Latest news with #NationalMSSociety
Gulf Business
26-05-2025
- Health
- Gulf Business
Inclusivity in the workplace: A strategic imperative for the UAE
Images: Supplied In today's fast-evolving work environment, inclusivity is no longer just a moral obligation but a strategic advantage. Yet many workplaces remain unprepared to meet employees' needs, leaving talent untapped and opportunities missed. To move forward, we must rethink what it means to create truly inclusive workplaces. Understanding the challenge In the UAE, protective laws safeguard the rights and wellbeing of People of Determination (POD), including people living with Multiple Sclerosis (PwMS). Federal Law No 29 and Cabinet Decision No (43) of 2018 ensures equal opportunities and protection from discrimination for employees with special needs. Despite this robust regulatory framework, challenges persist. Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a chronic autoimmune condition, disrupts the central nervous system, causing debilitating symptoms, fatigue, and cognitive impairments. Global MS prevalence has risen, with 2.9 million cases reported in 2023. The UAE has transitioned into a moderately high-risk zone. In a whitepaper recently published by the National MS Society (NMSS), it was revealed that 36 per cent of unemployed PwMS who reported not working due to MS cited a lack of employer support as a key reason for leaving the workforce. The result is emotional distress, including anxiety and depression, driven by uncertainty, fatigue, and frustration. Many also face social isolation due to stigma and a lack of understanding from family, colleagues, and employers. The consequences ripple outward: higher unemployment, personal hardship, and lost opportunities, not only for individuals, but for the organisations that fail to harness their talent. A question worth asking Can we afford to think of workplace inclusivity as a luxury rather than a necessity? The answer is a resounding no. The cost of inaction is far too high for individuals, organisations, and society. MS often affects people at the peak of their working lives, with an average onset age of 26 years in the region. Without inclusive workplacess, many are forced to leave employment, facing financial instability, limited medical coverage, and missed opportunities for growth. The loss is equally significant for employers: skilled employees, institutional knowledge, and the innovation that comes from diverse teams. For society, the effects are systemic, weakening social cohesion and stunting economic progress. The path forward Addressing this challenge begins with awareness. A greater understanding of MS, its symptoms, impact, and simple accommodations should be integrated into workplace culture. Awareness training can empower teams to build inclusive environments. Flexible work arrangements are equally vital. For PwMS, remote work or flexible hours can mean the difference between career progression and unemployment. These are not extraordinary measures; they are practical, scalable solutions that make the workplace better for everyone. But true inclusivity requires structural change. Accessible infrastructure, such as ramps and elevators, must be matched with transparent systems for accommodation requests. Employers should rethink organizational structures to co-create career pathways with PwMS, adapting roles to fit both the individual and the business. One organisation helping to shape this path is the NMSS, which continues to elevate the conversation around inclusive employment by providing insights and resources tailored to the UAE context. Organisations that engage with employees as individuals with unique contributions and needs will see greater retention, stronger teams, and more loyal staff. Leading by example The UAE has a unique opportunity to set a global standard for workplace inclusivity. By building on existing frameworks, the nation can ensure consistent protection and signal its commitment to a future where every worker is valued. Countries like Germany and Japan have demonstrated how inclusive policies can drive national progress. By embedding inclusivity into its cultural and economic identity, the UAE is well-positioned to lead. The benefits, greater innovation, stronger teams, and a more equitable society are simply too significant to ignore. A shared responsibility Transformation relies on collaboration. Policymakers can refine existing legislation and lead awareness efforts. Employers must embed inclusivity into their values and operational systems. And society must embrace diversity as a strength, not a challenge. By creating workplaces where every individual's contribution is recognised, we pave the way for a future where So, is inclusivity a luxury? Or is it a necessity? It is neither. It is the very foundation on which thriving workplaces and thriving societies are built. Yasmin Mitwally works with with the National MS Society and Assia Nait Kassi is part of the MentalEdGroup.
