Update Autumn 2012

1MS Update Autumn 2012

MS UpdateAutumn 2012

Inside this issueSupport Groups 1

CEO’s Column 2

Treasury Budget Submissions Info 3

Keeping Cool Update 3

Mega-Swimathon 4

Client Services Corner 6

Get the Most Out of Life 8

Smoking and MS 11

A support group involves a group of people who come together to share feelings, give and receive emotional and practical support and exchange information in a supportive and informal environment. Most support groups are made up of people with common interests who want to learn more about living well with MS, about MS treatments and about dealing with the emotional effects of MS. Support groups are also helpful in finding ways to enhance their quality of life and learn and discuss strategies for the self management of MS in their lives. The MS Society facilitate and organise the groups and invite guest speakers according to the topics as requested by attendees.

Support groups exist in many shapes and forms. The most frequently occurring group for people with MS in Tasmania is a general get together for the sharing of emotional support, experiences of MS, coping

Support GroupsWhy not consider coming along to a support group?

strategies and education. This is an open ended group where members come and go according to their needs and can join the group at any time. Currently, there are eight such support groups operating monthly, bi-monthly or semi-regularly around Tasmania. This includes groups for partners/carers and groups that are held during evenings to accommodate people who are working or who otherwise can’t attend a support group during the day.

Another type of support group is a working group of people with MS, carers and family members who work towards highlighting issues that affect people with MS and their families. This is an open ended group and people can join at any time. Multiple Steps Forward (MSF) operates from Hobart monthly and has members from the North and North/West of Tasmania who keep in contact via email in regards to current issues affecting people with MS.

If you would like more information about support groups in your area, please visit our website or contact our Hobart office on (03) 6220 1111 or Launceston office on (03) 6343 1240.

2 MS Update Autumn 2012

The time since Christmas has seen to have flown with many activities taking our focus. The most important of these has been the continued focus on quality improvement, including the submission to the Department of Health & Human Services half yearly progress report, the Advocates meeting and MSFest planning and programming. We have also been busy preparing the Keeping Cool submission for the State Budget as well as an additional submission for the State Budget highlighting the need for improved and continued funding for equipment, care packages and the Young People in Residential Aged Care Program. You can read more about these submissions later in the newsletter.

From my perspective participation in the Advocates meeting has been the most important as it gives the MS Society Management Team an opportunity to talk face to face with the Advocates and also to receive up to date plans for 2012 from a National perspective from Robert Pask (the National Advocates coordinator). It was a very good meeting, which happens every quarter. However on the way home myself and Lynsey Smith, Senior Case Manager, called into Brighton BP to fill up the car with petrol. When getting out of the car I noticed that a large huntsman was moving across the bowser and decided to lodge itself where you pick up the nozzle. I advised Lynsey of the situation and I could tell from her reaction that she was not getting out of the car, so it was up to me to ignore the huntsman and fill the car with petrol, which I did. It is interesting that when you decide that you have to do something you can overcome the obstacles that are in front of you. It made me think that many of you on a daily basis are confronted with situations, like this, that you need to overcome and you do.

The next few weeks are full of activities that MS Tas is involved in and hope you all enjoyed and benefited from our recent Wellness Days and also your local Support Group.

Dale Eastley

“From my perspective participation in the Advocates meeting has been the most

important as it gives the MS Society

Management team an opportunity to talk face to face with the

Advocates...”

CEO’s COLUMN

The Role of Advocacy Services in TasmaniaThe Role of Advocacy Services in the Tasmanian Disability Sector information booklet has just been republished. This has been a joint project between Disability and Community Services, Advocacy Services, Gateway Services and the Guardianship and Administration Board.This updated booklet now aligns with the new service system, particularly the Gateway Service, as well as references new policies and procedures and the revised Disability Services Act 2011 which will commence on 1 January 2012.

