Home - National Multiple Sclerosis Society

Skip to navigation Skip to content
National MS Society
National MS Society

Newsletter
August 2009

MS Survey

Tell us what is needed most to keep moving toward a world free of multiple sclerosis

Personal Stories

Connect with others whose lives are affected by MS, like Cyclist and Life Coach, Maureen Manley.

read her story
and many others

MS Fact

Symptoms may be mild, such as numbness in the limbs, or severe, such as paralysis or loss of vision.

more facts

In the News

Sponsor Reports Positive Results of Clinical Trial of Zenvia™ for Pseudobulbar Affect (Uncontrollable Laughing and/or Crying)

more news

Miles Walked

Society Magazine

Society Magazine

View Momentum

Find us on Facebook

Twitter    Youtube   Myspace

Donate Now

MS Research Update: Challenges and Opportunities

by John R. Richert, MD

People are always asking 'What's going on in MS research?' But lately, many individuals are also adding, 'What challenges are we facing in the current economic environment?' As a response, I believe a quick update on the Society's research program — where we are now and what is required to maintain critical discovery — will not only address this question, but also let each of us know what we can do to help.

There has never been a more amazing time in MS research than now. Progress is being made at a remarkable rate, and the National MS Society's 62-year-involvement has driven much of this progress, including the six approved disease-modifying drugs and new therapeutic approaches making their way through the development process.

And even in these challenging economic times, we're continuing to propel research forward. This year alone, we're providing over $33.5 million to support 345 new and ongoing projects in our core research portfolio, plus $1.5 million for Fast Forward, our drug development subsidiary which continues to attract its own new funding streams. In addition, thanks to the efforts of our MS activists, an additional $5 million has been specifically set aside for funding MS research out of the 2009 Department of Defense budget.

At the Society, we have three clear research goals — STOP MS, REVERSE THE DAMAGE AND END MS FOREVER.
Learn more about these goals and some exciting projects making headway in this three-pronged approach >>

On the Road

Many factors come into play when driving with MS. The fall issue of Momentum explores safe driving, driving with low vision, accessible driving products and how to keep moving when adaptations can't do the job. Read it online now >>

Volunteer of the Year

Kevin O'Sullivan has been making an impact in the lives of people with MS for over 23 years. Throughout his life, he has combined his talents for leadership, fundraising and visionary planning with his enthusiasm and sensitivity for others in volunteer activities.
Learn more about Kevin >>

An Incredible Pledge to Participate in MS Events in all 50 States by 2020

Sheri Paulson leads a very full life, with strong focus on her mission to spread her message — live life to its fullest and be an active supporter of the MS community. But life isn’t always so seamless, and Sheri has had — and continues — to overcome many challenges.
Read more about Sheri >>

2008 Annual Report

See the National MS Society's 2008 report — and the stories of some remarkable people who helped us move others last year.
See how the Society moved people in 2008 >>



This communication is partially sponsored through the generous support of Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation; Teva Pharmaceuticals, Inc.; Genentech and Biogen Idec.


Novartis Teva
Bike MS
Walk MS
Society Store


MS stops people from moving. The National MS Society exists to make sure it doesn’t.
We are a collective of passionate individuals, moving together to create a world free of MS.
JOIN THE MOVEMENT

Please do not reply to this email as we are unable to quickly respond to messages sent to this address. To receive information about living with MS, Bike MS or Walk MS — or to contact National MS Society staff in your area — please visit our Web site.

Early and ongoing treatment with an FDA-approved therapy can make a difference for people with multiple sclerosis. Learn about your options by talking to your health care professional and contacting the National MS Society at http://www.nationalmssociety.org/ or 1-800-344-4867.

National Multiple Sclerosis Society | 733 Third Avenue | New York, NY | 10017

This message was sent to .
To ensure that you continue to receive our emails, please add us to your address book.