Yahoo
18-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Hundreds of people walk to end Multiple Sclerosis
PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) — More than 500 people gathered on the Peoria Riverfront on Saturday to participate in the National Multiple Sclerosis Society's annual event. The Multiple Sclerosis — or MS — walk raised over $90,000 to support research, awareness and services for those affected by multiple sclerosis. Multiple sclerosis is a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system, disrupting the flow of information between the brain and the rest of the body. It occurs when the immune system attacks the protective covering of nerve fibers. The MS Walk is one of many held nationwide, aimed at funding efforts to find a cure for MS and supporting the more than one million Americans living with the disease. Participants included individuals living with MS, their families, caregivers, medical professionals, and supporters from the local community. Tony Hnilicka, a volunteer with the National MS Society, shared his hope for a future without the disease. 'With the support of all the wonderful sponsors and people—researchers, scientists, doctors, those really passionate about finding a cure to this illness—breakthroughs are happening every day,' said Hnilicka. 'And yes, I know I'm only 38, so I know I'm going to live to see a cure for MS. The event also highlighted the efforts of the walk's top fundraiser, whose story will be featured during the upcoming CI Heroes special airing on Monday. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
WebMD
15-05-2025
- Health
- WebMD
Clear-ish Thinking: Managing MS Brain Fog
I never really appreciated what 'brain fog' was until after being diagnosed with MS. That's not to say I had never experienced it – who hasn't had moments when they've walked into a room and forgotten why once they got there? Once I started doing research into MS following my diagnosis, brain fog, also known as 'cog fog' (short for cognitive fog), was a symptom that often popped up. Cog fog refers to issues with cognitive function, like remembering or processing information, finding words, making decisions, or remembering things. According to the National MS Society, over half of those living with MS experience some kind of change in cognitive function. These types of changes are usually mild and tend to progress slowly. The person living with cog fog might not even notice the changes, but their loved ones might. Brain fog can also show up as visuospatial problems – or, how to understand what and where things are. A person might bump into things or present as being clumsy or have trouble picking up objects. I have personally experienced brain fog in my MS journey. Like all of my MS symptoms, this one comes and goes and is worse when I'm experiencing fatigue or when I'm stressed out. My thoughts slow down, like they are moving in slow motion, even though everything else is moving at regular speed. It's one of the most frustrating symptoms for me, because it's not only another invisible symptom, but it feels like an attack on my personality and things about me that make me, me. It's not so severe that I'm unable to do my job or daily tasks; it's mostly just extremely frustrating, because it feels like a departure from who I am. I'm a very organized person – I make a lot of lists, I plan, I'm thoughtful. Brain fog robs me of that, because I feel less sharp, I forget to do things, and I feel slow or 'out of it.' Since brain fog, for me, is often paired with fatigue, it can impact my motivation and concentration. Some examples of brain fog moments that have really bothered me: I booked three different appointments on the same day at the same time, and didn't realize it – despite getting reminders. I noticed the first one and was able to cancel, but for the other two? Let's just say, I was on the way to one appointment when the other office called asking if I was planning to show up. So embarrassing! Similarly, once (OK, twice) I showed up for a workout class only to realize the class I actually booked was the day before. Word finding is another one that drives me nuts: I'm in the middle of talking, and the word or the name of a place just … vanishes. I remember one time, I was driving to dinner with my husband, and I was really struggling to remember the name of a street, one that I've driven on many times. The name came back eventually; it just took a while and left me feeling both annoyed and a little discouraged. Did I mention that I'm very clumsy? I constantly bump into the corners of the walls or furniture, and I drop things all the time (which is why I have the heavy-duty phone case, because I probably drop my phone several times a week). I've always been clumsy, but living with MS makes this unfortunate trait super-charged. My elbows and knees are usually sporting a fresh bruise from the latest spatial mishap. To help combat this new reality, I've taken to amping up my list-making and trying new organizational tactics. If I don't write it down, there is a good chance I won't remember, so I write down EVERYTHING – sometimes in multiple places. I've created a new filing system in my work email to help me track tasks and follow-ups and take my notes in OneNote so I can sort them. I also give myself time every day to review my notes and my lists, both for work and my personal life, and build in reflection time. Learning to slow down and focus on one thing at a time is another way I help to battle cog fog, which also helps to reduce stress and feelings of overwhelm. This is one reason why I love doing yoga, because it forces me to be mindful – plus, I'm getting physical activity, which is always good! I've come to accept that cog fog will be another pesky MS symptom I have to deal with, and like the others, I'm working on strategies to help ease the frustration. In the meantime, if you talk to me, just know I might need a minute to find the word that decided to take a trip mid-sentence.
Yahoo
03-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Hundreds attend ‘Walk MS: Longmeadow' to raise funds and awareness
LONGMEADOW, Mass. (WWLP) – Community members rallied together to raise funds and awareness for Multiple Sclerosis. Nearly 400 people showed that people living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) are not alone. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society's 'Walk MS: Longmeadow' raises awareness and funds to find a cure for the disease. Fight at Amherst Regional Middle School prompts shelter-in-place, ongoing investigation About one million people live with MS in the United States. It's unpredictable, and often disabling, but there are resources through the National MS Society, like Walk MS, that help people affected live their best lives. One walker shared why she chose to participate. 'I'm walking because I was recently diagnosed with MS, and I figured this would be a great way to feel supported by the community,' said Degenais Romero of Holyoke. Romero's relatives also weighed in on their impact. 'It means a lot because it shows how you're supportive, and how everyone's come together,' said Fabian Morales of West Springfield. 'It's a community thing.' Another attendee was diagnosed nearly 12 years ago, and she said having her village by her side makes all the difference. 'It's a daily fight, and I'm just so happy and blessed to have everybody during this journey,' said Marlaina Ray of Wilbraham. Organizers said they expect walkers to raise nearly $70,000 for the National MS Society throughout Saturday's event. They were seen waving paddles showing their connection to the disease, whether they're living with MS or supporting a loved one. Sidewalks were full of orange, the color for MS Awareness, with each step towards the finish line and one step closer to finding a cure. WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
26-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Texas MS150 returns cyclists to Texas roads for 41st year
The Brief Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic neurological disease that affects the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. The Texas MS 150 charity fundraiser is the largest bikeevent of its kind in the country. This year, more than 4,000 riders have signed-up to participate, with a goal of raising $10.75 million. In its history, the event has raised hundreds of millions of dollars to fund research that improves and lengthens the lives of those living with MS. COLLEGE STATION - More than 4,000 riders have signed up to participate in the Texas MS 150 this year. What they're saying "It's two days of validation and knowing that I have this huge community that is passionate about the same thing that I'm passionate about, and that they want to see an end to this disease," says Lisa Sailor, who has MS and chairs the South Central MS Society board of trustees. "We have people who have been diagnosed with MS, who haven't seen any of their symptoms surface because they are on one of the disease-modifying treatments (for which) the dollars we've raised has helped to fund research," says DeAndra Stanly, president of the South Central chapter of the National MS Society. The Source FOX 26 Reporter Tom Zizka spoke with Lisa Sailor and DeAndra Stanly about the event.
