MS FIRST CONNECTION PROGRAM FOR PEOPLE
NEWLY DIAGNOSED
A Link to Knowledge and Support
A multiple sclerosis diagnosis can be a confusing and frightening time for individuals and their families. Often people become overloaded with questions and don’t know what to ask, how to sort through the myriad of services and information available, or how to utilize them effectively.
Information
Through a one-on-one connection with an individually assigned MS First Connection Coordinator, newly diagnosed members will not only have their questions answered, but will be connected to useful chapter and community resources, services, programs and referrals to help them cope with the impact of their recent diagnosis.
Personalized Support
Some people want to learn as much as possible the moment they are diagnosed. Others need more time to absorb what is happening and need to know they have access to information when they are ready for it. The MS First Connection Coordinator is available to provide personalized support to both types of learners. Information, services, support and program recommendations will be tailored to a person’s individual needs and readiness to participate.
Someone to Listen
Having someone to speak with can make a big difference in coping with feelings about MS. If a newly diagnosed member just needs someone to talk to - one time or many times - the MS First Connection Coordinator is available to listen to their concerns. The MS Navigator can also connect them to a number of support groups, peer support volunteers or, for more in-depth needs, an individual therapist.
Just a Call Away
Remember, adjusting to an MS diagnosis is never easy. Managing concerns about life with MS is something a newly diagnosed person does not have to handle alone…support is just a phone call away.
To reach a New York City - Southern New York Chapter MS First Connection Coordinator, call 212-453-3230.
Knowledge is Power
The Knowledge Is Power program is a free, at-home educational series, available online or thru the mail, for people newly diagnosed with MS and their families. KIP is written by Dr. Rosalind Kalb, a highly regarded author and psychologist, who knows about MS and the effect it can have on your life and the lives of people who care about you. KIP provides up-to-date facts about many aspects of MS.
For more info, click here.