MS Strength

I recently received this email about a website that connects MS patients with technology solutions to better adapt to daily living. Check it out:

Hello Jen,

My name is Ellen Kampel – I work for Microsoft and am a person living with multiple sclerosis (MS). I am reaching out to you on behalf of a great program in which I’m involved: The MS Technology Collaborative. The Collaborative is a partnership between the National MS Society, Microsoft and Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals, dedicated to connecting people living with MS to technologies that can help them overcome MS-related challenges and live better.

The goal of the Collaborative is to provide technology solutions for people living with MS, many of which are affordable or free. Our Web site, www.MyMSMyWay.com, offers an online interactive tool called “Snapshot” that prompts users to answer a series of questions, after which they receive a customized report with technology solutions specific to each person and his or her particular challenges. We also offer technology tips submitted by members of the MS community, a monthly column that I write with a leading accessible technology expert, and information on the types of technology available.

Lastly, I wanted to share with you a bit of a preview about our newest and most exciting initiative – we’re in the process of building a free online game that addresses the cognitive challenges of people living with MS. The game will provide cognitive exercises that target some of the main cognitive challenges faced by the MS community. It’s being developed in consultation with individuals living with MS as well as medical experts who specialize in researching and treating this condition.

With so many people finding strength and courage through your blog, I thought that both you and your readers might be interested in the resources available at MyMSMyWay.com.

I’d also like to invite you to be one of the first to preview our game this spring. Do you think that you’d be interested in reviewing the game prior to its official launch and providing your feedback? If so, please let me know. I’d love to have you involved in our efforts.

Thanks for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Best,
Ellen Kampel

I’m usually not one for religious music (this song is considered part of the Christian Rock genre), but I believe it has a message that transcends ideologies:

I recently received this email about a new Facebook application that helps readers find MS walking and biking events. It is for current Facebook users, although starting an account is very simple. Fellow MS bloggers as well as MS communities can be found on Facebook.

Jen –

My name is Brian Reid and – in the interest of full disclosure – I work with Serono on their MS LifeLines program. Last week, they launched a Facebook application that is designed to help people find National Multiple Sclerosis Society-sponsored walks and bike rides and connect with others who are also participating. There’s no commercial subtext here – the intent is to raise awareness.

The application is online here: http://apps.facebook.com/mschampions.

I know that you’re already involved in an event, and we want to make it as easy as possible for everyone who participates (or who wants to participate) to plug into the community, so anything you can do to share with your readers would be appreciated.

Thanks for the great blogging,

Brian Reid

Media Director | WeissComm Partners

P 703.402.3626 | Skype brianreid

“Healthcare Agency of the Year”

www.wcpglobal.com