This page was last edited 5/2/13
Read this message to learn about current and ongoing program updates and news in NJ. Read about:
- Educational opportunities to enhance your understanding about living with MS (employment; MS, sex and intimacy; progressive MS; bladder issues, etc)
- Teleconferences
- Educational opportunities from pharmaceutical companies
- Employment and your rights
- Programs at MS Centers
- Research
- Much more
Ask the Employment Specialist: Telephone Q&A Session
Do you have a question about employment issues you would like answered? Are you curious about workplace disclosure, social security benefits, the need for a reasonable accommodation or are you thinking about returning to work?
Employment specialist Barbara McKeon, CRC, LMHC, director of employment at the NYC/SNY Chapter, will be available to address your questions regarding employment concerns that are important for people living with MS. The remainder of the series:
• Wednesday, May 8, 2013, 12- 1pm
• Wednesday, August 14, 2013, 12- 1pm
Click here to register:
http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/Calendar/988795782?view=Detail&id=292894
Employment and Your Rights
If you still have questions about employment and your rights, you can speak with a volunteer labor and employment lawyer. He is available to assist members with information about:
• Legal Rights: The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other federal and state laws.
• Reasonable Accommodations: What they are, how to ask for them, how to engage in an interactive process with an employer
Our volunteer lawyer and our staff can provide additional information and can also help members find resources on other employment topics. For more information, contact Nancy at nancy.chazen@nmss.org or 201-977-6051.
Living With MS - Educational Teleconference Series
Join us from the comfort of your own phone for a year of informative conference calls on diverse topics of interest to people living with MS. This educational series is free and made available through the collaboration of the following chapters of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society: Connecticut, Greater New England, Long Island, New Jersey Metro, New York City-Southern New York, Rhode Island and Upstate NY.
• 5/8/13 6:30-7:30pm - Multiple Sclerosis, Sex and Intimacy (Please note this correction: previous communication indicated that the call is scheduled for 5/9; the correct date is 5/8)
http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/Calendar/1309028732?view=Detail&id=299135
• 6/12/13 6:30-7:30pm - Improving Independence in Progressive MS
http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/Calendar/732671891?view=Detail&id=299179
You can register from the links above or call the Chapter at 1-800-344-4867. Please view the Chapter website often to learn of program updates www.nationalMSsociety.org/NJM.
Town Hall Meetings
What: Chapter Town Hall Meetings in May – Meet the Chapter President! Learn About Advocacy!
When and Where: Join us at any of the scheduled meetings:
• Tue, May 21, 2013 7-9pm, 101 Crescent Commons, Allendale, NJ
• Tue, May 28, 2013, 7-9pm The PeopleCare Center, 120 Finderne Ave, Bridgewater, NJ
RSVP: Stephanie.hunsinger@nmss.org
People of all ages with all levels and types of disabilities experience their possibilities at Abilities Expo.
What: Abilities Expo
When: Friday, May 3 to Sunday, May 5, 2013
Where: NJ Convention and Expo Center, 97 Sunfield Ave, Edison
For more information, visit the Expo website: www.AbilitiesExpo.com
Lyndhurst Day Features a Health Expo!
What: Health, Safety, and Life Expo - featuring over 100 informational booths, various health screenings, musical performances, interactive Zumba & Exercise programs, and much more. Witness An Actual SWAT Team Demonstration by the Lyndhurst Police Department or meet Kevin Rooney, Winner of TV’s “Chopped”!
When: Saturday, May 11, 2013, 11am-5pm
Where: Town Hall Park, Delafield & Court Avenues, Lyndhurst
More Information: on the home page of the Lyndhurst website: http://www.lyndhurstnj.org/
Program at the Barnabas MS Center
What: According to Google, I Have MS - MS is a complex disease; hear from an MS trained specialist about how the diagnosis is made and a brief overview on treatment options and prognosis.
When: Tuesday, May 14, 2013, Registration at 4:45 pm, Program at 5:00 pm
Where: Barnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center, 200 South Orange Avenue, Livingston, NJ, Conference Room A and B
Speaker: Krupa Pandey, MD, Barnabas MS Comprehensive Care Center
RSVP: Please call 1-888-724-7123 to register or for more information call the Social Worker at the MS Center at 973-322-7935.
A Spring Fling in the Bronx!
