The National Multiple Sclerosis Association is an American non-profit organization. Not only does the National MS Association wish to enrich the lives of people directly affected by MS, but it also wants to promote awareness of the disease. There are numerous obstacles a person with MS faces daily. The more people learn about MS, the easier it is to be mindful of just how difficult life for a person with MS can be. The MSAA supports the promotion of information on MS through the use of literature and videos; free of charge.
One great thing about MSAA is that there are multiple chapters across the nation, making it much easier for people to obtain assistive equipment, gather educational materials to pass on to others, and join support groups nearby. Founded in 1970, the MSAA has been assisting not only people with MS, but also their family members, caregivers, and friends. Due to the non-profit aspect of this organization, the MSAA relies heavily on volunteers and donations. The donations can be made in the form of monetary means, but any well-kept assistive equipment is also greatly appreciated. The funds are used to run programs and activities to enrich the lives of MS patients across the nation, while any equipment is loaned out to individuals who need assistance retaining as much independence as possible.
The MS Association of America desires to get rid of any physical barriers people with MS are facing, so as to help them remain mobile and in their own homes as long as possible. The need to get rid of any emotional and social barriers about MS is also a goal of the MSAA. Community activities, fundraisers, and educational programs are provided by MSAA chapters in each state to promote awareness about this disease.
Programs and Services of MSAA
An assortment of programs and services offered through MSAA cover a wide range of needs. People with MS aren’t the only ones who can benefit from what the MSAA has to offer. Caregivers, friends, and family members can also find use for many of these helpful programs and services.
The MSAA provides encouragement and support through counseling for those seeking someone to talk to about how MS is affecting their lives. There are plenty of people to talk to who know exactly what MS can do and how it unexpectedly changes a person’s life. MRIs and other diagnostic or treatment needs can be filled through MSAA, thanks to the funding provided by outside sources.
Making people aware of what MS is, how it can limit mobility, how it affects the lives of those around an individual with MS, and ways to address mobility issues are also services the National Multiple Sclerosis Association offers. The National MS Association strives to do anything in its power to make an MS patient’s life easier and more enjoyable.