The intent of the booklet is to ensure that the role of Advocates and the framework under which they operate is understood by the Tasmanian community and the disability sector. It explains the role of different advocacy services and types of advocacy within the Tasmanian context, and provides scenarios of Advocates working with people with disability, their families and carers and service providers to resolve issues.

An electronic copy of the document can be found at www.dhhs.tas.gov/disability, or alternatively phone the MS office on 6220 1111 if you would like a hard copy.

3MS Update Autumn 2012 3

Treasury Budget Submission InfoDepartment of Treasury – MS Society’s Submission for the Community Consultation 2012-2013 State Budget

The MS Society of Tasmania has sent a submission to Treasury and has highlighted some key areas for budgetary considerations. Of particular note (although not limited to) we advocated for increased/sustained funding in these 3 major areas:

1. Individual Support Packages (ISP) Funding ISP’s provide individuals with assistance with daily living, such as help with personal care and other daily tasks when these become increasingly difficult. It is vital that individuals requiring extra support are able to access such packages and therefore potentially prevents hospital admissions and enables the individual to remain living in their home.

2. Aids & Equipment FundingHaving timely access to mobility aids, home modifications and sometimes vehicle modifications, can mean the difference between individuals remaining in their own home or having to enter aged care facilities or other residential arrangements. We called for the recognition of the continuing need for this funding to assist individuals to remain as independent as possible.

3. Young People in Residential Aged Care Program (YPIRAC)We called for an ongoing commitment from the Tasmanian State Government to the funding of the YPIRAC program to continue providing support for existing clients of this program and for increased funding to provide support to those who are currently at risk of entering aged care facilities, as well as those who are already in aged care who required enhanced support or who would like to relocate from aged care facilities.

We consider this to be a great avenue in which to systematically advocate for Tasmanians with MS and it is vital that these areas are continually brought to the attention of our Government and policy makers.

The Keeping Cool Campaign has now reached a critical stage of its progress in trying to convince government to provide the energy concession sought for people with neuromuscular conditions suffering from heat intolerance. The Keeping Cool Alliance has provided a submission to the 2012-2013 Budget Community Consultation round. The submissions received are now to be considered by government. It is very important that we exert as much pressure on all members of parliament to appreciate the merits of this submission which again indicates that the cost to the government is very modest and that it is a concession that is applicable in all other states.

Please contact me if you require any assistance in contacting any members of Parliament on 6220 1111 or by email [email protected].

For a copy of the Treasury Submission please visit our website at www.mstas.org.au/support-services/keeping-cool-campaign/

Keeping Cool Update


HOBART AqUATIC CENTRE

START: 12:00pm Saturday, 5 May 2012

FINISH: 12:00pm Sunday, 6 May 2012

LAUNCESTON AqUATIC

START: 2:00pm Saturday, 16 June 2012

FINISH: 2:00pm Sunday, 17 June 2012

The 24 Hour Mega Swimathon is a fundraising swimming event run by the MS Society of Tasmania. It provides an opportunity for people to get involved with a fun event whilst spreading awareness about multiple sclerosis and raising much needed funds to aid services for people living with MS and contribute towards research for a cure.

After the success of the inaugural

Mega Swims in 2011, we are

again holding this great event!


Teams of up to 15 people swim relay style for the 24 hour swim period. Each team must have only one swimmer in the water at all times for the duration of the event. Teams can consist of all ages and be single or mixed gender.

Whilst this is a fun event which focuses on fundraising, there is an overall winning team, as well as other awards. Points are earned from swimming and fundraising (1 point per 500 meters swum and 1 point for every $10 fundraised).

We want to raise $50,000 in Hobart and $20,000 in Launceston. So create a team from amongst your family, friends, sports team or colleagues and help us to make a splash for people living with MS!

REGISTER ONLINEHOBART: http://hobartmegaswim.gofundraise.com.au

LAUNCESTON: http://launcestonmegaswim.gofundraise.com.au

MORE INFORMATIONwww.mstas.org.au or call us on 6220 1111.

