Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada

Mark your calendars because MS Walk is almost here! On World MS Day Sunday, May 30 - the MS community will connect across the country as we walk towards a world free of MS. Join us at 12pm ET for a Live Stream Rally featuring members of the MS community and our President and CEO Pam Valentine. MS impacts all Canadians, which is why we urge people to move forward together at MS Walk. Your participation helps build awareness for the disease and raises much needed funds so ...we can continue to support people affected by MS. Participate in your own MS Walk by walking in your backyard, around your block, or virtually! Visit mswalks.ca for more details. Share your pictures, memories, and posts with us by using #MSWalk on social media. #MSConnections #WorldMSDay

The day has come! Tune in at 12pm ET to join Canadians from coast to coast for our #MSWalk Live Stream Rally! Join us as Pamela Valentine, President and CEO of the MS Society, is joined by Emcee Andrea Dunn and four special guests across the country top fundraiser Karen Jacoby, leadership volunteer Becky Money, and long-time participants and top fundraisers Sheldon Patriquin and Nancy Lester. This stream will kick off MS Walk celebrations as thousands of Canadians connect o...nline and walk forward together, from their own communities, towards a world free of MS. Tune into the stream on Facebook (link here: https://bit.ly/3uDT4uB), our YouTube page, or on the mswalk.ca homepage. If you can’t tune in, make a donation to MS Walk today as every dollar donated is worth double and will go twice as far in supporting Canadians affected by MS. Donate here: https://bit.ly/2R5eEdT.

Today is #WorldMSDay, and we’re celebrating YOU: the fighters, the warriors, the people who are living with MS every day and navigating this complex disease, and the people who help support you. As you’ve shown us all month, it truly takes a village to manage a disease like MS. Today we want to hear your story. Let us know: what does your village of support look like? Whether you look to your friends, family, pets, doctors, support programs, or the MS Society, we want to know what avenues of support help you through your MS journey. Share a selfie and start your story off with, It takes a village to manage a disease like MS. Leave a comment here, mention us on Twitter, or tag us on Instagram @mssocietycanada, using hashtags #WorldMSDay and #MSConnections

Less than 30 hours left for your MS Walk donation to have 2x the impact on Canadians living with MS! 1 in 400 Canadians live with MS, making your donation more important than ever. Donations will be matched by corporate leaders Jayman BUILT, BioScript Solutions, Access Storage, Sentinel Storage, Depotium and our community partners as they join you to support the MS community.

Tomorrow, thousands of Canadians will connect online and walk forward together toward a world free of MS. Tune into our MS Walk Live Stream Rally at 12pm ET to help create a community of support for people affected by MS. Click ‘get reminder’ to be notified to join our President and CEO, Pam Valentine, and members of the MS community at the 2021 MS Walk Rally to kick off our #MSWalk! Click the 'get reminded' button here to be notified when we go live: https://bit.ly/3wzMUgG. If you can’t make it, make a donation to MS Walk today as every dollar donated is worth double and will go twice as far in supporting Canadians affected by MS. Donate here: https://bit.ly/3vyxzwT.

It takes a village to help manage a disease like multiple sclerosis (MS). And for those affected by MS, support offered through a number of avenues is essential to help them along their journey. For Jana and Rob, they find support through volunteering for the MS Society’s 1:1 Peer Support Program. I was diagnosed with MS at 22 years old in 1998. Daily, I deal with symptoms like fatigue, vision issues, bladder issues and pain. I had to change my daily activities to adapt to ...my new reality. I now work out every day, eat healthier, and focus my time on helping others. My partner Rob told me about the 1:1 Peer Support Program, a program that pairs those living with MS with someone affected by the disease to offer support. I had been helping people living with MS on social media, so it seemed like a natural fit to volunteer for this program. Making that connection with another person living with MS, sharing your story, listening to triumphs and hardships is comforting and illuminating. I admire Rob so much already, but to see him so willingly share our experiences to help other people navigate the unknown is humbling. It makes me want to help more. - Jana, diagnosed with MS in 1998, 1:1 Peer Support Program volunteer When my partner, Jana, first told me about her MS diagnosis, I was impressed by her resiliency to push through unbearable obstacles to live a full life. Jana and I both understand the power of shared experience and being open with others. That is why we decided to volunteer for the 1:1 Peer Support Program together. Given the individual nature of this disease, we all have so much to offer to one another to help understand MS, treatment options, symptoms, coping strategies, and more. Volunteering for the program is so incredibly validating, educational, and emotional. It feels great to talk to others, and share our experiences, tips, anxieties, pain, and strength." - Rob, 1:1 Peer Support Program volunteer The 1:1 Peer Support program is searching for volunteers to help guide others living with and affected by MS. If you are interested in volunteering, contact [email protected] or 1-800-268-7582 x3149.

Mark your calendars because MS Walk is almost here! Join us at 12pm ET for a Live Stream Rally featuring members of the MS community and our President and CEO Pam Valentine here: https://bit.ly/3fAfZTH. Click ‘get reminder’ to get notified when the live stream begins. On World MS Day Sunday, May 30 - the MS community will connect across the country as we walk towards a world free of MS MS impacts all Canadians, which is why we urge people to move forward together at MS Wa...lk. Your participation helps build awareness for the disease and raises much needed funds so we can continue to support people affected by MS. Participate in your own MS Walk by walking in your backyard, around your block, or virtually! Visit mswalks.ca for more details. Share your pictures, memories, and posts with us by using #MSWalk on social media. #MSConnections #WorldMSDay

You’ve taught us a lot this month about what support can look like for people affected by MS, and we’re grateful for every story that’s come our way. So on #WorldMSDay, May 30, we want to hear from you! Participate in our It Takes a Village selfie campaign taking place across our social channels. Let us know: what does your village of support look like? Whether you look to your friends, family, pets, doctors, support programs, or the MS Society, we want to know what avenues... of support help you through your MS journey. Share a selfie and start your story off with, It takes a village to manage a disease like MS. Leave a comment here, mention us on Twitter, or tag us on Instagram @mssocietycanada, using hashtags #WorldMSDay and #MSConnections See you and your stories on social this Sunday!

The MS Society of Canada is excited to share new research findings published in Brain Journal by Dr. Soheila Karimi, Professor and Neuroscientist at the University of Manitoba. In this preclinical study, Dr. Karimi and her team discovered a new protein target for MS treatment called Neuregulin-1 beta 1. They found that reduced levels of Neuregulin-1 beta 1 is associated with MS development and progression, and that supplementation of this protein can delay MS onset and improve disease severity. For more information, read our latest MS Update: bit.ly/2XeROzR

Each year, the MS Society of Canada continues to invest in the most promising research that has the greatest potential benefit to individuals living with MS. Our newest blog highlights some of the latest research that aims to improve treatment and care and understand and halt disease progression. To read, click here: bit.ly/3b9nvD8

As the year comes to an end, the MS Society of Canada wants to thank our community and acknowledge their resilience during this unprecedented year. A big thank you for helping make a positive change in the lives of people living with and affected by MS. Your ongoing support and commitment during these challenging times does not go unnoticed. The MS Society’s Knowledge Network service will be closed for the holidays from December 18 to January 4. During this time, you can fin...d reliable information and support about MS on our website at mssociety.ca, or by emailing [email protected] and an MS Navigator will get back to you when we re-open on January 4. We hope you have a happy holiday season, and we look forward to seeing you in 2021!