Dining, dancing and amusement, May 17, 2013
http://nynmain.nationalmssociety.org/site/Calendar?id=308161&view=Detail
Caregiver Retreat for Women
What: 9th Annual Women’s Caregiver Retreat
When: Friday, May 17, 2013
Where: Robert Wood Johnson Hamilton Center for Health and Wellness, Mercerville, NJ
Presented by: Family Support Center of NJ
More details: 732.528.8080 or www.fscnj.org
Bladder Issues and MS
What: Webinar: Bladder, Kidney and Pelvic Health in Multiple Sclerosis: What every patient needs to know
When: Tuesday, June 4 from 7-8PM (EST)
Where: At your home computer
Speaker: Michael Ingber, MD, Director, The Center for Specialized Women's Health, division of Garden State Urology, Medical Director of Urogynecology, Saint Clare's Health System
Assistant Clinical Professor of Urology, Weill Cornell Medical College
Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/3858159164112460800
Sponsored by Saint Clare’s Health System
FDA Approves Twice a Day Capsules Called Tecfidera™ (formerly called BG-12) for Relapsing MS
Read all about this new treatment on the National MS Society website: http://www.nationalmssociety.org/news/news-detail/index.aspx?nid=7539
MS Learn Online - Participate Online Today
The National MS Society has an exciting menu of MS Learn Online webcasts currently available on its website www.nationalmssociety.org/mslearnonline. Each webcast features experts presenting on topics relevant to those affected by multiple sclerosis. MS Learn Online webcasts are typically 10-minutes in length, and have been a successful way to educate people about multiple sclerosis from the convenience of their own computer.
Wellness
The New Jersey Metro Chapter offers gentle exercise programs in the fall & spring to promote health & wellness for people living with MS and a companion. For a list of programs, visit http://www.nationalmssociety.org/chapters/njm/programs--services/wellness/index.aspx. For questions, contact Patti at patti.pasquino@nmss.org or 201-977-6053.
Hispanic Families Living with MS - Café Con Leche
The National MS Society offers a monthly telephone group, totally in Spanish, Café Con Leche. We invite Hispanics/Latinos with MS to participate with us from the comfort of their home or office phone. The monthly calls will be free. The monthly calls will be held on the 2nd Tuesday of each month, 2-3:30pm EST; the next call is 5/14/13. For more information or to register call 1-800-344-4867, option 3. The group is open to new members at any time.
Family Caregiver Support and Education Monthly Conference Call
What: Caregivers will have the opportunity to connect with other caregivers and share their unique stories. Educational topics/speakers and resources will also be presented!
When: 4th Monday of each month, the next call is on 5/27/13
Time: 2-3 PM Eastern Time
Sponsored by: Veterans Affairs
To Access the call: 1-800-767-1750, enter Access Code 43157 & press the #.
For more information contact: Margaret.Kazmierski@va.gov
MS Computer Outreach Program Alert!
The Chapter’s Computer Outreach Program (COP) is growing! The program is designed to connect people living with MS who reside in long term care facilities or are unable to leave their homes and are isolated from the outside world. If you are upgrading your computer, I Pad, desktop or tablet we can use your old equipment!
You can make a difference in the life of an isolated person living with MS! Donate your Windows 7 and Vista computer today!
Contact Lisa at 732-508-4431 or lisa.torre-janssen@nmss.org to donate or if you know someone living with MS who needs to be connected to the outside world.
Chapter Self Help Groups Offer Exciting Programs
The Chapter has more than 30 self-help groups in its service area. The groups offer individuals an opportunity to meet others who have similar life experiences; to share ideas; to learn from each other; to learn from invited speakers. Everyone is welcome. To see a monthly calendar of events, click on this link: http://www.nationalmssociety.org/chapters/njm/programs--services/self-help-groups-peer-support/index.aspx
If you are interested in learning more about self-help groups, contact Lisa T at the Chapter at 1-800-344-4867 or lisa.torre-janssen@nmss.org.
Free Educational Programs from Pharmaceutical Companies
The National MS Society, New Jersey Metro Chapter is making this information available to you about these educational opportunities. The National MS Society, New Jersey Metro Chapter is not sponsoring these programs. The Society has had no role in developing the content of these programs:
What: MS Inspiration Program – ARM YOURSELF: FINDING THE RIGHT TREATMENT FOR YOU
When: Wednesday, May 8, 2013, Registration: 6:00 PM–6:30PM Seminar: 6:30PM –9:00PM
Where: The Madison Hotel, 1 Convent Road, Morristown, NJ 07960
(Complimentary dinner and parking is available)
Speakers: Jai Perumal, MD - Assistant Professor of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY
Patient Advocate Speaker: Laura Rizza - MS Advocate, Ringoes, NJ
Sponsored by: MS Active Source
RSVP: 1-866-955-9999 or at www.FighterEvents.com; For directions, call the venue at 973-285-1800.
