8 July 2021
Hi everyone,
I hope you are enjoying the better weather than what we have been experiencing. ‘News from your Community Advisor’ will be sent out regularly to share MS news and information with you alongside other information that is sent out at times. Enjoy this first edition;
Covid Vaccine
We are working with the 3DHB disability team to ensure as many people with MS as possible will receive an invitation as soon as possible for a covid 19 vaccination. These invitations will happen as group the 3 roll out continues. To cover all bases we would like to be able to share your basic information with the 3DHB team (your name, DOB, NHI, Address, Email and phone number). If you would prefer that we DO NOT share this information please advise me by responding to this email by Monday 12 July.
We may not have an update to date cell phone for you so feel free to let me know the best cell phone number for our records.
You may end up receiving several invitations to receive the vaccine but we would prefer that happens rather than someone missing out 
.
Local News – MS Society AGM
Just letting you know that the Annual General Meeting is on Saturday 24th July at 10.30am. It will be a great opportunity to hear what MSW have been doing in the last year, and also meet the Committee of MS Wellington. It will be held at the River of Life Centre in Upper Hutt. Everyone is welcome.
Support Groups
We have support groups in different areas across Wellington. If you want to check out a support group, you can find more information here;
Support Groups – Wellington Multiple Sclerosis Society Inc. (mswellington.org.nz)
Please contact me if you are thinking of coming to a group so we can chat through your needs.
Covid 19 Vaccination Programme Update
You will find information on the Wellington rollout of the Covid 19 vaccine here;
Greater Wellington COVID-19 vaccination pānui – 6 July (mailchi.mp)
MS Yoga Classes
Finding an exercise that you enjoy and can do regularly is an important way to manage your MS symptoms. Regular exercise can slow the progression of disability by expanding your physical and cognitive reserve.
Yoga classes for term 3 start back on Tuesday 27th July and Thursday 29th July. Both classes are online, so you can join them from the comfort of your own home.
Please contact our MS yoga teacher Diane if you are interested in trying a class or finding out more information. Her contact details are dianejcm@gmail.com or text 027 421 0775
Term 3 yoga classes:
Tuesdays 12pm – 1pm
Thursdays 10am -11am
Spotlight
Community Centres in your local areas are fabulous resources. I would like to highlight the Johnsonville Community Centre. One of the classes they hold are ‘Steady as you go ‘classes which are designed to help with balance and co-ordination. Here is a link to all their regular activities;
Regular Activities | Johnsonville Community (johnsonvillecommunitycentre.org.nz)
Diet & Nutrition videos
MSNZ have added a series of videos to their website; the first is on the Wahls Protocol with Dr Terry Wahls and the second is on the Overcoming MS Programme with Dr Jonathan White. The videos can be found here: Diet and Nutrition | Multiple Sclerosis Society of NZMultiple Sclerosis Society of NZ (msnz.org.nz)
Recording of ‘MS Progressive treatment and Research’ by the Progressive MS Alliance
Learn about the latest advances in progressive MS research and treatment during this 30-minute International Progressive MS Alliance webcast. An international panel of MS experts will answer questions submitted by people affected by MS from throughout the world.
From symptom management and well-being to the development of treatments that can slow progression and rebuild myelin, this webcast will provide information to help improve quality of life and keep you informed.
Watch the webinar recording here: Answers to your Questions: Progressive MS Treatment and Research – YouTube
Emilyn App
Emilyn is currently the number 1 multiple sclerosis app on Google Play store.
It will help you track your symptoms, read up to date articles about MS, set reminders, prepare for your appointments, chat 1-1 with others with MS, and securely store your health records. The app is free and was designed in partnership with 1500 people with MS. Search for Emilyn on Google play store or the Apple App store.
Let me know if you find this information helpful. Feel free to be in touch with me at any time if you have any questions or would like to discuss your needs.
Kind regards
Gillian Fry
Manager & Lead Community Advisor