Say hello to OneCall, a new way to connect with a community member affected by MS! OneCall allows you to receive a one-time callback from a volunteer affected by MS who can discuss your issue/question & share their perspective based on personal experience: http://bit.ly/2YQEPoJ

MS rates are increasing globally, according to the new 3rd edition of the Atlas of MS. The Atlas of MS provides updated data on the prevalence and incidence of multiple sclerosis worldwide. The new report collected data from 115 countries and covers 87 per cent of the world’s population. Globally, there are now 2.8 million people who have MS, with levels having increased in every region around the world since 2013. ... Canada continues to have one of the highest rates of MS in the world with over 90,000 people diagnosed. Read the MS Update here: bit.ly/3mseAP7

The MS Society of Canada's recent #MSConnect Conference has brought together the MS community and leading Canadian researchers on a 6-day virtual event. Featured presentations provided the latest updates in MS neurorehabilitation, cognition, nutrition, and fatigue. Our newest blog recaps the important information you may have missed. Click here to read: bit.ly/34m4dWW

Q: How has MS affected your dating life? A: Dating is already difficult, but with MS, it’s become a daunting reality. I’ve found myself asking questions like when should I tell them about my MS? or how soon is too soon? You never know how the other person will react. In my opinion, telling them earlier is better. I want to respect their time, so they should know before things get too serious. With or without MS, there is always a fear of being rejected. But if I told some...one about my diagnosis and they responded negatively, I know that they aren’t the person for me. Observing the reactions almost serve as a filter, helping weed out the people who I feel might not grasp compassion or understand my situation. The person I date should be okay with accommodating my needs when I need to take care of myself. I've become a lot more guarded when it comes to meeting new people, but I'm slowly learning to embrace the vulnerability. With many impacted by MS during the formative years of their adult lives, millennials are not alone in the fight against MS. In 2020, millennials with MS are diving into the workforce, starting families, and advancing their education all during the biggest global crisis of the last century. In our latest blog series ‘Millennials and MS’, we sit down with young adults across Canada to discuss topics such as self-care, social media, mental health, and more to hear what they have to say about life with MS. This week, we sat down with Trish Yeung, a 30-year old woman living with MS, who has turned to mindfulness and meditation to support her through her MS journey. Read Trish's story: bit.ly/2UAiHNs

Help unlock the future of medical cannabis treatment for multiple sclerosis. The University of Alberta is seeking participants for a research study exploring cannabis use in people with multiple sclerosis. U of A researchers need people with MS to share their experiences and attitudes toward medical cannabis, whether they have used it or not.... Participation requires filling out an anonymous online survey that should take only 10 minutes to complete. For more information, check out our research portal and complete the survey by December 31: bit.ly/35zkCYQ

Health Canada authorizes first COVID-19 vaccine. Health Canada determined that the Pfizer-BioNTech mRNA vaccine meets the requirements of stringent safety, efficacy, and quality for use of the COVID-19 vaccine in Canada. The Pfizer-BioNTech mRNA vaccine phase 3 clinical trial involved 44,000 participants who received two doses of the vaccine 21 days apart. The trial demonstrated the vaccine is 95 per cent effective in preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection beginning one week after t...he second dose. People living with MS should speak with their neurologist and healthcare team about COVID-19 vaccines. The MS Society of Canada is working with global MS organizations, researchers, and healthcare providers to provide more specific advice for COVID-19 vaccinations for people living with MS. Stay up to date and read more in our latest MS Update: bit.ly/3nnaSrg

Many government programs are created to address injury rather than chronic disease. My healthcare team had trouble helping me access them because so many of the requirements are irrelevant to people who live with MS or another chronic disease. I imagine this creates more back and forth between insurance providers and doctors and in turn increases the burden on an already-taxed health system, particularly the chronic disease specialists. I also worry about how many people are... wrongly denied access to these programs or simply get tied up in the process longer than necessary. Nicole Nicole was diagnosed with MS in 2012. While she’s lucky to have a generous employer with an extended sick leave policy, not everyone is so fortunate. Many Canadians rely on public programs like the Employment Insurance (EI) sickness benefit when they encounter personal health challenges that impact their ability to work. Unfortunately, for too many Canadians the inadequate length of time provided under the EI sickness benefit framework and other gaps in our social support systems means that they can’t use the program in the way it was intended, to help keep them working as long as they are able. The #TakeActionForMS campaign calls on the federal government to address these gaps in our support system which have always existed but were brought into stark focus by the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s time for our federal government to #TakeActionForMS by extending the EI sickness benefit period up to at least 26 weeks. Join the campaign and #TakeActionForMS today: https://bit.ly/3o3lBHt

It’s going to be very hard to celebrate this joyous time without my mother this year. There are no real words to describe how it feels. It’s extremely disappointing, and it hurts. Shelby was just a child when her mother Cara was diagnosed with MS. When she turned six years old, her mother moved into a long-term care facility, where they continued their relationship through weekly visits and daily phone calls. "Our relationship was just different. It wasn’t built on 'normal'... mother-daughter terms - it was built on hospital coffees, crib games between doctor's appointments, and care home activities." But everything changed when the pandemic hit. As strict public health restrictions around COVID-19 separate loved ones in many locations this holiday season, Shelby shares her perspective on how difficult the pandemic has been for those inside - and the loved ones stuck outside long-term care facilities across Canada. I haven’t been able to enter my mom’s long-term care facility since October. It’s becoming increasingly difficult to explain to her the severity of the pandemic and why I can’t visit her, Shelby says. My phone calls to her have increased. We usually singing some old rock and roll songs, much to the dismay of everyone’s ears around us. As we approach the holidays, we’ve started to take advantage of video calling. My mom is legally blind, so while she may not be able to see me, it’s always nice for me to see her and know that she’s doing okay. Over the past few years, Cara’s MS has progressed more with her now permanently relying on a wheelchair to get around and having lost almost all of her sight. As a result, it’s become increasingly difficult to bring her mother home for the holidays. Since 2015, my family has booked a room in her facility on Christmas Day to celebrate with her. That’s been our tradition for the past four years. Luckily this year, my mom’s long-term care facility in Saskatoon is allowing drop-offs for residents. My family will be dropping off her gifts on Christmas Eve, as well as some of her favourite holiday treats. No pandemic will stop her from getting her cherry tarts! In an effort to keep her mother's spirits up, Shelby often calls her twice a day. I want my mom to know that I understand that it’s an incredibly isolating time for her. I want to do everything I can to make up for it. We were dealt some unfair cards this year, but we are stronger than a pandemic. It might not be the holiday season that we’re used to, but it’s still the holidays, and I want to make it as special as possible for her. - Shelby, mother lives with MS Join Shelby in sending your holiday messages to Cara and other Canadians living with MS in long-term care by commenting below. We will pass on your messages to long-term care staff to share with their residents affected by MS.

Today, we kick off our #MSConnect conference as keynote speaker, Dr. Jack Antel, McGill University, and Dr. Pamela Valentine, President and CEO, MS Society of Canada, lead the welcome session Building on progress in MS research - a multi-discipline effort. This week, you can connect, discuss, and learn about current MS research with the MS community people living with and affected by MS, health professionals, and researchers. Topics will include: neurorehabilitation and MS, cognition, nutrition, fatigue, and more. There’s still time to register. Register now for the 6:30pm ET/3:30pm PT start: https://bit.ly/3flaGp2.

"What do you see here? Maybe you see a guy who is working out with no shirt, trying to boost his 'likes' on social media. Or maybe you see a guy who is trying to get a new picture for his dating profile. But what I see is a guy who works out without his shirt because he has severe heat intolerance and it’s the best way to control his body from overheating.... What I see is a guy who wears ankle braces when he works out because his ankles get too tired and weak to stabilize him. What I see is a guy whose left leg is so tired that he can’t hold it straight. What I see is a guy that no matter what life throws his way, will never give up. Remember, we all go through battles that no one else knows about." - Donavon, diagnosed with MS in 2016 Jennifer Lewans Photography

In October, we launched our latest advocacy campaign and we’re proud to say that thanks to you, the federal government has heard us loud and clear, it’s time to #TakeActionForMS. More than 5,000 Canadians from coast to coast to coast have written to their Member of Parliament (MP) asking them to #TakeActionForMS by extending the EI sickness benefit and supporting health charities. Thank you so much to everyone who participated, shared your experiences, and passed on the campaign to your circle. A special thank you to our Young Adult Committee who made sure the experience of young people impacted by MS was front and center. In the new year our work addressing the other challenges that the MS community faces every single day continues!

