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York Multiple Sclerosis Society celebrates 50 years

Published: on 9th June 2006 by Eleanor Course in Press Releases

 

The York and District Branch of the Multiple Sclerosis Society will celebrate its 50th anniversary in a service at York Minster on 17th June.  The service, “A Celebration in Song” will be attended by members of the York and District Branch, some of who have been members for nearly 50 years.  The service will be attended by York’s Civic Party and Clare Wood, the Patron of the Branch and daughter of its founder, Lord Fitzalan-Howard. 

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is the most common disabling neurological condition affecting young adults, and around 85,000 people in the UK have MS.  For some people, MS is characterised by periods of relapse and remission while for others it has a progressive pattern.  For everyone, it makes life unpredictable.

The Minster service falls during National Carers Week (12 – 17 June), when the Society will be reaching out to all people who care for someone with MS.  The MS Society and its York and District Branch not only support those who have MS, but also people who care for them.  This can mean being a voice at the end of the phone, or offering more practical help with home aids, transport and assistance with respite care.  

Branch Secretary Jackie Chapman said, “The York and District Branch of the MS Society has come a long way since it’s beginning.  Fifty years ago the then Welfare Officer visited people on a bike and helped by supplying bags of coal and assistance to pay gas bills.   Today, we offer a range of support services to people with MS and their carers, including the MS Café at the Haxby and Wigginton Community Centre every Friday.  We’re delighted to be able to celebrate the work of the Branch over the past 50 years in our service at York Minster”.

For more information about the York and District Branch of the MS Society or its activities, please contact Jackie Chapman on 01904 767467 or email jackiechap@onetel.com.