is curious today, but was at the
time, very uncomfortable. I really felt like groaning. We made
it to the motel.
The motel certainly appeared to be good enough. It would
keep weather out. Mercifully, it was air-conditioned, and
although we had said ‘yes’ to the motel management’s offer
to put all the beds we needed into our one room it sure looked
déclassé when we entered the room.
Eventually the girls wanted to swim. We hoped the swimming
pool would cool us down and brighten our moods. Poised at
the water’s edge, one child screamed, wailed like a Sicilian
widow and staggered backwards away from the pool. Within
seconds her sister did the same and of course, so did their
youngest sister. Floating in the pool was something so germy
and horrible that we, the parents, weren’t going to get wet
either. We returned to our cramped room.
The girls had had a really memorable experience and perhaps
it was that they’d never forget it that made any talking
unnecessary. It was very quiet. Eventually, Greg stood,
changed into a clean shirt, one with a collar (that meant
something serious), kissed me on the cheek and said he’d be
back in a few hours.
He left. We waited. He came back. He’d bought a car.
We’d drive out of Darwin, down to Katherine and then across
Arnhem Land and then we’d be home. There were no roads
into Gove in those days so the trip after Katherine was going
to be on bush tracks; the occasional creek/river crossing,
buffalo herds, brumby packs and kangaroos everywhere.
We planned to sleep in the vehicle (a LWB Toyota Land Cruiser),
and avoid any heroics with snakes or migratory crocodiles. We’d
bought tinned fruit, a can opener, toilet paper (bio-degradable),
spoons, water in huge flagons and we had a compass and a
map that didn’t look all that thorough.
Three days of driving and we were back home, able to see our
boat, above water, and also the bloke who had said to Greg on
the phone in Darwin that he’d buy the car.
We got on-board and unloaded the suitcases at last. We
spent a few days in Melville Bay where we fine-tuned the new
contraptions we’d bought and ventured out to do ‘sea-trials’
before we headed away.
After each day on the water, doing sea-trials etc., we’d walk up
the beach to the boat club and I would be unsteady on my feet
because of what I thought was some ‘sea-leg’ thing. It was years
before I had my unsteadiness investigated and MS diagnosed.
Prior to my diagnosis, I was having great fun doing such
interesting things and even now, I find my diagnosis no reason
for doing things of less interest and no reason to have less fun.
20 | MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016

ANYWHERE
WITH COLIN
ROS HARMAN, SUPER NAVIGATOR
I held out for as long as I could. All around me I saw people
succumbing to the pressures of advertising and peer
pressure, but I was determined to stay strong. I would not buy
a Navigator for my car! No, not even if sometimes I did end
up lost and bewildered up blind alleys, meandering through
unknown suburbs, having to stop, often on the side of roads,
to pour over my ancient street directory.
Then one day an old school friend, coincidentally the
same age as me, fervently pointed out that difficulties
with directions were nothing to do with age or hormones.
“I blame urban growth,” she said, so I decided I would too,
and I bought a GPS Navigator.
My Navigator has transformed my life. I love the fact that I
am able to choose a voice for it, so I picked one that sounds
like Colin Firth. When I’m driving and the voice says – “In
500 metres at the roundabout take the second exit”. I smile
dreamily as I remember that scene from Pride and Prejudice
where Colin Firth comes striding out of the lake all damp and
masculine in his wet shirt. I’m so much more relaxed driving
now with Colin in the car. Sometimes I even take a long drive
just to spend some quality time with him.
I took a long drive with Colin the other day and went to visit my
niece. She is the first of her generation in my family to have
children of her own, and I have discovered that I love being
Great Aunty Ros, or Grunty Ros as they call me. My Great
Niece (Griece?) at two and a half has recently discovered a
new word and manages to use it in every sentence. “Akshully
(actually) me don’t want soup,” she said very firmly today,
stomping her feet to make sure we knew she meant it. “Me
want cake for lunch akshully.”
