Federal Election Results Fuel Hope for Healthcare Reform

Volume 4 • Issue 1 Northern California Chapter

M O V I N G T O W A R D A W O R L D F R E E O F M S

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President’s UpdatePage 3

FundraisingPage 4

Living with MSPage 8

AdvocacyPage 15

According to nationwide exit polls conducted by Edison Media Research and Mitofsky International, two-thirds of voters

in the November 4th election said they had concerns about their ability to aff ord health- care. Given this public outcry, President-Elect Obama likely will give priority to his health- care proposal.

The National MS Society’s Obama ConnectionThe National MS Society is uniquely positioned to shape healthcare reform. First Lady Michelle Obama’s late father, Frasier Robinson, had multiple sclerosis and Obama’s Senior Health Policy Advisor, Dora Hayes, is living with MS. While addressing over 600 attendees at the Society’s National Leadership Conference in Chicago, Dr. Hayes

told the audience, “You will have a good friend in the White House,” and publicly complimented the Society’s newly crafted Healthcare Reform Principles (see page 15). These detailed reform principles will be the basis for what we seek in policy discussions with both the Obama staff and congressional leaders.

Currently a myriad of plans are beingdrafted in both the House of Representatives and the Senate; and it is unclear whether employer-based plans, guaranteed universal coverage, insurance pooling arrangements or the creation of individual mandates will be a part of the fi nal product. Senator Edward Kennedy (D-Mass.) plans to lead a unifi ed Democratic eff ort to develop and pass legislation based on President-elect Barack Obama’s

JOIN THE MOVEMENT: nationalMSsociety.org

National Multiple Sclerosis SocietyNorthern California Chapter1700 Owens Street, Suite 190San Francisco, CA 94158415-230-6677800-344-4867

ChairmanThomas Galizia

PresidentDavid Hartman

Newsletter EditorKristin Hesse

The National MS Society is proud to be a source of information about MS. Information provided is based upon professional advice, published expertise and expert opinion, but does not constitute therapeutic recommendation or prescription. The Society recommends that all questions and information be discussed with a personal physician. The National MS Society does not endorse products, services or manufacturers. Sponsorship of Society programs or events does not connote that the National MS Society recognizes superiority in products or services provided by the sponsoring entity over other entities providing like or similar products or services. The Society assumes no liability for the use or contents of any products or services mentioned.

© 2008 National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Northern California Chapter

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health- care proposal to expand health coverage to more U.S. residents. National MS Society public policy staff and MS activists will participate in roundtable discussions with key legislative leaders including Sen. Kennedy and Northern California Congressman Pete Stark (D-Hayward), among several others. The question is no longer whether the newly elected President or Congress will pursue health reform, but when and exactly in what form.

Impediments and OpportunitiesHealthcare reform eff orts could be limited by declining tax revenue and an increasing federal defi cit related to the recent economic downturn.

Despite the fi nancial realities we are facing, there are some policy areas in which change is likely to occur:∫ Legislation to fund embryonic stem cell research∫ Some increases in research funding through the National Institutes of Health∫ Adjustments to Medicare Part “D” such as lessening coverage gaps∫ Expansion of state children’s health insurance program∫ Reduction of out of pocket costs

Make your voice heard by joining the Action Alert Network at www.msconnection.org/advocacy.

Federal Election Results Fuel Hope for Healthcare Reform (cont.)

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LeadershipJoin us by serving on one of our Board committees, such as Development, Finance, Marketing or Programs and Services. Or take on a role in providing direction to our volunteers or oversight of the volunteer program.

Offi ce ActivitiesCome work with us in one of our offi ces,

where we are often in need of assistance with data entry, research, phone calling and mail preparation.

Chapter ProgramsConsider joining the Chapter Programs team as an Information & Referral Specialist, Peer Support Counselor, Community Support Investigator (CSI), Self-Help Group Leader or join our

Action Alert Network. DevelopmentJoin the Development team in our fundraising activities, event planning for our signature events Walk MS, Bike MS and Dinner of Champions or engage your employer and network with other companies.

Marketing and CommunicationsJoin the movement by inviting others. Spread the word through media contact and placement, writing and editing publications, web design, or public speaking.

If you want to do something about MS now, We invite you to join the movement by getting involved with the Chapter. Check out our website, call one of the offi ces, or just stop by and inquire about opportunities to join with us.

