Part of our mission is to improve the quality of life for everyone who is affected by MS. We recognize that MS affects the person who has been diagnosed with the disease, and that it also affects people who are close to and care about that person.
If you are a family member or close friend of someone with MS, you more than likely you may find yourself in a caregiver role. Although this role is stems from love and concern, it can also be physically and emotionally draining at times. Taking the time to pay attention to your own needs as well as the person you’re caring for is critical for everyone involved.
The chapter has resources available to help to help when you are feeling overwhelmed, or at a loss about where to get help for yourself or your loved one. Our caregiver retreats, seminars, therapy and more provide education and support:
- An Annual Caregiver Retreat offers caregivers respite in a relaxing destination where they will learn and meet other caregivers.
- Caregiver Education Day addresses the special needs of the spouse, partner or family, providing resources and tools to encourage effective coping.
- Ongoing Caregiver Support Groups are led by professional therapists.
- Reference materials
- Counseling services
- Possible respite options for you and your loved one
- Equipment or home modification resources
For more information, call the Information Resource Center at 1-800-344-4867 or the chapter at 760-448-8400.
- Keep S'myelin: A colorful newsletter filled with stories, interviews, games, and activities that highlight a variety of topics about MS. The chapter will automatically send you a free quarterly copy if you are a registered client. Download the brochure, or of you would like to receive this newsletter at home please email Janell.Marshall@mspacific.org.
- All-American Day at the Bay: Held in May of each year at Santa Clara Point on Mission Bay San Diego. The chapter collaborated with the Mission Bay Aquatic Center to host this event. All in attendance are treated to a BBQ lunch, adaptive sailing, lawn games, face painting and an inspirational speech by a person with MS who is living well with their diagnosis. Kids also enjoy bouncing in the jump house and playing in the sand. The chapter extends a big thank-you to all who make this event possible! For more information on this event please email Amanda.Lasik@mspacific.org or call 1-800-344-4867.
- Sycuan Family Brunch: A party held each December for people with MS and their families. Attendees are greeted by elves and candy canes. All who attend enjoy entertainment from local high school choirs and a lovely brunch buffet. Every year a surprise guest from the North Pole arrives with gifts for all of the children. For more information on this event email Janell.Marshall@mspacific.org or call 1-800-344-4867.
- Online Resources for children and teenagers
Respite Care for the Health of the Whole Family
The chapter has contracted with the Southern Caregiver Resource Center and the Orange Caregiver Resource Center to provide the respite care for caregivers who need a break. Family caregivers are eligible to receive respite/in-home services that the family may not otherwise be able to afford. Respite care grants are offered to families in need for up to $300 per month for one year. Caregivers utilizing this program are appointed a family consultant to arrange respite hours with the home health agency. This program is offered at no cost to participants and is available on a first-come first-serve basis. Contact the chapter at 1-800-344-4867 to be placed on the respite care waiting list.