In the 70s, Canadian workers gained access to 15 weeks of paid leave under the newly-created Employment Insurance (EI) sickness benefit. Fifty years later, the benefit remains virtually unchanged. The EI sickness benefit allows Canadians who are impacted by a personal health issue to adjust their work status and access financial support while focusing on their medical needs. Once an employee has worked 600 hours in the previous year, they are eligible to access the sickness b...enefit, which dispenses 55 per cent of insured wages for a maximum of 15 weeks. Once the 15 weeks are up, an employee must requalify by logging another 600 hours of work. As it stands, 15 weeks is too short a time-frame for many people with chronic conditions like MS to adequately recover given existing coverage gaps, and overall, Canada’s EI sickness benefit lags behind supports found in other countries. The #TakeActionForMS campaign is calling on the federal government to extend the EI sickness benefit to at least 26 weeks. We’re advocating for crucial changes to help ensure people who live with MS and want to continue working are able to do so. Take five minutes to email your Member of Parliament asking them to #TakeActionForMS today. Join the campaign: https://bit.ly/38Oj6nV.

I disclosed my MS diagnosis to my employer almost immediately. I wanted them to know there was a genuine reason why things had been difficult and explain the many appointments, most of which were impossible to schedule outside of work hours. Lance was diagnosed with MS at 60 - later in life than many Canadians living with the disease. But while his diagnosis was unconventional, he encountered something far too common. While his employer worked to accommodate him in the wor...kplace, he was let down by the Employment Insurance (EI) sickness benefit, the very system meant to provide financial support during times of illness. The EI sickness benefit is designed to provide a temporary income replacement for Canadians who are unable to work due to injury or medical reasons. The benefit provides 55 per cent of your average weekly earnings for up to 15 weeks to ease the financial burden of a leave from work. Unfortunately, the EI sickness benefit is a program that lacks flexibility. My MS is episodic and my symptoms don’t often last more than a week or two at a time. To be eligible for EI sickness, your weekly earnings must be reduced by 40 per cent due to illness. I was required to use up my sickness and vacation benefits from work before applying. Without any flexibility to accommodate episodic disabilities like MS, it is impossible to plan for any contingencies. For over a decade, Lance has worked as a call center agent with the Government of Canada in Calgary. He experienced a range of symptoms, but the most significant impact to his work came from fatigue and a period of optic neuritis, which lasted six months. At this point, he was finally able to qualify for EI sickness benefits. After regaining his sight, he decided to return to work with reduced hours, despite his ongoing fatigue, and as a result, the EI sickness benefit was immediately cut off even though his income was still reduced. Now I’m experiencing another relapse, taking me out of work for 18 months this time. I’ve been advised that the damage to the optic nerve is permanent and I will never recover my full vision. I am currently scheduled for four eye surgeries to correct whatever they can. I wish people would understand that some days, I can walk from across the parking lot and other days, I absolutely need that accessible parking permit hanging from my mirror. I look forward to the day where social programs are more accommodating for people like me who live with an episodic disability. - Lance, diagnosed in 2016 Currently the EI sickness benefit is capped at 15 weeks, a length that hasn’t changed since the program’s creation in the 1970s. The #TakeActionForMS campaign calls on the federal government to extend the EI sickness benefit up to at least 26 weeks. #TakeActionForMS and email you Member of Parliament today: https://bit.ly/37TEl5z.

Starting today, 70+ restaurants are coming together to put Canada's diverse culinary scene on full display by serving up delicious dishes to support people living with MS. From Oct 2-4, join foodies for #savourfestival and expand your culinary experience. Try fresh cuisine from businesses participating in your community and make an impact in the lives of the tens of thousands of Canadians living with MS. Take out options available. See participating restaurants in your region: https://bit.ly/33nAiNX

When it comes to my MS, what works for me is being open and honest about my mental health. When you’re battling a chronic disease and feel like your life as you know it is being taken away, to say you’re emotionally affected is an understatement. Research has shown the link between living with MS and depression, and that’s why it’s critical for me to have strong coping skills and a loving support system. Researching lifestyle modifications and applying it to my own life enab...les me to take control of my health, which otherwise would be out of my hands. - Amanda, MS Society Young Adult Committee member As young adults try to manage MS, along with other aspects of life, prioritizing the importance of informed lifestyle decisions that can alleviate the impact of MS and minimize its progression is critical. On Friday, November 27 from 4:30-5:30 pm ET, join the MS Society’s Young Adult Committee in welcoming an expert panel of speakers who will provide an overview of relevant research in lifestyle modification and tips on how to apply them. Topics will include: exercise and physical activity, mental health, diet and nutrition, and research, and the panel presentation will be followed by a Q&A session. Register for the session here: https://bit.ly/388cyQF. Following the panel, there will be a Young Adult Social Engagement Session, where you can connect with other young adults from across Canada, talk about the information presented in the panel, and discuss what’s important to young adults affected by MS.

"My cousin Linda is a strong fighter against MS, an amazing mother of two young adults, and a free spirit with the kindest heart. Although Linda and I aren't cousins by blood, we grew up together. Our families have a long history of friendship, so to me, we are family. I've watched Linda lose control over her body due to MS for the past 10 years. From having trouble walking to experiencing terrible pain and fatigue, she has dealt with a tremendous amount. As a member of the m...arketing team at Pelee Island Winery, I knew I wanted to partner with the MS Society to affect change for people impacted by the disease. We set up a partnership where a portion of our online orders went towards research and support services for Canadians living with MS. Supporting the MS Society means that I get to be a small part of helping an organization that supports Linda and other people living with MS. I feel proud contributing to a cause seeking to find a cure for my beautiful cousin, so she can one day smile worry-free." - Sue Rice, Marketing Team, Pelee Island Winery & Vineyards Inc From now until December 17, Pelee Island Winery will donate $5 from every online order of $75 or more to the MS Society of Canada and offer their customers the opportunity to match the donation. For more information, visit: bit.ly/3n7TcQb

Just one week left until the Women Against Multiple Sclerosis (WAMS) Gala presented by the LOVE YOU by Shoppers Drug Mart program! On November 20, we will recognize WAMS honourees from across the country who are making a difference in business and the community. We sat down with two of our honourees, Diane Kazarian and Linda McGowan, to get their thoughts on finding work/life balance, mentoring and the importance of achieving a world free of MS. Get to know Diane and Linda ...by reading our latest blog: https://bit.ly/3kpanKU. Join us in celebrating all the honourees at the #WAMS Gala and become a part of a powerful collective of professionals nationwide in support of Canadians living with MS. Purchase your ticket today at https://bit.ly/3ls1Zvo.

This year, the holidays will look different. For those in long-term care, the public health restrictions may mean shifting holiday traditions. This could mean no family meals, no special visitors, and no group activities. With so many changes, the small act of sending hand-written holiday cards is especially significant this year. Over the past decade that Cathy has worked with the MS Society, she’s lost count of all the cards she’s signed, sealed, and delivered to those livi...ng in long-term care. Throughout the years, Cathy and other staff and volunteers supporting the Friendly Visiting program in Alberta have written cards for holidays, birthdays, or simply, just to send general well wishes and kind thoughts. For the people who receive them, they are a reminder of a larger community of support outside the walls of their facilities. Due to COVID-19 restrictions on in-person visits in long-term care, it’s been hard to connect in the same way with our Friendly Visiting residents. Since volunteers haven't been able to visit, we began writing cards throughout the year to let residents know that we are thinking of them and are here to support them. We’ve had many residents express how grateful they were to receive a card and thank us for brightening their days. There's something heartwarming about receiving a card in the mail and knowing that someone is out there, thinking of you, says Cathy. Join Cathy and take a moment to connect with Canadians living with MS in long-term care by leaving a comment below. Your holiday messages and best wishes will help brighten spirits this holiday season. We will pass on your messages to long-term care staff to share with their residents affected by MS.

