The Trying Game

By Lauren Kovacs

Well, summer has exploded like a bad firework. The dreaded heat has washed us ashore and left us feeling wrung out. Exhaustion is our needy, constant companion on the beach, while the ship parties.

I am right there with ya. Feeling left out seems to engulf my summers. That ship stranded me on the desert island called MS. Even in my chair, wet noodle syndrome hangs around.

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Invisible but VERY Real: Heat Intolerance

By Alene Brennan

It’s been four years since I was diagnosed with Relapsing-Remitting MS.

I remember the doctor asking me if I had a sensitivity to heat in that appointment.

YES!

Finally, I got validation for Continue reading

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Time to Cool Down – Cooling Vests for MS Heat Sensitivity

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Though spring has just begun for many around the country, some individuals may already
be thinking about the upcoming summer months and what that means – heat! For individuals with MS who experience heat sensitivity with their MS symptoms, the idea of facing the heat and humidity the summer season brings can be stressful. But it’s important to know there are some ways you can cool your body down and feel some relief with those hot and humid days. MSAA offers a Cooling Equipment Distribution Program which provides different ice-pack style cooling vests and accessory options that can be worn on the body for relief from the heat. With differing vest styles ranging from those that can be worn under or over your clothing, and kit accessories that include cooling wrist and ankle wraps, the program has something to fit individual needs. For more information, see the MSAA website at https://mymsaa.org/msaa-help/cooling/.

*Please note the program eligibility requirements within the application.

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Celebrating our Earth…

What is Earth Day?

Earth Day is an event that occurs every year to promote and encourage environmental awareness and protection. It is a day to appreciate and conserve energy for our environment for future generations. On Earth Day you can get involved in the world’s efforts to protect the environment, just by making a few changes in your daily routine…

Here are some ways in which you can help conserve energy, not only for the environment but for yourself too!

For the Environment:

  • Turn off the lights! If you’re leaving the house, shut the lights off, this will help conserve power and energy and it will reduce your energy bills, too!
  • Don’t leave the water running in the sink when it’s not being used
  • Remember to recycle!
  • Keep your refrigerator/freezer doors closed to conserve power, especially when putting groceries away
  • Walk or ride somewhere…If you’re able, walk or ride a bike/other device to the day’s destination instead of driving your car; this can help reduce air pollution
  • Volunteer! Join the community to plant trees, flowers, or to recycle and help raise awareness for the environment!

For You:

  • Conserve your energy! Because fatigue is very common amongst those with MS, try to save your errands/activities for parts of the day when you have the most energy. For more information/tips on energy conservation, see the MSAA MSi Online Video Energy Conservation and MS at: https://mymsaa.org/manage-your-ms/videos/staying-one-step-ahead-4/
  • Stay cool! Summer is almost upon us, so staying cool can help you conserve energy and help you perform the day’s tasks. Consider the MSAA Cooling Equipment Distribution Program to help you stay cool this summer, https://mymsaa.org/msaa-help/cooling/
  • Enjoy the environment… Getting outside to garden or partaking in volunteer opportunities can help you enjoy what the earth has to offer and acts as a way for you to get involved in a meaningful activity!

So what will you do to commemorate Earth Day?

 

 

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Is that Spring around the corner?

As we say goodbye to the shortest month of the year some parts of the country will begin to transition seasons. In particular parts of the country, it actually starts warming up to give milder spring like temperatures. While spring is considered a temperate and pleasant time by most, in some areas there may even be a few uncomfortably warm days.

This year, prepare early and get your cooling vest before those too warm (or in the summer, downright HOT) days arrive!  MSAA offers a program which provides free cooling vests and accessories to eligible individuals. Now is the perfect time to contact MSAA before the busy cooling season begins.You can learn more about how to apply for cooling at the following link: https://mymsaa.org/msaa-help/cooling/.

 

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