To our clients, supporters, partners, colleagues, and the entire multiple sclerosis community:
We truly hope that you and your families are staying healthy and safe. All affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic are in our hearts and minds every day. As the situation changes, the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA) is also changing and we are following the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as well as federal and state officials. The continued health and safety for all affected by multiple sclerosis is critical to us. For those reasons, I wanted to share more about what MSAA is doing.
Our Commitment
MSAA will continue our unwavering commitment of being a leading resource for the entire MS community by improving lives today through vital services and support. In the face of this uncertain health crisis, we remain at the forefront of providing important updates, offering a wide variety of digital educational opportunities, enabling helpful connections in the MS community, while being a trusted source of information. MSAA, through the collective efforts of our friends, partners, and supporters, will continue our mission of serving the MS community.
Business Continuity
As of Monday, March 16th, MSAA transitioned staff to work remotely and we have discontinued all business travel. For tasks that cannot be done remotely, we are taking extra precautions as recommended by the CDC. Importantly, we put the technology and protocols in place to ensure that MSAA continues to serve all impacted by MS as we have done consistently for fifty years.
How We Can Help
We are sensitive to the needs of the MS community and the concern COVID-19 is causing. I encourage you to visit our website at www.mymsaa.org to learn more about this evolving challenge. We understand that everyone will be impacted in the near term and perhaps for a prolonged period. In accordance with safety guidelines, and as we have communicated earlier this month, MSAA has cancelled all in-person educational programs and fundraising events. We recognize that the MS community, more than ever, needs verified information on all aspects of living with this disease. Please be assured that MSAA continues to provide compassionate support through our Helpline.
Effective as of March 19, 2020, we have expanded our Helpline hours to 8:00 PM Eastern, Monday through Friday in an effort to further assist the MS community during these anxious and challenging times. Our Helpline can be reached at (800) 532-7667, extension 154 and questions may be emailed to MSquestions@mymsaa.org. MSAA continues to provide virtual learning through our webinars, podcasts, and downloadable publications. In addition, we offer an active peer-to-peer forum on our My MSAA Community online platform, which may be helpful for those interested in connecting with others in a safe and supportive online environment.
Please take care of yourselves and each other. Thank you for your continued trust and support.
Gina Ross Murdoch
MSAA President & CEO