When you gather world-leading MS scientists, clinicians, and healthcare professionals to talk about exciting MS research, you get the 8th ACTRIMS-ECTRIMS conference. Researchers and clinicians worldwide gathered virtually on September 11-13 to participate in the 8th joint ACTRIMS/ECTRIMS meeting (also known as MSVirtual2020). The virtually-delivered conference included key presentations and lectures about MS causes and risk factors, clinical management of MS, progressive MS, and other late-breaking MS research. To learn about the latest updates on MS research, check out our blog post here: bit.ly/33fOR69

Do you live in Ontario and provide unpaid care or support for someone living at home? A researcher from the University of Toronto is seeking participants to complete an anonymous survey about care expenses and the impacts of COVID-19 on financial well-being. Policymakers may use findings from this study to improve the financial well-being of Ontario's rapidly growing community of unpaid caregivers.... Participate before Dec 31, here: bit.ly/37J6Djb. And for more surveys from our Research Portal, click here: bit.ly/3oAYEeU.

Cook up a storm in your own kitchen with Toronto's renowned chef, Rob Gentile. For the first time ever, @rob_gentile is partnering with the MS Society to bring you a sizzling "Chef at Home" experience, teaching you how to cook like a seasoned professional. After training for years in Canada's prominent kitchens, Rob Gentile has marked his rank as one of Canada's most iconic chefs. You may have seen him on the Food Network, Top Chef Canada, and Wall of Chefs, and now, you can ...experience him in action LIVE! On Saturday, October 3, at 6 pm ET, join Chef Rob for a 30-minute cooking demo. He will be teaching the art of Italian risotto technique with his start-to-finish risotto alla zucca e aceto balsamico. Afterwards, ask Rob your burning questions during an exclusive Q&A session. Pull out your spices from the back of your cupboard and help the estimated 77,000 Canadians living with multiple sclerosis during #savourfestival. Tickets are selling out fast, so register to secure your spot today: bit.ly/33dqLZO

"My mom was diagnosed with MS while I was still in high school. I watched helplessly as the disease took away her mobility and her livelihood as a cook. But despite how much it took away, it never took her sense of humour or love for food. We are honored to be able to celebrate her and her passion for good food and good company by participating in the MS Society’s #SavourFestival. Since my mom’s passing, we've continued to raise funds and awareness as we fight for a cure for ...all of our friends in the MS community. We will be donating $1 from every piece of specialty cheesecake sold, and $1 from every #4 Chinese Combo sold my mom’s favourite." - Vanessa, Owner of Louie's Cosy Corner, St. Peters, Nova Scotia This October, 30+ restaurants are coming together to put Canada's culinary scene on full display through this exciting new initiative that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. From October 2-4, get ready to indulge in your local restaurants' most delectable dishes. By trying a new cuisine from a business in your community, a portion of all sales or proceeds from a select menu item will be donated to support the tens of thousands of Canadians living with MS. Learn more about #savourfestival: https://bit.ly/2GhMKpr

This is the first time that I’ve seen my mom walk since January. She lives with MS and is about to turn 88 years old. As we continue to navigate through restrictions in long-term care facilities, I am exceptionally grateful that my sister was able to visit my mom and happened to be there with her physical therapist. This is proof of my mom’s sheer determination and her eternally positive attitude. - Joan Kelley Walker, mother lives with MS The holidays may look different th...is year, especially for people living in long-term care homes. As restrictions across the country are reinforced, for many, this holiday season means no visitors, special group activities, or family meals. Take a moment to connect with Canadians living with MS in long-term care to help them feel a little less lonely during this time of year. Send your holiday messages and best wishes by commenting below. We will pass on your messages to long-term care staff to share with their residents affected by MS.

"I find people have a preconceived notion that if you can work full-time, you surely can't be that bad. Because multiple sclerosis can be episodic and invisible, people sometimes don't understand. They don't know that I'm mustering everything I have to keep going. They've never felt the dead-to-the-bone fatigue that makes even thinking challenging," says Gwen. Diagnosed with MS in 2008, at the age of 32 , Gwen works full-time as a Geoscience Information Officer with the New ...Brunswick Department of Natural Resources and Energy Development. She works full-time while caring for a spouse with Parkinson’s disease and three children. The reality of her disease means that if she experiences a serious relapse, she may need time off under the EI sickness benefit to recover. If the EI sickness benefit was longer than 15 weeks, it would enable me to take that time off without worrying about the financial ramifications. I am the main breadwinner in my family, I have to work or have an alternative. I tend to use a lot of sick time as I am frequently ill. It’s time for our federal government to #TakeActionForMS by extending the EI sickness benefit period from 15 to at least 26 weeks. Read more of Gwen’s story on our blog here: https://bit.ly/36ISpiW. Want to #TakeActionForMS? Join the campaign here: https://bit.ly/3ohmU5A.

Foodies, get out your pans and aprons! It's time to learn how to cook a delicious meal that is sure to impress your dinner guests - all while supporting Canadians living with MS. Renowned chef, TV personality, and cookbook author Chef Vikram Vij is stepping into his home kitchen to bring you an exclusive "Chef at Home" experience. Formerly known for his role as a Dragon on Dragon's Den, Vikram is one of Canada's most celebrated and adored chefs and has even cooked for the Roy...als. Vikram, along with his business partner Meeru, are founders and owners of the popular Vij's destination restaurant in Vancouver, BC. On October 2, at 6 pm ET / 3 pm PT, he invites you to cook his family's famous chicken curry with him for #savourfestival and tune into an exclusive Q&A session. The funds raised will support life-changing MS research, programs and services, and advocacy work to improve the quality of life for people affected by MS. Tickets are selling out fast, so register today to learn from the culinary star: https://bit.ly/33U3Rpu

Being newly diagnosed with MS can be an overwhelming and confusing time. Starting October 3, the MS Society is hosting a three-part webinar series on various topics for people who are beginning their MS journey. You will learn from health professionals in the field of MS care as well as people living well with MS. You will also have the opportunity to ask questions that you may have about your recent diagnosis. Our first session called New MS: What I Would Want to Know will... take place on Saturday, October 3 from 1 pm -2:30 pm ET with Dr. Robert Carruthers, an MS neurologist. This session will help participants navigate the medical landscape of early MS and introduce what to expect in the first few years of diagnosis. Registration is free for all attendees. Register today: https://bit.ly/3i1QwQW

A report released today by the Conference Board of Canada, Accessing Disease-Modifying Therapies for Multiple Sclerosis: A Pan-Canadian Analysis, finds that many Canadians living with MS can’t get sufficient, equitable or affordable access to disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). MS is a unique disease, no two individuals share the same disease course, trajectory, or symptom profile. As every individuals’ experience of MS is distinct, so too is their response to available DM...Ts, said Dr. Julie Petrin, diagnosed with MS in 2006. For optimal care outcomes, personalized treatment, with access to the full span of Health Canada approved DMTs, is crucial. MS researchers have made incredible progress in the past two decades, leading to a number of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) being available for Canadians living with MS. Access to these Health Canada-approved treatments is key to maintaining positive health outcomes for people with MS. However, depending on your location, insurance coverage, and choice of treatment, the ability to access these life-changing treatments is inconsistent in Canada. Learn more about the regulatory, administrative, and financial barriers Canadians living with MS face to access DMTs here: https://bit.ly/3mG7qHR. #TakeActionForMS

The doors to your local wellness classes may be closed, but NeuroSask is open to provide virtual connection for the community! Launched in April 2020, 'NeuroSask: Active and Connected' was originally created as a 10-week virtual program tailored to people with neurological conditions as a way to provide information, physiotherapy-guided physical activity, and social-connection during the early phases of the pandemic. Due to popular demand, a version of the original 'active a...nd connected' program will continue to run twice a week until the end of December! The program includes a 30-minute movement class led by a physiotherapist every Tuesday and Thursday, and occasionally is followed by a 30 minute 'connect' activity. The program runs at 2pm CST. NeuroSask is a Saskatchewan-based initiative, but is open to anyone across the country who has access to internet and a device such as a tablet, smartphone, or computer. Once you’ve registered, you are welcome to join whenever you can. For more information and to register, visit: https://bit.ly/3iBEleQ.

