Where the money goes

We raise a lot of money but where does it go? 
Some of the money goes to helping people who live with MS by providing direct support and financial assistance for medications, medical equipment, counseling services, respite, care management, college scholarships, and other emergency assistance.

Some of the money goes to informing and educating people with MS about a variety of issues through newsletters, publications, education seminars and conferences, and at-home teleconferences.

Still more goes to other needs like advocacy and policy change efforts and scholarships but what I want to share is more info about the research that the National MS Society does to stop, restore and end MS.  One of the studies just completed was to find a scientifically sound estimate of MS prevalence.  We have believed that 400,000 people in the US live with MS but thanks to this project, we now know that 1 million people in the US have MS.  

There are clinical trials occurring now to stimulate the natural capacity of the brain to repair itself. They are testing the ability of stem cells to treat MS damage and accelerate repair. They have confirmed 200 genetic risk variants in MS, which is leading to earlier diagnosis and personalized treatment programs.  They are engaged in wellness research and are in the midst of clinical trials of diets, the gut microbiome, and exercise and rehabilitation. 

There are 180 projects aimed at stopping MS.  There are 107 projects aimed at restoring lost function.  There are 17 projects aimed at ending MS for good.  It is an exciting and hopeful time for those living with MS. Major breakthroughs are happening.  The money raised is going to very important endeavors!