Her brother, at four and a half, is a passionate devotee of
superheros and invited me to look at his Spiderman T-shirt
and shorts in great detail. He hates to take them off, much
to his mother’s despair. She has managed to buy all the
Spiderman material available in Spotlight so she can make
multiple outfits. The little hero also taught me how to hold
my fingers so they shoot webs out and catch the baddies. I’m
sure I will find that very useful.
Both children are fascinated by my wheelchair and spent
considerable time examining the brakes. Spiderman very
helpfully pushed me around the house and showed me his
toys. We had a little itsy bitsy problem when I decided to go
down a step to see the new trampoline, resulting with me
lying on my back with my legs in the air. It didn’t hurt very
much and he tried very hard to help me up, but in the end he
used his supersonic voice to call his mum who came faster
than a speeding bullet to save the day.
I think super powers run in the family. I wonder what mine
could be. I’ve thought about leaping tall buildings in a single
bound but I don’t really have a head for heights. X-ray
vision would be useful these days; I could save a packet of
money on medical bills. I quite like Wonder Woman’s outfit,
especially her red boots. Every woman craves red boots.
I’m a bit of a romantic, but living with MS has taught me I also
need realism. I think perhaps I might become The Intrepid
Ros, Super Navigator - able to go anywhere “akshully”,
with Colin.
MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016 | 21

LIFE SKILLS: WHAT DOES IT
REALLY COST?
DR ANDREW E. ONG
Is intelligence quotient (IQ) the most significant factor in
determining the pathway we choose, and will our IQ determine
the fate and ultimate destiny of our lives? Well the answer is
‘yes’ and ‘no’. Being intelligent is all well and good but not
nearly as much as we’d like to think.
Recent studies have shown that intelligence and logic play far
lesser roles than our feelings and emotions do. Often we think
with our heart, and this can affect almost all aspects of our
lives. It is the life-skills we have acquired which affect how
we use the intelligence we have been blessed with, whether it
be in a fruitful or even inspirational way, or in a self-defeating
and destructive manner.
Life-skills touch our self-awareness, our motivation to do
certain things that may be completely out of character and
certainly far below what we are really capable of. Life-skills
affects our neatness, how we want to present ourselves to
our peers, how we handle significant relationships and our
enthusiasm in life, or the lack of it. Life-skills can make
us ‘rich’ or ‘poor’, whether that be financially, spiritually or
regarding our health, but particularly how and what we think
of ourselves.
We can be as smart as a whip, very intelligent, but without
life-skills this can come at a real cost such as depression,
loneliness, anxiety, drinking problems, juvenile delinquency,
impulsivity, and road rage. These are just a few examples of
the cost of life-skills illiteracy in today’s society.
The list is seemingly endless. Very intelligent people are
not immune to the disruption of their personal and family
life, to divorce, and drug abuse. In fact, it is the erosion of a
cohesive family life of people we might consider smarter or
more talented than ourselves which are all that more visible
to us. If it was possible to drill down further, in such instances
we would find the countless costs in personal tragedies of
missed opportunities and quiet despair all of which point to
an ignorance of life skills or their application.
What could and should have been a caring and nourishing
exchange of view-points often explode into angry hurtful and
harsh overreactions. What starts out as minor slights and
infractions to our ego, which are often not even intended or
real, suddenly become perceived and imagined. Cascades of
change in today’s rapidly advancing technologies make the
inability to adapt even more costly than we can ever imagine
because we have become too involved. It may even cost us
our health, profession, marriage, even our precious life.
Therefore, here are some life-skills techniques for you to
consider. First, there is the influence understanding brings to
the problem, that is the ability for you to understand what
controls your perceptions. Second, divergent thinking or
the thinking skills necessary for you to discover that there
is always more than one answer or solution to the problem.
Convergent thinking is another, that is your ability to maintain
your focus on what you are doing and then prioritising your
choices.
Mapping your life is the life-skill, the capacity, to draw
pathways to show yourself how to get from your present
situation to your desired future. Imagine your future
and visualise in pictures and words your very own thinking
processes.
Instructions for a good life
Eat plenty of brown rice. Give people more than they expect
and do it cheerfully. Memorize your favourite poem. Don’t
believe all you hear, spend all you can spare and sleep all you
want. When you say “I love you”, mean it. When you say “I’m
sorry”, look the person in the eye. Be engaged at least six
months before you get married. Believe in love at first sight.