“Create a team from

amongst your family, friends, sports team or colleagues and

help us to make a splash for people living with MS!”


Modelling at Blue Illusion

Shopping Night

Exercise, a tool to manage multiple sclerosisWhile multiple sclerosis (MS) affects everyone differently, regular exercise can assist people living with MS to manage the symptoms as well as maintain or improve function and confidence in activities of daily living. But you don’t have to exercise at a vigorous level to achieve health benefits.

How can exercise benefit me?Depending on your symptoms, regular physical activity can help you in different ways. Exercise can improve balance and this might help you to be more confident when walking along uneven footpaths or going up and down stairs. Being physically active can improve your fitness and as a result reduce your levels of fatigue. This will allow you to do more during your day before you need to sit down and rest. Exercise can help improve your coordination which will allow you to continue to perform day-to-day activities and hobbies. Exercise can help relax and stretch very tight or ‘spastic’ muscles, which can reduce pain and improve function. Exercise doesn’t just provide physical benefits but is also a great way to meet new people, have fun and socialise.

What is Heartmoves?Heart Foundation Heartmoves is a gentle physical activity program suitable for anyone who hasn’t done any exercise in a while. You can exercise at your own pace in a friendly atmosphere.

Heartmoves is open to everyone and is designed to be safe for people with stable long term health conditions such as multiple sclerosis.

Heartmoves is run by accredited exercise professionals specifically trained in managing safe, low to moderate intensity physical activity programs. The Heart Foundation and the MS Society have developed a specific Heartmoves for MS training module to give the Heartmoves leaders specific skills in delivering exercise to individuals with multiple sclerosis.

Is Heartmoves safe for me? Heart Foundation Heartmoves is designed to be safe for people with stable long term health conditions such as multiple sclerosis. Heartmoves leaders will help you complete a pre-exercise screening form and you might need to consult your GP before starting a Heartmoves program.

For more information or to find your nearest Heartmoves class, go to: http://heartmoves.heartfoundation.org.au/ or contact Matthew McDonagh on 6336 5116.

CLIENT SERvICES CORNER

7MS Update Autumn 2012 77

Go for Gold ScholarshipsApplications for the Go for Gold Scholarships are now open! These scholarships provide an opportunity for people living with MS to follow their dreams whether these might be focused upon sport, music, the arts, travel, education or employment.

Applicants may be nominated or apply themselves. The only criteria that apply are:

• The person must be a registered client of MS Tasmania.

• The person must have a confirmed diagnosis of multiple sclerosis

There is no age limit and clients can apply for a scholarship of between $2,000 to $3,000.

To apply clients request an application form by calling the MS Society on 1800 676 721.

Independent Living Centre Based in Launceston, Independent Living Centre (Tas) Inc. (ILC Tas) is a state-wide charitable non-profit community organisation that provides advice and information about assistive technology. Assistive technology is anything that can help you to do a task.

ILC Tas has health professionals who can help you decide what you need, and offer information and advice tailored to your situation.

ILC Tas makes regular visits to Burnie and Devonport, and also comes to Hobart several times a year.

To find out when they are coming to your area, they can be contacted on 1300 885 886.

CLIENT SERvICES CORNER

The Client Services team recently held two Wellness Days – one in Hobart and one in Ulverstone.The day was designed to provide clients with some ideas for living well with MS through guest speakers presenting on topics such as stress management, healthy nutrition, and strategies to help with memory, as well as a series of taster sessions on various activities.

This free day was relaxed and informal and helped clients learn some useful strategies for living well with MS.

Living Well with MS


Get the MOST

out oflife24 April – 29 May 2012

The Get the Most Out of Life program is a fun

and practical way to learn how to overcome daily

challenges and maintain an active and fulfilling life

while living with a chronic health condition.

