March 2010
Dear Friends:
It is my pleasure to inform you that Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont joined together on March 1, 2010, to form a single Greater New England Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, serving a combined total of 19,000 individuals and families who are affected by MS.
By consolidating administrative functions and by combining the talents of our Boards of Trustees, staff, and volunteers, we can streamline operations, increase fundraising effectiveness, and expand programs, services, and advocacy for those affected by MS.
The transition will be gradual. For people in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont, there will be little to no visible change, other than the name of the Chapter. MSnewengland.org is still the website, and the telephone number stays 1-800-344-4867.
Even in Maine, the offices and staff in Portland and Bangor remain in place, and the services, advocacy, and fundraising activities that Mainers are accustomed to will continue. Additionally, a number of Maine Leadership Volunteers will serve in a policy making role as Trustees of the Greater New England Chapter Board.
More good news is that everyone within our four states can participate in all Chapter activities (education, support, advocacy, services, fundraising, and volunteering) regardless of where they take place. And, there are many fun activities to explore!
The combined strengths of Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont will move us closer to the ultimate goal that we all share—whatever the name of our state or chapter—a world free of MS.
We welcome your thoughts and ideas to maximize our new partnership to achieve our unified vision.
Sincerely,
arlyn_sig
Arlyn A. White
President & CEO
National Multiple Sclerosis Society
Greater New England Chapter
101A First Avenue, Suite 6
Waltham, MA 02451-1115
tel: 1 800-344-4867
fax: 1 781-890-2089
msnewengland.org
Facebook Become a fan of the Greater New England Chapter on Facebook
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Thank Your Member of Congress For Passing Health Care Reform
Thanks to help from MS activists like you, history was made today when the President signed comprehensive health care reform legislation into law! Thank you for making this victory possible. Per invitation of the White House, the Society had a front row seat to witness this historic event.
For nearly two years, MS activists vigorously engaged to ensure the vision of comprehensive health care reform was realized. Together, we have advocated for health care reform that addresses the complex needs of those living with MS, based on the Society's National Health Care Reform Principles.
We are pleased that the recently passed legislation represents comprehensive reform that meets many of the Society's Principles. For too long, health care has been inadequate for too many families living with MS. This newly enacted legislation is significant progress and will help us move towards making quality, affordable care more accessible.
Because of MS activists' relentless efforts, we have helped make something happen that has been decades in the making. This legislation will:
* Prohibit discrimination against an individual based on pre-existing health conditions;
* Place limitations on out-of-pockets costs;
* Provide access to long-term supports and services;
* Expand the Medicaid program;
* Provide subsidies to those who cannot afford coverage; and
* Eliminate lifetime limits on the amount of benefits a person may receive.
We would like to thank those Members of Congress who supported this important legislation. Please take the time to write a thank you to your Representative who voted for this legislation.
Today marks a major milestone in the fight for quality, affordable health care for all. Congratulations on your hard work!
For nearly two years, MS activists vigorously engaged to ensure the vision of comprehensive health care reform was realized. Together, we have advocated for health care reform that addresses the complex needs of those living with MS, based on the Society's National Health Care Reform Principles.
We are pleased that the recently passed legislation represents comprehensive reform that meets many of the Society's Principles. For too long, health care has been inadequate for too many families living with MS. This newly enacted legislation is significant progress and will help us move towards making quality, affordable care more accessible.
Because of MS activists' relentless efforts, we have helped make something happen that has been decades in the making. This legislation will:
* Prohibit discrimination against an individual based on pre-existing health conditions;
* Place limitations on out-of-pockets costs;
* Provide access to long-term supports and services;
* Expand the Medicaid program;
* Provide subsidies to those who cannot afford coverage; and
* Eliminate lifetime limits on the amount of benefits a person may receive.
We would like to thank those Members of Congress who supported this important legislation. Please take the time to write a thank you to your Representative who voted for this legislation.
Today marks a major milestone in the fight for quality, affordable health care for all. Congratulations on your hard work!
Monday, March 22, 2010
Write Your Senators to Secure $15 Million for MS Research
MS activists have helped secure nearly $10 million for MS research through the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP) over the past two years. We need your help again this year to add additional funding to this program, which will help scientists better understand the causes of MS and help find a cure. Act now and ask your Senators to support a $15 million appropriation under the CDMRP.