Message From The President

If Not You, Then Who?

Mahatma Ghandi said that the best way to fi nd yourself, is to lose yourself in the service of others—to volunteer is to

embrace a wider community.

At the Northern California Chapter, we embrace the spirit of volunteerism with a philosophy of inclusiveness and partnership. Volunteers are integral to our work and are a catalyst for our success because they are the most passionate advocates, spokespersons, fundraisers and service providers. Our volunteers come from all over the Chapter area and contribute their resources of time, knowledge, skills and leadership. They infuse this organization with energy and passion that help us address the challenges of everyone aff ected by MS.

A primary goal in our strategic plan is to mobilize the talents and resources of people who want to do something about MS. To that end, we recruit and engage volunteers who can lend specifi c expertise to addressing the many complex issues of multiple sclerosis. We are committed to engaging more people this year and to fostering a culture that welcomes new faces and ideas.

Interested in Joining the Movement? Below is a list of some of the areas in which volunteers can get involved:

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David Hartman, President and Tom Galizia, Board Chair

JOIN THE MOVEMENT: nationalMSsociety.org

Walk MS 2009

Mark Your Calendars Now!

Each spring thousands of individuals join the National MS Society as we walk to create a world free of MS. Together we raised more than $1.6 million in 2008 to support local programs and services for people living with MS in Northern California. We encourage you to Join the Movement and make a contribution to Walk MS by:

∫ Registering to Walk∫ Registering to Volunteer∫ Making a donation of any amount∫ Forming a Team ∫ Becoming a Sponsor

Walk MS brings together people who want to do something about MS now! You have the ability to make a diff erence in this movement no matter where you are located, no matter what your fi nancial situation, no matter how many people you know. We are in search of Champions Against MS to share

their stories about living with multiple sclerosis, volunteers to manage a rest stop, and of course walkers and donors!

Visit our website today to learn more about walk at www.msconnection.org

Or contact us at walk@msconnection.org or 800-344-4867, option 2, with questions on how you can be a part of the Walk MS movement.

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at a walk site near youSaturday, April 18San Jose

Sunday, April 19Monterey Bay

Saturday, April 25Alameda, Eureka, Modesto, Rocklin-Roseville, Yuba City

Sunday, April 26Sacramento, San Francisco, Santa Rosa, Walnut Creek

Register Today

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Learn How to Make Medical Decisions

A diagnosis of MS brings with it a mountain of information, many decisions to make—and many questions to ask. Do you struggle

to sort through it all? A new Society program called My Life, My MS, My Decisions takes you step-by-step through the process of making decisions about your medical care.

The program features a DVD and four online courses that cover the following topics:

∫ Teaming Up with Your Health-care Providers

∫ Navigating the Medication Maze

∫ Considering Clinical Trials

∫ Achieving Optimal Wellness

The courses can be accessed online wherever there is Internet access, whetherat home, a community center, public library, or chapter. The DVD is also available separately if Internet access is unavailable.

Registering for better healthThree of the courses are now available and the fourth (“Achieving Optimal Wellness”) will be available in winter 2008. The DVD includes three separate segments, each featuring a diff erent person journeying through medical decision-making:

∫ Annie is a recently diagnosed 20-something who is a bit reluctant to begin taking disease-modifying medication.

∫ Diagnosed 10 years ago, James, who is in his 30s, finds that his MS is affecting his walking and his physical relationship with his partner.

∫ Joann is in her 40s and uses a wheelchair to get around. She feels her MS is getting worse and would like to change doctors.

The DVD follows Annie, James and Joann through the decisions they make and how they arrive at them, including researching medications, communicating with their doctors, and exploring clinical trials.

For more information, visit nationalMSsociety.org/mydecisions.

To register, call 1-800-344-4867, or e-mail programsonline@nmss.org.

My Life, My MS, My Decisions is partially funded by an unrestricted educational grant from Biogen Idec, Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals, Genentech, EMD Serono/Pfi zer Inc., and Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation.

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Chasing the Blues Away

Depression strikes an estimated 47% to 54% of people with MS—but a new

study suggests that you can lift your mood by taking positive actions.

The study was an outgrowth of a longitudinal MS quality of life study conducted at the University of Texas at Austin, funded by the National Institutes of Health and conducted by Dr. Lorraine J. Phillips, PhD, APRN, BC, FNP, and Dr. Alexa Stuifbergen, PhD, RN, FAAN.