What: Staying On Your Path: choosing a relapsing MS therapy that’s right for you
When: Wednesday, May 8, 2013, 5:30pm registration, program begins at 6pm
Where: Maggiano’s Little Italy, 390 Hackensack Ave (Riverside Square Mall), Hackensack
Speaker: Mark Diamond, MD of the Neuroscience Center of Northern NJ, Morristown
Sponsored by: EMD Serono
RSVP: 1-877-969-1722 or visit: www.event.mslifelines.com/6334
What: Positive Approaches in MS
When: Friday, May 10, 2013 at 12:00 pm
Where: Maggiano’s Little Italy
Speaker: Dr. Mary Ann Picone, Medical Director, MS Center, Holy Name Medical Center
RSVP: 1-866-703-6293 or GenzymePatientRSVP@ahmdirect.com Reference ID: TR217081
Sponsored by: Genzyme
What: Take Control of Your MS Relapses
When: Monday, May 13, 2013, 6:30pm
Where: Maggiano's, 390 Hackensack Ave (Riverside Square Mall), Hackensack
Speaker: Mary Ann Picone, MD
Sponsored by: Questcor
RSVP: 877-219-0410 refer to Program 1183
What: Take Control of Your MS Relapses
When: Wednesday, May 15, 2013, 6:00pm check-in, 6:30pm start
Where: Crowne Plaza Hotel, 2055 Lincoln Hwy, Edison, NJ
Speaker: Dr. Allan Perel, MD
Sponsored by: Questcor
RSVP: 877-219-0410, refer to Program 1329 or go to: www.msrelapseprogram.com and refer to Program 1329
What: Positive Approaches in MS
When: Thursday, May 23, 2013 at 6:30 pm
Where: Sunny Palace 1069 State Route 18 East Brunswick, NJ 08816
Speaker: Dr. Roger Behar
RSVP: 1-866-703-6293 or GenzymePatientRSVP@ahmdirect.com Reference ID: TR216818
Sponsored by: Genzyme
What: Take Control of Your MS Relapses
When: Tuesday, June 4, 2013, check-in at 6:30pm, program at 7pm
Where: Calabria’s. 588 South Livingston, Livingston
Speaker: Yanchun Zhang, MD
RSVP: by June 3 to 877-219-0410 or go to www.msrelapseprogram.com and refer to Program 1177
Sponsored by: Questcor
What: Take the Next Step in Managing Your MS
When: Tuesday, June 25, 2013 at 6:30pm
Where: Bella Napoli, 1640 Broad Street, Bloomfield, NJ 07003
Speaker: Mary Ann Picone, MD and Herb Karpatkin, PT
Sponsored by: Acorda Therapeutics
RSVP: Call 1-800-397-8082 or online at www.LiveAmpyraEvent.com
Peer Support from MS Friends
MS knows no timetable - this is why we offer support when you want and need it.
The MSFriends program connects you with volunteers living with MS. The common bond of living with MS creates a unique connection. MSFriends volunteers complete a rigorous screening and training program and are focused on the needs of those who call for support. For more information, click on this link: http://www.nationalmssociety.org/living-with-multiple-sclerosis/society-programs-and-services/msfriends-peer-telephone-support/index.aspx.
Client-to-Client Resources
Client-to-Client Resources identifies specific equipment that may be for sale or otherwise available for free through persons who are interested in parting with the equipment. The Chapter is not involved in any negotiations. You can access this information from this link: http://www.nationalmssociety.org/chapters/njm/programs--services/client-to-client-resources/index.aspx.
Keep Hearing About Health Care Exchanges?
Wondering what they are and what you as an activist can do as implementation moves forward? Get all you questions answered here.
Interested in Participating in Research?
Read about the opportunities in NJ from this Chapter website link: http://www.nationalmssociety.org/chapters/njm/programs--services/surveys-and-other-research/index.aspx
Read all About the latest in overall MS Research from this link: http://www.nationalmssociety.org/research/index.aspx
If you missed the Chapter’s Research Symposium on April 20, you can read about the research from this link: http://www.nationalmssociety.org/chapters/njm/programs--services/resarch-opportunites/index.aspx .
Health Matters at Work
What: Health Matters at Work is a comprehensive web and workplace-based health initiative that helps businesses, employees and their families learn about the prevention and management of a chronic disease or disability. Educational, service, and programmatic resources are available from more than 1,200 Community Health Charities national and local member health organizations. View a variety of podcasts that present important information about wellness.
