- Multiple Sclerosis
Or MS as it is commonly known is a disease of the central nervous system which interrupts the brain’s ability to control walking, talking, seeing and other important functions. It is multiple because it attacks many areas of the nervous system and sclerosis, from the Greek work "hardening" because scars form on damaged parts of the brain and spinal chord.
- The Facts:
Canada has one of the highest rates of MS in the world
An estimated 75,000 Canadians have MS
MS is usually diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40
Almost twice as many women have MS than men
Multiple Sclerosis has been grouped into several types of MS
Relapsing-remitting – most common form of MS at time of diagnosis
Primary-progressive – steadily worsening from onset of the disease
Secondary-progressive – approximately half of people with relapsing remitting MS develop this more progressive form with 10 years
Progressive-relapsing – attacks of MS with steady worsening
Benign-MS – a few attacks and long periods of remission; little disability after 15 years
Malignant-MS – rapid progression within five years of diagnosis
- Sarnia/Lambton Chapter
The Sarnia/Lambton Chapter of the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada was formed by a group of concerned citizens in 1966. We are one of the 130 chapters across Canada. We are also members of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada
The Chapter works in liaison with the Regional Patient Services Coordinator and Multiple Sclerosis Clinic at the University of Western Ontario University Hospital, to serve the specific needs of MS persons in Lambton County.
- Chapter Goals
To be aware of the needs and problems of people with MS.
To assist people with MS to maintain an independent lifestyle by the assessment of needs and provisions of some of the solutions, whether they are mechanical, social, financial, personal support, or emergency aid.
To establish social activities and arrange home visits for people with MS.
To raise funds to support the needs of people with MS and to help fund research projects into the cause and cure of MS.
To provide educational programs for lay and professional groups concerning MS through public awareness programs and liaison with other related groups.
To publicize chapter activities to gain support for the Chapter and National goals.
- MS Symbol
The broken MS signifies the gaps in our knowledge of multiple sclerosis. When these are filled, we will have the answer to the cause and cure of this mysterious disease.
- Upcoming Fundraisers for 2007
Pizzafest
January 24th 2007 - 7:00pm Entertainment by CD/DC, Door Prizes & Cash Bar. Tickets available at MS office and participating PizzeriasSupercities Walk for MS
Take a walk in beautiful Canatara Park on April 15th, 2007 and help MS connect with a cure. Register by calling 1-888-510-7777 or www.supercitieswalk.comMother's Day Weekend Carnation Campaign, May 10-12th 2007
Volunteers are needed to help with street sales. If you can give 2 hours on either Friday or Saturday please call - 519-332-4015. Most locations are indoors.
Carnations are sold in Brigden, Corunna, Courtright, Forest, Grand Bend, Petrolia, Watford and Wyoming. If you can help in one of these locations please do not hesitate to call 519-332-4015.
- Volunteers Needed
Volunteers are always needed, if you can spare a few hours to help with our fundraising campaigns or other chapter programs please do not hesitate to contact the office: (519) 332-4015.
Our office hours are Monday to Thursday - 9am to 4pm
For more information on any of these event, please call 332-4015.
