MSWA Bulletin Magazine Winter 18

BULLETIN
THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF MSWA mswa.org.au
WINTER 2018
MSWA Member Chloe Baker with MSWA
funded researcher, Professor Prue Hart
ANNUAL MEMBER SURVEY
DIGESTING SCIENCE
CHLOE’S STORY
YOUR VOICE MATTERS

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 4888 or Community Nurse: 9365 4888
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
DR GREG BROTHERSON
WILSON CENTRE
29 Parkhill Way (08) 9365 4888
Fax (08) 9451 4453
Freecall 1800 287 367
See Health Team Dept contacts on this page
MEMBER SERVICES
DIRECTORY
GENERAL MANAGER – MEMBER SERVICES
Sue Shapland: 9365 4840
INDIVIDUAL OPTIONS
Manager Community
Care Programs 9365 4851
NDIS TEAM 9365 4824
OUTREACH GROUPS
Wilson Outreach (Mon-Thurs): 9365 4830
Beechboro Lodge (Mon, Fri): 9377 7800
Southside Outreach (Fri): 9592 9202
Albany Outreach (Fri): 9841 6657
BUNBURY (WED) HUB
1 Mason Street, Davenport 6454 2800
BUSSELTON OFFICE
1/21 Cammilleri Street 9754 2320
MARGARET DOODY RESPITE HOUSE
Manager, Chris Rush: 9385 9574
FERN RIVER ACCOMMODATION
Manager, Danuta Figurska: 9356 2747
HAMILTON HILL ACCOMMODATION
Manager, Jayne O’Sullivan: 9331 5780
TREENDALE GARDENS RESPITE &
ACCOMMODATION
50 The Boulevard, Australind
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),
Paul Cavanagh, Sue Shapland, Ros Harman,
Libby Cassidy, Caitlin Skinner, Sandra Wallace,
Narelle Taylor, Leonie Wellington,
Sarah Lorrimar, 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
MSWA’s staff, advisors, Directors or officers.
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 Hathorn, Manager: 9365 4837 or Physiotherapy Department: 9365 4834
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.
Rosemarie Dravnieks, Manager: 9365 4804 or OT Department: 9365 4888
SPEECH PATHOLOGY Our Speech Pathologists provide support by assessing, diagnosing
and creating individualised treatment programs for Members who experience swallowing and/or
communication difficulties. We equip Members with information and strategies to promote better
communication and safe swallowing.
Jamaica Grantis, Manager: 6454 3140
COUNSELLING, PEER SUPPORT & HEALTH EDUCATION
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 non-judgemental environment. We have a Peer
Support & Health Education Coordinator who organises peer connection & events and
supports health and wellness education services. She can be contacted on 9365 4858.
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. Monitor NDIS/WANDIS Services.
Irene Gallagher, Manager, Social Work: 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, Department of Communities and our own fundraising efforts.
We manage both DSC and NDIS individually funded care packages.
Contact Aileen Ward, Manager on 9365 4851 for more information.
THE NDIS TEAM We can help answer all NDIS questions.
Our experienced team can help determine whether you may be eligible for NDIS support
and assist you with your application. This includes developing an individual plan that
best suits your needs. We support people with all neurological conditions including
MS, Stroke, Parkinson’s Disease, Huntington’s Disease, Acquired Brain Injury and
Motor Neurone Disease, to name a few.
Contact 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
DIETITIANS are university-qualified nutrition experts who promote general health and
disease prevention/management through dietary changes. They provide evidence-based
dietary counselling and education, empowering individuals, with practical strategies,
to meet their goals and improve health, wellbeing and independence.
Jamaica Grantis, Manager: 6454 3140
The headline in The West Australian (April 30) was
unmistakable. WA’s economy ‘in doghouse’. This negativity
made little sense to me.
Only a couple of days previously, I had been at a meeting
which included an interstate visitor, where it was said with
genuine feeling, that if a person received a diagnosis of
multiple sclerosis, and that person also happened to be a
Western Australian, then they are living in the best State at
the best possible time. The reason behind this feeling is that
MSWA is experiencing its best-ever year.
If WA’s economy is in the ‘doghouse’, as the economic editor
of The West would have us believe, historically not-for-profit
charitable organisations like MSWA, catering for the needs
of people with multiple sclerosis and similar neurological
diseases, are the first to feel the effect of a cold breeze
filtering through the economy. Such is not the case.
While it is never easy fundraising (our CEO now has that telltale
sprinkling of grey hair), MSWA will exceed all previous
records. Beside a record donation for research into the cause
of multiple sclerosis, with a generous amount set aside for
similar neurological diseases, this year MSWA is also engaged
in a massive update and refurbishment of its Wilson premises,
has increased services to the membership, along with building
a services, administration and supported-accommodation
facility at Butler. This is a fantastic achievement.
INSIDE WINTER 2018
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR 3
FROM THE DESK OF THE CEO 4
A MESSAGE FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER –
MEMBER SERVICES 5
MS RESEARCH ROUND UP 6-8
PROTECT YOURSELF AGAINST THE FLU 9
ANNUAL MEMBER SURVEY 2017 10-11
CHLOE’S STORY 12
DIETETICS 13
NDIS UPDATE 14
A WINNER AND INSPIRATION IN OUR EYES 15
WHAT IS WELLNESS 16-17
THE RHYTHM OF LIFE 18
RENOVATIONS – WILSON PHYSIOTHERAPY DEPARTMENT 18
THE FUNDING OF ESSENTIAL EQUIPMENT 19
NURSES ARE THE HEARTBEAT OF HEALTHCARE 20
None of this would be possible, however, without the continuing
generous and wonderful support of our fundraising efforts by
the people of Western Australia, Lotteries Commission and
State Government. If economic activity could be measured
instead by the empathy and generosity of the people here in
WA, then there is only clear air below Western Australia and
the rest of the States and Territories.
You can read all about this success story right here and
straight from the people who are responsible. Producing this
edition of your Bulletin has been a real team effort, and has
appeared out of all the builder’s rubble, the renovations and
people working out of temporary make-shift quarters. The
managers and staff have really pulled something special out
of the box for you this time.
On behalf of the Editorial Committee here at the Bulletin
treadmill, we would also like to thank you for your big
tick of approval in Sue Shapland’s Annual Member
Survey (included). Once again the Bulletin has come out
on top and it is your support that fuels our enthusiasm.
Thank you.
SWALLOWING AWARENESS 22
YOUR VOICE MATTERS 23
SHAKESPEARE, BOB DYLAN AND NEUROPLASTICITY 24-25
SPEAK EASY 25
FUNDRAISING NEWS 26
PERTH ENTERTAINMENT REVIEW 27
A WINNING STRATEGY FOR LIVING 28
CARERS RETREATS 29
VOLUNTEERING 30-31
THAT’S LIFE WITH NARELLE 31
BEECHBORO OUTREACH NEWS 32
SOUTHSIDE OUTREACH NEWS 32
CENTRAL REGIONAL OUTREACH NEWS 33
SOUTH WEST REGIONAL NEWS ROUNDUP 33
GREAT SOUTHERN REGIONAL NEWS 34
DIGESTING SCIENCE 21
TAKE A BREAK IN THE SOUTH WEST 34
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From the desk of the CEO
MARCUS STAFFORD
A message from the General Manager –
Member Services
SUE SHAPLAND RN, BN
In an ever-changing world, we are often faced with change and
the challenges that accompany it. That’s when our minds toy
with the concepts of time, complexity or even ‘gee … I really
don’t need this!’ You can feel like you’re swimming against
the tide. But let me reassure you that we are swimming with
you and we will all arrive safely back on shore! Our 750+ staff
at MSWA are here to help you ask the right questions and in
turn, get the best answers that suit your own needs.
I’m talking about the NDIS, which has been causing more
than a few ripples in our community of late.
The overarching concept of the NDIS, which is a customercentric
model, allowing choice and control for people with a
disability, remains critically important. However, the transition
from a centralised model to a customer-centric process, is
not without its challenges. Unfortunately, our brave new world
has caught some organisations off guard. This has led to both
financial and service stress. Indeed, some organisations are
considering their ongoing viability. But, not us. I am delighted
to advise that at MSWA we are really enjoying the overdue
concept of customer choice, and we are delivering a range of
engagement opportunities.
So, how are we making sure that no one slips through the
cracks? Our efficient and supportive NDIS team are here to
help you navigate the process, through information sessions
in your areas, and face to face meetings to outline what you
will need for your NDIS plan. We are here to help and support
you, every step of your journey.
I’m proud that our core values (that the customer is at the
heart of everything we do), are being reflected by the Sector,
and more broadly across the State. We take our leadership
responsibility very seriously. In my view, our customers are
the most valuable and deserving of all.
Do you want to receive
the Bulletin online?
Want monthly information updates?
Register your email address today to start receiving our
monthly Vitality e-newsletter and the Bulletin magazine online.
Just email damien.hill@mswa.org.au or call 9365 4814
and let us know your current email address.
How are we going as an organisation within this new
environment? Really well. As we head closer to the end of the
financial year, I’m pleased to say that we’ve had a record year
in delivering Member and Client services, a record contribution
to research, and are building the largest footprint in our history.
All this bodes very well for our future and although I feel for
those organisations who may be ‘doing it tough,’ the market
is designed to allow the strongest organisations to deliver
the best service to people with disabilities. Strength comes
from both the number of things that we do, and the quality of
the service provided by our staff. I would like to thank them
and acknowledge their tremendous efforts, validated by the
Member and Client service surveys that we have received.
On recent events, our Members’ Forum was successful,
providing updates on local research and other important
matters. Sue Shapland will go into further detail in her
Bulletin article.
World MS Day was also a notable day, with the global theme
of ‘Bringing Us Together,’ holding significant importance for
MSWA, as it recognised our nationwide leadership status in
funding research. That research commitment now covering
Western Australia, Australia and international research, is
dedicated to finding both a cause and cure for MS, and is also
exploring important options around quality of life. For me, the
day represents acknowledging our Members, their lives and
everyone touched by MS. Feedback from both the media and the
general population confirmed the achievement of our objectives.
So, please be reassured. We understand the nature of our
changing world and we appreciate the challenges that
you are facing to navigate the complexities of the NDIS.
We’re there for you. Together we will glide gracefully
through the tide of change, determined to come out the
other end better and stronger! Until next time.
“Never tell me the sky’s limit when there are footprints on the moon”
Unknown.
It never ceases to amaze me how many quotes come up on
Google you have never seen before, but I liked this one!
True to form, the year is rolling by quite quickly and there
is so much going on not only here at MSWA, but in WA and
all around the world. The Royal Wedding was a welcome
reprieve from much of the bad news that seems to be going
on around the world, whilst my invitation didn’t arrive, I was
able to watch it for days on all stations!
We are so lucky to live in WA and indeed Australia – great
weather, beautiful scenery, pretty good standard of living
and quality health care; despite some challenges overall, it’s
pretty good.
Of course, the NDIS is another bonus. Whilst not fully rolled out
yet, we know the difference it will make for so many people
living with MS, who previously couldn’t access funding for
necessary supports and/or equipment in a timely fashion. The
NDIS will be expanding its cover in WA from July 1, covering
the south metro area, Bunbury, Joondalup, and Wanneroo
local government areas in October. Our experienced MSWA
NDIS team is dedicated to supporting our Members through
the process, from educating about the Scheme to one-on-one
support for pre-planning, all designed to help you navigate
the system and get your best plan. See Nigel’s article in this
edition. Our information sessions have already begun in the
south metro area but please contact our staff for information
and support.
As you will know, we are currently building our new services
hub and high support accommodation facility in Butler. This is
coming along beautifully and will be a fantastic addition to our
footprint. More importantly, it will provide high quality homes
for the 10 residents who will live there, as well as fabulous
resources including a large physio gym and consulting rooms.
Under the guidance of Andrea Taylor and our interior designer,
the décor will be amazing and innovative if the colour boards
are an indication!
World MS Day and MS Awareness Week were once again
celebrated with special events and promotional activities in
the City, which get better each year under the guidance of
our Communications and Events Managers. We also held
the Members’ Forum with guest speakers including local
researchers Professor Prue Hart and Dr Lucinda Black.
Raising awareness about MS is so important, and with this
year’s focus on research, it’s only fitting to remind ourselves
what a huge financial contribution MSWA has made to MS
research over the years, and what a difference that money
has made to so many researchers. There is so much ongoing
research around the world as they still search for more
answers on the cause, how and why progression occurs,
better treatments and ultimately a cure. There are now over
200 genes implicated in MS! MSWA also allocates part of our
research funds to the very important work being done through
the International Progressive MS Alliance; understanding why
progression occurs and are there treatments to prevent this.
