Latest news with #NationalMSSociety
WebMD
18-07-2025
- Health
- WebMD
I Keep Losing Things
Does MS cause this, and what can I do about it? I've always had a problem with losing things, but lately it's gotten ridiculous. In the last four months, I've lost wallets, keys, a phone, a treasured kitchen knife, and even a couple of shirts. It's getting to be a major problem, so I have been asking for help, and I've found some really useful ideas. One doesn't have to have multiple sclerosis (MS) to lose things, but it helps. According to the National MS Society (NMSS), at least half of people with MS will experience some kind of unwanted changes in memory or thinking. 'Somewhere between 4 and 7 in every 10 people with MS,' they write, 'will experience some kind of changes in memory or thinking.' You can see how memory loss could make it harder to find things – Where did I put that pen? Where did I leave my car keys? Memory loss often leads to losing things. It happens to people as they age, so a lot of ways to cope with it have been discovered. I will divide them into two categories: losing things in the home and losing them in the outside world. Losing things at home is annoying and time wasting, but at least things usually get found eventually. The best way to prevent it is to have an ordered, uncluttered living space. When I was young, I often heard adults say, 'A place for everything, and everything in its place.' An excellent idea, but what if you have more things than places to put them? Or what if you have so many places that you can't remember what goes where? We might have to simplify our lives to make that work. Have less stuff. Personally, I like living simply; I've never enjoyed having lots of random stuff, but others disagree. The NMSS advises having a set place for essential things – like car keys, or your glasses – and always putting them there. Make the place specific; not just 'on the table by the door,' but 'in the blue bowl on the table by the door.' Then we have to train ourselves to consistently use the chosen space. Making organization a habit is the key. In remembering what goes where, labels are a big adult son recently came over and labeled many of our drawers and shelves with what's supposed to live there, which makes things easier to find. The NMSS suggests keeping important stuff in a place you visit frequently, like in a bag with pockets over the kitchen door. Label the pockets. When we do lose things, stressing out about it makes it and wait, try to visualize where you put the thing, and it may come to you. Sometimes my wife can find things I'm looking for, so I may ask her. And sometimes I can find things for her. I think people we live with may know our habits better than we know them ourselves, so may know where lost things are likely to be. Choosing exact spots for the disappearing things and using them consistently is key. Then you can expand to choosing exact spots for everything, 'from your scarves and belts to your receipts and house bills.' But you have to use the system. Don't cheat because you won't remember tomorrow where you put things today. That happened to me yesterday, and I almost lost another wallet. I have a shopping bag on my scooter where my wallet usually lives. I need to remember to put it back in the bag, but yesterday I bought something at the farmers' market, then moved on to the next booth. I kept the wallet in my lap instead of putting it back in the bag. When I got to the next purchase, the wallet was gone! I was freaked, but another shopper walking behind me had seen it fall out of my lap, picked it up, and returned it to me. Thank God for his honesty, but from now on, I have to be more consistent in putting it back. That gets much easier if I have fewer alternative places. Stop riding around with four or five bags and just have two: one for purchases and one for personal stuff. I also have to be slower and more careful about putting things in bags, because sometimes I think my hand is inside the bag when it's really between bags. Then things drop to the ground without me realizing it. That's how my last wallet got lost. I have to look at where I'm putting things to make sure they're really in there and to help me remember where I put them. Technology can help It's too bad I'm old and haven't grabbed on to the technological fixes younger people are using, but I'm going to start. For example, attaching a Bluetooth tracker to connect your keys or wallet or your glasses to your phone. You can call the wallet or maybe find it with a GPS tracker. Your phone manufacturer probably has a Find My Phone app that will show exactly where your phone is. Check out the manufacturer's website or store. There are also 'out of range finders' that you could put on a purse — or whatever you like — that will call your phone if it gets too far away. These devices are all battery powered and cost between $20 and $50 in most cases.
