Yearly Program Helps People With MS Beat the Heat

Fort Lauderdale, FL, February 4, 2016 (Newswire.com) - With the recent snowstorms that swept much of the U.S. fresh in mind, few people are thinking about getting cool. But for those who suffer heat intolerance due to multiple sclerosis, it’s time to plan ahead for spring and summer! The MSF Cooling Program provides special cooling garments to help those with MS handle this troubling symptom of their disease.

For most people, heat and MS don’t mix. As body temperature rises, weakness, fatigue, visual disturbances, and other symptoms can become aggravated and temporarily worsen. Without help, the hot summer months can trap those with MS indoors, keeping them from countless activities associated with the season, like gardening, fishing, family outings, barbeques, and baseball games, but also making simple everyday needs, like going to work or grocery shopping, a challenge. So the MSF provides the necessary help to qualifying people through the Cooling Program.

This program provides cooling vests and cooling accessories to help individuals manage heat intolerance. For one recipient, Ronn Rettman, of Westland, Mich., the Cooling program made a big difference: “I don’t pass out anymore from the heat!” Rettman received a cooling jacket, vest, and handkerchief in June of 2015. The cooling gear he received had another important practical benefit for him, he said. “It helped me with shopping.”

Applicants must be residents of the United States and document their diagnosis of MS. All applications are confidential and considered on a case-by-case basis. To apply, those in need can call 1-888-MSFOCUS (1-888-673-6287) or visit www.msfocus.org and click on Programs & Activities.

Applications are accepted from Feb. 1 to June 1 of each year. Limited funding is available so individuals in need are encouraged to apply early.

The Multiple Sclerosis Foundation is a service-based, non-profit organization. With national headquarters located at 6520 N. Andrews Ave., Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the MSF serves the U.S. from one central location. Established in 1986, Multiple Sclerosis Foundation is a publicly funded 501(c)3 organization. Funds raised go directly into services designed to improve the quality of life for people with MS.

###

If you'd like more information about this program, or to schedule an interview, please call Kasey Minnis at 1-800-225-6405 or e-mail [email protected].

Multiple Sclerosis Foundation

6520 N Andrews Ave.

Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309

Contact: Kasey Minnis

Phone: 954-776-6805
Toll-free: 800-225-6495

Fax: 954-351-0630

[email protected]