Never laugh at anyone’s dreams. Love deeply and passionate.
You might get hurt but it’s the only way to live life completely.
In disagreements fight fairly, no name calling. Don’t judge
people by their relatives. Talk slowly but think quick. When
someone asks you a question you don’t want to answer smile
and ask, “Why do you want to know?” Remember that greater
love and greater achievements involve great risks. Call your
mum. Say “bless you” when you hear someone sneeze. When
you lose, don’t lose the lesson. Remember the three Rs —
respect for self, respect for others and responsibility for all
your actions.
22 | MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016

Don’t let a little dispute injure a great friendship. When you
realize you’ve made a mistake take immediate steps to correct
it. Smile when picking up the phone, the caller will hear it in
your voice. Marry someone who you can talk to. As you get
older, their conversational skills will be as important as any
other. Spend some time alone. Open your arms, but don’t let
go of your values. Remember that silence is sometimes the
best answer. Read more books and watch less TV. Live an
honourable life. When you are old and look back you’ll enjoy it
a second time. Trust in God, but lock your car. Do all you can
to create a loving, tranquil home.
Read between the lines. Share your knowledge. It is a way
to achieve immortality. Be gentle with the Earth. Pray. There
is immeasurable power in it. Never interrupt when you are
being flattered. Mind your own business. Don’t trust a person
who doesn’t close their eyes when you kiss them. Once a
year go somewhere you have never been before. The greatest
satisfaction of having wealth is to help others. Sometimes
not getting what you want can be a stroke of luck. Learn
the rules and then break some. The best relationship is one
where you love each other more than you need each other.
Judge your success by what you had to give up to achieve
it. Your character is your destiny. Approach love and cooking
with reckless abandon.
MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016 | 23

MSWA AWARDS
PHARMACY 777
FOR THEIR ONGOING
COMMITMENT
MSWA awarded Pharmacy 777 with its Business Commitment
Award at the 2016 MS Dinner Auction held in August.
The Award is presented annually alongside an Individual
Commitment Award, and is MSWA’s way of highlighting and
acknowledging the generous support provided by businesses
and individuals to the organisation throughout the year.
Nominations are made for businesses and individuals
MSWA feel have gone above and beyond in the way they
contribute their time and resources to support the goals of
the organisation.
Pharmacy 777 were awarded the Business Commitment
Award for their amazing fundraising efforts which have
totalled to over $110,000 in the past 5 years. They have also
helped spread awareness about the cause by participating
in the City to Surf as a team running for MSWA. Pharmacy
777 entered a team of 38 in this year’s City to Surf where
along with individual runners running for MSWA, they raised
$22,000!
MSWA CEO Marcus Stafford said, “Pharmacy 777 have
demonstrated their commitment to MSWA in the most
phenomenal way.
“Their fundraising has supported an MS Wellness Camp,
contributed to the renovations at MSWA high support
accommodation and respite facilities Fern River and Margaret
Doody House and additionally, has been used to outfit our
facilities with essential equipment for our Members.
It is the support and generosity of organisations such as
Pharmacy 777 that allows us to continue to support the
people we are here to serve, people living with MS and other
neurological conditions”, Marcus said.
Kim Brotherson, Pharmacy 777 Managing Director, accepted
the award on behalf of the Pharmacy 777 Group. A long-time
advocate and fundraiser for MSWA, Kim is incredibly
proud of the relationship MSWA and Pharmacy 777 share.
“We’re driven to make a difference, not just to the health of
our patients but also to the wider community”, he said. “I
appreciate the support from all of the Pharmacy 777 team in
their fundraising efforts for such an important cause. We are
proud to support MSWA in the outstanding work they do in
improving the lives of so many people.”
Thank you Pharmacy 777 for your ongoing support and
congratulations on the Award.