Stuifbergen started the study by surveying 443 people with MS on a yearly basis, asking how often they felt depressed, and to describe the symptoms they experienced. But one of the participants, Doris Varnell, a 57-year-old retiree, told Stuifbergen she found the questions “depressing.”

“I wanted to know what people were doing to make themselves feel better,” said Varnell.

Varnell wrote up a list of positive actions she engaged in to lighten her mood. She sent her list to Stuifbergen who, to Varnell’s surprise, began to ask study participants if they tried similar things. The results were dramatic. People who checked off the most items on Varnell’s list for a given week were the least depressed. Actions included:

∫ Saying “thank you” and meaning it

∫ Phoning a friend

∫ Visiting a friend

∫ Saying something pleasant to someone else who didn’t expect it

∫ Crossing off something on your to-do list because you finished it

∫ Learning something new

∫ Volunteering or agreeing to become a volunteer

∫ Going to the library and checking out a book to read

∫ Going shopping and buying something for yourself

∫ Taking a nap

∫ Pampering yourself with a manicure, massage or relaxing bath

Although the study does not prove that

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the actions alone were responsible for boosting the participants’ mental health—people who were happiest could have just been born that way—it does suggest that incorporating more positive actions into the day may improve quality of life even for a person with severe limitations.

“People who suff er from ongoing depression should always consult their doctor,” Stuifbergen added.

“The Infl uence of Positive Experiences on Depression and Quality of Life in Persons with Multiple Sclerosis” is in The Journalof Holistic Nursing, V. 26, #1, March 2008, pp. 41-48.

Treatment update—Betaseron onlyBayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals will launch a very thin (30-gauge) needle and a new autoinjector (BETAJECT LITE) at the end of October. The new autoinjector will replace all previous autoinjectors for Betaseron. The use of any autoinjector other than this latest version may result in people not receiving their full dose of medication. Go to betaseron.com/thinner or call 800-788-1467 for more information and to request the new autoinjector.

Bold Moves by Our Hispanic/LatinoAdvisory CouncilUnder the leadership of noted neurologist Victor Rivera, MD, the Society’s National Hispanic/Latino Advisory Council has established bold goals for the next three years. They include:

∫ Promoting more participation by Hispanics and Latinos in clinical trials

∫ Promoting studies on the experiences of Latinos and Hispanics with MS

∫ Developing more resources to educate health-care professionals about this community

∫ Increasing the number of Hispanic/Latino volunteers on chapter boards or as participants in Society fundraising, programs and events.

∫ Including Hispanic/Latino outreach dimensions in the proposed federal study of MS prevalence by the CDC.

The Council has already created the Spanish-language glossary of MS terms on our Web site and been instrumental in developing the national telephone support group, Café con Leche.

Currently, Dr. Ron Duran, a council member and a professor at the Alliant International University, is doing fi eld work in collaboration with the Society to identify the unique challenges faced by Hispanic/Latino families living with MS. And Dr. Debbie Victor, an occupational therapist and recent graduate of the University of Illinois at Chicago, has developed a set of action steps for outreach to Hispanics and Latinos to be distributed to all chapters in the new year.

JOIN THE MOVEMENT: nationalMSsociety.org

My Life with MS by Lori Freeman

I believe it became “real” the day I met with my Neurologist, in January 2007. He had the results of my spinal tap. He looked

down at my fi le folder and I could see his face. I simply said, “...so, we’re not guessing anymore?” He said, “...no, we’re not guessing, we know now...”

My heart sank.

In 1998, I lost the sight in my left eye, overnight. That was the fi rst time I heard the words, “it could be MS.” I had no idea of what that meant, but I did know that I didn’t have time for any medical concerns...I had too many people in my family that needed me to help them with their lives. Happily, after injection therapy, (2 weeks later) most of my sight returned.

As the years went on, strange things would happen that would make me wonder...could it be that something serious really was wrong with me? I tried to ignore the odd physical sensations, pains and other unsettling experiences that would come and go and tried to dismiss them as a nuisance of being overweight and living a less than healthy lifestyle.

After being diagnosed, I asked myself, “what can I do to make my life better...what do I have control over?” My answer was...”get as healthy as you can, anyway you can.” In August of 2007, I established a weight loss plan with my doctor. I’m 51 years old and

have been overweight all of my life. I always said I was going to get my body in shape someday...but I had never pursued the matter with much determination.

