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National Multiple Sclerosis Society, National Capital Chapter
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If you have questions about MS, we have information on-hand that may address your concerns.

We offer the following resources:


Newsletters and Magazines

MS Connection, the Chapter Services newsletter, is mailed to members of the Chapter, to the medical and social services community and to other interested individuals. It has information about Chapter activities and local resources, as well as a synopsis of the most current MS research. It is published four times a year. 

  • MS Connection Chapter Newsletter
    (current issue and subscription information)
  • Inside MS is a magazine that comes to you from the National MS Society office in New York. Articles are also available online.

    Teen Inside MS Online is a quarterly online magazine written by and for teens.

    Keep S'myelin is a newsletter designed specifically for kids and teens who have a parent or relative with MS. Print and interactive editions are also available online.

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    Publications

    The Chapter has books, videos, and tapes you may borrow from our library for three weeks at a time. The Chapter also has booklets, information sheets and articles that we can send you. For more information on any of the publications listed below or to receive a copy, please call the Chapter Programs and Services department at (202) 296-9891

    Information is available in the following categories:

    General Information

    Choosing the Right Health-Care Provider
    Outlines some steps people with MS should take when choosing a healthcare provider—and explains how professionals come to be listed on chapter referral lists. 6-panel brochure.

    The History of Multiple Sclerosis
    by Loren Rolak, MD
    Overview of MS from the Middle Ages to the present; highlights role of the Society since 1946. 13-page fact sheet.

    InsideMS
    Award-winning quarterly magazine on living well with MS. Benefit of membership in the Society.

    Just the Facts 2004-2005
    Overview on multiple sclerosis and what the National MS Society does about it. 24-page brochure.

    Research Directions in Multiple Sclerosis
    by Stephen C. Reingold, PhD
    Explains current research in key areas of immunology, genetics, virology, myelin repair and more for non-scientists. Illustrations. 20-page booklet.

    What Everyone Should Know About Multiple Sclerosis
    Overview of MS suitable for the whole family. Illustrations. 16-page booklet.

    What Is Multiple Sclerosis?
    Symptoms, disease patterns, diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, and research efforts briefly described. 8-panel brochure.

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    Newly Diagnosed Information

    The Disease-Modifying Drugs
    Information on the disease-modifying drugs (Avonex, Betaseron, Copaxone, Rebif, Novantrone, and Tysabri). Includes how each is taken, side-effects, benefits, and the assistance offered by drug companies to alleviate financial difficulties. 16-page brochure.

    Diagnosis: The Basic Facts
    Explains usual steps and tests. Includes information on how to prepare for an MRI. 6-page fact sheet.

    Disclosure: The Basic Facts
    When, how, and whom to tell in personal and work situations. 6-page fact sheet.

    Genetics: The Basic Facts
    Basic facts about MS and heredity. 5-page fact sheet.

    Living with MS
    Debra Frankel, MS, OTR, with Hettie Jones
    Answers to the questions most often asked when the diagnosis is MS. Illustrations. 24-page booklet.

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    On Employment Issues

    ADA and People with MS
    by Laura Cooper, Esq., and Nancy Law, LSW, with Jane Sarnoff
    What the Americans with Disabilities Act means in employment, public accommodations, and more. 28-page booklet.

    Information for Employers
    A brochure for people to give to their employers if they decide to disclose their MS. 4-panel brochure.

    A Place in the Workforce
    A reprint from InsideMS. On employment strategies and options. Photos. 20 pages. Large format reprint.

    Should I Work? Information for Employees
    A general overview of the employment issues that might concern people newly diagnosed with MS. 8-page brochure.

    The Win-Win Approach to Reasonable Accommodations: Enhancing Productivity on Your Job
    by Richard T. Roessler, PhD, and Phillip Rumrill, PhD
    A practical guide to obtaining workplace accommodations. 20-page booklet.

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    On Staying Well

    Acupuncture and MS: The Basic Facts
    by Allen Bowling, MD, PhD and Thomas Stewart, JD, PA-C
    An exploration of what is known and not known about this complementary therapy.

    Clear Thinking about Alternative Therapies
    by Virginia Foster
    Facts and common misconceptions, plus practical ways to evaluate benefits and risks. 32-page booklet.

    Exercise as Part of Everyday Life
    by Mary Harmon
    People with MS can find ways to make physical activity a regular part of staying healthy. Includes tips on handling MS symptoms. Photos. 28-page booklet.

    Food for Thought: MS and Nutrition
    by Denise M. Nowack, RD, with Jane Sarnoff
    A guide to healthy eating, which includes managing symptoms, changing eating habits, and the effects of diet on MS. Illustrations. 32-page booklet.

    Managing MS Through Rehabilitation
    by Lisa J. Bain and Randall T. Schapiro, MD
    What rehabilitation can do for mobility, fatigue, driving, speech, memory, bowel or bladder problems, sexuality, and more. Illustrations. 24-page booklet.