The CDMRP is a Department of Defense program that is funded annually via the Defense Appropriations Act. Just a couple of years ago, there was no MS program in the CDMRP. As a direct result of your activism, not only does MS now have a specific research program but people living with MS also sit on the award panels to help determine how this important research money is being spent. More information about MS research funding in the CDMRP may be read on the Society's website.
Preliminary evidence suggests that Gulf War veterans are at an increased risk of being diagnosed with MS because of exposure to neurotoxins, such as gases and other combat related pollutants. Currently, more than 20,000 veterans being treated in the Veteran's Health Administration system are living with a diagnosis of MS. Many U.S. veterans have relevant stories and symptoms of MS. The research from CDMRP will potentially help us understand the environmental factors and risks that contribute to MS.
The deadline is fast approaching. Send your Senators a message asking them to support a $15 million appropriation for MS research under the CDMRP.
The CDMRP is a Department of Defense program that is funded annually via the Defense Appropriations Act. Just a couple of years ago, there was no MS program in the CDMRP. As a direct result of your activism, not only does MS now have a specific research program but people living with MS also sit on the award panels to help determine how this important research money is being spent. More information about MS research funding in the CDMRP may be read on the Society's website.
Preliminary evidence suggests that Gulf War veterans are at an increased risk of being diagnosed with MS because of exposure to neurotoxins, such as gases and other combat related pollutants. Currently, more than 20,000 veterans being treated in the Veteran's Health Administration system are living with a diagnosis of MS. Many U.S. veterans have relevant stories and symptoms of MS. The research from CDMRP will potentially help us understand the environmental factors and risks that contribute to MS.
The deadline is fast approaching. Send your Senators a message asking them to support a $15 million appropriation for MS research under the CDMRP.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Final Push for Health Reform
Urge Your Representative to Support Health Reform
Your continued activism is working. Congress this week is again debating and aiming to finalize comprehensive health reform legislation. MS activists have been engaged from the beginning and must take action once more so that comprehensive health reform legislation which will improve the lives of those living with MS is enacted this year.
Remaining steadfast to the Society's National Health Care Reform Principles, MS activists have sent over 18,000 messages to Capitol Hill and made countless phone calls in support of comprehensive health reform. Our voice has been heard and many concepts included in the Society's principles have been included in the current health reform bill, such as:
* Prohibiting discrimination against an individual based on pre-existing health conditions;
* Placing limitations on out-of-pocket costs;
* Providing access to long-term supports and services;
* Expanding the Medicaid program;
* Providing subsidies to those who cannot afford coverage; and
* Eliminating lifetime limits on the amount of coverage a person may receive.
The U.S. House of Representatives is expected to vote later this week. Send a message to your Representative and urge him/her to support health reform today! This is a historic opportunity and every vote counts.
To keep future MS activism messages out of your junk folder, add the following address to your contacts or safe sender list: MSActionNetwork@nmss.org
Your continued activism is working. Congress this week is again debating and aiming to finalize comprehensive health reform legislation. MS activists have been engaged from the beginning and must take action once more so that comprehensive health reform legislation which will improve the lives of those living with MS is enacted this year.
Remaining steadfast to the Society's National Health Care Reform Principles, MS activists have sent over 18,000 messages to Capitol Hill and made countless phone calls in support of comprehensive health reform. Our voice has been heard and many concepts included in the Society's principles have been included in the current health reform bill, such as:
* Prohibiting discrimination against an individual based on pre-existing health conditions;
* Placing limitations on out-of-pocket costs;
* Providing access to long-term supports and services;
* Expanding the Medicaid program;
* Providing subsidies to those who cannot afford coverage; and
* Eliminating lifetime limits on the amount of coverage a person may receive.
The U.S. House of Representatives is expected to vote later this week. Send a message to your Representative and urge him/her to support health reform today! This is a historic opportunity and every vote counts.
To keep future MS activism messages out of your junk folder, add the following address to your contacts or safe sender list: MSActionNetwork@nmss.org
Monday, March 15, 2010
Federal Focus- March 2010
Breaking News! Final Push for Passing Health Care Reform
This week will prove pivotal as Congress begins the final push to pass health care reform legislation into law. Over the past few weeks, both chambers of Congress have been engaged in discussions to complete passage of health care reform. Progress is being made and the House of Representatives is expected to vote on legislation within the week.