24 | MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016

FUNDRAISING
ROUNDUP
MEGA HOME LOTTERY
The MS Mega Home Lottery launched in August 2016 with
a multi-million dollar grand prize package worth $2.2 million
- our biggest Grand Prize yet. Consisting of a fully furnished,
professionally decorated, Webb & Brown-Neaves show home
in Hillarys, valued at $1.7 million, PLUS $500,000 cash. The
lottery sold out in 3 weeks with the Grand Prize draw to be
held on Wednesday, 2 November.
Keep your eyes on mswalottery.com.au to see if you’re
one of the lucky winners - all tickets have a 1 in 15
chance of winning.
EVERYWOMAN EXPO
The Mundella EveryWoman Expo was held at the Perth
Convention and Exhibition Centre from 16 to 18 June, with
the MSWA as its charity partner. In addition to our own MS
stand, a few of our Members and staff got to participate in the
Bodhi’s Bakehouse Celebrity Kitchen with some well-known
‘Perthonalities’!
DINNER AUCTION
The MSWA Annual Dinner Auction is an opportunity for us to
thank our supporters from throughout the year with a night of
food, music and of course, fundraising at the State Reception
Centre, Fraser’s in King’s Park. In addition to silent auction
items, we had some amazing items in the main auction including
a luxury holiday for two to Italy, a getaway to Margaret River
and luxury wine packages. $34,341 was raised on the night to
support Western Australians living with MS.
MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016 | 25

VOLUNTEERING
UPDATE
DAWN BURKE, VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR
Hello to you all! Spring is here so let’s put away our winter
woollies and open our arms to welcome the rays of sunshine
in to our lives. I trust this edition finds you all fit and well and
ready to move into the warmer months. The Bulletin is a great
opportunity to reflect on the months gone by and share it
with you.
In May we had the Volunteers Week luncheon. This event, at
Burswood on Swan Function Centre, went off with a bang
and was enjoyed by all. We couldn’t have asked for more;
beautiful food, magnificent views and excellent company. The
room was abuzz with chatter and laughter and I have had lots
of positive feedback with the general consensus being to go
back there again. The staff were amazing from start to finish.
Our Bunbury Volunteers also enjoyed a sumptuous lunch
while watching the sun and the waves at Back Beach Café.
The Moore River Members camp was, as always, a huge
success. We had a couple of volunteers helping out over the
four days. It makes such a huge difference having them give
a helping hand. Of course it was even more helpful to me,
because I don’t have to wash as many dishes!
The weather was all over the place. We had a taste of rain
when we arrived and packed up (typical), and we had a
couple of gorgeous sunny days in between which enhanced
the already spectacular views. We enjoyed the sunshine while
we cruised down the river hearing the story of how Guilderton,
commonly known as Moore River, came to be.
The sun was so magnificent, we were also able to enjoy
another day relaxing down by the river mouth, while we ate
a hearty barbeque lunch, listening to some tunes (with me
dancing around) and soaking up the much needed rays. I must
admit, I was a bit tame this year and only dressed up once. I
could be described as a bit of a colourful fairy, prancing and
dancing around while waving my magical ribbon. A sight you
wouldn’t want to miss, or maybe you would!
All in all, it was a fantastic few days our Members thoroughly
enjoyed, as did the staff and volunteers. I would like to
personally thank our volunteers - Rosalind and Sandra.
Their time and effort was much appreciated and everything
wouldn’t have run as smoothly as it did without them.
26 | MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016

I would also like to thank all the staff who attended. Without
staff these camps cannot happen. In fact, they also continue
to work after hours during the camp in a volunteering capacity
until our lovely Members are off to bed. So at some point all
staff members were a volunteer.
Over to our Rockingham
Centre, John Wallace,
one of our Southside
Volunteers, celebrated his
80th birthday in July. John
has been volunteering as
Santa, donning the red and
white suit for many years
at their Christmas parties.
John is also the resident
photographer for the group.
He has been volunteering with us for many years, unofficially,
but I am pleased to see he now officially volunteers for us.
What a milestone John, and we wish you all the best and trust
you had a special day.
Our dining room chairs at the Wilson Outreach centre are
looking fantastic and are a tad more comfortable, thanks to
our Tuesday volunteer Rosalind. She kindly donated cushions
for our new chairs; the Members and staff are truly grateful
and appreciate your generosity.
