You’ll Do What??

So there I am, sitting at the quarterly Board of Trustees meeting for the Allegheny Chapter of the National M.S. Society.  The Erie Chapter is part of the Allegheny umbrella and several of us from Erie (me being the newbie) were able to welcome the Board to our lovely shores for their July meeting.

I was unusually quiet, being the newbie, primarily just listening and taking in lots of information and conversation.  My jaw hit the floor a couple of times as references were made to the myriad of services that NMSS will help provide to patients.  I just didn’t know.  I grabbed a former colleague (not literally) who is also part of the Erie Advisory Board while we were in the ladies room together.  I belted out my surprise at all the NMSS will provide.  If I didn’t know (and I’m a new volunteer on their advisory committee for Pete’s sake) maybe you don’t know either.  Here’s how the NMSS can help! (This information references my chapter, but I’m guessing if you’re not in my region, yours will likely offer similar services).

Home & Vehicle Adaptations	The Allegheny District Chapter provides financial assistance for physician prescribed adaptations to the home and car to maximize independence.  For details about the program, contact the NMSS.  (i.e. if you need handrails installed in your bathtub or shower or your bathroom door widened to allow wheelchair access, or perhaps even an air conditioner)!
Medical Equipment	The Allegheny District Chapter provides financial assistance for the purchase of physician prescribed durable medical equipment for persons un-insured or under-insured. An equipment Loan Closet program is also available to Chapter members.  For details about the programs(s), contact the NMSS or visit Pittsburgh Wheelchair Exchange or Able Mobility to view a list of available loaner equipment.
R.E.A.C.H.	R.E.A.C.H. is a grant-funded program that addresses the issue of abuse of people with MS through education, advocacy, support, safety planning and referrals in an effort to increase, maintain or restore safety and independence for people with MS. Learn More
Respite Care	The Allegheny District Chapter provides assistance in arranging and financing temporary respite care for family care partners to give them a break from their care giving responsibilities. Respite can be provided in-home or in a long-term care facility.  For details about the program, contact the NMSS
Scholarships	Scholarships are available to high school seniors who have been diagnosed with MS, high school seniors who have a parent with MS, or an adult with MS who has never enrolled in an accredited post-secondary institution.  Visit our Scholarship page or e mail Colleen for more information.