March is Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month

The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA) is pleased to recognize March as MS Awareness Month. During the month of March, MSAA will be highlighting various programs designed to expand knowledge, understanding, and support of individuals whose lives are affected by multiple sclerosis (MS).

Such program offerings include:

• Joining the 50,000 individuals who have already viewed one of MSAA’s educational videos or webinars in the MSi Video Library.
• Taking charge of MS with My MS Manager ™, MSAA’s mobile phone application.
• Navigating through the ever-changing landscape of MS treatments with MSAA’s S.E.A.R.C.H.™ program.
• Attending one of MSAA’s educational events! Check the calendar of events to see what is scheduled for your area.
• Want to help the MS community? Volunteer with MSAA! MSAA is recruiting participants to be a part of MSAA’s signature summer event, the Swim for MS Pool Party . From Memorial Weekend through Labor Day, an individual can select a date to host a pool party and raise awareness of MS. Register today by emailing: msaapoolparty@mymsaa.org or visit www.mymsaa.org/swimforms
• Become a part of MSAA’s online community. Sign up to receive periodic email updates, become a fan of MSAA on Facebook, and follow MSAA on Twitter.

For more information on MS Awareness Month, MSAA, or any of the programs and services MSAA provides, please contact Amanda Bednar, public relations manager at (800) 532-7667, extension 122 or via email at abednar@mymsaa.org

The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA) is a national, nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the quality of life for everyone affected by multiple sclerosis. MSAA provides vital programs and services, such as: a toll-free Helpline; informative publications including a magazine, The Motivator; website featuring educational videos and research updates; S.E.A.R.C.H.™ program to assist the MS community with learning about different treatment choices; equipment distribution ranging from grab bars to wheelchairs; cooling accessories for heat-sensitive individuals; a mobile phone app, My MS Manager™ educational events and activities; MRI funding and insurance advocacy; and more. For additional information, please visit www.mymsaa.org or call (800) 532-7667.

The most common neurological disorder diagnosed in young adults, multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system. This disorder damages or destroys the protective covering (known as myelin) surrounding the nerves, causing reduced communication between the brain and nerve pathways. Common symptoms include visual problems, overwhelming fatigue, difficulty with balance and coordination, and various levels of impaired mobility. MS is not contagious or fatal.