The Multiple Sclerosis Alliance of Southern Colorado is a local 501(c)3 non-profit and is unaffliated with any national organization. The agency receives funding from United Way, foundations, fundraising events, and private contributions.

The MSASC assists clients and their families with services that address the physical and mental health issues that impact people with MS and provides information about the disease and how to cope with the symptoms.

Please visit their website at http://www.msasoco.org or contact them at 719.633.4603.

Services include:

Exercise & Physical Therapy Classes: People with MS experience improved functioning when they exercise regularly. Exercise should focus on balance, coordinated movements, muscle strengthening, and stretching. The MSASC sponsors weekly exercise/physical therapy groups in both Colorado Springs and Woodland Park. The groups are led by a physical therapist. All classes are offered at no charge. An evaluation and a doctor's referral are required.

Support Groups: Several MS support groups meet monthly and offer an opportunity for people with MS and their families to give and receive support and feedback for the accomplishments and challenges in their lives.

Groups are led by a licensed therapist and are based on the premises that while MS affects the person with the disease, it also impacts family and friends and, the best sources of support for someone coping with MS come from others facing the same challenges. Discussion topics often include workplace issues, relationships with medical providers, family dynamics, and lifeskills.

New members are welcome. Please call the office for locations and times.

Financial Assistance: At times, a person with MS may not be able to meet all the financial costs of prescription medications, medical equipment or may have emergency basic living needs. The MSASC has some financial resources to assist with these expenses as well as expertise on other resources.

Information and Referral: For people newly-diagnosed with MS, and their families, the MS Society offers consultations and information specifically aimed at this adjustment period. Information and referrals to available services are available via phone five days per week.

Resource Library: A lending library of books, pamphlets and video tapes is also available. Topics range from isses and information about MS to coping and living with a chronic illness.

Monthly Newsletter: Milestones, a monthly newsletter, provides information on MS management, new research, notices of meetings, upcoming events and other items of interest.  It is mailed upon request.

For more information about the Multiple Sclerosis Alliance of Southern Colorado, please visit their website at http://www.msasoco.org.