    Multiple Sclerosis and Your Emotions
    by Mary Eve Sanford, PhD, and Jack H. Petajan, MD
    How to handle some of the emotional challenges created by MS. Photos. 36-page booklet.

    Preventive Care Recommendations for Adults with MS: The Basic Facts
    A colorful chart detailing the medical tests, vaccinations, and general health and safety rules recommended for all adults with MS. 8-page fact sheet.

    Stretching for People with MS
    by Beth E. Gibson, PT
    An illustrated manual showing range of motion, stretching, and balance exercises for a basic at-home program. 24-page large format booklet.

    Stretching with a Helper for People with MS
    by Beth E. Gibson, PT
    An illustrated manual showing most of the same exercises for individuals who need a helper. 28-page large format booklet.

    Taming Stress in Multiple Sclerosis
    by Frederick Foley, PhD, and Jane Sarnoff
    Guide to simplifying daily life. Instructions on muscle relaxation, deep breathing, visualization, and more. 36-page booklet.

    Vitamins, Minerals, and Herbs in MS: An Introduction
    by Allen Bowling, PhD, MD, and Thomas Stewart, JD, PA-C
    A practical guide to diet supplements for people with MS. Outlines what is and is not known, with references for further study. Illustrations. 32-page booklet.

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    On Managing Specific Issues

    Bowel Problems: The Basic Facts
    Ways to manage common bowel problems in MS. Illustrations. 9-page fact sheet.

    “But You Look So Good!”
    Coping with invisible MS symptoms. 12-page brochure.

    Controlling Bladder Problems in Multiple Sclerosis
    by Nancy J. Holland, RN, EdD
    Managing common MS bladder problems with self-help and medications. Illustrations. 20-page booklet.

    Controlling Spasticity in MS
    Managing this common, sometimes disabling, MS symptom—roles of self-help, medications, physical therapists, nurses, and physicians. 20-page booklet.

    Depression and Multiple Sclerosis
    Discusses the symptoms of depression, the relationship between MS and depression, available therapies, and where to find help. Illustrations. 12-page brochure.

    Fatigue: What You Should Know
    MS fatigue can be reduced with treatments and self-help. Photographs. 28-page large format booklet.

    Gait or Walking Problems: The Basic Facts
    Walking problems and how they can be addressed. 7-page fact sheet.

    Hormones: The Basic Facts
    The most frequently asked questions about MS and hormones. 4-page fact sheet.

    MS and Intimacy
    by Tanya Radford
    MS can affect sexuality, both directly and indirectly, but problems can be resolved or minimized. 32-page booklet.

    MS and the Mind
    A reprint from InsideMS. Covers depression, cognitive functions, mood swings, coping tips and medications. Illustrations. 24-page large format reprint.

    MS and Pregnancy
    Reprint from InsideMS. Covers pregnancy, delivery, nursing, hormones, and questions about the disease-modifying drugs. Photos. 16-page large format.

    Pain: The Basic Facts
    Overview of treatments and strategies for managing MS-related pain. 8-page fact sheet.

    Review of Regular Medications and Supplements
    A form to keep track of prescription drugs, over-the-counter remedies, herbals, vitamins, or other dietary supplements. 3-page form.

    Sleep Disorders and MS: The Basic Facts
    Reviews common sleep problems and what can be done about them. 4-page fact sheet.

    Solving Cognitive Problems
    by Nick LaRocca, PhD, with Martha King
    Discusses mental functions most likely to be affected by MS. Self-help and information on cognitive rehabilitation. 24-page booklet.

    Speech and Swallowing:
    The Basic Facts
    Speech and swallowing problems can be helped with exercises, medications, or technological aids. 4-page fact sheet.

    Tremor: The Basic Facts
    A troubling MS symptom described. Coping strategies and research horizons. 6-page fact sheet.

    Urinary Dysfunction and MS
    by Rosalind C. Kalb, PhD
    A sophisticated explanation of treatments for MS-related urinary problems. Detailed descriptions of diagnostic testing, management strategies, and commonly prescribed drugs. Photos. 24-page large format booklet.

    Vision Problems: Basic Facts
    Current therapy for MS-related eye disorders. Discusses low-vision aids. 7-page fact sheet.

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    On Managing Major Changes

    At Home with MS: Adapting Your Environment
    by Jane E. Harmon, OTR
    Modify a house or apartment to save energy, compensate for reduced vision or mobility, and live comfortably when MS is severe. Many do-it-yourself changes. Illustrated with children’s “Design for Living” projects. 32-page booklet.

    A Guide for Caregivers
    by Tanya Radford
    Practical issues faced by caregivers. Includes resource list. Photos. 36-page booklet.

    Hiring Help at Home: The Basic Facts
    Checklists and worksheets for people who need help at home. Forms for a needs assessment, job description, and employment contract. 12-page fact sheet.

    Managing Progressive MS
    by Kaye Hooper, RN, MPH, MSCN
    An overview of symptom management, coping strategies when progressive MS makes the road rougher. Photos. 48-page booklet.

