These programs are offered by community agencies or pharmaceutical companies, not the MS Society. They are listed here because they may be of interest to people living with MS and their friends, family, co-workers and care partners. Please review the disclaimer before signing up for any non-National MS Society programs or industry sponsored promotional programs.
Mega FREE health C.A.R.E. clinic
Working in conjunction with most local health care providers, the National Association of Free Clinics (NAFC) will host a two-day FREE health C.A.R.E. clinic at Bartle Hall in Kansas City, Mo., on Wednesday and Thursday, December 9th and 10th.
The Kansas City C.A.R.E. (Communities are Responding Everyday) clinic is similar to the free health clinic hosted by Dr. Oz, The Dr. Oz Show, in September in Houston that provided free basic health care to nearly 1800 people. The Kansas City C.A.R.E. clinic is expected to provide care for 3000 or more people. To improve accessibility for those who need care the most, the Kansas City clinic will be held on two week days and will be open both daytime and evening hours (Noon – 8:00 pm on Wednesday and 10:00 am to 6:00 pm on Thursday).
Supporting the NAFC in this major health care initiative are most health care providers in and around the Kansas City community, including safety net clinics, hospitals, physician practices and other health care, mental health and social service providers. Four hundred or so medical professionals will be supported by 700+ other volunteers to provide medical services.
To get an appointment. Anyone who is uninsured that needs medical care should call 1-877-249-5030 to register for an appointment. “Walk-ins will be seen on a first-come, first-served basis,” says Nicole Lamoureux, Executive Director for NAFC. “Due to the expected large turnout, and to ensure an organized clinic, registering is very important.” Although the primary area of care will be general medicine there will likely be a number of additional services provided at the clinic. Also note that this event may be the focus of television broadcasts.
To volunteer. All types of volunteers are needed to help with this two-day event. We invite all clinical volunteers, including MDs, DOs, DPMs, DDSs, NPs, PAs, RNs, LPNs, EMTs, MAs, MSWs, BSWs and others to participate in this life-altering event. Non-medical volunteers are also needed to help with documentation, logistical support and patient intake, and to assist patients with scheduling follow-up appointments at their local safety-net clinics. To volunteer, register online at http://freeclinics.us. Both individuals and teams can sign up.
Turning Point
The mission of Turning Point: the Center for Hope and Healing is to empower and transform the mind, body, and spirit of individuals, families and friends living with serious or chronic physical illness. They provide innovative education and support programs that inspire people to take charge of their illness and live life to its fullest.
Turning Point programs are offered at no charge, and registration is required at least 48 hours in advance. All sessions are held at the Turning Point offices: 8900 State Line Road, Suite 240 in Shawnee Mission, KS. To speak with Turning Point staff or to register for a program, please call 913-383-8700. Learn more online at www.turningpointkc.org.
The Kansas City Branch of the National MS Society is working with Turning Point to create more wellness and educational opportunities. Take a look at some upcoming options:
T’ai Chi Dim Sa
Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 9:00 - 10:00 a.m.
Jacque Carpenter, RNC, MS, PhD
Explore the meditative aspects of T’ai Chi through slow, purposeful movements and breathwork which enable you to experience an increase in strength and flexibility, emotional balance, and energy flow.
Yoga - For Beginners
Tuesdays, 5:30 - 6:45 p.m. OR
Thursdays, 9:00 - 10:15 a.m.
Emily Darling, Yoga Instructor
Through gentle stretching and movement, you will practice beginning yoga postures and learn to use your breath for relaxation and healing. Must be able to get on the floor and up again without assistance. Please bring a yoga mat.
T’ai Chi for Parkinson’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis and Essential Tremor
Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Jacque Carpenter, RNC, MS, PhD
This meditative movement class is designed for people living with Parkinson’s disease, MS or essential tremor and their families and friends. Experience the ways in which this gentle program may assist with relaxation and balance.
Pilates
Thursdays, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Terri Henges, Certified Pilates Instructor
Pilates has been shown to increase lung capacity, build strength and flexibility, improve posture, balance and core strength, and enhance bone density and joint health. Please bring a yoga mat and towel.
Mindful Movement
Fridays, 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon
Tina Sprinkle, A.C.E., Certified Fitness Trainer
A gentle, restorative stretch class that nurtures, heals and inspires. This is a moving meditation designed to leave participants feeling grounded, peaceful, and relaxed. Must be able to get on the floor and up again without assistance. Please bring a yoga mat.
DISCLAIMER: The National Multiple Sclerosis Society does not endorse products, services, or manufacturers. Programs appear here solely because they are considered valuable information and you may find them beneficial. The Chapter assumes no liability for these programs or the use or contents of any product or service mentioned. Additionally, it is important to note that any person registering for the programs listed here will be sharing their personal information with an organization outside of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.