As you may know we are also undergoing a refurbishment at
Wilson; there has been much upheaval, but the results are
looking amazing. With stage two of three now complete, the
end is in sight and we can get Outreach back on site and
resume normal services once more.
We are undergoing a lot of change in many ways but
what doesn’t change is our commitment to supporting
our Members throughout their MS journey. If you
would like to speak with an MS nurse or other health
team members please call us on 9365 4840 or use
get-in-touch@mswa.org.au. We are here to provide
you with information and updates and advice, just give
us a call.
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MS RESEARCH ROUND UP
SHARING RESEARCH UPDATES FROM AROUND THE WORLD
Read more at:
mswa.org.au/researchupdate
SUE SHAPLAND RN, BN
From Barts MS Blog:
Incidence of MS has increased markedly over six decades
in Denmark particularly with late onset and in women.
Koch-Henriksen N, Thygesen LC, Stenager E, Laursen B,
Magyari M. Neurology 2018 May.
This study reviewed all data on all patients with MS diagnosed
between 1950 and 2009, between 1950-59 and 2000-09
the incidence in women has doubled whilst in men it has
increased 24%. The female/male sex ratio increased over
time and with age.
CONCLUSION: The incidence of MS has doubled in women,
most pronounced with late onset, whilst only modestly
increased in men. Lifestyle changes in the female population
that could include fewer childbirths, increased occurrence
of obesity, and increased cigarette consumption may have
a role.
Early infectious exposures are not associated with increased
risk of paediatric-onset multiple sclerosis. Suleiman L et al.
The researchers sought to determine if early infectious
exposures such as day care, early use of antibiotics,
vaccinations and other germ exposures including pacifier use
and playing on grass are associated with MS risk in children.
Questionnaires from 326 eligible cases and 506 healthy
paediatric subjects were analysed. They looked at the history
of flu with high fever before age five, playing outside in grass
and use of special products to treat head lice or scabies and
association with increased risk of MS. These results were not
statistically significant; notably, antibiotic use and regular day
care attendance before age 6 were not associated with odds
of developing MS.
CONCLUSION: Early infectious factors investigated in this
study were not associated with MS risk.
From Journal of the Neurological Sciences:
This WA research project has been supported by MSWA
Research Funding.
Natural history of benign multiple sclerosis: Clinical and
HLA correlates in a Western Australian cohort. Marzena J.
Fabis-Pedrini, Allan Kermode et al.
Background: Benign MS (BMS) is a controversial term used
for MS patients with minimal disability decades after disease
onset. We evaluated disease status after 20 years in a WA
cohort defined as BMS based on an Expanded Disability
Status Scale (EDSS) score≤3.0 at 10 years from onset.
Methods: MS patients with an EDSS score≤3.0 at 10 years
from onset and minimum of 20 years follow up were included
in the study. The 20-year EDSS score was considered the
primary outcome. Associations with demographic and clinical
characteristics and HLA-DRB1 genotype were investigated.
Results: Among 120 patients with a benign course at 10
years, 78 (65%) remained benign at the 20-year follow up,
but patients with an EDSS≥2.5 were more likely to go on
to develop more severe disability in the next decade. When
considering factors associated with an increase in EDSS
score≤1 from 10 to 20 years, indicating limited progression,
apart from the EDSS score at 10 years, poly-symptom
presentation and cerebellar/brainstem mono-symptomatic
presentation were independently associated with more
rapid progression compared with other mono-symptomatic
presentations. Carriage of the high risk HLADRB1* 1501
allele, a genetic marker, was marginally associated with
slower progression.
Conclusions: In this WA MS cohort, of predominantly Anglo-
Celtic origin, clinical progression in the benign MS group was
similar to other Western countries.
These results are in keeping with the view that patients
labelled as benign MS are part of a heterogeneous continuum
of disease progression and do not possess unique clinical
characteristics. Possible genetic determinants of a benign
course warrant further investigation.
From UK MS Trust:
Stigma caused by MS contributes to depression
Stigma is the perception of being judged as different and
being disapproved of by others. Most people living with
MS experience some stigma, but little is known about its
psychological impact. This study investigated the association
between levels of stigma and depression in people with MS.
5369 participants of the North American Research Committee
on Multiple Sclerosis (NARCOMS) register completed two
surveys, one measuring stigma and the other depression.
Participants were asked to repeat the depression survey 12
months later.
People experiencing greater levels of stigma reported more
symptoms of depression and were more likely to be clinically
depressed. Higher levels of stigma also predicted later
depression, suggesting that for people living with MS, stigma
may partly cause depression.
People with strong social connections, with family and friends,
and sense of independence and control over their lives were
less likely to be depressed even if they experienced stigma.
The researchers concluded that a better understanding of
the ways in which stigma contributes to depression would be
helpful in developing strategies to reduce its effect on health.
About 50% of people with MS will have depression in their
lifetime, however, research has shown MS depression isn’t
clearly related to disability or length of time since diagnosis,
in fact it may be more common earlier in the disease.
From Neurolgy.org:
Sun exposure over the life course and associations with
multiple sclerosis. Helen Tremlett et al. First published March
7, 2018.
This study examined sun exposure and MS over the life course
(ages 5–15 and 16–20 years, every 10 years thereafter). 151
people with MS and 235 age-matched controls from the
Nurses’ Health Study completed summer, winter, and lifetime
sun exposure history questionnaires. Cumulative ambient
ultraviolet (UV)-B (based on latitude, altitude, cloud cover)
exposure before MS onset was expressed and defined as
low vs high hours per week for summer or winter. Relative
risks were estimated with adjustment for body mass index,
ancestry, smoking, and vitamin D supplementation.
Results Most participants were white (98%); the mean age
at MS onset was 39.5 years. Living in high (vs low) UV-B
areas before MS onset was associated with a 45% lower MS
risk. Similar reduced risks (51%–52%) for medium or high
exposure were observed at ages 5 to 15 years and at 5 to
15 years before MS onset. At age 5 to 15 years, living in a
high (vs low) UV-B area and having high (vs low) summer sun
exposure were associated with a lower MS risk.
Conclusion Living in high ambient UV-B areas during childhood
and the years leading up to MS onset was associated with a
lower MS risk. High summer sun exposure in high ambient
UV-B areas was also associated with a reduced risk.
Siponimod versus placebo in secondary progressive multiple
sclerosis (EXPAND): a double-blind, randomized, phase 3
study. Prof Ludwig Kappos et al.
This Phase 3 clinical trial, involving 1651 MS patients with
Secondary Progressive MS, was conducted at 292 hospital
clinics and MS Centers in 31 countries. 1099 received
siponimod and 546 placebo.
At baseline, the mean time since first MS symptoms was 16·8
years, and the mean time since conversion to SPMS was 3·8
years; 1055 (64%) patients had not relapsed in the previous
2 years, and 918 (56%) of 1651 needed walking assistance.
903 (82%) patients receiving siponimod and 424 (78%)
patients receiving placebo completed the study. Adverse
events occurred in 975 (89%) of 1099 patients receiving
siponimod versus 445 (82%) of 546 patients receiving
placebo; serious adverse events were reported for 197 (18%)
patients in the siponimod group versus 83 (15%) patients in
the placebo group.
Lymphopenia, increased liver enzymes, bradycardia and
bradyarrhythmia at treatment initiation, macular oedema,
hypertension, varicella zoster reactivation, and convulsions
occurred more frequently with siponimod than with placebo.
Initial dose titration mitigated cardiac first-dose effects.
Frequencies of infections, malignancies, and fatalities did not
differ between groups.
continued over
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Interpretation: Siponimod reduced the risk of disability
progression with a safety profile similar to that of other S1P
modulators and is likely to be a useful treatment for SPMS.
From MSIF:
Japanese study could improve understanding of autoimmune
process in MS
New research indicates that miRNA, a genetic switch in
the blood of people with MS, could help to explain how and
why cells that suppress the immune system do not function
correctly in MS.
There are two ways that the immune system responds
differently in MS. Firstly the T helper immune cells (Th1 and
Th17), which normally respond to the presence of an infection
in the body, begin to attack healthy cells. The second is that
another type of immune cell, known as regulatory T cells,
which normally suppress the actions of the T helper cells, are
different in people with MS. The regulatory T cells are fewer in
number and don’t work as well in MS. However, exactly how
and why regulatory T cells are lower and behave differently
in MS is not clear.
Want to access research articles?
Here are the places you can access up to date research
articles relating to multiple sclerosis:
• Vitality – Our monthly research focussed e-newsletter
• Our website – https://mswa.org.au/news/latest-news
• Right here as part of your Member magazine Bulletin.
It includes great research articles and information every quarter.
Just email communications@mswa.org.au if you would like any further information.
Researchers from the National Centre of Neurology and
Psychiatry in Japan examined the role of specific molecules –
microRNAs – in MS. MicroRNAs are short sections of RNA, a
DNA-like material which regulates the activity of genes within
cells. They can act as gene switches, telling cells whether
to use specific genes at any given time. Cells can excrete
microRNAs in small packages known as exosomes, as a
method of communication between cells.
The researchers looked at the circulating exosomes in the
blood of people with MS and compared these with samples
taken from people without MS. They found that the exosomes
taken from people with MS reduced the growth of regulatory
T cells in a dish in the laboratory, whereas exosomes from
people without MS had no effect.
This important work identified that the let-7i microRNA,
as well as these two molecules, act together to set up the
differences seen in regulatory T cells in MS – one of the key
autoimmune processes that leads to MS.
This work offers valuable insights into an important
mechanism that helps to keep autoimmune cells in check and
how this mechanism can function incorrectly in MS.
How to become involved in Multiple Sclerosis Research
– the Australian MS Longitudinal Study
The Australian MS Longitudinal Study started in 2001, and currently around 13% of people diagnosed
with MS in Australia participate. The study involves research surveys conducted to help improve services,
treatments and advocacy to increase the quality of life for people living with MS.
To join in and include your voice in MS research, visit www.MSRA.org.au/AMSLS and download the
information and consent forms, then email the completed form to AMSLS.info@utas.edu.au.
To join, you must be at least 18 years old, living in Australia and be diagnosed with MS.
PROTECT YOURSELF
AGAINST THE FLU
SUE SHAPLAND RN, BN
Protect yourselves and others
An annual flu vaccination is recommended to reduce the
chances of both catching and transmitting the flu. This is
especially important for those at risk of complications arising
from influenza, and those in close contact with at-risk people.
Influenza is highly contagious and spreads through coughing
or sneezing virus droplets into the air. Others then breathe
them in and become infected. It’s important to remember that
touching contaminated surfaces (including hands) and then
touching your mouth, nose or eyes can also lead to infection.
You can reduce the spread of the virus during flu season by
practicing good household and personal hygiene, avoiding
close contact with others if you or they are ill, and covering
your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
The bad news:
1. Flu viruses can survive an hour or more in enclosed
environments, meaning contaminated respiratory secretions
can be picked up even without someone coughing or
sneezing near us.
2. Even before we show symptoms, we can be shedding the
flu viruses, infecting others around us.
3. Flu viruses are characterised by constant evolution, this
means they can pose a new threat every year.
The good news:
Protect yourself and others through cough and sneeze
etiquette
• turn away from others
• cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve
• use tissues rather than a hankie
• put used tissues in the nearest bin
• wash your hands or use alcohol hand rub as soon as
possible afterwards
Hand washing is the single most effective way of killing
the flu virus and limits the spread of the flu and other
respiratory infections.
Always wash your hands with soap and water or use alcoholbased
products (gels, rinses, foams) that don’t require water,
especially after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose and
before preparing food and eating.
Stop the spread in your house:
Flu viruses can survive more than eight hours on hard
surfaces, clean frequently touched surfaces such as door
handles and benches regularly.
Flu viruses can be inactivated and removed with normal
household detergents. Keep personal items such as towels,
bedding and toothbrushes separate. Don’t share cutlery and
crockery, food or drinks.
Is it the flu or a cold?
Colds affect the nose, the throat, and upper airways, and
common symptoms include coughing, fever, sore throat,
sneezing, blocked or runny nose and general congestion.
They are caused by about 200 different viruses and there is
no vaccine for a cold.
Symptoms of a cold tend to be mild to moderately severe.
