Angel Wood Rise

Multiple Sclerosis Society Worcester

TEN QUICK FACTS ABOUT MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS An estimated 2,500,000 people in the world have multiple sclerosis - including 85,000 in the UK - it is more common in countries further away from the equator MS is the most common potentially disabling disease of the central nervous system affecting young adults in the Western world Every week around 50 people in the UK are diagnosed with MS Diagnosis is usually between 20 and 40 years of age - rarely under 12 or over 55 Three women have MS for every two men Prognosis is uncertain - ranging from benign through 'coming and going' to severely disabling Common symptoms include pain, deadening fatigue, problems with sight, mobility and co-ordination MS is not hereditary - but there is a slightly higher chance of getting it if a relative has it - and it is not contagious There is no cure for MS but there are now drugs which can modify its course for some people and many symptoms can be successfully treated or managed MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is giving neurologists better understanding of MS, helping diagnosis and research into treatments

M.S Support Group  12.00-1.30 Doris Hunt Room the Green Centre Worcester For help and support for people diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis with organised visits from M.S nurse, M.S society, relaxation, O/T, physiotherapy, first aid & manual handling £1 per week per person on Thursdays. Weekly raffle £1 tea or coffee 35p. Information from Yvette 01905  748854 E.Mail: YVETTEatMSGROUP@aol.COM  2008 5th June-10thJuly 24thJuly-14thAug 4th Sept-2nd Oct If we haven't seen you for a while at the group don't forget I'm always at the end of the phone for any information.Even if its just for a list from Radar Toilets directory for a holiday/break Area. Also if you are looking for something to help you able to have a positive  message about ms but you haven't got your head round attending my support group, perhaps you will understand what a worthwhile compliment we had as a group recently when a gent newly diagnosed joined us and thought the 2 people taking the register/entrance money and organising a lunch out ,were volunteers !He hadn't realised everyone had also been diagnosed like him .This proved to me just how important the group is .because many people think of ms meaning one route often ending in a wheelchair,The people that know me at group well will know that I always say if I mention a symptom don't think you will have that problem (you may never)even though we are all diagnosed with ms ,as there are 4 different types and no set pattern.We often understand similar things but should never compare .As we all have our individual journey with MS.       RegardsYvette

Multiple Sclerosis   Multiple Sclerosis is a neurological disease affecting the central nervous system. It is the most common disabling disease affecting young adults, most people being diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40. It is a frustrating disease because the symtoms are so variable, often hidden and can strike suddenly with no warning.   Typical symtoms are numbness in the limbs, loss of balance, tingling, spasms, sight problems, fatigue, incontinence, sexual dysfunction, memory loss, lack of concentration and problems with speech.   If you are affected by MS, personally or as a carer, relative or friend of someone with MS there are many sources of support available.   The MS Society   The Multiple Sclerosis Society aims to enable everyone affected by MS to live to their full potential and secure the care and support they need, until, ultimately, a cure is found.   To fund and promote the best possible research into MS cause, cure and care.   To be the recognised source of consistent, high quality support and information to all people affected by MS.   To raise standards of MS care by working in partnership with professionals, promoting equitable access to high quality services based on the needs of the individual.   To be the authoritative voice on MS and to promote the independence, dignity and sef-determination of people affected by MS.   To work with people affected by MS to help them retain control of their lives and to be fully involved in everything they do.   Jayne Roberts MS SPECIALIST NURSE.

Local branch contacts Worcester & District Covering South Worcestershire, Redditch & Bromsgrove, Malvern & Tenbury Wells Contact: 01905  773722 National MS Helpline (freephone number) 0808 800 8000 Charity No. 207495 Wyre Forest Kidderminster and District Contact: 01562  745736 MS National Centre 372 Edgware Road London NW2 6ND Tel: 020  8438  0700