Can you believe we are well over half way into the year?
Christmas planning will be on the agenda and possibly in full
swing for some. I feel like I’m still getting over last year and
2016 is nearly on top of us again.
The theme last year was red and silver and I wonder what
it will be this year, as most of you know I like to dress to
the theme and match the colours of the day. Maybe this year
some of our volunteers might like to get up on stage and
entertain the many who attend each year. I’m happy to join in
with you if you have an idea. Give me a call if you would like
to organise something and we can go from there.
In August I attended a Volunteer Managers Workshop
called Volun-terroir (terroir meaning terrain) conducted by
Andy Fryar of Better Impact. This workshop was amazing.
Andy is a wine connoisseur and a lover of wineries all around
the world.
This workshop was called, ‘What the wine industry can teach
us about good volunteer management’. And guess what?
He was right. The information shared was very timely and
discussed the opportunities, changing demographics and
pitfalls of volunteer management. Throughout the day he
successfully managed to relate his message back to wineries.
For the wine lovers out there, I thought I would share the
interesting history of the wine industry in Australia.
1788 - First vines arrived in Australia
1791 - First known record of successful wine production
1950 - Wineries became better at refrigeration which equated
to a better quality of wine
1960 - A greater selection of fortified wines produced
1970 - More balance in industry and wines
1980 - Australia led the world in cask wine production
2016 - Australia is the 4th largest exporter in the world
with a huge growth over the years. In 1985 there
were 506 wineries and in 2015 this had increased to
2500 wineries.
I always like to take this opportunity and time to thank our
Volunteers for all that they do. They make such a difference
to our Members lives and the working day of many staff
across several departments. Any time given is always valued,
no matter how little. We at MSWA appreciate all of you and
the array of skills, knowledge and diversity you bring to
the organisation. A day doesn’t go by without me learning
something new and it is important for all of us to share, listen
and learn as ‘knowledge is power’.
If you know of anyone wanting to volunteer on a regular
basis, please don’t hesitate to pass on my contact details:
volunteer.coordinator@mswa.org.au or 9365 4897. I will
try and place a volunteer where possible, and be creative
in finding a suitable position for both the volunteer and/
or individual department. Alternatively, if you are looking
at volunteering once or twice a year, you could contact
the Senior Events Coordinator, Katherine Fowler at
katherine.fowler@mswa.org.au or 6454 3151. That’s all
from me. Until next time and bye for now.
MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016 | 27

iPAD DONATION WELL-RECEIVED
BY FIONA STANLEY HOSPITAL
MEDICAL DAY PROCEDURE UNIT
Digital magazines, colour therapy, games and MS educational
resources are all part of the new Medical Day Procedure Unit
iPads package provided by MSWA.
Dee Menzies, MSWA Hospital Liaison Nurse commented that
the newer MS therapies have seen patients shift back to the
hospital setting for their treatment rather than in the home.
We conducted a short survey of patients about the types
of resources and entertainment they would most like to see
on the iPads. This guided us in choosing the selections we
have uploaded.
“With patients having to spend more time in hospital, it
is important to make their treatment as comfortable as
possible,” Dee said. “We are hoping the iPads will help pass
the time.”
Eloise DeRosa, the Unit Nurse Manager said, “the six iPads
are a great educational resource and will also provide MS
patients with entertainment while they receive treatment.
MSWA will regularly update the iPads and continue to monitor the
level of satisfaction through patient and staff feedback.
“MSWA were very kind to support us by purchasing these
resources,” Eloise said.
MSWA staff will add new resources to the iPad’s regularly
to provide variety.
MARGARET DOODY RESPITE
HOUSE NEWS
CHRIS RUSH
All PLC Year 10 students are expected to undertake a personal
project. It doesn’t have to be service related, however, Ruby
Cownie is a neighbour and fairly frequent visitor to Margaret
Doody Respite House, so she decided the house needed
brightening up. Ruby spent many hours creating this beautiful
mosaic which has been hung in the courtyard where it will be
most visible to all.
The glass tiles were provided by Frank Cardinale, at Original
Ceramics in Leederville, who was happy to donate to such a
good cause.
