There are several Centers for Multiple Sclerosis across Southwest Florida. The day typically starts with exercise and a support group meeting. In the afternoon lunch is served followed by an art class. The local community centers provide opportunities to socialize and learn from others with multiple sclerosis.
RSVP is required, see our calendar. Services and activities are for registered clients of the Centers for Multiple Sclerosis. If you are a new client, call 239-319-0904 to learn more about us and register to become a part of our growing MS community.
Fort Myer’s native, Heather Roka, completed her 21.5-mile swim in frigid waters across the North Channel and survived a serious Lion’s Mane Jellyfish sting this weekend.
Roka has chosen the Centers for Multiple Sclerosis as the beneficiary of her fundraising efforts accomplished through the swim event.
To read more about Roka’s accomplishments and her connection to the Center, go to this page.
Donation Improves Mobility for a Client
Donor Marni W. donates a wheelchair van to Centers for Multiple Sclerosis client Josh Zuri and wife Charlene.
Charlene Zuri said “This is such a blessing. It’s been so hard to transfer Josh to our regular car. This will help us so much.”
Left to Right: Tim Moran, Ann Oswald, Marni W, Josh Zuri, Charlene Zuri, Kay Jasso, and Judi LePree.
The Centers for Multiple Sclerosis provide valuable resources to individuals, and their families, who are affected by multiple sclerosis. You must be a registered client to participate in classes. Contact clientinfo@centers4ms.org if you are unsure of your registration status.
The center’s goals are to reduce isolation, improve mobility,
and provide resources and solutions.
Clients of the Centers for Multiple Sclerosis can take advantage of the center’s social interaction and wellness programs. Services include case management, connection to resources, MS-focused exercise classes, art therapy, mental health support and coaching, educational activities, and more.
%
Percent Women
Served Last Year
%
Over age 60
Centers for Multiple Sclerosis’ service area includes an estimated 5,000 people living with multiple sclerosis, along with their affected family and friends.
In 2015, the organization had served 52 people with MS.
The Centers now provide free services, information and support to over 500 people annually.
“When you walk in the door, there is a positive energy, comradery, and peace. It is amazing to meet other people with MS in a positive atmosphere and be able to give back,” says Lynne S, client of Centers for Multiple Sclerosis.
Linda and Ken Sumner,
Art Therapy Program Annual Sponsors
“It’s so important for people to have a place to go, so they’re not isolated or overwhelmed. The Centers are critical for people who may not have access to help any other way….” Linda Sumner.
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, autoimmune disease that attacks the central nervous system (CNS). The disease causes inflammation that damages myelin — the substance that covers and insulates the nerve fibers. When myelin or nerve fibers are damaged or destroyed messages within the CNS are altered or stopped completely. As a result, the patient can suffer from a wide range of symptoms depending on where the damage (or scarring) occurs in the body. Symptoms can range from optic neuritis to the loss of the ability to walk. Severity can also vary widely from person to person.
The disease affects women 3 times more often than men. Most people are diagnosed between ages 20 and 50. An estimated 5000 people are living with MS in Southwest Florida. Over the last 5 years, the Center has attracted an average of 45 new clients each year.
About
Centers for Multiple Sclerosis
Centers for Multiple Sclerosis is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that has served the community since 2000. Its mission is to provide comprehensive care for the mind, body, and spirit of those affected by multiple sclerosis in Southwest Florida.
Centers for Multiple Sclerosis is not a chapter of a national organization.
REGISTRATION #CH-12523. A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352) www.FloridaConsumerHelp.com
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