I was diagnosed with MS at 23 years old, and as the disease progressed, I became unable to work. Thirteen years later, I focus on living my life while respecting my boundaries. I know not to load too many demands on my body. By doing this, I can be more present in my day-to-day life. I spend my energy on my husband, my kids, and the things that bring me joy. I might not have a fancy career anymore, but my life is full, and I am happy. Today, I spend my time volunteering for ...the 1:1 Peer Support program, a program that pairs me up with someone else living with the disease to offer support. As a person living with MS, you have so much to offer those who are navigating these waters for the first time, and volunteering allows me to do just that. It’s so fulfilling to help someone through something that you’ve experienced before. I enjoy talking to other people about their experiences with MS, and I want those diagnosed now to be aware that there is so much progress being made in MS research and hope for the future. I've had struggles. I've had triumphs. MS is part of me, and it has shaped me. It has prevented me from doing some things, but it has brought so much good into my life too. There will be hard days, but you can always find joy even in the darkest places. Learn to listen to your body. When it needs a break, allow yourself time to rest. Eat healthy and prioritize exercise. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Above all, be kind to yourself. - Melissa, 1:1 Peer Support volunteer Are you at a place in your MS journey where you can provide support to other people affected by the disease? Sometimes the best person to talk to is someone who has been there. The MS Society’s 1:1 Peer Support program is searching for volunteers to help guide others living with and affected by MS. The program matches a peer someone affected by MS, with a volunteer someone who can provide a non-judgmental, understanding, and empathetic listening ear. If you are interested in volunteering, contact [email protected] or 1-800-268-7582 x3149.

Make a difference today on #GivingTuesday! This year, your gift can go 3x as far to help Canadians affected by MS. Thanks to a generous anonymous donor, every dollar donated to our Giving Tuesday Match Challenge (up to $50,000) will go 3x as far to help provide support services for the MS community and advance critical MS research. We remain committed to providing help and hope to Canadians living with MS and every day, we continue to invest in promising research initiative...s aimed at discovering a cure for this debilitating disease. You can help us get not one, but three steps closer. Will you help the tens of thousands of Canadians facing the uncertainty of MS with a gift that can make 3x the impact? Donate now: https://bit.ly/39sE7ol.

It’s the foodie event of the fall that you won’t want to miss. Savour: A Culinary Festival combines cuisine and cause in the ultimate pairing: the food we love and supporting Canadians affected by MS. This October, 25+ restaurants are coming together to put Canada's culinary scene on full display through this exciting new initiative that is sure to satisfy your taste buds . From October 2-4, get ready to indulge in your local restaurants' most delectable dishes. By trying ...a new cuisine from a business in your community, a portion of all sales or proceeds from a select menu item will be donated to support the tens of thousands of Canadians living with multiple sclerosis. But that's not all - the MS Society is partnering with Canada's most renowned chefs, including Rob Gentile and Vikram Vij, to bring you an exclusive "Chef at Home" experience from the comfort of your own home. Kick your cooking skills up a notch by learning how to master signature dishes from Canada's hottest chefs. See which restaurants and chefs are taking part in #savourfestival by visiting: https://bit.ly/32WQ16w.

Long before the pandemic, social isolation was an issue close to many hearts in long-term care. The MS Society’s Friendly Visiting program was designed to help with just that by assigning frequent volunteer visits to reduce isolation for people with MS in these residences. Sara, a Friendly Visiting volunteer, frequently visits Judy*, who lives in long-term care in Calgary.... I can’t imagine how hard things are for people, especially someone as outgoing as Judy. She was only allowed to see two people a week and had no outdoor activity. Now, her facility is on lockdown and she can’t see anyone, Sara says. During my last visit, I was eight months pregnant and had planned to stop volunteering for a while. I promised to send Judy photos of my baby. But when the lockdown started, I decided to continue our visits remotely. I didn’t want her to feel alone during all of this. Logistically, connecting with people in long-term care during COVID-19 isn’t easy. If residents don’t have access to an iPad or laptop, coordinating with facility staff to access these devices can be difficult to arrange. Staff also need to assist residents with mobility or dexterity issues to make calls. Despite these barriers, Sara arranged monthly calls with Judy through facility staff and continued her ‘visits’. In May, Sara gave birth to a baby girl, and as promised, emailed pictures of her newborn. At the next FaceTime call, Sara brought baby Hannah to the ‘visit’ - Judy was overjoyed! In a bleak time for many in long-term care, Sara’s commitment to support a member of the MS community has created so much joy and a much-needed distraction. Sara gives back to her community by helping people living in long-term care feel less institutionalized, less isolated, and more supported. On #GivingTuesday, we’re asking our MS community to support services, like Friendly Visiting, by joining our Giving Tuesday Match Challenge, where your gift (up to $50,000) will go 3x as far to help Canadians living with MS. Donate now and make 3x the difference: https://bit.ly/363pcPf. And learn more about Sara and Judy's story on our blog: https://bit.ly/37iETl6. *Names have been changed to protect the privacy of the residents.

With several different treatments for managing MS, do you feel overwhelmed when deciding the right options for you? Assessing all the information can be difficult, but it is vital to helping you take charge of your MS. On September 23 at 7 pm ET/4 pm PT, join pharmacist Catherine Savard for an informative webinar that can positively impact your symptom management. Catherine will distinguish between available treatments, assess the importance and identifying the right time for... vaccination, options for natural products and their limitations, and more. Register today and join us to Hear from the Experts: bit.ly/3i86qK8. Press get reminder to be notified when we go live.

Recent research shows that methionine, found in meat, fish and dairy products, may provide a link to inflammatory response in MS. A collaborative study by Drs. Russell Jones and Catherine Larochelle examined the impact of dietary methionine on MS onset and progression. They found that methionine fuels the immune system by promoting T cell activity and inflammatory response. Thus, restricting methionine intake in a mouse model of MS reduced neuroinflammation and delayed dise...ase onset and progression. These results suggest that targeting methionine intake to manipulate T cell activity and reduce inflammation may represent a novel therapeutic approach. This type of dietary intervention could represent a cost-effective and low-risk measure to potentially prevent and control MS. Further studies in a clinical setting are necessary to develop nutritional guidelines. For more information, read the latest MS Update: https://bit.ly/2FX3dz3

The MS Society’s Young Adult Committee, a voice for young people affected by MS to help enact change, asks you to be a part of the movement: #TakeActionForMS! As a result of COVID-19, health charities have been hit hard financially. We must inform our elected officials about how #HealthCharitiesHelp Canadians - the importance of the services offered by these organizations and the importance of research funding! Send an email to your Member of Parliament and ask them to su...pport Canada's health charities. We need health charities now more than ever. Ask your MP to help support health charities by providing direct funding to enable them to maintain the vital services they provide and to continue to support fundamental health research. Send your email now https://bit.ly/2JbYgEa Let's act together! Let's be the movement! Let's #TakeActionForMS!