Well, now I had the motivation needed to make it happen. I actually joined a gym in January 2008, and am now going to it faithfully and cheerfully, 5 days a week. To date, I have lost 87 lbs. Although I still have several symptoms related to MS, so many things have gotten better. I can walk without pain, I can move easily, and every aspect of my being is improved. At the gym I do aerobics, yoga, work out machines and swimming.

The choices I have made to lose weight and get my body moving again have paid off in ways I never dreamed possible. I know that I am doing what I need to do to be as healthy as possible, and this gives me great confi dence. Much will happen in our lives, but I do believe that a positive attitude and carrying out your goals as best you can, can make the diff erence we need to live the best life possible. Although I have MS, I’m going to take each day, and make it as good as I can, and be thankful that I am capable of making choices that will benefi t me for years to come.

To share your story about living well with MS, email us at info@msconnection.org.

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Lori Freeman reaches her goal weight

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Connecting Through Clay

Studies show that people who have hobbies and activities outside of their daily responsibilities will fi nd that they can weather the ups and

downs of life more easily. This was very true for Janice Hofmann, clay studio owner of All Fired Up! During a very intense period of her life where changes and demands were coming from many directions, she turned to her love for working with clay, something she had not done since high school. She quickly found that giving herself that time to process the changes in her life in the present improved her outlook of what could be possible for the future.

Rediscovering one’s self is a life-long process and for those living with MS, that process

may take more imagination. That’s why the All Fired Up! Ceramic Art Center and the National MS Society joined together for the “Live Life Now! Connecting Through Clay” program.

Janice opened her beautiful clay studio and gallery in Chico for the exclusive use of National MS Society. Members registered at no cost and were off ered two options; members could paint ceramic plates and bowls Janice had already made or they could

create something from a slab of clay such as a plaque, a cup, or anything else they imagined.

By the end of the program everyone agreed that it was a great way to connect with other Chapter members and have something special they could share with friends and family. The Chapter gave people the option to have their project shipped back to their home, but everyone at the program said they wanted to come back to pick-up their project and spend another day at the studio; including those who had traveled from Oakland and Novato for the program!

What a diff erence a day can make! Thanks to Janice Hoff man for making this program incredibly special. We look forward to doing it again next year.

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Tax-Saving Opportunities for Donors 70 ½ or Older

The IRA Charitable Rollover, reenacted on October 3, 2008, as part of the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008, is intended to encourage

and reward charitable giving in today’s challenging economic climate. Lawmakers recently restored and extended legislation similar to the popular Pension Protection Act of 2006 allowing taxpayers age 70½ or older to make up to $100,000 tax-free distributions from their traditional and Roth IRAs (Individual Retirement Accounts) directly to qualifi ed charitable organizations such as the National Multiple Sclerosis Society in 2008 and again in 2009.

Taxpayers at the age of 70½ and older are required to take annual distributions from traditional retirement accounts. The distributions are included in the taxpayers’

adjusted gross income (AGI) and taxpayers pay tax on them. The IRA Charitable Rollover gives taxpayers the opportunity to make donations from their IRAs directly to charitable organizations, like the National MS Society, without counting the distribution as part of their AGI and without paying tax on the charitable rollover.

Under this new legislation, you can make a lifetime gift using funds from your IRA without undesirable tax eff ects. These IRA gifts can be accomplished simply and with no out of pocket tax expense to you. Plus, you can make a substantial gift now – while you are living and able to witness the benefi ts of your generosity. This opportunity is available for both the 2008 and 2009 tax years, so you will want to act soon!

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LOOKING FOR RESEARCH PARTICIPANTSWe’re looking for volunteers to participate in a clinical study to evaluate the eff ectiveness and safety of an investigational oral drug to treat relapsing remitting MS.

You are the most important member of the research team. It is because of volunteers like you that important advances in the treatment of MS become a reality.

You must:

∫ be between 18 and 55 years old

∫ have had one relapse within the past 12 months or 2 in the past 24 months

∫ not have previously used any interferons or Tysabri

∫ walk without the use of an aid

Ask your doctor if the Bravo study is right for you. Visit www.Tevaclinicaltrials.com/Bravo or call 1-800-840-5601 for more information.

