The MS Society is the UK's largest charity for people affected by Multiple Sclerosis (MS) - over 85,000 people in the UK - making it the most common disabling neurological condition affecting young adults. The Society provides help for those with the disease and their friends and families, as well as supporting a wide-ranging research programme into new treatments, and understanding the disease better. MS itself is caused when the body's own immune system attacks the protective covering (known as the myelin sheath) of the nerves. This causes the nerves to malfunction, typically leading to loss of muscle control and sensation, but in more serious cases can also affect things like memory and sight. Why it occurs in some people but not in others, and what triggers it, are still the subject of research. After an attack, the minute scars or scleroids can be identified by certain types of scan, hence the name - multiple sclerosis. However, diagnosis is a quite complicated, as every case seems to be slightly different, and involves a number of different medical tests. There are also several different forms of MS - some involving periods of recovery with occasional relapses (relapsing-remitting MS) and others which involve a slow but continuous progression. The Society publishes a wide range of very helpful leaflets about the condition, and how it may impact on someone's life: from problems with specific medical issues, to how it can affect travel insurance, the sorts of treatments available and what financial support the Government provides in what circumstances. These, and the telephone and e-mail helplines, are available to all, not just members. For members, there are local MS Society groups around the country where they can meet others and find out about their experiences and get support. Membership also comes with a regular magazine with more information, news on latest research and articles on how it affects individual members; and an on-line 'Members Zone', with more information and advice. All this help can be invaluable for people newly diagnosed with MS and their friends and family, as it can help to understand what can - from a purely medical standpoint - seem a baffling, complicated and - let's face it - a frightening - disease. Membership is open to anyone who has an interest in the work of the society, and costs just £5 per year. read more

MS Society - Community Service/Non-Profit Near Me - London, XGL