Multiple Sclerosis is a disease wherein the human immune system mounts an attack on its own nervous system. This results in a loss of normal insulation surrounding individual nerve fibers, thus resulting in dysfunction of the brain circuits. The exact cause of the disease is still debatable and the treatment options scarce and not extremely efficacious. The disease most commonly occurs in attacks which recur (relapse) which may partially or completely improve (remit). However, over time the residual neurologic deficits may accumulate, leading to increasing disability and hence the need for early detection and treatment. As the disease has a predilection for young people especially women, and affects them in the prime of their lives, it not only causes significant physical disability but also is a source of significant mental stress to these patients. Symptoms’ often being more than what meets the eye and the unpredictably of the attacks makes these patients often misunderstood by their family, colleagues and friends thus increasing their frustration. Throughout the world various multiple sclerosis support groups have been created with an aim to increase awareness about the illness, educate patients and their families and provide facilities to disabled patients to improve their quality of life.
The Department of Neurology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, under the aegis of PGI Neurological Society will be organizing “Move Strong 2011´´- MS support group program on 9th and 10th July 2011. The aim of this maiden venture is to educate patients and increase awareness about Multiple Sclerosis, allay fears and answer patient’s queries. By bringing together all MS patients of Chandigarh and neighboring areas, it envisages forming a permanent MS support group/advocacy group in the city with the help of volunteer patients to bring to the fore issues pertaining to MS patient needs, care, psychosocial issues and help find appropriate solutions for the same. The Program will be held at the advanced eye centre auditorium, PGIMER. It will commence on the 9th of July at 2:30 pm. The program will feature a lecture and session for the patients by Reiki experts, Mrs Poonam and Col. R N Singh.