The summer months have arrived and the weather is warming up. While many sun-deprived residents of the Pacific Northwest are enjoying more sunshine, many people living with multiple sclerosis (MS) experience a temporary worsening of their symptoms when the weather gets warmer.
Air conditioners, fans, and cooling products like vests and neck wraps can help keep the body cool and prevent or reverse the symptoms. But what if you can’t afford it, or think your income is too high to get financial assistance?
In actuality, many people are eligible for a grant for cooling products and many other types of needs or wants through the various organizations nationally and locally. There are also resources from other types of organizations, foundations and agencies that may be able to assist you.
The Swedish MS Center’s social worker, Alan Wittenberg, specializes in helping people with MS find the help they need. A social worker can research the types of resources and referrals a person may need, help them fill out forms and advocate for patients throughout the grant process. Alan also provides counseling and emotional support for the entire family living with MS, as well as general financial assistance and crisis intervention.