The flu is a viral infection affecting your nose, throat and
sometimes your lungs. Typical symptoms of flu include fever,
sore throat and muscle aches.
Both colds and flu can also lead to complications, such as
pneumonia, which can sometimes lead to death.
Check out the Health Direct website: https://www.healthdirect.
gov.au/cold-or-flu-infographic
If you are feeling concerned about any symptoms
of a cold or flu, then see your doctor or call a locum
after hours.
Call Health Direct on 1800 022 222, to speak to a
registered nurse; available 24 hrs a day, 7 days a week.
8 | MSWA BULLETIN WINTER 2018 MSWA BULLETIN WINTER 2018 | 9

ANNUAL MEMBER
SURVEY 2017
SUE SHAPLAND RN, BN
A HUGE thank you to all Members who responded to our 2017 Survey, we really appreciate the feedback and read all the
comments thoroughly and follow up where individuals have requested. Here is a summary of the results.
This year we had 753 responses. 77% were female and 23% male.
Age group: Database vs Survey responses
700
600
500
400
300
200
100
0
26
3
1 2
173
26
396
Under 18yrs 18-24yrs 25-34yrs 35-44yrs
71
215
622 615
225
171 182
451
45-54yrs 55-64yrs 65-74yrs 75+yrs
75
156
Which MS symptoms/problems, if any, do you
most experience?
Balance 485 67%
Weak legs 425 59%
Muscle weakness 414 57%
Numbness 328 45%
Incontinence; bladder/bowel 318 44%
Pins & needles 294 41%
Muscle stiffness 289 40%
Muscle spasms 286 40%
Memory 279 39%
Concentration 263 36%
Do you currently use any mobility aids?
697 responded.
381
(55%)
316
(45%)
Yes
No
How likely are you to recommend MSWA, to others, as
service provider?
681 responses
37 (5%)
Satisfaction with MSWA Services
18 (3%)
644
(95%)
622
(97%)
Likely
Unlikely
Satisfied/
Very Satisfied
Dissatisfied/
Very Dissatisfied
• 72% live in the metro area and 28% in regional areas.
• 55% indicated they’re working and of the 205 not working currently only 10 stated they are seeking work.
• 95% indicated they read the Bulletin!! Fantastic news for us!
How much does MS affect your everyday activities?
250
200
150
100
50
0
Survey
69
(9%)
Not at all
Database
208
(28%)
A little
224
(31%)
More than a little, but not a lot
231
(32%)
A lot
Are you always treated with care and respect by staff
when you contact MSWA?
Responses: 679
4 (1%)
675
(99%)
Yes
No
Do you feel you know enough about the NDIS?
50% said NO.
Need to know more?
Contact the dedicated MSWA NDIS Team
Here are some comments and ideas, which we are
taking on board
• Don’t completely understand the NDIS because I don’t
currently require any services, but if I do in the future I’m
sure MSWA will assist me in my questions.
• MSWA is a wonderful service provider and do a wonderful job.
• Keep up the good work - much appreciated.
• I don’t need MSWA services at present but have been
grateful for advice I have received when I have occasionally
called with questions. It is reassuring to know so many
services are available should I ever need them.
• MuMs group should be more frequent.
• More time slots for massage & OT.
• There are limited community groups that include men. Most
are for women or people with high level of disability.
• Great to have a centre in Joondalup at last! Thank you!
10 | MSWA BULLETIN WINTER 2018 MSWA BULLETIN WINTER 2018 | 11

CHLOE’S
STORY
DIETETICS
MSWA MEMBER
KAREN HUMPHRIES, MSWA DIETIAN
“An eye test that changed my life”
Chloe Baker is a bright and hardworking 31-year-old who has
built her life based on a positive attitude and determination.
She was living in New Zealand in 2017, running a cosmetic
business with her partner Shaun, when her vision became
impaired and she started feeling fatigued.
Wrapping up the business in New Zealand and coming home
to her family, meant Chloe could focus on her health, and
after an eye test that led to an MRI, Chloe was diagnosed with
multiple sclerosis (MS).
“The biggest shock was seeing the lesions on my brain and
spine, I wasn’t prepared for that, it was the one time I cried,”
said Chloe.
Telling her family about the diagnosis was difficult and Chloe’s
sister, who is a nurse, was extremely upset. “This was one of
the hardest things I’ve had to do, you have to be strong and
calm when telling your family, but on the inside, you’re still
processing what it means for you. My sister and I are very
close and naturally she had a lot of questions, some of which I
couldn’t answer,” said Chloe.
After adjusting to her diagnosis, Chloe’s mum reached out to
MSWA on her behalf. That first phone call from the MSWA
team was very impactful. To hear a reassuring voice that could
answer her questions helped her to not feel so alone.
Chloe said, “lucky for me, I have an amazing network of family
and friends supporting me, and a dedicated team at MSWA
who contribute to ground-breaking research every year.”
Life for Chloe is a little different since her diagnosis, monthly
infusions can be exhausting but her body is responding
positively. Heat intolerance, double vision, fatigue and anxiety
are her daily battles, but living a healthy lifestyle is something
she now takes seriously, including no alcohol and in bed before
9 o’clock.
“If I don’t get a good night’s sleep, the next day can be a
struggle. If my body gets hot, it’s ten times worse and I need
to close one eye to see where I’m going,” said Chloe.
Embracing the everyday challenges, Chloe has started her
own blog aptly titled ‘My MS blog’ to help others living with
MS to tackle the condition with a positive attitude.
Chloe said, “I’m really passionate about promoting my journey
with MS in a relatable way. I hope my story can create
awareness and encourage people to donate towards funding
research.
“Life can throw you challenges but with your support I’m
ready for them.”
MSWA has welcomed two part-time Dietitians to the team.
Katie and Karen are excited to join us and are very much
looking forward to setting up the Dietetic service and getting
out and meeting MSWA Members and staff.
Dietitians are university-qualified nutrition experts who
promote general health and disease prevention/management
through dietary changes. They will work with our Members by
assessing nutritional status and dietary intake. They provide
dietary counselling, education and advice that is evidencebased
and individualised, empowering Members with
practical strategies to meet their goals, improve their health,
wellbeing and independence.
The MSWA Dietitians can assist Members with malnutrition
assessments and management, as well as tube feeding
support and medical nutrition therapy for chronic diseases
(eg Diabetes). Many people with neurological conditions have
difficulty receiving adequate nutrition through eating and
drinking normally and may therefore need special nutritional
supplements or even be fed via a tube (eg PEG/RIG/NGT)
using a specially formulated nutritional liquid feed. Dietitians
are able to determine how much feed an individual requires
and can assist in trouble-shooting any issues that may occur.
Did you know – your nutrition can impact a wide range of
things from your concentration and food, to your energy levels
and immune system? Making sure that you are well nourished
will help you to maximise your overall health and strength so
that you are better able to perform your daily activities and
meet your goals.
Meet the Dietitians!
Karen
Karen graduated from Curtin University with a Masters of
Dietetics in 2016. Karen has previously worked with NDIS
participants when she worked at Senses Australia. She is
a strong advocate for individuals with disability and enjoys
working with them to optimise their health and ability to
participate in everyday life. She has recently taken six months’
maternity leave and is a mum to two joyful and energetic
young boys. She has a love of all things food and health,
you will often find her eating or in the kitchen preparing the
next meal.
Karen (R) and Katie (L)
Katie
Katie also graduated from Curtin University with a Master
of Dietetics in 2016. Prior to joining the team at MSWA she
worked in a range of different medical areas at Sir Charles
Gairdner Hospital. She has a strong passion for neurology,
which began while she was running the neurology dietetics
clinic at the Hospital. She grew up in the South West on her
family’s farm surrounded by avocados, vines, cows, sheep,
goats and chickens and moved to the City to pursue her
interest in human biology and nutrition. She is a big foodie
and believer in enjoyment and balance when it comes to
eating – food is so much more than a collection of nutrients!
12 | MSWA BULLETIN WINTER 2018 MSWA BULLETIN WINTER 2018 | 13

NDIS UPDATE
NIGEL CAREY, MSWA MANAGER NDIS BUSINESS UNIT
A WINNER AND
INSPIRATION IN OUR EYES
LIZ STEWART, MSWA MANAGER QUALITY AND SAFETY
Exciting news! The NDIS continues to roll out across the State
and is coming to the areas of Fremantle, the City of Melville
and the City of South Perth on July 1.
The MSWA NDIS team have already been busy talking to our
Members and putting on a series of information sessions to
explain what it all means, and how the NDIS could benefit
them. We have started early as we are keen to submit NDIS
application forms before July 1 to beat the rush.
We are running more information sessions in June, July and
August in the City of South Perth, City of Melville and City of
Fremantle. Please contact the MSWA NDIS Team and we will
register you for a date and location which is convenient for
you or will chat with you one-on-one.
These sessions are open to anyone with a neurological
condition such as Stroke, Parkinson’s Disease, Huntington’s
Disease, Motor Neurone Disease, and acquired Brain Injury to
name a few.
If you can’t make any of the dates, then please phone the
team and we can arrange an individual meeting.
We are also assisting our Members who currently have a
State WA NDIS plan to smoothly transition to the Federal NDIS
Scheme. This is mandatory now that WA is joining the Federal
NDIS. We strongly recommend that you get in touch with
the MSWA team when you are advised that your plan is
about to transfer to the NDIS: we are here to help you.
We can assist you to ensure the value of your current plan is
maintained. Otherwise key supports in your current plan may
not be included in your new Federal NDIS plan.
A quick reminder of the transfer dates:
April – July: WA NDIS clients living in Perth Hills, Bayswater,
Bassendean, Chittering, Northam, Toodyay and York will be
asked to transfer to the NDIS
July – November: WA NDIS clients living in Rockingham,
Mandurah, Armadale, Murray and Serpentine-Jarrahdale will
be asked to transfer to the NDIS
August – October: WA NDIS clients living in Cockburn and
Kwinana will be asked to transfer to the NDIS
For those living in the Joondalup, Wanneroo, and Bunbury
surrounds, you will be entering the NDIS from October 1,
2018. We will be contacting you and offering the information
sessions and supports closer to that date.
The NDIS team at MSWA are always available if you have
any questions or if you require further information about
the NDIS. We are here to help you understand eligibility,
what could be possible and to get your best plan.
Our MSWA NDIS team members are:
Christine Richards: Client Relationship Coordinator
Email: christine.richards@mswa.org.au
Phone: 9365 4867
Pranjal Pawar: Client Relationship Coordinator
Email: pranjal.pawar@mswa.org.au
Phone: 9365 4810
Annabel Vasquez: Client Relationship Coordinator
Email: annabel.vasquez@mswa.org.au
Phone: 9365 4806
Nominated for Excellence in Leadership 2018
WA Disability Support Awards
Jayne O’Sullivan Hamilton Hill Manager
“A WINNER AND INSPIRATION IN OUR EYES”
Several Managers along with Jo Nouwland (Coordinator
Hamilton Hill), Haylie Anderson (Coordinator Hamilton Hill),
Deborah Banbury (EN Hamilton Hill), Yolande Maguire (Care
Support Worker Hamilton Hill), Michael O’Sullivan (Jayne’s
Husband) and myself, were honoured to attend the NDS
WA Disability Support Awards night alongside Jayne who
had been nominated for an Excellence in Leadership award.
Although Jayne was not a finalist in her category, in our eyes,
she most certainly is a winner and a leader in her field!
I would like to share part of the submission:
Jayne’s MSWA Career commenced in September 1997,
she had been working as an enrolled nurse at Mount Henry
Hospital, and when it was being closed, six patients with MS
chose to relocate to the new MSWA Fern River supported
accommodation facility. Jayne was offered work at another
hospital but chose to apply for a position as a care support
worker with MSWA.
Colleagues at the time stated Jayne was a strong advocate
for the six residents and worked hard to meet their needs
and enable them to live a life that they chose. The residents
were all happy to move from a hospital environment to
their community based new home. Within a short period of
time Jayne was offered a position as an enrolled nurse,
her career in mentoring and leading a team of care support
workers began.
Now manager at our Hamilton Hill facility, Jayne exemplifies
what is a leader in the field. She is truly inspirational. Jayne
leads by example, getting involved in all aspects of the facility
and those working or living under her care. She listens to
all perspectives. The accommodation support facility is well
kept and well maintained. The residents, staff and volunteers
work well together, setting a vision of what a model quality
supported accommodation facility should look like inside and
out. Hamilton Hill is the benchmark.