Time of India
28-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
This common UAE summer effect could be worsening your health; doctors explain
As summer temperatures soar across the UAE, doctors are warning that extreme heat can trigger underlying health conditions and worsen symptoms in vulnerable individuals, particularly those with chronic neurological and cardiovascular diseases. While most people associate high temperatures with heat stroke and dehydration, medical experts say the impact goes deeper, often unmasking or aggravating dormant conditions. Among the most affected are patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a neurological disorder that impacts the central nervous system. What is Multiple Sclerosis? Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system (brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves) by damaging the protective myelin sheath surrounding nerve fibers. This damage disrupts nerve signal transmission, leading to symptoms such as muscle weakness, numbness, vision problems, difficulty walking, coordination issues, fatigue, and cognitive impairments. Live Events 'Between 60 and 80 percent of people with MS report a worsening of symptoms such as fatigue, mobility issues, and visual disturbances during hot weather,' said Professor Anu Jacob, Director of Multiple Sclerosis and Autoimmune Neurology at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, as told to Khaleej Times. This temporary flare-up, known as Uhthoff's phenomenon, occurs when a rise in body temperature affects damaged nerves. Symptoms generally subside with rest and cooling. Jacob said hydration, cooling vests, and avoiding peak outdoor hours are key to symptom management. He also noted the UAE's efforts in building accessible, shaded, and air-conditioned public spaces, which are crucial for people with chronic conditions. According to a report by Khaleej Times, to move toward accessibility, the National MS Society has introduced the Universal Design for Inclusion Programme, partnering with six UAE universities to foster student-led innovations in inclusive infrastructure. Warning signs of severe heat-related illness include confusion, fainting, rapid heart rate, and cessation of sweating, which may require medical attention. Doctors stress that early intervention and preventive care are essential for at-risk groups. Economic Times WhatsApp channel )
Yahoo
09-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Nearly 1400 people took part in national ‘Walk MS 2025′
Despite a rainy weekend, the weather certainly held out long enough for 'Walk MS 2025.' It's part of a national annual event that raises awareness and funds for the fight against multiple sclerosis. In Boston, participants walked along a one to three-mile route, overlooking the harbor, before finishing up at the UMass Boston campus. Multiple Sclerosis is a disease that affects a person's nervous system. Symptoms can often vary from person to person, including numbness and tingling to mobility challenges, blindness, and paralysis. Multiple Sclerosis affects an estimated 1 million people in the United States. Lori Espino, President of the National MS Society Greater New England Chapter, reflected on the walk. 'We had close to 1400 people come out either supporting a loved one with MS or living with MS themselves, and we raised over half a million dollars for a cure.' Sunday's walk was the sixth held in Massachusetts over the past few months; together, they've raised nearly one million dollars in donations. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
CBS News
09-06-2025
- Sport
- CBS News
Man breaks world record after cycling around Lake Huron to raise money for multiple sclerosis research
A man from the Chicago area just broke the Guinness World Record for circumnavigating over 1,000 miles around Lake Huron by bicycle, and it was all to help raise money to end multiple sclerosis. "Rode 600 miles, slept for just over 3 hours and then finished 400 miles straight to the finish line," Guinness World Record holder Phil Fox said. Fox, a recreational cyclist, crossed back into America around 3:30 a.m. Sunday, after circumnavigating over 1,000 miles around Lake Huron by bicycle. He broke a world record by completing the feat in 69 hours and 33 minutes. The reason he spent nearly the entirety of the past three days cycling was to raise money for multiple sclerosis research. "We've raised nearly $250,000 for the National MS Society, and we're really close to our $10,000 goal for this particular event, and we're hoping we can get there," Fox said. In 2011, Fox's two best friends were diagnosed with MS. Since that time, it's become his passion to embark on unfathomably long bike rides to raise money. Fox has circumnavigated every Great Lake except Lake Superior. He says that's up next. As of Sunday evening, Phil's trip around Lake Huron has raised over $9,500, and he tells us they're still accepting donations at