    PLAINTALK: A Booklet About MS for Families
    by Sarah Minden, MD, and Debra Frankel, MS, OTR
    Discusses some of the more difficult physical and emotional problems many families face. 32-page booklet.

    So You Have Progressive MS?
    by Sharon M. Brown
    A veteran of 11 years writes frankly about life, family, work, dating, and pursuing your dreams when the diagnosis is “progressive” MS. Cartoons. 28-page booklet.

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    For Children & Teenagers

    Keep S’myelin
    Full color newsletter for children, 5-12. Articles, interviews, games, activities, and a special pullout section for parents. Published 4 times a year. Available online at
    www.nationalmssociety.org/Keep S'myelin.asp

    When a Parent Has MS: A Teenager's Guide
    by Diane O’Connell with the Programs Staff of the National MS Society
    For older children and teenagers who have a parent with MS. Discusses real issues brought up by real teenagers. Photos. 28-page booklet.

    Teen InsideMS Online
    Quarterly online magazine written by and for teens. Available online at
    www.nationalmssociety.org/Teen InsideMS.asp

    Someone You Know Has MS: A Book for Families
    adapted by Martha King from original material by Cyrisse Jaffee, Debra Frankel, Barbara LaRoche, and Patricia Dick
    For children, 5-12. A story about Michael and his family explains MS and explores children’s fears and concerns. Cartoons. 32-page booklet.

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    Información en español

    Comparación de los medicamentos modificadores de la enfermedad
    Resumen de las medicinas Avonex, Betaseron, Copaxone, Rebif y Novantrone. Incluye: el método de introducción; efectos secondarios comúnes; los beneficios; y explica la ayuda ofreció por compañías de droga para aliviar dificultades financieras causadas por el costo alto de los medicamentos modificadores de la enfermedad. 20 páginas. Folleto.

    Controlando los Problemas de la Vejiga en la Esclerosis Múltiple
    por Nancy J. Holland, RN, EdD
    Los problemas de la vejiga explicados; procedimiento para mantenerla en buen funcionamiento. Ilustraciónes. 20 páginas. Folleto.

    Debo Trabajar? Información para Empleados
    Una exposición general sobre las preocupaciones con el empleo que pueden tener las personas recientemente diagnosticadas con MS. 8 páginas. Folleto.

    Diagnóstico: Hechos Básicos sobre Esclerosis Múltiple
    Explica los procedimientos y examenes usuales. Incluye como prepararse para un MRI. 8 páginas. Literatura.

    Ejercicios Prácticos de Estiramiento para las Personas con Esclerosis Múltiple
    por Beth E. Gibson, PT; Revisión/interpretación: Hector E. Mendez, LCSW
    Un Manual Illustrado demonstrando movimiento manual, estirar, y el equilibrio ejercitan para un programa básico en el hogar. 28 páginas. Folleto.

    Ejercicios Prácticos de Estiramiento con un Ayudante para las Personas con Esclerosis Múltiple
    por Beth E. Gibson, PT; Revisión/interpretación: Hector E. Mendez, LCSW
    Un Manual Illustrado demonstrando de los mismos ejercicios para los individuos que necesitan a un ayudante para mover. 32 páginas. Folleto.

    La Fatiga: Lo Que Usted Debe Saber
    Aunque la fatiga de EM no se entienda completamente, se puede manejar. Las opciones del tratamiento y la ayuda del ser. 32 páginas. Folleto.

    Información para Empleadores
    Para dar a empleadores cuando esten preparados a divulgar su esclerosis múltiple. 6 páginas. Folleto.

    Lo Que Todo el Mundo Debe Saber Sobre la Esclerosis Múltiple *
    Resumen de la esclerosis múltiple, adecuado para toda la familia. Ilustraciónes. 16 páginas. Folleto.

    “¡Pero si te ves tan bien!”
    Algunas maneras de manejar los síntomas “invisibles” de EM. Disponible en el Web site sólo. 12 páginas.
    www.nationalmssociety.org/Brochures-PeroSiTeVes.asp

    ¿Qué es la Esclerosis Múltiple?
    Un resumen de los síntomas, desarollo de la enfermedad, diagnóstico, pronóstico, tratamiento, e investigación. 12 páginas. Folleto.

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    privacy policy | legal notices

    Dancing in the Pool -- A Day for Couples
    Research and Networking Breakfast for Women with MS
    Change in Blood Donation Policy at American Red Cross
    Water Exercise Classes Around the Area
    Chat online with other area residents who have MS
    Feeling Fit with Multiple Sclerosis - Mongtomery County
    Register for the MS Family Caregiver Support Group
    Moving with Multiple Sclerosis - Montgomery County
    Moving with Mobility Impairements - Fairfax County Exercise Program
    MS Studies Recruiting Participants
    Find the Healthcare Positions of the Presidential Candidates
    Real Talk. Real Answers. Living with MS in your 20's and 30's.
    Relationship Matters - A Program For Couples Living With MS
    MS Learn Online - Participate Online Today
    Share, Hear Stories in Online Community
    MS Research Highlights
    Revised FAA Guidelines for Air Travel with Injectables