Jayne mentored me when I started as a care support worker
and continued to support and encourage me as I took on
more senior roles. She’s not scared to get her hands dirty.
Jayne will complete personal care tasks by working side by
side with the support workers, explaining the importance of
personal hygiene, leading by example. She actively promotes
individual rights and ensures all staff adhere to the six
Disability Standards.
This clearly stands out as you pull up outside the Hamilton Hill
facility. You see two beautiful buildings, with a small parking
lot, in a community setting, you instinctively know that there
is something special happening inside. Ringing the doorbell
at number 59 you can hear laughter coming from within, and
when they open the door you are greeted with warm smiles
and welcomed into this vibrant home. You may be greeted by
a resident or a staff member.
The team are smartly dressed, no uniforms here. Beyond
the entrance is laughter and a lot of banter going on, it’s
all happening in the large communal area! The vibe is second
to none. There is great excitement amongst the residents
and staff.
When you talk to Jayne’s staff, they all say she is great to
work for, a real advocate for people living with a disability
and a great mentor. She embraces all our core values of
professionalism, teamwork, service and respect. As manager,
Jayne has created a positive environment which demonstrates
how coordinators and care support workers should work.
When I was appointed manager of Fern River, Jayne once
again became a mentor, teaching me all angles of the
business of managing a facility. Most importantly she showed
me how to become a leader and mentor to my own team
to ensure residents were living in a homely environment that
they chose, in the way they choose to live
Because of Jayne’s leadership skills and experience,
gained over a period of 20 years, MSWA sees Hamilton Hill
as a shining of our supported accommodation facilities.
September – December: WA NDIS clients living in the Lower
South West will be asked to transfer to the NDIS
14 | MSWA BULLETIN WINTER 2018 MSWA BULLETIN WINTER 2018 | 15

WHAT IS WELLNESS?
SARAH LORRIMAR, MSWA COORDINATOR OF HEALTH EDUCATION AND PEER SUPPORT
Living with MS often means changes and new perspectives
on the way you see yourself, your expectations in life, as well
as your values and beliefs. Although there are a number of
things out of your control when living with MS, it is important
to take control of what you can influence.
Wellness encompasses a proactive lifestyle which involves
taking steps to achieve your best possible mental and
physical health. This includes accessing information and
resources to make informed choices about your health and
wellbeing, as well as acting on them. Taking steps such as
stress management, incorporating healthy lifestyle choices
into your daily life and finding ways you, yourself can best
manage your health are all aspects of wellness.
In this new section of the Bulletin we will be including
information to help you keep physically and mentally active –
expect tips on managing stress, brain health, physical activity,
healthy eating, and updates on what’s on at MSWA!
What’s been happening
At MSWA we have a variety of workshops and sessions
available to our Members and those supporting them. These
sessions focus on providing people with experiences and
strategies to improve their wellbeing, as well as an opportunity
to engage with MSWA staff, and others living with MS. Some
of our recent sessions include wellness days, sound healing
and mindfulness meditation.
Wellness Days
The Wellness Days are a restorative day of deeper listening, to
gain a better awareness to the mind/body connection through
meditation, mindfulness, gentle yoga and sound healing. Each
of these experiences are facilitated by different members of
the MSWA Counselling team and hope to provide attendees
with a day of nourishment, restoration and learning.
Two days have been held so far, with 15 attendees in Bunbury
and 16 in Rockingham. The spaces at each location were
thoughtfully prepared with essential oils, fabrics, flowers,
cushions, salt lamps, music and sound instruments. The
sessions began with Jeorge and a meditation exercise aimed
to deepen awareness and allow people to connect to their
inner resources. Following this, Simon explored mindfulnessbased
skills to assist people in making choices and acting
more effectively. After a delicious vegetarian lunch, Monique
in Bunbury and Cathy in Rockingham led the group through
gentle yoga with movement to soothe, restore and gently
move the body. Closing the session was Cherry’s sound
healing which uses sound waves to help restore one’s mind,
body and spirit back to a state of balance. Whilst sharing tea,
the groups closed with reflections on their experiences. There
was some lovely feedback including;
“The day in general was superb and the lead up to Cherry’s
sound meditation session was essential to the total ‘out of
body’ experience which she provided - thank you so much to
all the counsellors and organisers for this event.”
“Each session provided something that I can use in my daily
life. I had the best sleep last night that I have had in many
months.”
“The thought that went into making it special, the decorations
in the room, the lunch and all the staff made everything come
together for a very relaxing, health improving day. I look
forward to our next one. I can’t speak highly enough of it all.”
“I got to experience new things and learnt new techniques
that I can benefit from on a day to day basis.”
“It was a truly wonderful mind/body experience.”
There are two more sessions scheduled for later in
the year at Mundaring and Currambine. Although
registrations for these sessions are full, please get in
touch if you would like to attend and we can place you
on a waitlist.
Sound Healing
Cherry Chapman,
MSWA Counsellor
The first stand-alone sound
session took place on an early
Thursday evening in Bentley.
The meeting room at Catherine
Street was quickly converted
with the aroma of lavender,
percussion instruments, yoga mats, colourful materials,
pillows and warm lights. There was not an inch to spare!
Quiet descended upon the room as Cherry weaved a narrative
with the Tibetan and crystal bowls. A guided, deep relaxation
ensured the sounds and vibrations resonated through the
body, bringing about a deeper relaxation, calm and moment
of stillness. Keep posted for the next sound experience, by
the ocean.
Mindfulness Meditation
Jeorge Chambers and Simon Rolph, MSWA Counsellors
In April, facilitators from the Counselling Team held a workshop
on mindfulness skills. This was held in the lovely setting
of a yoga studio in Wangara. Members who attended were
both new to mindfulness as well as experienced meditators.
The workshop focused on developing and deepening selfawareness
through guided mindfulness skills and how to
integrate them into daily life.
What’s on next...
• Yoga
Bunbury | June - July
Our popular yoga classes are back with new techniques
from yoga instructor Mo Ramsay
• Fatigue Management Program
Beechboro | August
Wilson | October
• Wellness Day
Mundaring | August
Currambine | October
Experience a restorative day of deeper listening. Gain a
greater awareness to your mind/body connection through
mindfulness, meditation, gentle yoga and sound healing
• Sound Healing by the Ocean
September
Cherry invites you to experience a moment of stillness by
the ocean.Tibetan and crystal bowls will weave a narrative
to help rebalance the body’s energy, increase feelings of
calm and quieten a busy mind
• Mindfulness Meditation
Nedlands | September
A session of guided meditations, relaxation and
mindfulness techniques
For more information, please contact Sarah Lorrimar
Coordinator of Health Education and Peer Support on
9365 4858 or sarah.lorrimar@mswa.org.au
Keeping Your Brain Active
Maintaining brain health is important for everyone but
particularly so for people living with MS. Good brain health
means greater ability of the brain to compensate for damage
which may occur from MS. The brain does this by adapting
healthy areas of the brain to take on new functions.
Research shows that keeping your brain active strengthens
and builds new brain cells, helping maintain and improve
brain health. Learn new things, read, be creative or take up
a new hobby – all these activities can improve your memory
and boost brain activity.
Did you know? Challenging your brain with games and puzzles
is a simple way to exercise your brain and thought processes.
Try out this word puzzle!
Eating Well
Eating a balanced and nutrient-rich diet is an important
element of general wellbeing, maintaining health and reducing
risk of chronic diseases. Achieving and maintaining long-term
healthy eating habits can have a positive impact on a number
of things including self-esteem, energy levels, immune health,
reduced risk of falls, strength and concentration.
A nourishing, healthy diet includes a variety of foods from the five
food groups: vegetables, fruits, grain/cereal foods (particularly
wholegrains), lean meat/poultry/fish and alternatives such as
eggs/tofu/nuts/seeds/beans/legumes, and dairy foods and
calcium-fortified alternatives such as soy and milk.
For a healthy diet it is also recommended to reduce
consumption of foods and drinks high in saturated fat, salt
and added sugar, and to limit alcoholic beverages to no more
than two standard drinks per day.
Easy risotto recipe
Ingredients
• 1 brown onion, chopped
• 2 tsp olive oil
• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 2 ½ cups chicken or vegetable stock
• 1 cup reduced salt corn kernels, fresh or canned
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup skinless chicken breast – cooked and diced
• 1 tbs grated Parmesan cheese
Variation: Substitute 2 cups cooked, cubed butternut pumpkin
for corn
Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Serves: 4
Method
1. Combine onion and oil in a microwave-safe container.
Microwave on HIGH (100%) for 3 minutes.
2. Add rice and stock, and microwave, covered, for 12
minutes on HIGH (100%). Stir well then add corn, peas and
cooked chicken.
3. Cover and microwave on HIGH (100%) for 8 minutes.
4. Allow to stand for 2 minutes.
5. Stir and sprinkle with cheese.
Recipe from Livelighter.com
Find as many words as possible using the letters in the
wheel. Each word must use the letter R in the centre and
be at least four letters long. Letters may only be used
once. You may not use proper nouns.
16 | MSWA BULLETIN WINTER 2018 MSWA BULLETIN WINTER 2018 | 17

THE RHYTHM
OF LIFE
LEONIE WELLINGTON, MSWA SENIOR COUNSELLOR
THE FUNDING OF
ESSENTIAL EQUIPMENT
SUE SHAPLAND RN, BN
Life has a rhythm. The rhythm of your life may be different
to mine but we both have patterns. Patterns determined by
nature, our family of origin, work, health, past experiences,
new experiences, the list is endless. Patterns provide us with
a sense of predictability and safety. Even those that may not
be helping us get where we aspire to be. You may have heard
the saying ‘better the devil you know rather than the devil you
don’t.’ Making change can be difficult because we often need
to break patterns of behaviour we have known, and been
familiar with, for possibly our lifetime.
Drumming is a universal nonverbal rhythmic form of
communication. It is used in many cultures to bring people
together, celebrate, mourn. Drumming creates an immediate
shared experience that anyone can participate in. You don’t
need to be a musician, in fact, you don’t even need a drum
to participate. How often do you find yourself clapping or
tapping your feet to a rhythm?
There is more and more science looking into the benefits
of rhythm and drumming on the brain and body. Drumming
allows us to use both sides of the brain at the same time,
creating a synchronisation that is not often achieved in daily
life and opening the way for greater insight and creativity.
It can also increase alpha waves in the brain which helps
alleviate stress responses and can calm a busy mind.
BEN MATTHEWS, MSWA PHYSIOTHERAPIST
Neuro imaging has shown the areas of the brain triggered
using rhythmic music to be connected to impulse control,
movement and emotional memory.
A drum can be a safe vessel to express past traumas, current
fears and new goals by communicating beyond words and
having the immediate feedback of the sound and vibration
from the drum. When used in a group it can help connect
people by promoting cooperation, encouragement, creativity,
self-expression and shared achievement. People can hear
and be heard. It is a way to practice and experience change.
In many ways it is a metaphor for life.
As a counsellor, I have found a freedom in using drumming
groups that allow everyone self-expression, as well as a
collective expression. The feedback from participants include
feeling relaxed, enjoying socially connecting with others,
learning to link the body and brain in movement and that it is
fun. There is no right or wrong way to express rhythm, as it is
ever evolving and changing in the here and now with benefits
that can be used long after it has finished.
I am currently running a drumming group on the first
and third Fridays of the month at the MSWA Community
and Health Services Centre in Bunbury. Please contact
Leonie on 6454 2804 or leonie.wellington@mswa.org.au
if you would like more information.
RENOVATIONS –
WILSON PHYSIOTHERAPY DEPARTMENT
Derived from the Latin Renovatus; to improve a home, or
house, or building, with or without argumentative couples,
film crews, and a show on Channel 7.
It is with great pleasure to announce that MSWA Wilson is
now into the third phase of renovations, with all renovations
scheduled to be completed by the end of July. We would like
to extend a warm and heartfelt thank you to all our Members
for their patience whilst the physiotherapy gym and surrounds
have been shifted about, and especially for putting up with all
the noise and the fragrant smell of paint and gloss (the ghost
of which still haunts the halls) over the past couple of months.
I think everyone will agree that the renovations are worthwhile.
Our beloved physio gym has been extended, and now fits
even more torturous…er…motivational exercise equipment.
The bright colour scheme lifts the room, and we invite
speculation as to the name of the colour of white that has
gone on the walls. Some say “Rottnest Island white”, others
favour a “burnt cream”, or “I don’t know I forgot to bring my
glasses today.”