For more information on the Get the Most Out of Life program visit:

www.dhhs.tas.gov.au/pophealth/chronic_conditionBook today as places

are strictly limited!

lifeWHO IS IT FOR?The program is for people living with a chronic health condition, such as arthritis, diabetes, MS, and chronic kidney disease, as well as people caring for someone with a chronic condition.

WHO RUNS IT?The program is led by two leaders, often living with a chronic condition themselves, who have been trained to deliver the program.

WHAT WILL YOU LEARN?This program will give you the tools to improve your health and get the most out of life! You can learn how to:

• Manage your symptoms (pain, fatigue etc)

• Communicate effectively with your health team

• Improve your general health

• Make daily tasks easier

• Set reachable goals

WHEN IS IT?The program runs for six weeks:

Dates: 24 April – 29 May 2012Time: 10.30am – 1.00pm per session

WHERE IS IT?Get the Most Out of Life program is being held at: MS Society of Tasmania15 Princes StreetSandy Bay TAS

IS THERE A COST?A gold coin donation for tea and coffee.

HOW DO I REGISTER?Call Sharon Wilkinson at MS Tasmania on 6220 1111 or email [email protected].


Teresa WarrenNurse/Case Manager

STARRING StAff Profile

Lives: Midway Point – aka Paradise Point!

Interests: Gardening, looking after the chooks, walking Gus the dog, chilling on the deck in the sun, cooking Indian cuisine and entertaining friends.

Favourite Food: Indian and salads

Favourite Music: All sorts! Blues through to hip hop!

Favourite Movie: Thelma and Louise

Teresa was born in England but immigrated to Australia with her family when she was 6 as her Dad was transferred in his job as a London Bobby to join Tasmania Police.

After finishing school Teresa studied nursing and worked as a nurse for several years. When her children were young she worked in the hospitality industry which gave her a firm love for cooking a good BBQ. Before she commenced her role with the MS Society, she worked at a GP’s surgery and ran clinics at the RHH. Teresa has now been with the MS Society for over 7 years.

Teresa has two lovely children. Her daughter is following in her Mum’s footsteps and is studying to become a nurse. Her son has just finished his electrical apprenticeship and is now planning to take off on a working holiday around Australia.

In the not to distant future Teresa would like to travel far and wide, particularly to Cambodia and Laos, with her partner Nik. In the meantime she enjoys her job working with MS clients and their families.

Medical Students Need Your Help!With fewer beds in the RHH, shorter stays in hospital and increased medical student numbers, finding a patient in hospital who is willing to share their medical history or who is happy to be examined is becoming harder and harder.The Patient Partner Program or P3, popular with medical students in Launceston, is now being introduced to the Hobart School of Medicine to help alleviate this problem.

We believe that every person living with an illness has valuable experience and special knowledge of their condition to share. Combined with knowledge and experience this provides significant learning benefits for our young doctors in training.

We are seeking volunteers with chronic illnesses to partner with our medical students. The teaching sessions are run as a small group class with 3- 4 students who are supervised by a GP tutor, similar in style to a visit to your own GP. During the session the students will take a history, perform an examination and discuss management of your condition with you.

If you are interested in becoming a Patient Partner of would like to find out more about the program please contact the P3 Coordinator Julie Sansom on 6226 2752 or email [email protected].

life


Healthshare is an online social health network for all Australians. MS Australia and respective State Societies have partnered with Healthshare to provide relevant information and support for people living with MS in a safe online environment.

Within the community you can ask questions or start a discussion, share personal experiences and tips, download information sheets and offer and receive support. Healthshare is a free service to all Australian’s 18+ years and is governed by Australian National Privacy Laws.

To join Healthshare’s online MS community simply visit www.healthshare.com.au and register to become a member.

The MS Red Diamond Network is the MS Society of Tasmania’s regular giving program that connects all of our valued supporters, creating a stronger organisation, networking opportunities, information and an opportunity to play a part in our future development and growth.