(Continued on next page)

TOLL FREE NUMBER 1 800 344 4867

You can benefi t from this new law if:∫ You are age 70 ½ or older ∫ The gift from your IRA is $100,000 or less

each year∫ You make the gift on or before December

31, 2008 for the 2008 tax year; or you make the gift on or before December 31, 2009 for the 2009 tax year

∫ You transfer funds directly from an IRA, Rollover IRA or a Roth IRA to the National MS Society

An Example of How the New Law WorksPat, 80, has $450,000 in an IRA and has pledged to give the Society $75,000 this year as a charitable gift. If Pat transfers $75,000 from her IRA directly to the Society, she will

avoid paying income tax on that amount. She cannot, however, claim a charitable deduction – it is a pure “wash.”

If she desired, Pat could give more than $100,000. The legislation allows a maximum $100,000 gift in both the 2008 and the 2009 tax years. So Pat could make a gift of $100,000 each year. Plus, if she has a spouse 70 ½ or older with an IRA, he can give a maximum of $200,000 over the same period.

How to Make a GiftContact your IRA administrator and direct him/her to transfer your desired amount to the National MS Society. Be sure to inform the National MS Society your gift is on its way. For more information please contact David Hartman at 415.230.6678 or david.hartman@nmss.org.

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Studies show that early and ongoing treatment with an FDA-approved ther-apy can reduce future disease activity and improve quality of life for many people with multiple sclerosis. National MS Society medical advisors recom-mend that people with MS talk with their health care professional about using one of these medications and about strategies and eff ective treat-ments to manage symptoms. If you or someone you know has MS, please contact the Society today at www.na-tionalmssociety.org or 1-800-344-4867 to learn about ways to help manage multiple sclerosis and about current re-search that may one day reveal a cure.

Did You Know...

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Join the Movement—Without Leaving Your Offi ce

Every year, over 1.5 million employeessupport

important non-profi t organizations nationwide through employee giving campaigns. If you are a federal government employee or your private employer off ers a charitable giving campaign, you can help move us closer to a world free of MS by designating a contribution to the National MS Society.

Most charitable giving programs off er employees the opportunity to make an annual pledge, which means a portion of their donation is automatically deducted

Designate the National MS Society in your employee giving campaign

from each paycheck. Donations can also be made as a one-time contribution by writing a personal check. When you choose the National MS Society your donation comes directly to our Chapter.

Your company doesn’t off er an employee giving program? Talk to your benefi ts administrator about starting one. And call us. We can give you the resources you need.

Participating in a charitable giving program is an easy way to help provide vital services, spark public policy advocacy, and fund cutting-edge research.

Combined Federal Campaign (CFC)

If you work in the public sector or you are in the military, contributions can be made through the CFC by selecting the designation number 11409. If you work in the private sector, look for us listed under Community Health Charities or ask your campaign coordinator about designating a gift to the Society.

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TOLL FREE NUMBER 1 800 344 4867

On Saturday October 18th, my alarm went off before the sun rose. I was about to make the drive to the Monterey Bay for

my fi rst tandem skydive. “Why am I doing this?” I asked myself as I got ready in the dark, careful not to wake anyone up. Then I reminded myself that I made a commitment to people living with MS, I did months of fundraising for the National MS Society, Northern California Chapter and, because I can!

When I arrived at the Marina Airport at 8:00 a.m., it was extremely foggy. I worked up my nerves on the drive down and did not know how much longer I could wait for

the clouds to clear. Luckily, Cristina Rosa, another National MS Society employee, was along for the journey as well. We sat in the cold airport waiting for the clouds to clear, staring at the little plane that would take us up 15,000 feet, taking turns saying “I’m so nervous!”

Finally at 1:30, it was our turn. We packed into the tiny plane, each student attached tightly to an instructor. After what seemed like an eternity, we reached 15,000 feet. A little green light went on, the door opened

and before I knew it my toes were hanging out the edge of the door. My cameraman stood on the side of the plane yelling “Smile!” And then we were off . It took me a while to catch my breath, but once I did, I was absolutely blown away.

My 4 minutes in the air was an experience I wish everyone could have. Being able to fl oat in the air, taking in the beauty that was below me, and hearing absolutely nothing but the wind was truly amazing. What was even more amazing was that I could have this wonderful experience AND raise money to support local programs and services for people living with MS in our community.

