Your MSWA research update
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Hi ,
Welcome to the first edition of Vitality for 2025!
The first edition of Vitality for the new year is here, bringing you exciting opportunities to engage in research and connect with your neuro community.
You can read how MS Australia is bringing together the nation's top researchers to unlock the complex link between Epstein-Barr virus and multiple sclerosis, while also delving into the Count Us In campaign, a collaboration of peak bodies advocating for people living with neurological conditions. Read on to stay informed about the latest updates on neurological research across the nation.
There are also many great opportunities on offer, including multiple online courses, the chance to join our new MSWA Aged Care Committee and get involved with Perth Festival!
Happy reading!
Research News
MS Australia launches major EBV research platform to combat MS
MS Australia is bringing together the nation's top researchers to unlock the complex link between Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and multiple sclerosis (MS); with the potential to revolutionise how we treat, prevent, and ultimately cure MS.
The research, launched at MS Australia's inaugural Frontiers in MS Research Symposium Conference at the University of Sydney, aims to unify and strengthen Australian research efforts into EBV and MS. EBV is one of the most widespread viruses globally, with around 90 per cent of adults infected.
The EBV infection increases the risk of developing MS, with virtually all people diagnosed with MS having a history of EBV and investigating this link has become one of the most promising areas of MS research.
Source: MS Australia, November 2024
Count Us In: End age discrimination in the NDIS
Neurological conditions are the leading cause of disability worldwide, yet in Australia, they haven’t received the attention or resources they deserve. The Neurological Alliance Australia – a collective of peak bodies representing people living with neurological and neuro-muscular conditions – has launched the Count Us In campaign. Together, we are advocating for a Taskforce to urgently address six critical areas of need.
Source: MS Australia, January 2025
Raw Nerve Podcast:
Shaping the future of MS
In this episode of The Raw Nerve, we dive into a compelling panel discussion from the Frontiers in MS Research Symposium on how emerging research and clinical trials are transforming the landscape of MS prevention, care and treatment. Our expert panel, featuring researchers, clinicians, and individuals living with MS, addresses key questions shaping the future of MS care.
Source: MS Australia, December 2024
Crisis planning for people living with a disability
In times of crisis, having a plan can make all the difference. Whether it’s a natural hazard, health emergency, or unexpected event, people living with a disability or chronic health condition may require additional strategies to ensure their health and safety. In a study using data from the Australian MS Longitudinal Study, over a third of people living with MS would like to develop or update their crisis plans, and that a third of those need help with this.
Source: MS Australia, December 2024
Experts hail 'milestone' in study of Huntington's disease
Scientists have developed a DNA-targeting technique that can potentially stop the progression of the disease by silencing the mutated gene responsible. This breakthrough offers new hope for treatment and could lead to clinical trials in the near future. Danny Hatters, who runs a research program at the University of Melbourne with a focus on Huntington's, called the new research a "milestone" for the scientific community.
Source: ABC News, January 2025
Get involved in research
Aged Care Committee
Are you passionate about aged care, supporting our community and making a difference? We’re looking for dedicated individuals to join our MSWA Aged Care Committee and help shape the future of services and support for people over the age of 65. If you are a MSWA Client that currently has a Home Care Package, we’d love to hear from you!
PLATYPUS
PLATYPUS adaptive clinical trial will seek to reverse neurological damage caused by progressive multiple sclerosis (PMS).
The first of its kind in Australia, the flexible nature of the multi-arm, multi-stage adaptive design will allow researchers to investigate the potential benefits of several existing medications simultaneously. Register your interest to take part.
Motoneurons, muscle weakness and motor performance in MS
Researchers from Edith Cowan University (ECU) are looking to recruit people with MS to take part in two single-session research studies, which involves performing basic exercise tasks. Taking place at ECU Joondalup, participants will receive a voucher as thanks for their participation.
Health and wellness
These groups and workshops are facilitated by MSWA professionals, specialising in neurological care. With expert guidance, participation in these groups and workshops will help equip you with practical learnings and strategies, creative outlets and opportunities to share your experience in a safe space. We can talk to you about funding options if the below support services are not included on your NDIS or HCP plan.