Since the beginning of this effort, MS activists have actively supported a balanced, bipartisan and comprehensive approach to health care reform legislation. By getting engaged early and staying committed, MS activists were able to help shape this historic initiative and we will continue to voice our support until the final vote. Stay tuned later this week for additional ways you can help ensure that health care reform legislation is enacted this year. In the meantime, visit the Society's government affairs website for the latest information on health care reform.
Activists From Across the Country Participate in 2010 Public Policy Conference
Over 300 activists from across the United States came to Washington, DC March 1-3 to participate in the 2010 Public Policy Conference. Every year, activists travel to Washington to advance the MS movement by meeting with their federal legislators. MS activists help shape federal public policy by discussing three of the Society's priority issues and sharing their own personal and moving stories. Thanks to our passionate advocates, this year our conference was immensely successful--with activists making nearly 350 visits to congressional offices!
Prior to their Capitol Hill visits, activists received an overview regarding three public policy priority issues from expert panels. This year, MS activists urged:
* full funding of the Lifespan Repite Care Act,
* advancement of the National MS and Parkinson's Disease Registries Act, and
* increased support for MS research within the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs.
During the conference, the Society was fortunate to have leaders from both the White House and Congress participate, including: Kareem Dale, Special Assistant to the President for Disability Policy; Congresswoman Mary Jo Kilroy (OH-15th); and Congressman James Langevin (RI-2nd).
In addition to program participation, three prominent figures--Governor Jack Markell (DE), Senator Sherrod Brown (OH), and Representative Chris Van Hollen (MD-8th)-- made appearances to accept awards for 2009 Governor, Senator, and Representative of the Year.
Therapy Caps and Medicare Physician Payments Temporarily Extended
On March 10, the Senate passed the American Workers, State, and Business Relief Act of 2010 (H.R.4213). Among other policies, H.R.4213 temporarily extends the scheduled Medicare payment reduction for physician services and re-instates the therapy cap exceptions in Medicare process. If the President signs this bill, this legislation would delay the Medicare physician payment reduction through September 30, 2010 and would extend the therapy cap exception through December 31, 2010.
This is the second time in a month that Congress has passed a bill to prolong these two policies. On March 2, President Obama signed into law the Temporary Extension Act of 2010 (H.R.4691), which pushed back the expiration date for the Medicare payment reduction and therapy caps exception process until April 1. Without this measure, Medicare physicians faced a sizable 21.2 percent reduction in payment rates, as the previous extension ended on March 1. In addition, this bill re-established the longstanding Medicare therapy caps exceptions process, which expired December 31, 2009. According to the Temporary Extension Act of 2010, the exceptions process is retroactive dating back until January 1, 2010. This will provide temporary financial relief for those individuals who already surpassed their therapy limit of $1,860 this year.
Although the National MS Society is pleased with Congress' efforts to implement a short-term solution, the Society will continue to advocate for efforts that prevent the Medicare payment cut and extend the therapy cap exceptions process permanently.
Senate Passes Bill to Extend Medicaid Relief
On Wednesday, March 10, the Senate passed the American Workers, State, and Business Relief Act of 2010 (H.R.4213) by a vote of 62-36. In addition to extending long-term unemployment benefits and various tax provisions, the bill would extend the temporary increased Federal match for state Medicaid programs. The federal match for Medicaid programs, known as the "FMAP", or Federal Medical Assistance Percentage, was originally increased in economic recovery legislation enacted in early 2009. The recovery legislation provided a 6.2% increase to all states and territories and the recently passed bill, H.R. 4213, would extend this increase through June 30, 2011.
This week will prove pivotal as Congress begins the final push to pass health care reform legislation into law. Over the past few weeks, both chambers of Congress have been engaged in discussions to complete passage of health care reform. Progress is being made and the House of Representatives is expected to vote on legislation within the week.
Since the beginning of this effort, MS activists have actively supported a balanced, bipartisan and comprehensive approach to health care reform legislation. By getting engaged early and staying committed, MS activists were able to help shape this historic initiative and we will continue to voice our support until the final vote. Stay tuned later this week for additional ways you can help ensure that health care reform legislation is enacted this year. In the meantime, visit the Society's government affairs website for the latest information on health care reform.
Activists From Across the Country Participate in 2010 Public Policy Conference
Over 300 activists from across the United States came to Washington, DC March 1-3 to participate in the 2010 Public Policy Conference. Every year, activists travel to Washington to advance the MS movement by meeting with their federal legislators. MS activists help shape federal public policy by discussing three of the Society's priority issues and sharing their own personal and moving stories. Thanks to our passionate advocates, this year our conference was immensely successful--with activists making nearly 350 visits to congressional offices!