Gulf Business
26-05-2025
- Health
- Gulf Business
Inclusivity in the workplace: A strategic imperative for the UAE
Images: Supplied In today's fast-evolving work environment, inclusivity is no longer just a moral obligation but a strategic advantage. Yet many workplaces remain unprepared to meet employees' needs, leaving talent untapped and opportunities missed. To move forward, we must rethink what it means to create truly inclusive workplaces. Understanding the challenge In the UAE, protective laws safeguard the rights and wellbeing of People of Determination (POD), including people living with Multiple Sclerosis (PwMS). Federal Law No 29 and Cabinet Decision No (43) of 2018 ensures equal opportunities and protection from discrimination for employees with special needs. Despite this robust regulatory framework, challenges persist. Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a chronic autoimmune condition, disrupts the central nervous system, causing debilitating symptoms, fatigue, and cognitive impairments. Global MS prevalence has risen, with 2.9 million cases reported in 2023. The UAE has transitioned into a moderately high-risk zone. In a whitepaper recently published by the National MS Society (NMSS), it was revealed that 36 per cent of unemployed PwMS who reported not working due to MS cited a lack of employer support as a key reason for leaving the workforce. The result is emotional distress, including anxiety and depression, driven by uncertainty, fatigue, and frustration. Many also face social isolation due to stigma and a lack of understanding from family, colleagues, and employers. The consequences ripple outward: higher unemployment, personal hardship, and lost opportunities, not only for individuals, but for the organisations that fail to harness their talent. A question worth asking Can we afford to think of workplace inclusivity as a luxury rather than a necessity? The answer is a resounding no. The cost of inaction is far too high for individuals, organisations, and society. MS often affects people at the peak of their working lives, with an average onset age of 26 years in the region. Without inclusive workplacess, many are forced to leave employment, facing financial instability, limited medical coverage, and missed opportunities for growth. The loss is equally significant for employers: skilled employees, institutional knowledge, and the innovation that comes from diverse teams. For society, the effects are systemic, weakening social cohesion and stunting economic progress. The path forward Addressing this challenge begins with awareness. A greater understanding of MS, its symptoms, impact, and simple accommodations should be integrated into workplace culture. Awareness training can empower teams to build inclusive environments. Flexible work arrangements are equally vital. For PwMS, remote work or flexible hours can mean the difference between career progression and unemployment. These are not extraordinary measures; they are practical, scalable solutions that make the workplace better for everyone. But true inclusivity requires structural change. Accessible infrastructure, such as ramps and elevators, must be matched with transparent systems for accommodation requests. Employers should rethink organizational structures to co-create career pathways with PwMS, adapting roles to fit both the individual and the business. One organisation helping to shape this path is the NMSS, which continues to elevate the conversation around inclusive employment by providing insights and resources tailored to the UAE context. Organisations that engage with employees as individuals with unique contributions and needs will see greater retention, stronger teams, and more loyal staff. Leading by example The UAE has a unique opportunity to set a global standard for workplace inclusivity. By building on existing frameworks, the nation can ensure consistent protection and signal its commitment to a future where every worker is valued. Countries like Germany and Japan have demonstrated how inclusive policies can drive national progress. By embedding inclusivity into its cultural and economic identity, the UAE is well-positioned to lead. The benefits, greater innovation, stronger teams, and a more equitable society are simply too significant to ignore. A shared responsibility Transformation relies on collaboration. Policymakers can refine existing legislation and lead awareness efforts. Employers must embed inclusivity into their values and operational systems. And society must embrace diversity as a strength, not a challenge. By creating workplaces where every individual's contribution is recognised, we pave the way for a future where So, is inclusivity a luxury? Or is it a necessity? It is neither. It is the very foundation on which thriving workplaces and thriving societies are built. Yasmin Mitwally works with with the National MS Society and Assia Nait Kassi is part of the MentalEdGroup.