Skydive 4 Free allows you to make a FREE tandem skydive by raising a minimum donation of $500. By registering at www.skydive4free.com you can collect donations from anyone in your online community and beyond by directing them to your own personal campaign page. Once you have raised the $500 minimum, you can arrange a free tandem skydive at one of several drop zones in Northern California.

I can’t explain all that I was feeling, but I do know that after jumping out of a plane I feel like I can do anything! If you’re interested in learning more, contact me at sarah.hester@nmss.org.

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Chapter Staff member Sarah Hester free falls for MS.

I Jumped Out of a Plane for MS!

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The “Yuck” Factor

John Fleming, MD, calls it the “yuck factor.” But people with MS might happily drink parasitic worm eggs if it meant a

reduction in disease activity.

In a study run by Dr. Fleming, fi ve people with MS will ingest the eggs of the whipworm, or Trichuris suis, a virtually harmless organism, to see if they will divert the immune system from attacking myelin. If the experiment shows promise, Dr. Fleming hopes to enroll 15 more people with MS and follow them fora year.

The study is based on the “hygiene hypothesis,” which theorizes the low incidence in MS in developing countries may be due to early exposure to infectious agents. “Modern sanitation is of course an important advance for public health,” explained Dr. Fleming, a professor of neurology at University of Wisconsin, Madison, “but it is possible that autoimmune diseases may be an unanticipated consequence of extremely hygienic environments.”

A recently published study involving a small number of people with MS underscores the potential of the worm egg approach:

Investigators from the Raúl Carrea Institute for Neurological Research in Argentina found that worm-infected people with MS showed evidence of anti-infl ammatory

immune activity, compared to uninfected people with MS and those with a diff erent infection. The investigators also found that immune cells isolated from the worm-infected individuals produced nerve growth factors, which may translate into benefi cial nerve protection.

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Researchers need you!Scientists are testing new medica-tions for MS in clinical trials across the country. Some will result in groundbreaking new treatments for the disease. Clinical trials depend on volunteers—people like you--who want to participate. For information on clinical trials taking place in your area, visit nationalmssociety.org/clinicaltrials.

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An Invitation to Join a NationalDiscussion by Weyman T. Johnson, Jr., Chair, National Board of Directors

This coming January a new federal administration will begin asking questions about how to address our national health-care crisis. Almost every voter in the country agrees that the status quo is unacceptable.

We at the National MS Society certainly agree with the impact of under-insurance, uninsurability, lack of coverage for maintenance or off -label therapies, disparities in quality and availability of care—especially of long-term services—and the consequences of inconsistent and expensive medical record-keeping are all harmful to those of us in the MS world.

Last May, the National Board of Directors unanimously adopted a set of health-care reform principles to guide our active participation in the national discussion. Our board leads a movement that seeks a world in which we may live as powerfully and productively as possible, despite what MS may do. Based on that, we agreed on seven principles, listed in the box.

The full principles are, like MS itself, complex. You can fi nd the complete text at nationalMSsociety.org/healthcareprinciples or by calling us at 1-800-344-4867. I urge you to get it, read it, talk about it with family, friends and associates, and to send copies to your elected offi cials.

Fixing our health-care system will involve federal, state and local action. We will need all your voices to ensure that these priorities are taken seriously when reforms are in planning stages. Times are not easy, and the economy may take time to regain momentum. People with MS can and should contribute to a renewal. But we know that productivity of all kinds hinges on enabling people with chronic illness or disabilities to live their best lives. This in turn requires having access to high-quality medical care.

To learn more about the Society’s health-care reform activities and to join in, call 1-800-344-4867 or visit nationalMSsociety.org/advocacy.

We believe meaningful health-care reform must involve these seven principles:

1. Accessible health-care coverage2. Affordable health-care services

and coverage3. Standards for coverage of

specific treatments4. Elimination of disparity in

health care5. Comprehensive high-quality

health care available to all.6. Increased value of health care7. Access to high-quality long-

term supports and services

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What’s Your Financial I.Q.?by Natalie Karlin

Where to turn for help: The Society has enlisted 600 volunteer fi nancial advisers nationwide to give free advice through The Financial Education Partners Program. Call us.

Guidestar.com verifi es a nonprofi t’s legitimacy regarding credit counseling services. Bankrate.com can fi gure how much of a monthly credit card payment goes to pay down the original debt.Natalie Karlin is a freelance reporter who was diagnosed with MS in 2005.