Prior to their Capitol Hill visits, activists received an overview regarding three public policy priority issues from expert panels. This year, MS activists urged:
* full funding of the Lifespan Repite Care Act,
* advancement of the National MS and Parkinson's Disease Registries Act, and
* increased support for MS research within the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs.
During the conference, the Society was fortunate to have leaders from both the White House and Congress participate, including: Kareem Dale, Special Assistant to the President for Disability Policy; Congresswoman Mary Jo Kilroy (OH-15th); and Congressman James Langevin (RI-2nd).
In addition to program participation, three prominent figures--Governor Jack Markell (DE), Senator Sherrod Brown (OH), and Representative Chris Van Hollen (MD-8th)-- made appearances to accept awards for 2009 Governor, Senator, and Representative of the Year.
Therapy Caps and Medicare Physician Payments Temporarily Extended
On March 10, the Senate passed the American Workers, State, and Business Relief Act of 2010 (H.R.4213). Among other policies, H.R.4213 temporarily extends the scheduled Medicare payment reduction for physician services and re-instates the therapy cap exceptions in Medicare process. If the President signs this bill, this legislation would delay the Medicare physician payment reduction through September 30, 2010 and would extend the therapy cap exception through December 31, 2010.
This is the second time in a month that Congress has passed a bill to prolong these two policies. On March 2, President Obama signed into law the Temporary Extension Act of 2010 (H.R.4691), which pushed back the expiration date for the Medicare payment reduction and therapy caps exception process until April 1. Without this measure, Medicare physicians faced a sizable 21.2 percent reduction in payment rates, as the previous extension ended on March 1. In addition, this bill re-established the longstanding Medicare therapy caps exceptions process, which expired December 31, 2009. According to the Temporary Extension Act of 2010, the exceptions process is retroactive dating back until January 1, 2010. This will provide temporary financial relief for those individuals who already surpassed their therapy limit of $1,860 this year.
Although the National MS Society is pleased with Congress' efforts to implement a short-term solution, the Society will continue to advocate for efforts that prevent the Medicare payment cut and extend the therapy cap exceptions process permanently.
Senate Passes Bill to Extend Medicaid Relief
On Wednesday, March 10, the Senate passed the American Workers, State, and Business Relief Act of 2010 (H.R.4213) by a vote of 62-36. In addition to extending long-term unemployment benefits and various tax provisions, the bill would extend the temporary increased Federal match for state Medicaid programs. The federal match for Medicaid programs, known as the "FMAP", or Federal Medical Assistance Percentage, was originally increased in economic recovery legislation enacted in early 2009. The recovery legislation provided a 6.2% increase to all states and territories and the recently passed bill, H.R. 4213, would extend this increase through June 30, 2011.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Act Now to Ensure $15 Million in MS Research in the CDMRP
Act Now to Ensure $15 Million for MS Research in the CDMRP
Take Action!
It is MS Awareness Week (March 8-14) and a particularly important time for you to Move It! to help secure $15 million for MS research.
The deadline for members of Congress to signal support for MS research funding in the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP) is fast approaching. Take action today and urge your U.S. Senators and U.S. Representative to support a $15 million appropriation under the CDMRP that will help scientists to better understand the causes of MS and help find a cure.
Preliminary evidence suggests that Gulf War veterans are at an increased risk of being diagnosed with MS because of exposure to neurotoxins such as gases and other combat related pollutants. Currently, more than 20,000 veterans being treated in the VHA are living with a diagnosis of MS. Many U.S. veterans have relevant stories and symptoms of MS.
To help learn more about environmental factors and move us closer to a world free of MS, MS activists have helped secure nearly $10 million for MS research through the CDMRP over the past two years. The CDMRP is a DoD program that is funded annually via the Defense Appropriations Act. Just a couple of years ago, there was no MS program in the CDMRP. As a direct result of your activism not only does MS now have a specific research program but people living with MS sit on the award panels to help determine how this important research money is being spent. More information about MS research funding in the CDMRP may be read on the Society's website.
The deadline is fast approaching. Take action today and ask your members of Congress to support a $15 million appropriation for MS research under the CDMRP.
Take Action!
