January 10, 2009 Newsletter
NO SPEAKER——-NO PROBLEM!!
We are all so good at adapting to unexpected situations as was evident at our meeting on the 10th. We were all there chatting away when we realized that our much anticipated speaker was not coming. Oh well, time to switch modes and turn the meeting in to a roundtable discussion which proved to be very fruitful as we had two new people attending and much to discuss.
Both of them mentioned that they really found out about the group almost by hearsay. After discussion, we embraced Doug’s suggestion of having HOPE4MS cards for everyone to carry and hand out whenever we hear of a new person with MS or to give to doctors and other professionals. Most people are so enthusiastic when they realize that we have a positive, functioning group here in Redding so we want to let them know. Consequently, cards are in the works and will be available soon.
The Singletons were there which opened up a discusson about their Therapy Horseback riding. Several of us present discussed the wonderful benefits offered by the horses. Even if you have no experience, their staff helps every step of the way, and soon you experience the thrill of riding these amazing animals who take your mind off of anything else, while forcing your body to move and balance. http://www.topolinefarm.com
We moved on to discuss a special event that we are putting together and are asking for everyone’s help. March is National MS Awareness Month and groups across the country are chairing events for this purpose. It is often talked about at our meetings about the general lack of knowlege people have about MS. This is our opportunity to educate people so we have brainstormed the idea of having an event on March 21st. We are currently securing a place and then the real planning can begin. The MS Society is enthusiastic about our event to be called Family & Friends of those with MS and have already gotten us one keynote speaker. Our vision is to have a place to showcase several tables of various complementary services such as mobility equipment, independent living, canine companions, horses, information and anything else that may be appropriate. We have thought about having a table to sell people’s artwork or crafts. We will want advertising & possibly drawings. This is all in the formative stages and can be as big as our imaginations allow. If we want people educated, who better than us do it? Let’s really make a statement for our own cause. Put on your thinking caps and let’s work together and see what we can do. This will take a joint effort but together we CAN make a statement and have fun at the same time. Please help!
Our next meeting will be February 7th and we will have a roundtable with emphasis on planning Family & Friends.
Hope to see you then…Be Well