Moving Forward - Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada

Hamilton Chapter
Moving Forward
IMPACT REPORT 2008-2009

1
Moving forward to end MS
Last year, the Hamilton Chapter moved Momentum 2015, the MS Society’s
Strategic Direction into action. We mobilized passionate individuals who
wanted to do something about MS now. We helped people with MS by
funding cutting edge research, driving change through advocacy, facilitating
learning opportunities and most importantly, providing programs and
services that help people with MS and their families move their lives forward.
And we moved one step closer to our vision. This Impact Report outlines the
progress made in the past year. The Hamilton Chapter is fortunate to have
the support of people like you, people who have given their time, energy and
talent to help. Thanks to you, we are moving forward to end MS on all fronts:
•
•
•
•
We are moving to reach out and respond to all individuals,
families and communities living with multiple sclerosis
We are moving community leaders to champion the needs
of people with MS in our community
We are moving to mobilize an army of volunteers who want
to end MS
We are moving research forward by relentlessly pursuing the
prevention, treatment and cure of MS.
Thanks to your strength, dedication, determination, endurance and passion,
we are gaining momentum.
Martin Strybosch Fran Chesney
Chair, Hamilton Chapter Executive Director
Board of Directors
Hamilton Chapter Photos courtesy of Sabrina Armani Photography, Sharron & Mark Walloschek & Jessica Maindonald

Moving forward with programs and services
The Hamilton Chapter is determined to give people with MS what they need to
move forward with their lives. We know that MS does not slow down when the
economy does. That is why the Hamilton Chapter worked to provide a breadth
of tools, supports and information to help families living with MS not only get by
during tough economic times, but continue to live well in spite of the disease.
MuCh needed heLp during diffiCuLt tiMes
More than 1,000 inquiries were answered.
400 people were registered as active members.
1,557 newsletters kept people informed of current and timely information on
programs and services.
45 members both gave and received support and strength from others living
with MS, shared concerns and sought solutions to common problems through
the 7 Support Groups meeting across the city on a monthly basis.
Close to 100 people were helped through the
Equipment Funding program to obtain 195
assistive devices with an additional 40 members
provided with home supports such as respite
care through the Special Assistance Funding.
14 Members participated in our weekly Adapted
Yoga program. No other program in the city offers
modified Yoga which is a recommended form of
exercise for people with chronic disabilities.
Kids Camp sponsored 56 camp experiences and
supported 25 families. Kids Camp provides children a day camp experience
without placing additional financial hardships on their families. This program
gives children a chance to have fun and get a break from the uncertainties of
living with MS. While children are engaged in skill building activities, parents can
get a break from the stresses of parenting and focus on their own needs such
as combating fatigue. This was the last year of funding through Grocery Industry
Foundation….Together (G.I.F.T.) for Kids Camp. Over the past 11 years, G.I.F.T.
has helped the Chapter bring pleasure to over 500 children of our members.
13 In-service presentations helped train over 175 professionals including Yoga
Instructors, physical and occupational therapists, health care students and staff
at long term care facilities.
More than 50 people attended the Education Session on Cognition and MS
presented by Dr. Paulseth.
IMPACT REPORT 2008-2009
2

3
Moving Community Leaders to champion
the needs of people with MS
We mobilize the community through our stories. A personal story can foster
relationships, inspire change and move community leaders to act. Through all
our efforts of advocacy and social action, we share our stories to:
•
•
•
Maximize opportunities for people with MS to participate fully
in all aspects of life, community and citizenship
Remove physical barriers to participation in society
Improve access to health and community supports.
Awareness Committee: The committee worked to engage youth in the MS
Society by coordinating the 2nd year of the Step Up for MS High School
Challenge achieving amazing results of doubling the number of schools and
dollars raised for the MS Walk.The committee also initiated a Product and
Services Fair which was held during MS Awareness month in May. Over 50
members attended the fair and benefited from access to information on home
care and accessibility and technicians who offered tune-ups of mobility devices.
Representation on Community Committees: Profiling the need for affordable,
accessible housing and increased access to housing with supports was the
focus of work on the following committees:
> City of Hamilton Advisory Committee for Persons with Disabilities
> Affordable Housing Flagship
> Community Advisory Board for Homelessness Prevention Initiatives
> Coalition of Community Health and Support Services
Hamilton Chapter