The MS Red Diamond Network lifts the level of awareness and support for those living with MS in Tasmania. Members provide a small, regular contribution that ensures we can continue to provide much needed support to Tasmanians living with MS.

$20 a month can make a huge difference to how the MS Society can support tasmanians living with MS.

Full Membership is only $20 per month

Members receive:

• A special “Red Diamond” pack upon registration

• Quarterly newsletters

• Regular updates and e-news on our activities

• Exclusive offers and discounts for our events and activities.

Please show your support of Tasmanians living with MS by joining the network that makes a real difference.

For more information or to become a Red Diamond Member call us on 6220 1111 or email [email protected]


There is significant evidence that smoking increases the risk of developing MS and that it also affects the rate at which MS progresses.

Over the past decade, a number of studies on the association between smoking and MS have been conducted worldwide in countries where MS is prevalent, including Norway, Sweden, the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia. Here in Tasmania, the Menzies Research Institute conducted a study from 2002 to 2004 to examine the association between smoking and MS. This particular study concluded that, “smoking was associated with worsening clinical measures of disease progression.” (Pittas et al 2009).

The results of all these studies are clear – compared with a non-smoker:• A person who smokes is more likely to develop MS.

• A smoker runs a greater risk of developing primary progressive MS rather than relapsing-remitting.

• A smoker runs an increased risk of progressing from relapsing-remitting MS to a secondary progressive form.

• A smoker can have more rapid progression of their symptoms, with more clinical relapses, a more rapid progression of disability, and the development of more new lesions that are visible on MRI scans.

In his very recent research paper on this subject, Dean M Wingerchuk (2012) concludes that ”the available evidence supports cigarette smoking as an independent risk factor for MS susceptibility and associates smoking with a greater chance of developing progressive disease and accruing more rapid disability.”

If you would like to give up smoking, speak to your GP or contact quit Tasmania on 137 848 for information, advice and support, or to order a free quit Pack.

SMOKING and MS

The research papers referred to in this article are available for download from the news section on our website: www.mstas.org.au. If you can’t access these articles please contact us on 6220 1111 and we can send you a copy/s.

“the available evidence supports cigarette

smoking as an independent risk

factor for MS susceptibility...”

Main North & North-West Support GroupsEnquiries: 6343 1240

Launceston Support GroupMeets the 2nd Thursday each month at the Branch Community Centre next door to the MS Society Office (opposite the bowling alley). 18/2 Innocent Street, Kings Meadows Time: 11am to 1pm

Ulverstone Support GroupMeets the 4th Wednesday each month at the Ulverstone Surf Life Saving Club, Beach Road, Ulverstone (Lift access is available) Time: 11am to 2pm

Circular Head Support GroupMeets the 1st Monday of each month at Circular Head Rural Health Services Inc 68 Emmett Street, Smithton Time: 7.30pm Contact Jenny on 6452 1594

Southern Support GroupsEnquiries: 6220 1111

Eastern Shore Support GroupMeets the 2nd Friday each month at Bellerive Yacht Club (entrance to function room off lower car park). Time: 10.30 am to 12 noon

Glenorchy Support GroupMeets the last Friday bi-monthly at Glenorchy Community Health Centre, Meeting Room 3 – 1st Floor, Terry Street, Glenorchy. Time: 10.30am – 12 noon

Note: Some days might change due to public holidays (please check your calendar).

Follow us online

FACEBOOKSearch for The MS Society of Tasmania to find our page

TWITTERhttp://twitter.com/MSTASMANIA

YouTube www.youtube.com/mstasmania1

Head OfficeHobart 15 Princes StreetSandy Bay TAS 7005Tel: 03 6220 1111

Northern Regional Office18/2 Innocent StreetKings Meadows TAS 7250Tel: 03 6343 1240

Freecall Statewide1800 676 721

www.mstas.org.au

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Update Autumn 2012