When: throughout 2013
Where: from the comfort of your own home
More information: www.healthmattersatwork.org
NJ State Bar Foundation (NJSBF) Calendar of Upcoming Events
The NJSBF has a schedule of programs that will be held at the NJ Law Center in New Brunswick. Admission is free but advanced registration is required.
• 5/8/13, 10am-12:30pm – Senior Citizens Law Day
• 6/18/13, 7-9pm – Wills and Estate Planning
For more information you can call 1-800-FREE-LAW or visit the website: http://www.njsbf.org/for-the-public/events.html
Emergency Preparedness
We all need to be aware of disaster preparedness and emergency response; people with disabilities often require more individual preparation.
Register Ready – New Jersey’s Special Needs Registry for Disasters - New Jersey's Special Needs Registry for Disasters, a free, voluntary and confidential program designed to assist people with special needs who may find it difficult to get to safety in the event of an emergency. People with special needs (or caregivers on their behalf) are encouraged to register through www.registerready.nj.gov. This service will register people, offer free translation, and provide TTY services for the hearing-impaired. Another resource to call is New Jersey’s toll-free 2-1-1 telephone service or visit www.NJ211.org.
NJ 2-1-1, A Wealth of Community Resources
From this resource, you will be able to easily locate community resources and services you need. NJ 2-1-1 points to resources for almost any need, from where to turn if unemployment benefits run out to where the nearest food bank is located.
You may not be aware that NJ 2-1-1 provides free, confidential access to over 17,000 critical services and resources via landline, cell phone, and the Internet. Learn more about this informative resource: www.NJ211.org
Pledge Not to Text While Behind the Wheel!
The Chapter is officially partnering with NJM Insurance Company to help reduce one of the most common and dangerous distractions on the roadways, texting while driving. Visit http://www.facebook.com/NJMInsurance and pledge not to text while behind the wheel. For every pledge that NJM receives, a donation will be made to the Chapter and four other worthy New Jersey organizations.
Chapter Fundraisers - Walk MS, Bike MS, Women on the Move, Golf Outings, Golden Circle, others!
Learn All About Chapter Fundraising Activities on the Chapter Website:
http://www.nationalmssociety.org/chapters/njm/fundraising-events/index.aspx
The NY Mets and MS Awareness!
Join the Mets along with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society for the Second Annual MS Awareness Night. Enjoy a night of baseball while helping in the fight against MS. With each ticket sold through this advanced offer, the chapter that you support will receive a rebate from the New York Mets. Sit together with family, friends and supporters in the fight to cure MS in our designated seating areas. Third Eye Blind will perform after this game and is included FREE with the purchase of these select tickets!
What: Mets vs. Tigers
When: Friday, August 23, 2013, 7:10pm
Where: Citi field, NY
MS Fundraiser Pricing: Promenade Reserved - $27.00; Left Field Reserved - $50.00
Purchase these exclusive tickets at www.mets.com/ms or call the contact below for orders of 13 or more.
Thanks Giving Day from Van Guard Medical Group of Cranford
What: 10th Anniversary Open House – For each guest who attends, a $10 donation will be made to a selected charity, up to $5000! The Chapter is one of the charities!
When: Sat, May 11, 2013,11am-3pm
Where: Vanguard Medical Group of Cranford, 123 N. Union Avenue, Suite 204, Cranford, NJ
More information: 908-272-7990, ext 2
Local Fundraising Events Held and Organized by Friends of the Chapter
Check out all upcoming events by visiting our Captains’ Corner website at http://www.nationalmssociety.org/chapters/njm/fundraising-events/captains-corner/index.aspx.
If you want to share an event with us send information about the event to Alexis Stone at Alexis.Stone@nmss.org or call 201-967-5599 and we will list it right on our website and in our emails to past and present participants that go out around the 1st of every month. This is a great way to share ideas and communicate with participants across our entire chapter!
Kessler Foundation
What: Kessler Foundation Wheelchair 10K
When: Memorial Day, Monday, May 27, 2013, registration begins at 7am, race begins at 8:15am
Where: near Graydon Pool, 201 North Maple Ave, Ridgewood
Registration fee: $25
More Information: http://give.kesslerfoundation.org/page.aspx?pid=400 or call Angela at 973-324-8448
Stay Connected!
To keep informed about all the latest news from the National MS Society, view the Chapter website at www.nationalMSsociety.org/NJM
“Like” the New Jersey Metro Chapter on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter: @MSNJMetro
Follow us on pinterest: Pinterest.com/newjerseymetro
Click here for more complete information about all the happenings in NJ for people with MS… http://www.nationalmssociety.org/chapters/njm/programs--services/programs--services-news/index.aspx