The hydrotherapy pool has also had a facelift, and, unlike a
number of Hollywood heiresses, the pool looks better for it.
The renovations haven’t all been for looks, however. Our aim
was to update the gym and the hydro pool so that we can
continue to offer the best physiotherapy services to all of our
Members. Please feel free to have a look when you are next
in Wilson, we hope it motivates you to join a group or two.
We often get asked by Members how equipment is funded
and where they can go for information and assistance. We
recommend that you speak with one of our Occupational
Therapy Team who know all about the funding sources and
eligibility and can also recommend what may suit your needs
and where to go and try it. Our OTs apply for grants on behalf
of our Members.
How can equipment be funded?
1. Community Aids and Equipment Program (CAEP)
– funded by DSC and administered by the Health
Department
CAEP has generally been adequate for meeting equipment
needs in the home and is responsive to change in equipment
needs over time.
• Managed through the local hospitals
• Basic essential equipment for in the home
• Does not consider community access needs or quality of life
• Is income assessed, you need a Health Care Card or pension
and has some restrictions
• CAEP owns the equipment and are responsible for
maintenance and repairs
2. Equipment for Living Grants (EFL)
Additional/alternative funding to CAEP is the EFL Grant (DSC
funding, administered through the Independent Living Centre).
Beds, scooters etc have been funded by the EFL grant.
• You must be CAEP eligible
• There is some consideration for quality of life where the
equipment enables community access
• Funded items are the responsibility of the applicant,
including the cost of maintenance and repairs
3. NDIA and WANDIS
• No means test, must be eligible for NDIS. People who did not
qualify for funding are now eligible for funding of equipment
• Funds ongoing maintenance and repair costs of equipment
in your package
• Although equipment is basic and essential, it also considers
life goals and quality of life to meet your goals
• Requested equipment must be related to the disability
• Normal household items are generally not funded e.g. air
conditioning will not be funded by NDIA or My Way
• Home modifications will also be funded if required for the
disability
4. Lotterywest Grants
Lotterywest provide funding through the DEG grants and EIE
grant programs.
These grants have assisted with vehicle modifications, driving
assessments, some communication aids, and funding of items
if you aren’t CAEP eligible due to having a care package that
is Commonwealth funded not State funded, e.g. Aged Care.
There can be a gap between the funding limits and the cost
of the request, which is generally met by the applicant or their
families.
5. Community Living Participation Grants
Funded by National Disability Services, the CLPG grant is
about community access, not equipment in the home.
• Not means tested, but need to demonstrate the need for
funding support
• Includes items for community access
• The applicant is responsible for the maintenance and repairs
of equipment
• Includes holidays in WA
We can combine some grants to fund more expensive items
e.g. $15,000 powered wheelchairs have been funded using
the EIE grant and CLPG grants combined.
6. Aged Care Packages
For those with packages there is some limited ability to
purchase equipment within the package.
If you need some assistance with accessing equipment
contact the OT Team on 9365 4888.
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NURSES ARE THE
HEARTBEAT OF HEALTHCARE
MSWA BRAND AND COMMUNICATIONS TEAM
DIGESTING SCIENCE
LOU HATTER, MSWA NURSE MANAGER AND HOSPITAL LIAISON NURSE
Denise Menzies is one the first faces a newly diagnosed MS
patient will see, so it’s great that she has a soft and reassuring
voice, and a warm smile that would calm most people! Dee,
as she’s known to her colleagues, has been working at MSWA
for eight years and says it was pure luck that she started
working for the organisation after ten years in the British
healthcare system.
Dee is an MSWA Hospital Liaison Nurse and is highly
knowledgeable and experienced with MS. Her role is an
essential part of the MS journey and she provides invaluable
support and specialist clinical advice to people with MS.
Dee sees MSWA Members as patients in hospitals, outpatient
clinics and in community settings. She acts as a primary
contact for people presenting with MS and provides support
on hospital wards and in MS clinics. She is passionate about
improving quality of life, educating and empowering people
with neurological conditions.
“Being diagnosed with MS can be an emotional and
overwhelming experience, usually followed by shock. My role
is to support them on this long journey, answer their questions
and teach them how to live well with their condition,” Dee
said.
The treatments for MS have seen many new developments
over the past 10 years and MS Nurses have also evolved over
this time.
Dee said “working for MSWA means you’re a part of a
multidisciplinary team, with access to a wide range of allied
health services, and this supports us to provide holistic care.
We try to keep Members out of hospital if possible because
many aspects of MS can be managed in the community which
prevents both unnecessary admissions and ensures that any
additional stress is reduced.”
Dee explains that every person’s journey with MS is different
and being able to build a rapport with someone after they
receive their diagnosis is her first priority. “I explain what MS
is, what the diagnosis means for them and focus on what
they’re feeling. We’re there to support them and they’re
usually concerned with how it’s going to affect them on a day
to day basis, and the future.”
“Nurses are a vital contributor to improving the physical
and mental health and overall wellbeing of our community.
It’s important to acknowlege and recognise the time we as
nurses dedicate to supporting people who are going through
an extrmely vulnerbale time in their lives,” she said. Dee is
just one of 32 MSWA Nurses who are supporting people with
MS and other neurological conditions.
Digesting Science is an award-winning UK program teaching
young children about multiple sclerosis. The Queen Mary
University of London (QMUL) Engagement and Enterprise
Awards 2017 recognize outstanding achievements in public
engagement, academic enterprise, student enterprise and
public relations across Queen Mary University of London.
Digesting Science is an educational service that provides
a set of activities that teach children aged 6-12 years old,
who have a parent with multiple sclerosis, about the science
behind this chronic disease.
The activities were co-designed with Bart’s Hospital MS
researchers, clinicians and nurses, families with MS,
designers and a drama teacher.
The Bart’s MS team have been running Digesting Science
events in and around London since 2013; communicating
their research through practical activities involving modelling
clay, food modelling and games to their patients and their
families.
This year they have been able to run training programs for
ambassadors to take this award-winning program further
afield. I was lucky enough to be able to join the first training
course in May of this year. The course is very inventive, looking
at different symptoms in MS, treatments and prevention in a
fun and informative way. For more information on the program
and how it is set up visit the Digesting Science website at:
http://digestingscience.co.uk/
I would now like to run a pilot program in WA to see how well
it is received by our Members and their children.
The workshop for Parents with MS and their child(ren) lasts
for three hours. It will be held in the July school holidays,
venue to be confirmed, spaces are limited so if you would
like more information please contact me via email on louise.
hatter@mswa.org.au
From the latest Bart’s newsletter:
our first Digesting Science ambassadors graduate
Lou Hatter pictured bottom left
We had a fantastic time earlier this month training up our first
set of ambassadors. Digesting Science ambassadors will be
working to spread the word about Digesting Science. They’ll
encourage more events in their area and let others know just
how easy it is to run an event.
Over two days, ambassadors learned how the kits were
developed and some of the latest scientific research behind
each of the activities. They met members of the Bart’s-MS
team, as well as people who had attended events themselves,
and the Digesting Science team. We were lucky to have a
creative and enthusiastic group for our first ambassadors,
and we look forward to seeing how they can move the project
forward in their area.
Special thanks to ALL our ambassadors from far and
wide (Australia, Turkey, Israel, America, Western Isles,
London, Southampton, Derby and Sussex). And to our
lovely mums who came along to share their experiences
with the trainees.
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SWALLOWING
AWARENESS
GEORGINA HETT, MSWA SPEECH PATHOLOGIST
YOUR VOICE MATTERS
STEPHANIE PERKOV, MSWA SPEECH PATHOLOGIST
If you were to search the date March 14 on Google, you would
find that it is the 73rd day of the Gregorian calendar, the
birthday of Sir Michael Caine, and a global day of celebration
of the Greek letter and mathematical constant ‘Pi’. Keep
scrolling, and you will read that March 14 was also Swallowing
Awareness Day – an annual event created to bring greater
attention to the significant impact that swallowing difficulties
can have on an individual’s health and wellbeing.
Each year, Swallowing Awareness Day has a new theme, 2018
reminded us that “Swallowing is Ageless.” This sentiment
emphasised that dysphagia (disordered swallowing) can
affect everyone from the youngest babies through to older
adults and offered us a chance to reflect that swallowing
difficulties do not discriminate – they can impact people at all
ages and in all walks of life.
Although changes to swallowing are common for people living
with neurological conditions, they can be associated with a
broad variety of other medical causes. Dysphagia frequently
impacts people living with head and neck cancers but can just
as easily be an unwanted side-effect of a urinary tract infection.
A day of awareness offers the opportunity to acknowledge
the impacts disordered swallowing can have on ‘getting on
with life.’ Chest infections, choking, and reduced nutrition and
hydration are some of the many indications that dysphagia is
influencing a person’s quality of life.
Increasing awareness can help people recognise that
dysphagia can vary significantly in terms of appearance,
severity and duration – it truly looks and feels different for
everyone. One person living with dysphagia may experience
difficulty managing their saliva throughout the day. Another
may have difficulty swallowing effectively during times of
fatigue. Some people may have difficulty breaking down food
to swallow, while others may be at significant risk of choking
and aspiration.
From a positive viewpoint, increasing awareness of swallowing
difficulties means we can also increase awareness about
swallowing interventions, and those who work to lessen the
effects of dysphagia on a person’s daily life.
Intervention for swallowing difficulties forms a spectrum,
incorporating approaches such as education, rehabilitation,
compensation, caregiver support and the use of adaptive
equipment. Approaches to interventions can focus on the
person, their food and drink, or their environment. As part of a
healthcare team, speech pathologists, dietitians, occupational
therapists, nurses, and physios all have a role to play in lessening
the impacts of swallowing difficulties on quality of life.
Finally, to add a bit of fun to what can often be a serious topic,
here are a few fun facts about swallowing that you might use
to spread the word about swallowing awareness:
1 The word ‘dysphagia’ comes from the Greek root phagia,
which means ‘eating.’ Other words that share this root
include ‘phagocytes’ – cells that ingest bacteria, small
cells and other particles, ‘phagomania’ – an insatiable
craving for (or preoccupation with) food.
2 The average person swallows about once per minute
while awake (more when eating), but only around 3 times
per hour while asleep.
3 Swallowing requires the use and coordination of 26
muscles!
4 The average human tongue is about 3 inches long – that’s
7.62cm – measured from the epiglottis to the tip. The record
for the world’s longest tongue is 3.97 inches, or 10.1cm.
5 Botox isn’t just for beauty – it can be used to help with
excessive salivation, disorders of the oesophageal
sphincters, and some voice disorders.
6 Although we often associate peppermint and spearmint
flavours with relaxation and digestion, these flavours can
trigger gastro-oesophageal reflux. Other ‘triggers’ may
include: coffee, tea, chocolate, red wine, spicy and fatty
foods as well as acidic foods and drinks such as citrus
fruit and soft drink.
7 Saliva production varies from person to person. However,
on average, a person produces 700ml of saliva daily. Also,
saliva production lessens in response to a fight or flight
response – that’s why people associate a dry mouth with
feeling nervous.
8 Saliva is multi-talented – it protects teeth, allows us to
taste, begins food breakdown, helps to suppress reflux
and works to control lubrication and bacterial balance in
the mouth.
9 Does my tongue look big in this? If you gain weight, so
can your tongue. A high percentage of fatty tissue within
the tongue can increase your likelihood of obstructive
sleep apnoea.
10 Sword swallowing is one of the world’s rarest hobbies,
which only a few dozen practice in the world. To complete
this amazing feat, the swallowers must repress their gag
reflex, slide the sword through the upper oesophageal
sphincter, avoid the airway, repress peristalsis (the motion
of the oesophagus), relax the lower oesophageal sphincter
and allow the sword into the stomach!
We exercise and choose to have a healthy diet to take care
of our bodies, but what do we do to take care of our voices?
For most us, we use our voice to communicate with loved
ones, at work, and out in the community. We rely on our
voice to assist us with socialising with others, asking for
help, teaching or learning, and to participate in activities such
as singing.
People living with MS and other neurological conditions can
find that the way their voice sounds and feels can change
over time. This can depend on your health, how much you
use your voice each day, and how you use your voice. For
example, someone who needs to speak on the phone all day
for their job uses their voice much more than someone who
might only speak to friends and family for small amounts of
time over the day.
So how do we know that our voice has changed? You might
find that your voice is sounding hoarse or strained, it hurts to
speak, it’s harder to speak more loudly, or you might lose your
voice with overuse. This may then make communicating with
others more difficult or frustrating.