Can medical expenses reduce my taxes? ∫ Specific rules must be met on what

percentage of income went to medical expenses for tax deductible status. See IRS publication 502 or visit www.irs.gov/publications/p502/index.html.

∫ An air-conditioner can be a medical expense according to the IRS!

∫ Before purchasing a wheelchair, check with a tax adviser about your medical plan’s specific restrictions and deduction status.

Answer: Yes, if you meet requirements.

Does it make sense to transfer medical debt to a credit card? ∫ It only eliminates the debt to the

medical provider.

∫ The debt still exists to the credit card company but isn’t considered “medical.”

∫ Medical expenses can be used to offset income in many states which could make you eligible for Medicaid or other assistance programs based on a “medically needy” status.

Answer: The best option is to negotiate a payment plan with the medical provider.

Is it wise to take a loan from a 401k to pay off debt? Some 401k plans do allow loans against funds already contributed to the plan.Factors to consider

∫ How much is in the 401k?

∫ How enormous is the debt?

∫ Can it be paid off without the loan?

∫ What is the person’s cash flow?

Answer: Once that money is takenout, it is not growing for future benefi ts.

Is it possible to reduce education loan payments?∫ Contact the agency or organization

that provided the loan. Qualifications exist for some forms of payment relief. Take action before late fees are charged.

∫ Under the U.S. Department of Education, a completely disabled individual can qualify for a loan to be forgiven. But strict rules apply. Visit http://www.ed.gov/index.jhtml.

Answer: It’s worth trying.

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Reduce Your Taxable Income With a Gift to the ChapterAs the year draws to a close, many of our donors engage in crucial tax planning. If you are in the 33% federal tax bracket and have a taxable income of $250,000 or more for 2008, you can make an unrestricted gift of $20,000 to support our mission and save $6,600 in taxes ($20,000 x 33%). Additional savings on state taxes are also possible. Whatever your income may be, the IRS allows you considerable benefi ts for your charitable gifts to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Rate Single Taxpayers Married, Filing Jointly 10% $0 – 8,205 $0 – 16,050

15% $8,206 – 32,550 $16,501 – 65,100

25% $32,551 – 78,850 $65,101 – 131,450

28% $78,851 – 164,550 $131,451 – 200,300

33% $164,551 – 357,700 $200,301 – 357,700

35% $357,701 + $357,701 +

2008 Federal Income Tax Rate Schedule

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NEY M

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When you are conducting your year-end giving, fi nancial and tax planning, please consider making a gift to help people aff ected by MS. This year, more than ever, families aff ected by MS are facing daunting challenges that go beyond the current economic crisis. You can help meet these growing needs by making a gift to the Chapter. Help others and reduce your taxes. What a wonderful way to celebrate the holidays! For more information, please contact David Hartman at david.hartman@nmss.org or 415-230-6678

JOIN THE MOVEMENT: nationalMSsociety.org

Northern California Self-Help GroupsAlameda CountyAlameda, Sharon 510-521-6260 or Ray 510-522-5210 Berkeley, Toni 510-735-7890East Bay Lesbians, Jane 510-444-5257 Fremont, Kim 510-793-0765 Oakland, Katrina 510-568-2301Oakland: African Americans, Tracey 510-670-8633 Oakland: Latinos, Elsa 510-777-1414 Tri-Valley Pleasanton, Mary Beth 925-829-0832

Contra Costa CountyBrentwood: MS for lunch bunch, Kathy 925-286-7674 or Julie 925-513-4686 Mt. Diablo (Concord), John and Janis 925-372-0859 or Oscar 925-673-0984 (Call between 6:30-8:30pm Mon-Thurs.) El Cerrito, Sylvia 510-559-9319Richmond, Vanda 510-559-1898

El Dorado County Placerville, Fred and Stacey 530-644-1188

Humboldt County Eureka, Ann Louise 707-839-0177 or Kim 707-445-9803

Marin CountyCorte Madera, Verita 415-927-7068 or Anita 415-892-5548

MendocinoMendocino, Joanne 707-937-4929

Merced CountyMerced: MS Challengers, Susan 209-384-6533

Monterey CountyMonterey, Susan 831-659-1354 or MaryLee 831-373-2450

Napa CountyNapa, Colin 707-944-2262 or Penelope 707-265-9680

Nevada CountyGrass Valley, Helen 530-268-3127 or Dan 530-272-7636

Placer CountyAuburn, Ruth 530-888-8388 Roseville: Minimal Symptoms Group, Brett or Kelly 916-773-6799 or brettsmith51@comcast.netLincoln, Marcia or Jerry 916-408-7899

