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Thank you everyone who attended our Conference
 

Video Playlist

Click the three bars in the box below (on the left) to select different presentations 

Many Thanks to our Conference Sponsors!

Gold Level Sponsor

Silver Level Sponsor

Bronze Level Plus Sponsor
Wall Township, New Jersey

Bronze Level Sponsor

Special Thanks to our Volunteers
Union County College Chapter

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Presentation Descriptions
 
Living with MSA
Dr. Amy Colcher –  Director, Movement Disorders Program, Cooper University Hospital
This session will provide background and an overview of Multiple System Atrophy. It encompasses conventional medicine including standard treatment, alternative/ complimentary medicine such as supplements and exercise, and lifestyle issues including social activities and travel planning. Technology resources that can assist patients and care partners in monitoring blood pressure, remembering medications, and other daily living will be shared.
 
The Road to Diagnosis & Treatment
Dr. Stephen Borstelmann –  Radiology Specialists of Florida – Retired Medical Director of Florida Hospital East Orlando
This session will focus on diagnostics through the progression of Multiple System Atrophy. Neurological imaging as well as testing related to urology issues, feeding tube placement and other symptoms will be addressed. Questions such as what you should expect when you go for testing, how long it typically takes to get results, and the information it tells your doctors will be covered.

Daily Living, Practical Strategies, and Rehab for MSA Patients
Dr. Joellyn Fox – Physical Therapy, Dan Aaron Parkinson’s Rehabilitation Center
Ms. Michelle Lowry – Speech Therapy, Northwell Healthcare System
These specialists who have experience working with Parkinson’s and MSA patients will speak about practical strategies for functioning at home as the disease progresses. Home exercises and activities will be shared, treatment options and finding qualified therapists will discussed, and technology resources to support these needs will be provided including creative treatment approaches for home bound patients.
 
Mr. Edward Ehrlich – Rehabilitation Technology, Helen Hayes Hospital, Center for Rehabilitation Technology
The Center for Rehabilitation Technology at the Helen Hayes Hospital in West Haverstraw incorporates the latest technology for living at home with a disability. A discussion and demonstration of some of these innovative tools such as electronic aids for daily living, computer and tablet access, augmentative communications, and special apparatus will be provided. Assistive technology can aid multiple disabilities. Accessibility, costs, and insurance issues will also be addressed.
 
Trials, Research, and You
Dr. Lucy Norcliffe-Kaufmann – Assistant Professor in Neurology and Neuroscience at New York University School of Medicine
Being proactive in facing Multiple System Atrophy is something many families want, but knowing where to begin can be daunting. What current research is being conducted? How do you learn about clinical trials? What should you ask before you decide to participate? What is a typical process – what can you expect? What are your rights…your responsibilities?  What is GLOMSAR and have you registered? Learn about current projects and future directions.
 
Navigating the World of Disability
Ms. Victoria Pena-Cardinali – Outpatient Social Worker at the Capital Institute for Neurosciences
Dealing with the practical business of life with a rare disease can be overwhelming. “How to” advice from disability and insurance filing to finding resources, home care and evaluations will be addressed. Practical issues such as preparing for doctor visits, legal documents, or social and travel planning will also be discussed. Once again, technology resources to navigate these issues will be shared. This session will be a practical interactive workshop to best address participant questions.
 
Kick Back & Relax!
Bettina Lopez, M.S., CCC-SLP – Speech-Language Pathologist for Hackensack Meridian Health
Barbara Rodgers, NJ Licensed Massage Therapist
Just breathe! Learn and try strategies to stretch, breathe, and relax. And enjoy a chair massage too!
 

Exhibits

Lundbeck

Microsoft

Mobility Works

Monmouth County Division on Aging

MSA Coalition

NJ Hospice & Palliative Care Organization

The Center for Rehabilitation Technology – Helen Hayes Hospital

Vesiflo, Inc.

 

Photos

Disclaimer

MSA NJ is pleased to provide this valuable information as presented by professionals in their fields. However, it is not intended to replace your medical treatment. Please speak to your own physicians about any information you gained in viewing these presentations.