PG04
Against the Wind, Against the Current: Raising Awareness of the Struggles of Individuals with MS and Disability in Our Communties
A recent report estimates prevalence of multiple sclerosis (MS) in the United States of over 1 million people, more that twice that of previous reports. A 2006 study of disability prevalence in multiple sclerosis indicated that 36% of individuals were using assistive walking devices (21% canes and walkers, 15% wheelchairs), highlighting a substantial to profound disability in a significant number of individuals with progressive forms of MS. The dynamic and highly complex phase of progressive MS with disability presents extensive challenges in all aspects of the lives of those with the disease their families and care partners. While limitations in mobility represent a major hurdle to accessing comprehensive and coordinated health care, dysfunctional models of health care delivery for those with disability, lack of community infrastructure (including transportation and ADA affordable housing) magnifies the problems to a level of near crisis for those with MS and significant disability living in our communities.
Objectives: Increase awareness of the struggles of individuals with MS and significant disability living in our communities
Methods: Brief introduction of the problem and debut of film produced by persons with disability and the advocates in our community of Omaha, Nebraska
Results: Production of a film, and detailed description of day to day challenges of individuals with disability was completed.
Conclusions: Increasing awareness of the struggles and challenges of those with MS and disability is likely the first step in the process of effecting positive change in our communities