Rockingham Carer Group
Our meetings are a judgement-free zone where your experiences are valued and respected. Together, we'll navigate the caregiving journey, sharing the load and finding strength in your collective experiences.
When: Thurs 6 Feb, 10am - 12pm
Where: MSWA Rockingham Centre
E: eve.parsons@mswa.org.au
Kelmscott Carer Group
Our meetings are a judgement-free zone where your experiences are valued and respected. Together, we'll navigate the caregiving journey, sharing the load and finding strength in your collective experiences.
When: Wed 19 Feb, 10am - 12pm
Where: MSWA Kelmscott Centre
E: janice.petrovic@mswa.org.au
Beechboro Art Group
Would you like the opportunity to explore your story with art and work creatively with a group to gain connection and understanding? If the answer is yes, then come along to our monthly Art Group! Facilitated by MSWA counsellor Alyson Yearsley, who will provide you with the opportunity to explore creatively through art.
When: Thurs 20 Feb,10:30am -12pm
Where: MSWA Beechboro Centre
E: alyson.yearsley@mswa.org.au
Identify Unhelpful Thinking
We all get stuck in unhelpful ways of thinking, and in turn this affects how we deal with situations. This session is a great way to take time out and develop tools that can support your wellbeing.
When: Fri 21 Feb, 10am - 11am
Where: MSWA Wilson / Online
E: sidrah.khan@mswa.org.au
Vasse Mindfulness Workshop
Discover the transformative power of mindfulness in our specialised workshop. Mindfulness is more than just a practice; it’s a way of being that can profoundly impact your life.
When: Wed 26 Feb, 10am - 12am
Where: MSWA Vasse Centre
E: rory.mcintryre@mswa.org.au
Emotion Workshop
Would you like the opportunity to further develop your understanding of emotions? Come to our interactive psychoeducation workshop, facilitated by one of our MSWA counsellors, Sidrah.
When: Fri 28 Feb, 10am - 11:30pm
Where: MSWA Wilson Centre
E: sidrah.khan@mswa.org.au
Other Opportunities
Free ticket offer for MSWA Clients
Our friends at Perth Festival are generously offering MSWA Clients complimentary tickets to a range of live music and theatre events. Perth Festival prides themselves on holding welcoming and inclusive events, so all venues listed below are accessible. Please note, some events may include loud music and flashing lights.
If you'd like tickets, please complete the form below by Monday, 10 February. More information on each event can be found by clicking the links at the top of the form, or visiting the Perth Festival website.
Heat sensitivity and MS
The Australian summer can be a time for social interaction, family and celebration, but for those with MS, the extreme heat can quickly become unbearable and isolating.
Many people with MS experience a reaction to heat which can flare up other symptoms. The symptoms and the severity vary from person to person. It’s important to know that the effects of heat sensitivity are only temporary and your symptoms should calm once you’ve cooled down.
With the right information and support, heat sensitivity can be managed effectively to maintain a healthy lifestyle and social life.
Understanding Multiple Sclerosis
Understanding Multiple Sclerosis is an online course that aims to improve understanding and awareness of MS worldwide. It consists of six modules addressing biology, diagnosis and symptoms, demographics, risk factors, disease management and support strategies, and living with MS.
Where: Online
Effort: 2 hours a week
Duration: 6 weeks
Mental Health and MS Online Course
Mental Health and Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a free online course that aims to enhance understanding of mental health and its interaction with anxiety, depression and MS. The course consists of three modules.
Where: Online
Effort: 2 hours per module
Duration: Self-paced
Deciding about Disease Modifying Therapies for MS
Deciding about Disease Modifying Therapies for MS is a free online course that aims to increase understanding about DMTs, help people communicate clearly about them and help people living with MS make informed decisions about them.
Where: Online
Effort: 2 hours per module
Duration: Self-paced
Thanks for reading!