So, what can we do to care for our voice, and help to preserve
it? Just like we take care of our bodies, it is important for
us to take care of our voice. Vocal hygiene is a term used
to describe the habits used to support a healthy and strong
voice throughout our life. Even if you are not having trouble
using your voice at the moment, it is important to start using
habits to care for your voice for now and for the future.
Some important vocal habits to use are:
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to hydrate your
voice box and lubricate your throat
• Eliminate or reduce smoking, caffeine and alcohol as they
can dehydrate the voice box
• Avoid yelling or speaking loudly over background noise, and
speak at a comfortable volume
• Reduce coughing and throat clearing which can cause pain
and aggravate the voice box
• Try to restrict medications that dry out the mouth and throat
• Schedule in vocal rest to allow your voice box to recover
and rest
• Use breathing techniques to relax your voice box and reduce
strain when speaking
• Monitor symptoms of reflux as they can irritate the voice box
• Understand what behaviours and habits are hurting your
voice and what you can do to care for your voice
If you are interested in learning about your voice, or
are experiencing difficulties in using your voice, please
contact one of our Speech Pathologists on 9365 4888.
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SHAKESPEARE, BOB DYLAN
AND NEUROPLASTICITY
ROS HARMAN, MSWA MEMBER
When I was 10 years old my grandfather decided to improve
my education. He insisted I learn to recite a poem by early
20th century World War One English poet Rupert Brooke titled
The Soldier. My grandfather was a tall, serious man whose
forebears had left Britain two generations previously but he
still referred to England as home. I was always a little scared
of him, and tried to please him. I remember standing before
him in my long socks and black lace-up shoes, hands clasped
before me as I piped in my singsong child’s voice:
“If I should die, think only this of me:
That there’s some corner of a foreign field
That is forever England...”
For my birthday that year, my grandfather gave me a book;
The Complete Works Of William Shakespeare which I still
have on my bookshelf. I tried very hard to read it but I was
challenged by the archaic language, and soon went back to
my Nancy Drew mysteries. The book was eventually useful to
me when I studied English Literature and went on to become
an English teacher.
William Shakespeare died four hundred years ago, give or
take a couple of years. Last year my partner and I heard that
Australian musician Paul Kelly had put some of Shakespeare’s
sonnets to music, and after listening to them we became
hooked. We decided to try and learn a couple by heart as a
memory exercise. Neither of us has a good singing voice, so
we stuck to reciting. Every weekend over the next year we
would practise over breakfast.
“Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?
Thou art more lovely and more temperate...”
It is a nice way to greet your bleary eyed, sleepy partner over
porridge, but learning the sonnets wasn’t easy, and initially
we had many in-depth discussions about 16th-century
English as we deciphered the words and sentence structures.
English is not my partner’s first language having grown up in
Poland, so a lot of it was bewildering to him at first. Mind you,
a lot of it was bewildering to me at first too, but I did enjoy
dissecting the lines and coming to a deeper understanding of
the sonnets.
Maddie Godfrey is a local Perth poet, writer, theatre
maker and spoken word educator. She is a Poetry
Slam Champion and has had her work published
internationally in anthologies, magazines, and literary
journals. She has performed her poetry at prestigious
venues including the Sydney Opera House and Royal
Albert Hall. She teaches a poetry class each week as
part of the MSWA Ode to Confidence group program,
which combines speech pathology with poetry.
As a memory exercise this was successful and fun. We both
improved over the weeks, though my partner has better
recall than me. I learnt a few little tricks and tips to help me
remember certain lines. For Sonnet 60 for instance, when I
come to these lines:
“...Time doth transfix the flourish set on youth
And delves the parallels in beauty’s brow...”
I have only to think of how I appear in the mirror each morning,
and it is easy to think of time delving parallels in beauty’s brow.
After a while, we thought something more contemporary
might be fun, so we listened to Jimmy Hendrix singing the
Dylan song All Along the Watchtower and decided to learn its
lyrics. I found I could heartily agree as I recited:
“...There are many here among us
Who think that life is just a joke...”
I’m not sure if my stern and serious grandfather would have
approved of me listening to Jimmy Hendrix, but even he would
have appreciated the lyrics.
After spending nearly a year using poetry as a memory
exercise I was excited when MSWA’s Speech Pathologist
Jamaica Grantis invited me to participate in a poetry club,
which we have named Ode to Confidence. This group has
arisen out of the research project of Speech Pathology
honours student Becky Balchin, who is exploring the use of
poetry to help people living with MS develop confidence and
speaking skills. Ode to Confidence is meeting for eight weeks
during May and June. We spend half of each session learning
a bit about the mechanics of speech, including doing some
SPEAK EASY
NARELLE TAYLOR, MSWA MEMBER
The nursing home where I live offers speech therapy sessions
which I’m attending enthusiastically in the hope that it will
enhance any achievements I make at the speech therapy
group, currently being conducted by the Wilson Outreach
Centre. Two speech therapy sessions at different places – I
will become so beautifully spoken simply because I am very
keen to be such a person.
All I will have to do then is to think of something to say that
is worth listening to. I will launch myself onto the public
speaking circuit and perhaps become wealthy and famous,
either of which would be okay.
Correct posture enables better breathing and consequently
better speaking. Physiotherapy will help me eliminate my
slouch. The path to speaking clearly is before me and I don’t
see any major obstacles ahead. Like everything I’ve ever tried
to do, I expect a successful, happy result. I will soldier on.
Positive thinking has always helped before.
At the speech therapy group, we occasionally have to speak
before the class. I’ve been told that even after much public
speaking, one still gets butterflies. With experience, one
can teach one’s butterflies to fly in formation. I hope,
probably every bit as much as my audience hopes, that it
happens soon.
The Members of the class don’t openly display any discomfort
when I’m speaking, so I expect they understand. I rely heavily
on my skills at charades though.
exercises, and during the other half of each session, Perth
poet Maddie Godfrey shares with us some of her poetry and
her experiences in writing and performing them. We are also
encouraged to read and write some poems ourselves, or read
poetry by others.
I am thoroughly enjoying my participation in the Poetry Club
and hopefully I am improving my brain’s neuroplasticity
too. According to the Oxford Dictionary, neuroplasticity is
the ability of the brain to modify its connections or re-wire
itself. Multiple sclerosis can play havoc with our brains, with
myelin damage and sometimes neuron loss too. Anything that
I can do that might help my brain learn new things, or even
remember old things, is worth doing.
At the group next week, I will wear long socks and black
lace-up shoes and recite Rupert Brook’s The Soldier.
My grandfather is not alive any more, but maybe in that
forgotten field where his body lies, there is a corner that
is forever England.
Warming up the body for speech! Did you know
that speaking is a whole body process? It involves
more than just the lips, tongue and voice box, but
also the hips, belly, chest, neck, and more! Here are
MSWA Ode to Confidence group members (L > R)
Narelle Taylor, Ros Harman and Trudi Fay stretching
the sides of their body, which helps to create more
space in the chest to take deeper breaths, in order
to better power the voice.
Jamaica, our MSWA Speech Therapist, gave us exercises
for our voices and mouths during the session last week.
She told us that singers and actors use the exercises to
‘limber up’ and find them helpful too. I was surprised and
pleased that they were so effective. I am sure that we’ll
all benefit from having attended Jamaica’s course.
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FUNDRAISING
NEWS
PERTH ENTERTAINMENT
REVIEW
SALLY NEWMAN, MSWA MEMBER
Winners get the keys
MSWA Mega Home Lottery, our biggest fundraiser!
Never in a million years did Merriwa couple David Walsh and
Aileen O’Toole expect to receive the phone call that interrupted
their 7-month-old son’s bedtime routine on Wednesday, 11
April. It was a call to tell them they had just won the MSWA
Mega Home Lottery Grand Prize. An incredible $2.25 million
prize package, including a $1.65 million Webb & Brown-
Neaves Sorrento Show Home, a Range Rover Velar and
$500,000 cash. A prize that will set up the tight-knit family
of three forever.
“I was on the phone to my mate when my call waiting started
to beep. I had no idea what was going on, but the lady on the
phone said she was calling from MSWA and they had just
drawn the lottery. I put the phone on loud speaker, as Aileen
was in the room, and then we got the news. We had won the
big one, the big prize. I couldn’t believe it, I couldn’t speak.
Aileen was tearing up and screaming and I just couldn’t
speak,” said David.
Having worked in the disability and aged care sector for many
years, Aileen knows first-hand how important and well used
the money raised by the MSWA Mega Home Lottery is.
“We’re so grateful, and it really couldn’t have come at a better
time. It’s a huge weight off our shoulders. If anything should
ever happen to us, our son Peter will be set,” said Aileen.
“When I heard David and Aileen’s story I was absolutely
thrilled for them. It’s a life-changing prize for a beautiful young
family and I wish them all the best for their bright future. It’s
because of the generosity of supporters like David and Aileen
that allows us to make a huge difference to the lives of people
living with multiple sclerosis and other neurological conditions
in Western Australia,” said MSWA CEO, Marcus Stafford.
“With the incredible support from fundraising activities
like the MSWA Mega Home Lottery, this year we’ve been
able to invest a record breaking $2.6 million dollars into
research, committed $8 million to build a new high-support
accommodation facility in Butler, as well as providing more
than 680,000 hours of essential services. So, to everyone
who bought a ticket, thank you for your wonderful and
ongoing support,” Marcus added.
The next MSWA Mega Home Lottery will launch in
August 2018.
I guess the best way to start is a quick introduction of who I
am. I am a Perth girl, a writer, and a loving mum to two young
teenagers. Our family has always been into music and the
arts and I wanted to bring some of that joy and excitement to
my MS community. I have lived with MS for almost 20 years
and am so grateful that my passion for writing allows me to
share some of my experiences.
Ladies get your lycra out and turn the crimper on, we are
heading back to 1984. The 80s is an era that still gets the
party going, a time when we idolised Cyndi Lauper and George
Michael. Radios played Tina Turner, Kiss, Kenny Loggins (yes
you know him, he sang Footloose), and Whitney Houston,
Pseudo Echo and Wham topped the charts.
Recently I attended The Big 80’s Party right here in Perth.
I was a bit anxious heading out in my ra-ra skirt, polka
dot scarf and leg warmers, however, once I arrived at the
event I actually felt underdressed. I was surrounded by an
explosion of neon and there were some brilliant costumes
tributing Top Gun, Flash Dance, Madonna, Mr T, even Alf and
Smurfs wandered around. Mr Feel Good, a young Warwick
Capper look-alike was part of the roaming entertainment and
added to the influx of mullets, denim and flannelette shirts
on the day.
Shadforth Financial Group Step Up for MSWA
The annual Shadforth Financial Group Step Up for MSWA was
held on Sunday, 17 June and was another fantastic day for
all involved.
A beautiful sunny morning saw over 1,000 participants
conquer the 1,103 stairs to the top of Central Park.
Thank you to everyone who either donated, participated,
or came down on the day to show their support. Currently
over $129,000 has been raised which will help MSWA
continue to support thousands of people living with MS
and other neurological conditions in Western Australia.
MSWA Ocean Ride – Sunday, 25 November 2018
Now in its ninth year, the MSWA Ocean Ride – Powered by
Retravision is the only community bike ride event of its kind
within the metro area.
The event has grown in numbers of participants, and
now includes five ride distances to cater for all ages and
capabilities, as well as a special Ride for MSWA Members.
Join us today and put your body – and bike – on the line!
Your support will make a difference to Western Australians
living with MS and all neurological conditions.
To find out more, please visit our website
www.mswaoceanride.org.au
This event was held across Australia, with the Perth party on
5 May, 2018 at Oakover Grounds in Middle Swan. The venue
was a fantastic choice for this 18+ event. ACROD parking
was within 20 metres of the main entrance and for those not
driving there were regular shuttle buses available. The flat
lawn areas of Oakover Grounds offered ease of access for
those with wheelchairs and/or mobility issues. There was
a VIP section that also offered ease of access, including
an alfresco dining section, first aid station and disabled
toilet facilities.
I attended the event with my walking frame and even on
the dance floor, patrons and staff were accommodating and
friendly. Yes, I passed through the dance floor a few times, but
for the most part, sang badly and hand jived with complete
strangers in the background of the mosh pit.