The staff and Members would like to offer our heartfelt
thanks to Ruby for all the time and effort she put into this
wonderful project.
28 | MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016

SOUTH WEST
Regional Round Up
The latest
news from
the South
West
BUNBURY SERVICES HUB
PROGRESSING NICELY!
SUE SHAPLAND
As mentioned previously, we are very excited to finally see
our long held plans for a purpose built Bunbury Services Hub
being realised. The progress is remarkable and having had a
short tour of the shell, the floor plan is very impressive!
The generous sized physiotherapy gym, massage room,
meeting areas and consulting rooms will all be welcomed
by Members and staff. The Outreach Group has re-located
several times over the past 13 years and to finally have a home
with areas designed to suit the purpose will be refreshing.
We are on track for the building to be completed by the end
of 2016! MSWA has funded both the purchase of the land
and the construction of the facility. This is all made possible
through the great success of our Events and Fundraising
ventures like the highly successful Mega Home Lottery!
BUNBURY AFTER HOURS
HOME DOCTOR
• FREE DOCTOR HOME VISITS
• BULK BILLED VISITS (NO CHARGE TO YOU!)
(MUST HAVE VALID MEDICARE CARD, OTHERWISE FEE APPLIES)
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• AFTER-HOURS SERVICE
• ON THE DAY APPOINTMENTS
CALL NOW TO BOOK
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WWW.HOMEDOCWA.COM.AU
MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016 | 29

WILSON OUTREACH NEWS
NICOLA RYAN, RESOURCE COORDINATOR
DAWN
BEAUTIFUL
BURKE,
QUILTS
VOLUNTEER
GIFTED
COORDINATOR
TO MSWA MEMBERS
The W.A Quilters Association representative Cathy Robertson,
recently visited Wilson Outreach Centre again, bringing with her
another two large bags of amazing quilts made by members of
their Association.
These quilts have been kindly donated to our Members; to
brighten their lounge chairs and beds or just to keep their
knees warm. Sheila, Narelle and Janice were on hand to pick
their favourites from the pile and are thrilled to have them in
their possession.
The Quilters Association have been friends of MSWA for a
few years now. They have generously donated quilts for
each resident of our high support accommodation facilities
including Fern River, Hamilton Hill and Treendale Gardens,
and both respite homes.
Cathy said the group thoroughly enjoy passing on their beautiful
quilts to community groups like MSWA and has assured us she
will be returning with more! These quilts are really beautiful
and bring a welcome splash of colour with them.
We would like to thank Cathy and her fellow quilters for
their ongoing generosity.
WILLETTON BUNNINGS SUPPORTING
WILSON OUTREACH
The wonderful staff from the Bunnings Willetton store have
once again visited us at Wilson. They also joined in our
Mexican Fiesta happily wearing their sombrero hats!
This store has been very generous to us here at Wilson. They
have supplied vegetables for our raised garden beds as well
as staffers. Bec and her assistant came along to plant them!
Member Sheila Hayfield particularly has a love of our garden
beds here at Wilson, she can often be seen tending to them
whilst here at Outreach. Sheila is pictured here with the
Bunnings staff and some of our beautiful, healthy looking
vegetables. So far the crop has yielded a dozen or so potatoes,
beans and some lovely herbs.
Currently there is a fierce
competition among our
Members, from several
Outreach Groups and
our residential facilities,
which is due to finish at
the end of August. We
have all been vying for
the title “Winner of the
best vegetables grown
over the winter season”.
The results will be
reported in the next Bulletin so watch this space!!!!
OLA OLA!
‘Mexico’ at Wilson Outreach was a huge success.
Staff, volunteers and Members all made a fantastic effort with
their costumes and really had a fun time singing and dancing!
We were lucky enough to have a visit from ‘Nicko’ who played
his piano accordion whilst walking around the atrium!
We even had our very own ‘Pablo’, who was made by our
Members in preparation for the ‘Fiesta’ party at the end of our
trip to Mexico. He was used as a piñata and looked fabulous
until of course he was broken to pieces!
Our month in Mexico was very colourful and was
thoroughly enjoyed by everyone!
