Reaching Out MS Society – ROMSS (Salmon Arm, BC)

THE REACHING OUT MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY

A non-profit society that provides assistance and information to people whose lives are affected by Multiple Sclerosis, and by doing so encourage productive, fulfilled, independent living. We work separate from, but in conjunction with, the MS Society of Canada and the BC Division. Our twice yearly newsletter gives information on the activities of the society along with helpful hints and humor.

DROP IN CENTRE

Located in the heart of downtown Salmon Arm, we are at the rear of 250 Alexander Street NE. Open weekly on Wednesdays or by appointment.

 

ADVOCACY/INFORMATION & REFERRALS

We provide help to our members with various government agencies as well as provide assistance with forms and applications. We work with other services in our community and can make referrals when we see a need.

 

ACTIVITIES

Include the annual fund raising Spring Dance and December Gift Wrap events.

 

SUPPORT GROUPS

We currently have a Coffee Group that meets the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month. In addition there are a number of other support groups throughout the Okanagan and Shuswap. Call toll free for a location near you 1-888-803-0109.

EQUIPMENT PURCHASES

We assist in the purchase of equipment for MS related disabilities on an as-needed basis.

 

COMMUNITY BENEFITS

  • We help people living with MS to have productive, independent and satisfying lives.
  • We increase public awareness of Multiple Sclerosis.
  • We assist with the ever-increasing needs of people with MS and their families.

 

HOW CAN YOU HELP?

Give a tax deductible donation to the Reaching Out Multiple Sclerosis Society of Salmon Arm. You can also volunteer your time and expertise to various on-going projects.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Reaching Out Multiple Sclerosis Society
PO Box 458, 250 Alexander St. NE (rear),
Salmon Arm, BC V1E 4N6
Phone/Fax 250-803-0109 Toll Free 1-888-803-0109
email: romss@shaw.ca

 

WHAT IS MS?

Multiple Sclerosis is an unpredictable, often disabling disease of the central nerve system (the brain and spinal cord). The disease attacks the protective myelin covering of the central nervous system, causing inflammation and often destroying the myelin in patches and in at times the nerve fibres (axons) themselves. When this happens, the usual flow of nerve impulses along nerve fibres (axons) is interrupted or distorted. The result may be the wide variety of MS Symptoms, depending on what part or parts of the central nervous system are affected. The damaged parts of the myelin are often called “lesions” or “plaques”. In its most common form, MS has well defined attacks followed by complete or partial recovery. The severity of MS progression and specific symptoms cannot be predicted at the time of diagnosis.

 

WHAT ARE SOME COMMON SYMPTOMS

MS symptoms are unpredictable and vary greatly from person to person. Symptoms may include: disturbance of vision such as double or blurred vision; extreme fatigue; loss of balance; problems with coordination; pain; depression; stiffness of muscles; speech problems; bladder and bowel problems; short term memory problems; and even partial or complete paralysis. Please keep in mind not all people with MS will experience all symptoms and often the symptoms will improve during periods of remission.

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