The event began at one o’clock and as the spring afternoon
drifted into night, the vibe of the party grew. Quoted by event
organisers as “Arguably Australia’s BEST 80’s DJ’s”, Jaki J
and Adrian Zac kept the dance floor full the entire time with
a well selected mix of classic retro tunes. A video montage of
television and movie moments we can never forget hit the big
screen later in the night and the party ended with a Video Hits
Massoake. Cliché yes, but seriously so much fun. It was easy
to imagine being in the audience of a Countdown special, with
hundreds of 80’s enthusiasts, singing on mass, “karma karma
karma karma, karma, chameleon, we come and go, we come
and go”… go on, admit it, you couldn’t resist singing those
last few lines, could you?
The Big 80’s Party Perth is set to return in 2019, so for any
of you reading who are tempted to go and put a Madonna or
Bon Jovi CD on right now, then I suggest you look out for the
event next year.
For now, my leg warmers and purple eye shadow are back
in the cupboard and I prepare for my next adventure.
26 | MSWA BULLETIN WINTER 2018 MSWA BULLETIN WINTER 2018 | 27

A WINNING STRATEGY
FOR LIVING
BY DR ANDREW E ONG
CARERS
RETREATS
SUMIT SANDHU, MSWA COORDINATOR OF CAMPS
There are many general truths said about life, but few are
better than the old maxim of “you have to be in it to win it.”
The Americans have another saying, “you will not hit the ball
unless you swing the bat!” What this means is that all of your
knowledge, all of those hard-won insights and understanding,
are of little value until you translate them into action.
Please don’t get me wrong, however. Being content with your
life is the work and the reward of a lifetime. There is also a
time for doing nothing, so never underestimate the value of
relaxing or just sitting around. But these are simple gifts you
give to yourself. Just remember, he or she who knows enough
is enough will always have enough. Then it is time to relax.
Therefore, your mission in life is to live life to its fullest, then
when you can, set a little time aside to guide others by being
understanding and caring. We all cannot be inspirational, but
we can take an interest in what is going on around us and
we can interact with other people without being judgemental.
Be straightforward in your life. Courage can create
opportunities where none existed before. It is only through
action that opportunities can be translated into success and
fulfilment. So when you aim and strive to do your best, you
will get the best outcome. You can only get out what you put
in to anything, and that is a simple fact of life.
You also do not need all the answers to be triumphant in life,
you just have to ask the right questions. Therefore, do not try
to out-talk the other person. This might very well win you the
argument, but it is hardly likely to win that person’s heart.
Never push, when it is easier to lead!
So live each day as if it were your last. Pray. Always put your
spouse, partner or loved one first. Every day find a way to say
“I love you.” Plant and make time to appreciate your garden.
Dance. Hold hands and write love notes. Develop a thirst
for first things first. And always carry a camera to capture
memorable things.
A poem by Ragia Sayed
Believe in yourself
And in your dream
Though impossible it may seem
Mountains will fall and the seas divide
Before the one who strides
The hard road by day
Brushing obstacles away
Believe in yourself, have a plan
Believe you want, you will and you can!
The treasures and pleasures of life we fail to win
Are because we doubt the power within
Believe in yourself
If you do you can and
Will!
It’s mid-May, a pleasant sunny Tuesday morning with Wilson
renovations at their peak and one of our biggest Members’
camps approaching by the end of the month. Astoundingly,
I am still very calm and composed. It’s amazing what a little
break at Rottnest can do.
I recently attended the carers retreat at Rottnest Island
with a lovely group of people. We had 13 carers, Dawn
Burke (volunteer coordinator), myself and our star volunteer
Rosalind.
We have come a long way from having basic bunk style
accommodation to the ocean view premium accommodation
with the best views on the Island! I remember the times when
staff would have to cook, but now we just leave it to the
professional chef at one of the best bars and restaurants on
the Island to do the job.
All these years of organising camps and retreats I can clearly
see the importance of having a break from the carers’
perspective. From my experience, I have noticed that even
though we have so many family carers looking after their
loved ones, only a small percentage register their interest to
attend these retreats. Talking to the family carers, a few of the
reasons I have come across hesitancy to attend retreats are:
Carers think they don’t need a break:
Really? Even if you don’t realise it, you work 24/7 as a
full-time carer, psychologist, driver, cleaner, cook, night
shift carer, and the list goes on. You deserve a break more
than anyone!
Carers feel bad about sending their loved ones to respite
to attend the retreat:
We have world class respite facilities at Treendale Gardens
and Margaret Doody House, with 24-hour support. The beds
are reserved specifically for partners if you choose to attend. I
suggest you have a look at our respite facilities with your loved
ones, please contact me if you require further information on
our respite facilities.
Carers are hesitant to attend for the first time as they
don’t know what to expect:
It is quite natural, but sometimes you must push yourself. At
the end of the day it’s only a three-night stay at a very nice
venue with all meals catered for and activities organised.
Carers think it’s too much work for three nights retreat:
I agree three nights is a short time to have a break and
sending loved ones to respite involves a lot of packing and
planning. Therefore, we usually reserve the beds at respite
for 10 days, so that carers can extend their break before and
after the retreat. In the past a few carers have extended their
retreat stay at their own expense.
Financial reasons:
It costs the family carer $60 for three nights’ accommodation,
transportation, meals, and activities. If this is the barrier,
please contact me or our social welfare team for assistance.
Members don’t see the importance of a carers retreat:
Caring should not be just family carers’ responsibility,
Members have equal responsibility towards their carers and
should always ensure they look after their family carers.
We have a lot of opportunities for carers to attend these
retreats in the future. I am just a phone call away if you have
any questions.
Our upcoming camps and retreats for 2018 are:
Carers Retreat at Safety Bay:
(Group 1) 20 August – 23 August
(Group 2) 27 August – 30 August
Family Camp at Woodman Point:
25 September – 28 September
Members Camp at Rottnest Island:
15 October – 18 October
SW Members camp at Denmark:
12 November – 15 November
Please feel free to contact me for further information on
camps and retreats.
Sumit Sandhu
Phone: 9365 4843
Email: sumit.sandhu@mswa.org.au
MSWA appreciates the ongoing support of Lotterywest
funding which keeps our Camps and Carers Retreats
affordable for our Members and their carers.
28 | MSWA BULLETIN WINTER 2018 MSWA BULLETIN WINTER 2018 | 29

VOLUNTEERING
DAWN BURKE, MSWA COORDINATOR VOLUNTEERS
‘Give a little, change a lot’
Hello everyone, and what a punchy statement with such a
profound impact on others and their lives. Welcome to our
winter edition of the Bulletin. As with the above statement,
and the cooler weather slowly descending upon us, we need
something that packs in the heat in a short time frame. I love
the cooler weather and am looking forward to wearing my
trackie dacks and ugg boots. What about you?
These six words, ‘give a little, change a lot’, was this year’s
theme for National Volunteers Week. Wow! What an impact
it makes with only a few words. I am a true believer in
recognising all volunteers no matter how little time they give,
as it makes a huge difference to many. This, above all else, is
what volunteering is about, especially for me at MSWA. When
we give of ourselves, we receive so much more in return
and I am truly thankful and proud to be part of the MSWA
volunteering family. I thank you all for what you do, it doesn’t
go unnoticed.
Let’s take a step back and look over the last few months.
After a bit of banging here and some drilling there, phase one
of Wilson’s refurbishments has been completed and some
staff and volunteers are now settled into their ‘new homes’.
By the time this reaches you all, phase two will be completed
and the final phase three will be well and truly under way. I
would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for being
patient while the construction has been going on. It makes life
so much easier when we can adapt and change, especially in
the short term, to reach the bigger picture.
As Sue Shapland, General Manager Member Services, keeps
saying, “Keep your eyes on the prize”. And what a prize the
end result will be. Thank you again for your flexibility and
patience and before long all the upheaval will seem like a
distant memory. I would like to throw out a huge thank you to
volunteer Lesley Pitt, who has been hands on with Outreach
facility since it moved offsite for the refurbishments.
Lesley has packed and carted all the card making materials
to and from her home each week for Members to use, via her
gopher and trolley buggy!! Without Lesley, the group would
have had no supplies! She is also always the first person on
site ready to help unpack on Tuesday, trolley at the ready.
Thank you, Lesley, this has helped in the transition for our
Members and volunteers who attend the card making group.
Your efforts haven’t gone unnoticed.
A Carers Retreat was held late April on Rottnest Island and
again I was privileged to be able to attend with Sumit the
Camp Coordinator. The weather held off for a day here and
there, the seagulls were in full form nicking food from the
unsuspecting tourists and the carers had a lovely and welldeserved
break. It is always lovely to see the regular carers,
and lovely to meet new ones. We had three new carers attend
this camp, which was awesome.
The Sunrise weather team from Channel 7 were on the island
and I went down to watch and was asked to join the group of
families and students to beef up the group numbers. It was a
fantastic morning and some of you may have seen me on the
TV. I’m a bit of a celebrity now. Did you know there are seven
students attending the primary school on Rottnest island?
Again, our camp extraordinaire volunteer, Rosalind attended
and has helped us at many camps in a volunteer capacity. We
always welcome an extra pair of hands, especially with our
Members’ camps. If any of you are interested in attending
give me a call and we can discuss it further.
It was National Volunteers Week Monday, 21 May until Sunday,
27 May. This was a busy week for me, especially with the
lead up to our Volunteer Lunches. We hold two lunches during
this week, one in Perth and one in Bunbury. It is always lovely
to come together, meet each other, have a laugh and a chat
and enjoy some beautiful food.
We changed venues this year for the Perth Luncheon, and
booked into the Royal Perth Golf Club in South Perth. As
always there was scrumptious food, a lovely view looking over
the well-manicured golf grounds, but above all else it was
fantastic company with a beautiful ambiance. I love listening
to the hum of conversation happening around the place, with
the volunteers and staff coming together and sharing stories
and experiences. We can all learn so much from each other,
never underestimate someone’s story or journey.
Bunbury’s Volunteer Luncheon was held at Backbeach Café
again. You can’t get any nicer than an ocean view. This
luncheon is such a relaxed and casual atmosphere with great
company. Country folk somehow seem a bit more laid back
in everything that they do. This was our biggest group in
attendance and a great time was had by all with plenty of
food to go around.
With every luncheon we issue Certificates of Appreciation.
These awards are handed out to those who have been
nominated by their supervisors or peers for various reasons.
Congratulations to all recipients of this award for 2018,
Lesley Pitt, Stephen Witherow, Callum Begg, John Griffith,
Sylvia Griffith, Joan Crossman, Maria Mades, Fay Simmons,
Dave Savy, QBE, Julie King, Vanessa Vergeer, Lynda Whitton,
Lynette Lynch, Brett Johns, Marie Harris, John Bartlett, Ian
Pittick, Yvette Cocivera.
I would like to make special mention to a dynamic couple,
John and Sylvia Griffith, who are very quiet achievers and go
between our facilities at Beechboro Lodge, Fern River and the
Bunbury Hub, keeping the gardens in check. They go in and
come out in stealth mode, and we appreciate the distances
they are travelling to help maintain our gardens. Of course,
our Wilson gardens have been maintained to a high standard
for more than 19 years by our Volunteer John Robertson.
Thank you, John, you do an amazing job. You will always see
John at Wilson Centre, rain, hail or shine.
This year we had two representatives from QBE attend the
volunteer luncheon and our CEO Marcus Stafford presented
them with a certificate. QBE give us approximately 10
volunteers every year to set up for our Members, Volunteers
and Staff Christmas Party. Without their assistance, this
event wouldn’t run as smoothly as it does. Thankyou QBE,
your team is amazing. The representatives on the day said
how much their team enjoys coming along each year and it’s
never hard making up the team numbers!
One more thank you is for our staff member, Justine Webb,
who has been coming into Wilson on a Thursday morning
and picking up two of our volunteers and taking them to the
Wilson Outreach Group’s temporary home in Como. This has
been a great help to the volunteers who cannot make their
way to the alternative venue. Your time to assist them is much
appreciated.
World MS Day was celebrated on Wednesday, 30 May. It was
great that some of our regular Member Services Volunteers
were able to get out into the community and help the events
team raise awareness and funds. Your time and effort is
much appreciated.
I want to send out a big warm welcome to the new volunteers
that have joined our team. We are privileged to have you come
and assist our Members and the staff, and as I previously
wrote, ‘give a little, change a lot’. Whether you are here for
a long time or a short time, you are appreciated and valued.
Until next time. Dawn
THAT’S LIFE WITH NARELLE
NARELLE TAYLOR, MSWA MEMBER
Being a resident in this aged care facility for as long as I have
been, has made me a lot wiser about the process of ageing
and a bit smarter about how not to upset people around me
who are also ageing. I have since moderated my behaviour
so that I can pour oil on these sometimes troubled waters
around here.