Through a partnership with Toronto Rehab’s Together in Movement and Exercise (TIME), the MS Society of Canada is launching a free online, weekly exercise program beginning September 23 and running for eight weeks. With many recreation programs and fitness centers closed due to COVID-19, people with movement challenges are facing greater risk of becoming less active. The TIME team at the University Health Network have developed an online version of their exercise program, de...signed to encourage people with movement issues to keep fit and stay active while remaining at home. This online program is curated for people with mobility challenges who want to: - Be more confident in their balance - Feel stronger and more active - Move with more ease in their home and community - Enjoy the many benefits of regular exercise The program will take place via the online platform, Zoom. Sessions include various fitness and wellness exercises curated to strengthen muscles in the legs and core, and improve coordination, agility, and overall fitness. For more information and to register, visit www.mssociety.ca/virtualtime.

What I miss most are the simple things. I miss the walks we would take hand in hand, leaning on his shoulder. I miss the slow dancing with my head buried in his chest. I miss getting lost in his embrace. Until you can't do these things anymore, you have no idea how beautiful something so simple is. When Leilanie Marianetti got engaged to Michael 22 years ago, she never imagined that the love of her life would be diagnosed with an incurable disease. Today, she turns to faith... in MS research that one day, life may look different for her and her family. Finding a cure would be life-changing for millions of families affected by MS. We need to support the MS Society so we can get closer to a cure, says Leilanie. Your time, your donation, it matters it’s what will ultimately impact tens of thousands of Canadians affected by MS. The September 17 edition of Maclean's (supplement by Mediaplanet Canada) features the Marianetti family’s resilient journey with MS. While there's been incredible progress in MS research in the past two decades, there's still much to be done in getting closer to a cure. Learn more about how you can help Canadians affected by MS, like the Marianetti family: https://bit.ly/32KdmIt. Don’t forget to pick up your copy this weekend!

How does it feel to be diagnosed with MS as a young woman during the prime of her life? How will this change how she plans for her future, manages a pregnancy, or tells her children? The reality is women are 3x more likely to be diagnosed with MS than men. For Alberta residents, Melissa Hayes, Susan Hartung, and Robin Falkins, being a woman has profoundly impacted how they manage their MS every day, from how they've experienced their pregnancies to how they've adapted to moth...erhood. We sat down with Melissa, Susan, and Robin to discuss their personal experiences of managing their MS through pregnancy, motherhood, and more. "We miscarried our first child. After the devastation, the experience turned into a valuable lesson. When I got pregnant again, I wanted to help address the gaps between patients and the research community to bring more treatment and symptom management solutions for women wishing to be pregnant. By contributing to research, I hope to help make MS less difficult for current and future mothers. I'm very excited to share that I gave birth to a beautiful baby boy in May." Susan Hartung, diagnosed in 2011. CANPREG-MS is a Canada-wide study on women with MS who are either pregnant or planning their pregnancy. Researchers leading the study aim to gather evidence-based, up-to-date, and personalized information surrounding reproductive issues and childbearing. This study continues during COVID-19 as it does not include any in-person visits. As participants of the CANPREG-MS, Melissa, Susan, and Robin hope to share their knowledge to benefit future generations of women. For more information, visit our CANPREG-MS study page: bit.ly/3aSww0X. And learn more about Melissa, Susan and Robin's experiences in our latest blog post: bit.ly/33DznYv Photo Credit: Amanda Marie Photography

CIHR and health partners invest more than $21 million in cannabis research. The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and six health partners invest more than $21 million to fund cannabis research to advance our understanding of the potential benefits and harms of cannabis use. CIHR, in partnership with the MS Society of Canada, is providing $1.5 million in funding for a clinical trial which aims to determine the clinical effects of cannabis derivatives, THC and CBD, ...in treating spasticity and other symptoms of MS. Through this trial, Dr. Pierre Duquette, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), and his team of researchers will help establish evidence-based guidelines about the proper use of cannabis in treating symptoms of MS for patient and medical communities. The MS Society has always emphasized the need for continued investment in research to study the effects of cannabis. The trial that was selected as part of this partnership provides an opportunity to ensure there are effective evidence-informed treatment options to support symptom management, says Dr. Pamela Valentine, President and CEO, MS Society of Canada. Read more here: bit.ly/2Jheaxe

How are you affected by the COVID-19 pandemic? A multinational study from Dr. Anthony Feinstein and colleagues showed that enforced social restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic had little impact on the emotional well-being and quality of life of people living with progressive MS. Participating in healthy lifestyle activities, such as physical and cognitive exercises, may have helped people with progressive MS adapt more effectively to the situation.... To read more about the study's findings, read the MS Update here: bit.ly/2ZHN47w

We know our world looks different right now and things continue to change every day, but one thing that remains the same is our commitment to the MS community and to a world free of MS. Ensuring the health and safety of our entire community people affected by MS, volunteers, fundraisers, donors, staff remains our top priority. We have been monitoring restart plans in our communities across the country and have been working on our own plans. Given the nature and the risk o...f COVID-19 in relation to our MS community, we have made the decision to continue delivering on our mission within a remote working environment. We feel this decision will support our efforts to put the health and well-being of those we serve at the forefront of our work. This also means we will continue to deliver programs and events virtually until at least the end of this year. During this time, our work to support Canadians affected by MS will not stop. We are encouraging virtual ways to connect members of the MS community especially through this time period. While we cannot gather in person, we encourage you to take advantage of our digital platforms to continue to connect with each other. You can also visit mssociety.ca to learn more about our upcoming nationwide webinars, NeuroSask a virtual program that offers both physiotherapy-guided movement and an opportunity for social connection, as well as other wellness resources that may be beneficial during COVID-19. We are committed to updating you on any changes to in-person activities as they arise. We're also only a phone call away. Our MS Society staff from across Canada are working remotely to deliver on the promise of our mission. For general office questions or local fundraising or programs and services inquiries, please contact 1-800-268-7582. Additionally, our MS Navigators will continue to provide support to people affected by MS. For information and supports on navigating your MS journey, please contact an MS Navigator by calling 1-844-859-6789, emailing [email protected] or by live chat on mssociety.ca. Thank you for your continued support!

"Confession time: I'm pregnant with my second daughter and I have MS. What does this mean? I get weird questions like: Have you spoken to your doctor? Are you allowed to get pregnant with your condition? Aren't you worried about your children? The irony is that I've even received these questions from my own mother. Receiving an MS diagnosis can be really scary, especially before you do any research. Just after having my first daughter, my neurologist diagnosed me with the dis...ease. It was terrifying because I knew my world was going to change and I thought it would be for the worse. However, what I learned is that I was embraced by a community that was supportive of my new journey and understood that I still wanted to work, travel, and have a family. Through this new step in my journey, I understood that I had triggers and that stress management became essential to my overall health and well-being. I surrounded myself with co-workers who became my extended family and helped me if I needed a moment to myself. Most importantly, I began seeing a neurologist that understood that I may want the option to expand my family one day. Here I am - pregnant with my second daughter - vulnerable by sharing my journey, but stronger because of it. I hope to raise my daughters to accept people's differences and learn from them." - Janelle, diagnosed with MS in 2016.

If you could describe MS fatigue in one sentence, how would you explain it? Approximately 90% of people living with MS experience fatigue. MS fatigue can have a negative impact on work, family life, mental and physical health and social and recreational activities. On Friday, November 27th from 11 AM 12 PM ET, join Dr. Marcia Finlayson for an informative panel discussion on fatigue management as a part of our virtual MS Connect conference. ... Fatigue management is gaining more attention in the MS research community and a wider variety of approaches are being evaluated and tested for effectiveness. My panel discussion will address what we know about MS fatigue and the new directions being explored to help fatigue management. Sleep has a lot to do with fatigue, but we don’t study sleep much in this disease. I’ll be discussing how the interest in sleep is beginning to grow. - Dr. Marcia Finlayson, Queen’s University Register for Fatigue: Research Session and Q&A and the rest of our MS Connect sessions here: https://bit.ly/32frvwr.

