National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Greater Northwest Chapter Programs
Health & Wellness Programs
People with MS who want to increase their physical health and well-being can participate in an array of programs sponsored by the chapter. We offer programs in a small group setting such as the Empowered Living and Living Well with MS series, wellness symposiums, and referrals to aquatic and yoga classes designed specifically for people with MS. Additionally, we offer wellness grants to allow people an expanded opportunity to increase their health and well-being.
Care Management
There are times when individuals and families affected by MS are faced with confusing information, overwhelming decisions, or uncertainty about where to turn for help. Our Care Management Program is designed to help in these situations by connecting individuals to the right care, at the right time, in the right place, by the right provider. By providing a comprehensive assessment of your physical, emotional, financial, and other needs, the Care Management Program can offer practical guidance to help you find resources to deal with these issues and more.
Financial Assistance
Multiple sclerosis is an expensive disease, and creates a range of challenges that can result in short-term financial crises, difficulty obtaining critical equipment and home or auto modifications, and diminished capacity to pay for MS-related needs. The National MS Society’s Financial Assistance Program offers guidance, referrals and resources to help contain the financial impact of MS. The Financial Assistance Program strives to bring meaningful financial assistance to as many people living with MS as possible, with emphasis on helping people maintain their independence, safety, health and quality of life.
Recent Successes and Current Challenges
Recent Success Story
Care Management: The goal of this level of service is to maintain and/or enhance independent living capabilities and quality of life for people whose health and safety may be compromised by limited knowledge and understanding about the programs and benefits available to them. In July we heard from Matthew, who lost his job due to MS and worried about his ability to stay in his home. Our care managers worked with Matthew to apply for both public disability benefits and charity care from his medical provider to expunge outstanding medical debt. He wrote, “
It is good news and it would not have happened without all the help from you. I will definitely stay in touch as I begin this new phase of my life. I would love to see about getting back to work in some capacity.”
Join The Movement: Walk MS, Bike MS, Volunteer, Give
We believe that every person in our community can play a role in improving the lives of those affected by MS and that - with your help - a world free of MS is within our grasp. Join the movement today by participating in Walk MS or Bike MS, volunteering your time, or donating to the cause. For information on how you can support people affected by MS, contact Laurie Johnson, Stewardship Manager at
laurie.johnson@nmss.org or 206-284-4254 ext. 40253