Sacramento County Elk Grove, Willie 916-684-1677 or Dorothy 916-684-6849Sacramento: Moving on with MS, Sylvia 916-349-1324

San Benito CountyHollister Group, Gina 831-636-3241, Robin 831-636-0930or Helen 831-637-6267

San Francisco CountySan Francisco Forum, Dolores 415-467-6186 or David 415-585-9851 SF Potluck Luncheon, Karen 415-584-6115 (Meets periodically) SF Sunset District, Tatiana 415-665-1178

San Joaquin County Stockton (PM), Brenda 209-951-0536 or Mary 209-334-5670Stockton (AM), Betty 209-368-6026Tracy, Linda 209-833-6882

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18

TOLL FREE NUMBER 1 800 344 4867

Looking for ResearchParticipants

San MateoSan Mateo, Eli 650-377-1970San Mateo, George 650-593-5154

Santa Clara CountyMilpitas, Indu 510-656-3408Palo Alto, Phyllis 650-321-9081 or George 650-593-5154 San Jose, Cor 408-270-8922 or David 408-578-3752 San Jose, Janine 408-794-0777Santa Clara, Brian 408-739-9445 or Susan 408-253-4489

Santa Cruz CountyCapitola, Tom 831-684-2252or Ada 831-440-1211

Shasta County Hope 4 MS, Beth 530-246-8404 or Patricia 530-222-7277 or Robin 530-246-2980

Siskiyu CountyNEW – Now Forming! Yreka, Wynonna 530-842-1849

Solano County Vacaville, Debrah 707-447-9603 (before 7:00 pm) or Marian 707-422-7515 Vallejo, Marian 707422-7515Solano County Group, Pam 707-745-3704

Sonoma County Santa Rosa, Debbie 707-569-9976 Rohnert Park / Petaluma, Debbie 707-569-9976 Healdsburg, Kate 707-433-9194Sonoma Women’s Group, Noreen 707-933-9500

Stanislaus County Modesto, Pati 209-524-8329Turlock, Bill 209-664-1427 or Frances 209-667-2184

Sutter CountyYuba City, Evon 530-701-2189

Tehama CountyRed Bluff , Teresa 530-529-4412 or Jodine 530-528-8767

Tuolumne CountySonora, Steven or Gloria, 209-532-5646

19

If you have been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis you may consider participating in a clinical study of a new investigational oral medication.

You must:

∫ Be between 18 and 55 years of age

∫ Have a diagnosis of relapsing remitting MS

∫ Have experienced at least one relapse within the past 12 months

For more information visit www.msclinicalstudies.com or call the UC Davis study coordinator, Janelle Butters, RN, at 916-734-6276.

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Care Management Program Assists Society Members in Need

The major winter holidays are among us, and at fi rst glance, there are many reasons to celebrate, to be joyous, and to cultivate gratitude. For many persons with multiple sclerosis and limited funds, the holiday season can be a stressful experience. The Northern California Chapter is proud to be a part of alleviating some of this stress by providing extra support around the holidays.

The Care Management Program is the newest client service for the people in Northern California living with multiple sclerosis. The program serves individuals and families whose chronic long-term care needs can no longer be solely met by family and friends. This program also assists families in navigating a fragmented and confusing healthcare and social service delivery system in order to access services and programs that support community living and avoid premature institutionalized care. The goal of our Care Management Program is to coordinate social, economic, and health care resources to meet individual needs and prevent costlier care.

Care Management and Financial Assistance Programs have an immediate and direct eff ect on people with the highest level of need. This type of support would not be possible without the generous gifts of our donors. If you, or someone you know, would be interested in contributing to, or would like more information about our Care Management or Financial Assistance Programs, please contact Jaclyn Smoczynski at 1-800-344-4867, option 2, ext. 2002.

1700 Owens Street, Suite 190San Francisco, CA 94158

NON-PROFIT ORG.

U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

San Francisco, CA

Permit N0. 160