Every five minutes, someone, somewhere in the world is diagnosed with MS. In Canada, an estimated 11 people are diagnosed with the disease each day. Now more than ever, Canadians need the support and connection to health charities like the MS Society in this uncertain world. Immediate action must be taken to support the tens of thousands of Canadians affected by MS. Health charities are reporting a devastating reduction in revenue, which threatens their ability to support th...ose most vulnerable during the pandemic while continuing to sustain the critical research they fund. In addition to supporting health charities, we’re advocating for critical changes to the Employment Insurance sickness benefits program to ensure those who live with MS and want to continue working are able to. It takes less than 5 minutes to contact your Member of Parliament and ask them to #TakeActionForMS today: https://bit.ly/3mQY9wi.

Did you know that women are 3x more likely to be diagnosed with MS than men? It’s time for a change. By attending #WAMS on November 20, you can help build awareness and raise much needed funds to support people affected by MS. As an added feature this year, all ticket purchasers will also be given access to the WAMS Speaker Series. The next session will take place today at 7 PM PT, featuring a look inside the University of British Columbia’s MS research labs with Associate Di...rector, Dr. Jacqueline Quandt. Following the tour, we'll sit down with Dr. Quandt and other special guests to learn about the unique challenges the pandemic has had on her research and on people living with MS. Missed a webcast? No problem! Purchase your ticket now and receive access to all five speaker webcasts. For more information and to learn more about #WAMS, visit https://bit.ly/3kW3AJE today!

Want to learn about cutting-edge breakthroughs in MS research? Registration is officially open for our first-ever national MS Connect Conference, taking place online from November 23-28 for free! Hear from keynote speaker Dr. Jack Antel, who will be diving into how building progress in MS research is a multi-discipline effort to kick off the conference. Topics will also include: neurorehabilitation and MS, cognition, nutrition, fatigue, and more. Connect, discuss, and learn... about current MS research with the MS community people living with and affected by MS, health professionals, and researchers. Register today to learn about a disease that affects more than 77,000 Canadians: https://bit.ly/383yBIf. See more

Over the last decade, my MS symptoms have progressed. I’m often fatigued and experience mood swings. I still experience numbness and tingling in my limbs, but now this happens in different parts of my body. Sometimes, my legs will go completely numb and heavy; other days, they feel as though they are on fire. There are occasions where my legs hurt so much that I can't walk, or I have to stand up because I can't sit. My body can suddenly decide to work against me, no matter w...hat I’m in the middle of. Some symptoms, like depression, affect my mental state. It takes a lot for me to mentally and willfully decide to fight every day. To this day, my MS makes me feel afraid, especially now that I have a child. I’m always terrified that one day, I won't be able to walk, carry my son, or run with him at the park. In an uncertain world, it's important to make the decision to fight each day because we don’t know what tomorrow will bring. One day, it’s a virus. Another day, it’s a riot, a shutdown, or a supply shortage. Whatever your battle, fight with all you have because if tomorrow throws some new curve ball, you’ll be ready." - Danielle, diagnosed in 2008. Learn more about Danielle’s MS journey in our latest blog post Uncertainty in an uncertain world: https://bit.ly/37Uuy0W.

How has MS affected your ability to work? Has the disease changed your career trajectory or influenced how you function in the workplace day-to-day? With more than 60% of people who live with MS eventually reaching unemployment, it's clear that the EI sickness benefit program is failing too many Canadians who live with an episodic disability. The #TakeActionForMS campaign is calling on Members of Parliament to implement changes that will better support those impacted by MS and allow them to remain in the workforce as long as possible. We want to hear how your MS has impacted your career. Comment below and share (the big and small ways) that MS impacts your work life and join our campaign to #TakeActionForMS. Or reach out by emailing us at [email protected].

Tomorrow, your vote for Battle of the Blades can help change lives for Canadians living with MS. It's showtime as two-time Stanley Cup champion Bryan Bickell and Canadian Olympic figure skater Kaitlyn Weaver lace up their skates for Battle of the Blades Season Six. The dynamic skating duo will compete to win the $100,000 prize for the Bickell Foundation, in support of the MS Society of Canada. Bryan is no stranger to MS. He was diagnosed in 2016 and has since been involved wi...th the MS Society of Canada, helping raise much-needed funds for MS research and programs and services. Now, Bryan and Kaitlyn need your support. Tune into #BOTB on Thursday, October 29 at 8 PM ET and vote after the final performance. Voting will only be open for a short window of time (until 3 AM ET) after the first three episodes in order to keep Bryan and Kaitlyn safe from elimination. Cast your vote today: https://www.cbc.ca/battlevote/ (Photo credit: Courtesy of CBC / Battle Of The Blades)

Important announcement! "The deadline to apply for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC), and determine eligibility for the one-time payment to persons with disabilities, has been extended to December 31, 2020."

Do you want to hear from extraordinary speakers while funding ground-breaking MS research to support Canadians living with MS? On Friday, November 20, five events will become one for the Women Against Multiple Sclerosis (WAMS) Gala presented by LOVE YOU by Shoppers Drug Mart. Join a powerful collective of more than 500 professionals nationwide and support leading-edge MS research by fundraising and honouring women who are making a difference in Canada’s business and MS comm...unities. As an added feature this year, all ticket purchasers will also be given access to the WAMS Speaker Series. The weekly, online webcast focuses on professional development featuring inspiring stories from women leaders. The next speaker series will be on Friday, October 30, featuring a speaker panel with Dr. Charity Evans, Dr. Sarah Donkers, Dr. Katherine Knox and Dr. Valerie Verge. Missed a webcast? No problem! Purchase your ticket now and receive access to all five speaker webcasts. For more information and to learn more about #WAMS visit https://bit.ly/3jzqQfg today! Read more in our press release: https://bit.ly/3mpObBR

"Participating in the NeuroSask program gave me something to look forward to twice a week when every other social gathering was wiped off my calendar. When you live with a chronic disease like MS, it’s important to connect with others who are going through similar challenges. That’s what NeuroSask did for me it gave me a place to connect with others, practice physical activity in a way that’s right for my level of mobility, and listen to interesting discussions on a variety... of topics. Gerrie was diagnosed with relapsing-remitting MS at the age of 57, following a stressful divorce. After trading farm life for the city of Brandon, she became an active member of the Manitoba MS community. When I was first diagnosed, I wanted to find out everything I could about the disease. The MS Society staff were so helpful and supportive and introduced me to the programming available in my area. I have participated in the exercise and social programs ever since. Now in her 60s, Gerrie’s disease has advanced to secondary progressive MS. She has turned to the MS Society’s virtual programming to keep moving and stay connected to the MS community, from the safety and convenience of her home. I figured out how to use Zoom, which wasn’t that difficult. Now, I receive the weekly emails, click on the link and I’m in! My biggest takeaway from this program is that I am not alone. There are others out there with similar challenges and professionals that are willing to help. Due to popular demand, Neurosask will continue to run 2x a week until the end of December. NeuroSask is a Saskatchewan-based initiative that is open to anyone across the country who has access to internet and a device such as a tablet, smartphone, or computer. The program runs as a drop-in online program and includes a 30-minute movement class, led by a physiotherapist every Tuesday and Thursday. Once you've registered, you are welcome to join whenever you can! For more information and to register, visit: https://bit.ly/3iBEleQ.

