Press
September 23, 2019 Press Release:
The Southwest Colorado Multiple Sclerosis Society is excited to announce that the nonprofit organization founded in 1985 has re-activated after several years of hibernation. The organization is welcoming new members from across La Plata, Montezuma, Archuleta, Dolores and San Juan Counties.
Anyone living with MS or caregivers of those diagnosed with MS are encouraged to join. Support services include: a monthly community meeting, a weekly exercise group in Durango, financial assistance grants, and scholarships for outdoor and healthy living programs. Individuals may submit requests for financial assistance to pay for travel to specialists, retrofits for their car or home for accessibility, psychotherapy sessions, medical equipment, and outdoor programs. Scholarships cannot cover medications. Scholarships are available to anyone in SW CO with MS, regardless of income.
Apply online at: www.swcmss.org
The Society also offers free one-on-one mentoring for anyone recently diagnosed with MS or previously diagnosed who has relocated to the region. Board members who have MS themselves provide the mentoring over the phone or in person. Mentors can be contacted directly through the website www.swcmss.org. There is no obligation and no strings attached.
Sam Newbury, Board President says, “I was anxious and scared when I found out I had MS. A mutual friend introduced me to Ian who had been living in Durango with MS for many years. It was extremely helpful to speak with him about the process of diagnosis, the resources available locally and regionally, his experience with various providers, different drug therapies, and the lifestyle he has maintained. In the midst of confusion, it was so helpful to talk with a local who knew what I was going through at that moment. I want to provide that same support for other folks with MS in our community.”
The Society especially encourages people in Southwest Colorado, from outside Durango, to get in touch and let them know what support services they need to live a healthy independent life with MS.
Jeannine Pope, previous Board President says, “We just want to help as many people with MS in our region as we can! We want to hear from people outside of Durango about what they need, so please get in touch with us!”
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April 2019
MS Society rebuilding to help patients live active, independent lives
Durango Herald