Vitality - November

Hello,

In this special edition of Vitality, view some exclusive video content from our recent Client Forum.

Plus, find out about upcoming programs and events that you can attend – including the MSWA Client & Volunteer Christmas Party 2021.

Until the next edition, take care.

MSWA Client Forum 2021

Researching Ageing & Neurological Conditions

Professor John Mamo, Director of the Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, outlines some of the fascinating research he and his team are undertaking, including an exciting clinical trial in Alzheimer’s disease supported by MSWA, a paradoxical point of view about the relationship between vitamin D and multiple sclerosis, an exciting migraine trial, and a new proposition they have about slowing the progression of MS.

MSWA’s New Respiratory Physiotherapy Service

Members of the MSWA Physiotherapy team explain who will benefit from our new respiratory physiotherapy service and how to access it.

Researcher in Focus

New research aiding language recovery after stroke

Throughout the month of October, we highlighted the important work being done by MSWA-funded researcher Associate Professor Anne Whitworth at Curtin University.

Associate Professor Whitworth’s team are developing a novel therapy approach for people with aphasia – a communication condition typically seen after stroke.

Known as NARNIA, the project teaches people with aphasia to combine the skills needed to talk and interact again in everyday situations.

COVID-19 Vaccination News

COVID-19 vaccine booster for individuals who are severely immunocompromised

On 8 October 2021, the Australian Technical Advisory Group for Immunisations (ATAGI), which advises the Australian Government on immunisation issues, provided guidance about the need for a third dose of a COVID-19 vaccination. This statement can be accessed here.

WA Government mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy

The Western Australian Government has recently announced a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy, intended to apply across the majority of occupations and workforces in WA.

As of today, elements such as exemptions and scope of workforce inclusions remain unclear. Right now, know that we will provide you with further detail once we receive the clarity we need.

As always, the safety of our staff and Clients remains our priority. We will continue to follow Government and Health advice and directions regarding vaccinations. 
As a leading disability services provider delivering care and support to vulnerable members of the community, we encourage all staff and Clients to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

We continue to update our website with the latest information.

Updates

Client & Volunteer Christmas Party 2021

Thursday, 2 December 2021

Lifestreams Christian Church
Corner Murray Street & McNabb Loop, Como

9:30am - 1:30pm

Included: Two course meal, drinks, entertainment & small gift (please note this is an alcohol-free event)

Cost: Free to Clients and Volunteers. $20 for others

RSVP
No later than Friday, 26 November 2021

Clients: Please RSVP to Nicola Ryan on 9365 4830 or nicola.ryan@mswa.org.au

All others: Please RSVP to Donna Hill on 9365 4869 or donna.hill@mswa.org.au

Get Involved

Indoor Skydiving All Abilities Night

3 December 2021 from 5pm

iFLY Perth are inviting people of all abilities and their carers to an indoor skydive on Friday, 3rd December in association with International day of People with Disability.

The All Abilities evening offers:

• The opportunity to indoor skydive for individuals who may have physical or cognitive challenges.
• Proper accommodations based on specific challenges.
• Additional assistance and attention during orientation, putting on a flight suit and helmet, etc.
• A highly-trained, world-class iFLY instructor.
• This Instructor personally guides All Abilities flyers through the indoor skydiving experience.

Cost:
All Ability Flyer: $49 for 2 flights, including all media (photos and video)
Carer: $69, including all media (photos and video)

Programs & Events

MS Peer Coffee Catch-Ups

Facilitated by MSWA Clients who have MS.

Connect with others who live with MS, share experiences and ideas over a coffee.

• When: Monthly on Saturday mornings
• Where: Kingsley, Fremantle, Rockingham & Bunbury
• RSVP: Register your interest with Dajana on 0429 267 970 or Dajana.Tesevic@mswa.org.au

Men's Group

Facilitated by MSWA Counsellor, Michaela.

Come along to meet with other men living with a neurological condition and experience an interactive workshop about healthy eating for neurological conditions delivered by dietetic students in a fun and safe environment.

Light refreshments provided

• When: Thursdays 10am-12pm; next on Thursday, 11 November
• Where: MSWA Kelmscott
• RSVP: Places are limited. Reserve your spot by contacting Michaela on 0455 453 620 or Michaela.Mundy@mswa.org.au.

Northam MS peer support – sharing, connection and support

Facilitated by MSWA counsellors, Cherry and Dajana.

Join us for morning tea, a catch-up and to share information. Partners and carers welcome.

• When: Every three months on Wednesdays, 10am-12pm; Next one December.
• Where: Bridgeley Community Centre, Northam
• RSVP: Register your interest with
  Dajana on 9365 4858 or Dajana.Tesevic@mswa.org.au
  Cherry on 9365 4808 or Cherry.Chapman@mswa.org.au

If you would like to suggest or attend a peer support, educational or creative group, please contact Dajana: 9365 4858 or dajana.tesevic@mswa.org.au.

Share your stories

If you have an interesting story you would like to share with our readers,
we would love to hear from you.