At times Dementia and Alzheimer have had a noticeable
influence on my fellow residents’ behaviour, and from
experience I am now able to tell when those ‘conditions’ are
likely to influence the flow of events.
Some two years ago, before I learned not to ask a person
“How are you,” particularly a person who is not likely to
pleasantly reply, I had thought Deborah (not her real name),
one morning looked less than jubilant when she came to the
breakfast table.
Unwisely, I said “Good morning, Deborah. How are you?”
Through the dark clouds that now surrounded her, she
answered, “Oh, I’m very low. Everything is such an effort for
me. I’m 83 years old. I’ve had a good innings. I don’t want to
go on any more. I just don’t want to wake up any more. I want
to sleep forever,” she moaned.
I quipped “Oh right. Can I have your jumpers?”
The dark clouds dissipated and she burst into loud laughter.
All the diners at the breakfast table erupted into a riot of
laughter. Deborah regained her disposition and returned to
normal.
She was a sensible sweet lady who resumed her place at
the table with grace, elegance and all of us felt comfortable.
There was never a reference made to her depressive moment.
Two years later Deborah passed away. Then just last week,
her daughter came to me with a cardboard box of Deborah’s
lovely hand-knitted jumpers and said to me, “Mum told me
your joke, which we both thought was so funny, and I’ve
gathered a selection of her jumpers for you to have.”
I was touched. I thanked her and suggested that other
residents of this facility might be pleased to have one
each too, and that they could be distributed by the
‘office’. Deborah’s daughter agreed, and now each of us
have genuinely lovely mementos.
30 | MSWA BULLETIN WINTER 2018 MSWA BULLETIN WINTER 2018 | 31

BEECHBORO OUTREACH NEWS
GISELLE MARTIN, MSWA RESOURCE COORDINATOR
CENTRAL REGIONAL OUTREACH NEWS
SARAH LORRIMAR, MSWA COORDINATOR OF HEALTH EDUCATION AND PEER SUPPORT
Beechboro Outreach have started the Winter season with a
more holistic approach to enhancing our wellbeing. We have
been covering many areas of wellness from the inside out.
Nourishing our minds and bodies, we enjoyed a sound therapy
session run by one of MSWA’s beloved counsellors, Cherry
Chapman. The group was invited to share the space and
experience the harmonic sounds of Tibetan bowls and rain
drums as Cherry guided us through a relaxation meditation.
To ward off those winter germs, Beechboro groups have
enjoyed a vitamin boosting day with our very own pop up juice
bar! An assortment of fresh and frozen fruit and vegetables
were on display and Members could pick and choose their
desired combos from the four categories; Immunity, Energise,
Anti-Oxidants and Digestion, while they watched as fresh
juice was created before their very eyes!
Members were lucky enough to have Glenn Huxtable, a
Drum Circle facilitator, visit us and lead the group in a fun
Health Rhythms class. Health Rhythms is a fun program that
promotes a supportive comradeship and encourages personal
expression while facilitating a non-strenuous workout. Seated
in a friendly circle, each Member was assigned a drum or
percussion instrument, and boy, were there some eager faces!
After an hour of drumming, chatting and laughing, we finished
the session feeling uplifted, relaxed and ready for lunch.
SOUTHSIDE
OUTREACH NEWS
ANGIE AND JOHN WALLACE, MSWA MEMBERS
Royal High Tea – Weekend of Royal Wedding
The milder, cooler weather is welcomed by all of us with MS.
We are certainly feeling more motivated to keep moving!
Physiotherapist Kirsten, seems to enjoy leading a small
group of us through our aerobic half-hour of stretches and
mild weight exercises, while the rest of the Members nearby
are chatting, laughing, playing games or exercising in the
physio room.
All the while we are distracted by the wonderful aromas
coming from the kitchen. Yes, it is organised chaos and we
love it!
Member Ron is enjoying another cruise around Indonesia. He
is happy to offer tips and tricks for travelling on the high seas.
We welcome back Trish after her absence and look forward
to seeing Barry and Jan in our midst very soon.
To keep those winter inches from creeping on, Members have
participated in a fun new group exercise program, following
instructions from a DVD of ‘Chair Dancing’, featuring fun
tracks like ‘The Hand Jive’, ‘Motown’ and ‘Disco Fever’.
After the renovations we have settled back in and now begun
work on our outdoor raised garden beds. We are about to
invest time, love and green thumbs into growing organic herbs
and veggies. We are aiming to not only make our fabulous
cook Brenda happy, but also make our tummies happy.
We are all hoping to come out of the other side of winter
feeling better than ever!
Our kitchen crew have outdone themselves recently, with a
special Roast Beef and Yorkshire Pudding lunch for Mothers’
Day and a memorable Royal High Tea to celebrate the ‘Big
Royal Wedding.’
Rosemary and Sherrill produce these meals on Tuesdays
and Fridays. Thanks so much ladies.
Northam Support Group
As we do every three months, myself and counsellor Cherry
Chapman drive up to the Bridgeley Community Centre for the
Northam Support Group. Having established the group less
than a year ago, it was great to see our regulars, just under
10, in attendance.
After catching up on what the group members have been up
to since the last meeting, discussion started on new research,
news stories and questions to be passed on to various allied
health teams back in Perth. The group discussed MRIs and
how each person uniquely manages the often-uncomfortable
experience.
Amongst a lot of laughter and chatter, we enjoyed a small
morning tea break followed by a conversation about the soon
to be built Northam swimming pool and its accessibility. The
group supported each other in providing tips and suggestions
on exercise, keeping warm and the NDIS experience.
SOUTH WEST REGIONAL
NEWS ROUNDUP
NICOLA RYAN, MSWA SENIOR OUTREACH COORDINATOR
My road trip to Busselton
On Tuesday, 1 May I set off early from home to visit the
Busselton Outreach group. Last time I visited was in March
while I was on leave, so I rode my bike from the local caravan
park. This time the road trip took somewhat longer but I
enjoyed some ‘me time’ on the open roads!
Coffee of course was required in Bunbury as I passed through,
and this was purchased from my favourite stop-over, Bunbury
Fresh Market Place. You can’t miss it being just before the
by-pass road. Well worth a stop especially if you have time
to wander as there are amazing taste tests around every
corner. On this occasion it was only coffee and flowers that
I purchased.
The friendly Busselton faces I looked forward to seeing were
there greeting me on my arrival. Although a small group, the
original Members have been attending now for nearly 18
months, so a close bond has formed amongst the group. On
this occasion they were also waiting to greet the CEO Marcus
Stafford as he was presenting his CEO update, as he does
every three months.
To close the session, a handout on support networks was
passed around which aimed to get Members thinking about
who to seek support from for different purposes in their
community. As they parted, several shared their thoughts
about the group:
“It’s great to be able to come here and not need to say
anything – everyone just gets it.”
“It’s been really great to support each other and get to know
each other better – now we know where to go for support
and who to contact when we need help.”
“It’s really worthwhile – thank you.”
As we made our way back to Perth, Cherry and I reflected
on the group and how lovely it has been for us to see
connections and friendships develop and grow. We look
forward to the next meeting in a few months’ time.
Morning tea was under way as Marcus arrived and the chatter
became quite electric in the room over the delicious wraps
and cheese platter that the Coordinator Sheryl had arranged.
It was wonderful to see a few more Members arrive just
in time to hear Marcus speak and thanks to Clare (Physio
Assistant from Busselton) the room was set up perfectly and
the presentation went off without a hitch.
Sadly, at the end of the day we bid farewell to Sheryl Helgeland
who has been Coordinating the Busselton Outreach group
since it started in February 2017. I presented her with the
beautiful bunch of flowers I purchased earlier; as a thank you
for her wonderful efforts with this group. We all wished her
well for her new exciting role she has at our Bunbury Hub.
Exciting times are ahead for the Busselton Outreach
group with their own premises being sought after as
we speak. The group will be a part of the premises that
the Busselton MSWA Office will be moving to. If you are
reading this and you live in the surrounding areas and
would like more information about the group I can be
contacted by email Nicola.ryan@mswa.org.au
32 | MSWA BULLETIN WINTER 2018 MSWA BULLETIN WINTER 2018 | 33

GREAT SOUTHERN REGIONAL NEWS
Our trip to Esperance and surrounds
Earlier this year, Community Access Nurse, Rosie Hunt and
Senior Social Welfare Officer, Kath Knights travelled to the
south coast of WA for three days. Travelling to Esperance,
Ravensthorpe and Hopetoun, their days were scheduled with
home visits to Members and their families as well as visits to
various health facilities in the region.
Informative and interactive presentations were delivered in
Esperance, providing allied health professionals, care support
workers and Local Area Coordinators with an overview of MS,
as well as information and resources on the services available
to MSWA Members.
TAKE A BREAK IN THE SOUTH WEST
FROM TREENDALE GARDENS
Rosie presented an overview of MS, existing and emerging
treatments, symptom and relapse management, whilst Kath
discussed the management of MS from a welfare perspective
– discussing the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
and Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) programs. These
sessions aimed to increase the awareness and knowledge of
MS to health care and service providers, supporting them to
develop their MS management strategies.
These regional trips occur annually with visits from other
MSWA staff scheduled for Geraldton and Kalgoorlie.
Please contact MSWA if you would like further
information on the next visit.
Take a break
in the South West
Treendale Gardens is proud to have been up and running as
a supported accommodation and residential respite facility
since April 2012.
Our accommodation area is fully occupied with wonderful
residents who have their own units and are assisted with
their daily needs by wonderful staff. All residents have access
to 24-hour support, a wonderful evening meal prepared
by our cooks, activities organised by recreation Care
Support Workers (CSW) and out and about with their social
support staff.
Treendale Respite is a wonderful purpose-built facility
with six rooms, all equipped with a hospital-style bed and
overhead hoist, TV and DVD player, as well as cupboards and
high-backed chairs for those who would like to sit in their
rooms. Each pair of rooms has a shared bathroom with
lockable doors.
The spacious communal area has a large screen TV and
electric recliner chairs that are enjoyed by many of our Clients
who would like to stretch out on a comfortable reclining
chair. There is also a dining area that doubles as a games
and conversation area where Clients can enjoy a lovely
meal cooked by talented care support workers, chat with
others who are staying, or enjoy a selection of board games
that are available.
For those who also enjoy a bit of peace and quiet there is a
courtyard to sit in as well as an airy undercover area with
outdoor tables and chairs; perfect to sit with others including
family and friends who are always welcome to visit during
the day.
There is a lovely park complete with fountain and wheelchair
accessible pathways right next door and an ever-growing
shopping centre just across the road with a variety of shops.
Attached to Respite is
our recently refurbished
3-bedroom holiday unit
which is a wonderful idea
for a break away with
family or friends. There are
two hospital-style beds,
regular single, and a queen
size bed in the different
bedrooms as well as a
spacious living area and
good-sized kitchen. The
lounge area has a 3-seater sofa as well a recliner chair but
also space for a wheelchair to sit comfortably. The laundry
is fully equipped with washing machine and dryer and the
private courtyard has a washing line. When you stay there
you have your own garage and doors to the holiday unit.
Everyone who has stayed has said they enjoyed the freedom
of a holiday in an apartment style accommodation, purposebuilt
for people with a disability, but knowing that staff are on
hand to assist with personal care in the morning and getting
into bed at night if needed.
If you would like to enquire about a booking or have
questions you would like to ask please contact Paula
Kennedy or Linda Kidd on 9725 9209 or 9725 9994
Monday to Friday between 9:00am and 4:00pm.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Treendale is only 20 minutes from Bunbury,
located next to a small parkland with wheelchair
friendly paths and a shopping centre nearby.
Treendale is our 6-bedroom, 3-bathroom purpose built, accessible respite home.
Our staff are onsite 24/7 and are experienced in supporting people living with MS.
Located next to our respite home is our wonderful 3-bedroom family holiday unit
where family can get away from the routines, whilst accessing support for their
loved ones if needed. We may even be able to assist you with transportation.
Funding to cover your stay may be available through the Commonwealth Carer
Respite Program or through your DSC or NDIS individual packages. Speak with
our friendly team to chat about your individual needs.
For more information or to book your stay at
Treendale Gardens, phone us on 9725 9994
34 | MSWA BULLETIN WINTER 2018 MSWA BULLETIN WINTER 2018 | 35

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