Updated global COVID-19 advice for people living with MS. Today, the MS International Federation (MSIF) released an updated version of the Global COVID-19 advice for people living with MS. This update provides current evidence regarding susceptibility to having a severe case of COVID-19, recommended measures for reducing the risk of infection, and advice regarding disease-modifying therapies and vaccinations.... Learn more from our website: bit.ly/3kpEKld

The Battle of the Blades is back, and we're thrilled to announce that former Chicago Blackhawks and Carolina Hurricanes left winger Bryan Bickell and his skating partner Kaitlyn Weaver will be competing this year. Bryan, who was diagnosed with MS in 2016, has chosen the Bickell Foundation as his charity of choice in support of the MS Society of Canada. This means that if Bryan and Kaitlyn take home the top prize of $100,000, 10% will be donated to the MS Society of Canada in support of our enhance well-being initiatives. Stay tuned on our social channels for more information on how to vote and support them this season, starting on October 22!

Most teachers remember their first year in the classroom. Spencer Davis, a first-year teacher who was diagnosed with MS last year, is starting his career teaching in the cyber school program as a result of the pandemic. On his first day of school, he wasn’t in front of his computer in his make-shift home classroom. Instead, he was in a hospital chair at the MS Clinic in Saskatoon, receiving another round of his infusion treatment for his MS. He was back to welcome his student...s to their new virtual classroom the very next day. There’s kind of a buzz around the students that you don’t usually see because they went so long without school. Now they’re back and they’re excited! I think there’s that deeper appreciation now for education. But I would also say just in general that there’s a deep appreciation for a lot of things that we took for granted before COVID-19 hit. Spencer is navigating a new world not only as a newly diagnosed person living with MS, but as a brand new teacher. Read more about his MS journey in our latest blog post Lessons From Cyber School: A First-Year Teacher during COVID-19: https://bit.ly/35fzKJK.

Immigrants to Canada appear to have a lower risk of MS compared to long-term residents. Recent studies conducted by Dr. Dalia Rotstein and colleagues examined risk factors for MS in immigrant populations in Ontario by investigating incidence, mortality rates, and access to health services to understand differences compared to long-term residents. Results showed that immigrants had a lower risk of MS and lower rates of mortality than long-term residents, which may be from a... 'healthy immigrant' effect, where recent immigrants are in better health than longer-term residents. Also, before, during and after an MS diagnosis, immigrants had favourable access to health services. There are several risk factors for MS, including genetics, sunlight exposure, vitamin D deficiency, obesity and diet. A better understanding of risk factors for different populations can improve health outcomes for people living with MS and help mitigate disparities in at-risk populations. For more information, read the latest MS Update: bit.ly/356eRRa

You are your best advocate. If you’ve had trouble feeling heard as someone living with MS when speaking to medical professionals, the government, or community members, this webinar is for you. Your voice matters, and we're here to help. On Wednesday, October 21, at 10:30 AM PT/ 1:30 PM ET, hear from experienced MS ambassadors and experts in occupational therapy and social work during our newest webinar, "Self Advocacy: Your Voice Matters". Self-advocacy is important to educat...e others about what you need and to empower yourself to achieve your goals, whether to get information, change legislation and policy, or obtain a service. This webinar will provide information and guidance on being an effective self-advocate, including advocating for yourself through government programs like the medical and social systems. Register for free today: bit.ly/3jZ6g94

Are you having trouble making sense of a new diagnosis? Do you wonder what the future might hold? This month, we’re hosting a three-part webinar series for people who are just beginning their MS journey or close loved ones who want to learn more. We understand that being diagnosed with MS can be an overwhelming and confusing time, and we want to support anyone newly diagnosed in managing the emotional, physical, and psychological impact of their diagnosis.... Our next two sessions will take place on October 17 and October 24 at 12:30 PM ET / 9:30 AM PT on a variety of topics. Registration is free for all attendees. Register today: bit.ly/2T7ywe1

Let’s talk about mental health. I’ve always had struggles with anxiety and depression, but it was really impacted when I was diagnosed with MS two years ago. I went to sleep one night and woke up numb on both sides from my chest down. Within four days, I was admitted to the hospital and needed a walker and a wheelchair. I had an MRI right away and was diagnosed within a week of those first symptoms. Being told you have a progressive chronic disease with no cure hurts. It scr...ews with your head and your heart. Feeling like you’re a burden to your family, even when they lovingly assure you through their actions that you aren’t, messes with your mental health in indescribable ways. This #WorldMentalHealthDay arrives at a time when our entire lives have changed in ways that none of us could have anticipated. There are new challenges we’re still trying to balance: our work lives, home lives, school, kids, aging parents, and of course, our health and safety amidst the pandemic. These issues have brought a plethora of emotions that are running high with many, and for people with mental health conditions, the depth of those emotions has increased substantially. My advice? Talk about it, cry about it, scream about it. And when you get it all out, look for positive ways to manage it. For me, pet therapy has been key. My spouse adopted a dog for us shortly after my diagnosis and my fur baby has helped make every difficult moment so much better. For anyone living with MS, know that it’s okay to not always feel okay. Living with MS and dealing with mental health challenges doesn’t need to be a barrier to living a full life. It just means we need to adjust our path. Amelia, diagnosed in 2018. In our newest blog, Amelia talks about her experiences with depression and anxiety, and shares her insight as to how she personally copes with these challenges: https://bit.ly/2GTlg9D

Ever wonder what life is like for people living with multiple sclerosis? Season 2 of CBC Docs YOU CAN’T ASK THAT features an episode of eight Canadians living with MS, sharing their personal experiences of an unpredictable disease. Stream the series that challenges people’s assumptions about life with a chronic disease like MS, and celebrates the differences on cbc gem: bit.ly/3iLPtoI

Health Canada approves Zeposia (ozanimod) for relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) based on two phase 3 trials, RADIANCE and SUNBEAM. Zeposia is a sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulator taken orally once daily. The MS Society will provide updates related to reimbursement as they become available. Individuals interested in treatment with Zeposia are encouraged to speak with their MS healthcare team. For more information, read the MS Update: bit.ly/36H001K

Financial insecurity, job losses, timely access to medical care, navigating complicated government regulations and programs today's trying times have echoed many of the frustrations around what it's like to live with multiple sclerosis (MS). Every day, MS creates serious physical, mental, emotional and financial challenges for tens of thousands of Canadians and their families. COVID-19 has made many of these problems worse. It’s time to #TakeActionForMS. #TakeActionForMS is... the MS Society’s easy to use online campaign to reach out to Members of Parliament (MPs) across Canada to let them know that the time has come for change. People with MS want to work, but with 60 per cent of people living with MS eventually reaching unemployment it’s clear that more flexibility is needed. For far too many Canadians with MS, the employment insurance (EI) sickness benefit framework simply doesn’t work. That’s why we’re asking you to join us today in advocating for changes to Canada’s EI sickness benefits. As a result of COVID-19, Canadian health charities are reporting a devastating loss of donations and funding paired with a need for critical support and investments in sustaining research. We need you to voice your support for health charities, like the MS Society of Canada, to our federal government. Join our campaign and tell your MP that it’s time to #TakeActionForMS. Email your MP now: https://bit.ly/3nng3I5.

Understanding COVID-19 in people with MS. In response to the new coronavirus, a global data sharing initiative was established to understand the risks for people living with MS and to help inform clinical guidelines. Research has shown that older age, progressive MS, higher disability, chronic renal disease, cardiovascular disease were risk factors for poor health outcomes. Researchers examined data from the North American registry called COViMS to understand COVID-19 and MS ...in racialized groups and compared outcomes of non-Hispanic white and black/African Americans. They found that Black/African Americans with MS had an increased risk of poorer outcomes from COVID-19, including increased mortality, ICU admission, and hospitalization, compared to non-Hispanic whites with MS. Data collection efforts from the global data sharing initiative is ongoing. Results from these initiatives will enable us to understand how COVID-19 impacts people with MS and will help inform clinical guidelines. To read more about the study's findings, read the MS Update: bit.ly/3lk9hRN