It is MS Awareness Week (March 8-14) and a particularly important time for you to Move It! to help secure $15 million for MS research.
The deadline for members of Congress to signal support for MS research funding in the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP) is fast approaching. Take action today and urge your U.S. Senators and U.S. Representative to support a $15 million appropriation under the CDMRP that will help scientists to better understand the causes of MS and help find a cure.
Preliminary evidence suggests that Gulf War veterans are at an increased risk of being diagnosed with MS because of exposure to neurotoxins such as gases and other combat related pollutants. Currently, more than 20,000 veterans being treated in the VHA are living with a diagnosis of MS. Many U.S. veterans have relevant stories and symptoms of MS.
To help learn more about environmental factors and move us closer to a world free of MS, MS activists have helped secure nearly $10 million for MS research through the CDMRP over the past two years. The CDMRP is a DoD program that is funded annually via the Defense Appropriations Act. Just a couple of years ago, there was no MS program in the CDMRP. As a direct result of your activism not only does MS now have a specific research program but people living with MS sit on the award panels to help determine how this important research money is being spent. More information about MS research funding in the CDMRP may be read on the Society's website.
The deadline is fast approaching. Take action today and ask your members of Congress to support a $15 million appropriation for MS research under the CDMRP.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
News from MS Learn Online- Nutrition
The National MS Society and
MS LEARN ONLINE present...
Healthy Living: Nutrition
A new Feature Presentation:
Healthy Living: Nutrition
A video webcast series that explores:
* Dietary recommendations
* Supplements
* Meal preparations
Click here to view the webcasts, or copy into your browser: http://www.nationalmssociety.org/multimedia-library/webcasts--podcasts/healthy-living-nutrition-and-overall-wellness/index.aspx
If you have a pop-up blocker, you will need to disable it prior to participating in a MS Learn Online webcast.
MS LEARN ONLINE present...
Healthy Living: Nutrition
A new Feature Presentation:
Healthy Living: Nutrition
A video webcast series that explores:
* Dietary recommendations
* Supplements
* Meal preparations
Click here to view the webcasts, or copy into your browser: http://www.nationalmssociety.org/multimedia-library/webcasts--podcasts/healthy-living-nutrition-and-overall-wellness/index.aspx
If you have a pop-up blocker, you will need to disable it prior to participating in a MS Learn Online webcast.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Ask Congress to Recognize MS Awareness Week
Ask Congress to Recognize MS Awareness Week
Take Action!
Help Us Recognize MS Awareness Week
Next week, March 8-14th is MS Awareness Week and Representative Barbara Lee (CA-9) has introduced a resolution (H. Res. 1116) to formally recognize MS Awareness Week in Congress. Take action today and urge your Congressmen to support MS Awareness Week.
The MS Awareness Week resolution stresses the following important goals of MS Awareness Week: reaffirming our nation's commitment to creating a world free of MS, recognizing people living with MS, and saluting the health care professionals and medical researchers who continue to work toward a world free of MS. The resolution is a true indicator of the collective and bold support for the MS community.
Make sure that your Members of Congress join the MS movement. Take action today and send a letter to your Representative now, asking them to co-sponsor the MS Awareness Week bill.
To keep future MS activism messages out of your junk folder, add the following address to your contacts or safe sender list: MSActionNetwork@nmss.org
Take Action!
Help Us Recognize MS Awareness Week
Next week, March 8-14th is MS Awareness Week and Representative Barbara Lee (CA-9) has introduced a resolution (H. Res. 1116) to formally recognize MS Awareness Week in Congress. Take action today and urge your Congressmen to support MS Awareness Week.
The MS Awareness Week resolution stresses the following important goals of MS Awareness Week: reaffirming our nation's commitment to creating a world free of MS, recognizing people living with MS, and saluting the health care professionals and medical researchers who continue to work toward a world free of MS. The resolution is a true indicator of the collective and bold support for the MS community.
Make sure that your Members of Congress join the MS movement. Take action today and send a letter to your Representative now, asking them to co-sponsor the MS Awareness Week bill.
To keep future MS activism messages out of your junk folder, add the following address to your contacts or safe sender list: MSActionNetwork@nmss.org
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About Me
- Steve
- North Grafton, Massachusetts, United States
- Well-educated, disabled at this point with Multiple Sclerosis. I am very glad that I was able to do the things that I have been able to do over the years. had to change the picture, this one's more realistic.