30 | MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016

ALBANY OUTREACH NEWS
CAROLINE CLARK-SMITH
Want to know what is happening at the Outreach or make an
appointment with our MS Nurse Maureen? Then give us a call
on 9841 6651 and we will send out this month’s program.
The annual Members Camp is on in Denmark in November.
Places are limited so if you are interested in attending or need
more information please give Sumit a call on 08 9365 4888.
Thank you to everyone who has given us their feedback and
their ideas on outings and activities for the group. We really
value your feedback and are grateful for your input.
We celebrated Volunteer Week in May with a luncheon
sponsored by MSWA. It was a lovely get together and the
first time we have had the opportunity and we are already
looking forward to next year’s! Our small but dedicated group
of volunteers help out with all sorts of fundraising activities
and play a huge role in the annual Swim. So a big thank you.
BEECHBORO OUTREACH NEWS
GISELLE MARTIN, RESOURCE COORDINATOR
Here at Beechboro, we are all very much looking forward to
the warmer weather as it has definitely been way too cold this
winter for our liking!
We spent June trying to stay warm with a few wintery games
like ‘snowball basketball’ and ‘air ice hockey’. We also enjoyed
some nice warming curry lunches from our brilliant Brenda
and her team!
In July, we brought the glam to The Lodge and spent our days
living it up in ‘Las Vegas’. We tested our luck with a roll of the
dice and tried a hand or two of cards. Our last week finished
with a photo booth, where fun props and a city backdrop
provided a lot of fun and many unique keepsake photos!
Christmas is fast approaching so if you have any suggestions
for a suitable lunch venue please let us know. Perhaps
somewhere we have been before or a new one; we are open
to ideas.
We would like to thank the MSWA staff who have visited from
Perth, Gail, Sue and Lou, and Leonie from Bunbury. We are
grateful for the time that you have taken to come down and
update us on what is happening.
We are waiting to hear about a visit from an OT so we will
keep you posted.
If you have an email account, you can send us a note at
albany@mswa.org.au and we can add you to our mailing
list and keep you updated on what is happening.
In August we focused on the Rio Olympics, as we barracked
for green & gold!! We even had our own ‘mini games’ going
which included shooting, bowling, javelin and more. Go
Australia!
Sadly, we had to say goodbye to our Physiotherapy Manager,
Marilyn, who retired after 23 years of service at the MSWA.
We had a lovely farewell morning tea and showered her with
gifts of appreciation from the Members and staff!
Best of luck Marilyn and thank you!
SOUTHSIDE OUTREACH GROUPS NEWS
ANGIE WALLACE
We all love a Christmas in July and our team at Southside
didn’t disappoint!
Lovely handmade decorations, a Christmas quiz, a delicious
turkey lunch with all the trimmings and Santa made up the
day! There was no snow however! Our Santa for the past
nine years has been volunteer John. It was also John’s 80th
birthday weekend, so instead of plum pudding we had John’s
favourite - Black Forest cake complete with candles.
We’ve enjoyed some interesting activities on Friday mornings
such as – jewellery making, mosaics and sun catchers. In
our ‘snapshot corner’ we’ve had experts from Wilson visiting
to talk about subjects to help us in our MS journey: Sleep
disorders, swallowing etc. Thanks to nurse Sandra along with
physios/OTs and other specialists. We appreciate your time!
Our physio area has added a Pilates machine and several
Members are enjoying the benefits. Commencing shortly,
we’ll have a new masseur for our Thursday morning sessions.
Massages are very important to MS bodies.
Brian and Sally are in Scotland for eight weeks, Trish and
Rex are in Spain and UK visiting relatives and adding on a
cruise down the Rhine! Angie and John are spending four
weeks in Sydney with family in NSW and have family visiting
from Japan. Jenny and husband are caravanning across Oz
for a couple of months. Very impressive Jenny! Peter and
Rose, and Doug and Anne have also been cruising in the past
few months. We could be opening up the ‘Southside Travel
Consultants Ltd’ division of MS! Just kidding! Looking forward
to a few travel stories soon.
MSWA BULLETIN SPRING 2016 | 31

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