Campaign: The Chapter produced car magnets to promote
awareness of our commitment to end MS. Interest was strong across Ontario
and we were able to provide 4,000 magnets to other Chapters. What began
as a local Chapter awareness initiative has taken flight. National office has
reproduced our car magnets in both English and French and is distributing
them across the country. Remember on your travels, when you are moved by
the sight of another car magnet, it all started in Hamilton!
MS Champion
John Ellis
Ontario Division Award of Merit
John Ellis demonstrates all the qualities of an
exceptional leader – he is passionate, articulate,
decisive, confident, and funny. And for the past 20
years, John has provided inspired leadership to
the Hamilton Chapter. He leads by example and
is quick to volunteer to represent the Chapter in
the community. John is a shameless promoter of
our Chapter and is excellent at telling our story.
John has anchored the Hamilton Chapter Board of Directors for 20 years, 8 of
which he was Chair. He championed the development of the first comprehensive
Board Policy Manual which provides a solid framework for the Board’s work even
today. Nothing speaks more about John’s commitment to making a difference in
the lives of people living with MS than his involvement with the MS Walk. He has
MC’d every Walk for the last 18 years! Each year beside his media honorary Walk
Chair, John brings the crowd to its feet in a celebration of progress and hope for
a world free of MS. In truth, with such a long history of involvement in the MS
Society, John has left his mark on every single aspect of our Chapter’s work.
The Hamilton Chapter is honored to recognize John Ellis as a MS Champion and
Ontario Division Award of Merit Recipient for 20 years of inspired leadership and
commitment to end MS.
IMPACT REPORT 2008-2009
4

5
Mobilizing the community in support
of the Mission
The Hamilton Chapter’s expertly executed fundraising events – MS Walk,
Hit a Ball for MS, Christmas Cakes and Cookies – brought thousands of
people together to have fun, to celebrate successes large and small, to
build a caring community and to raise money for programs and services.
Many ambitious members organize private fundraising events to benefit
the Chapter. These events engage family, neighbours and colleagues in
supporting our mission. Along with grassroots fundraising and traditional
gift giving programs, our fundraising efforts ensure the Chapter maintains a
strong financial outlook.
MS Walk remains our largest opportunity to move the entire community
into raising funds and awareness of the disease. Staff and volunteers work
all year round to create an event that brings participants, volunteers and
sponsors alike back year after year. Teams of family, friends, co-workers and
schoolmates united by jaunty t-shirts, inspiring team names and an amazing
commitment to end MS are providing the fuel to drive the Chapter forward
in delivering quality supports and services to more people. Despite the
struggling economy, over 1,200 participants, 250 volunteers, 30 sponsors at
our Hamilton and Stoney Creek sites raised an amazing $270,000 in 2009.
2009 Ms waLK Lead spOnsOrs:
> Alert/Best Nursing & Home Care
> Allegra Print & Imaging
> AMJ Campbell Van Lines
> Boston Pizza
> Dan Lawrie Insurance Brokers Ltd.
> H. Williams Jewellery
Hamilton Chapter
> Michael L. Lamont Personal Injury Law
> Tim Hortons
> Hamilton Community News
> 102.9 K-Litefm
> Talk820
> Oldies 1150

2009 rOute spOnsOrs
> Haygar Enterprises
> Holly’s Pride of Ancaster Inc.
Ms waLK COMMunity suppOrters:
> a PASSION for living
> Art Gallery of Hamilton
> Art Gallery of Ontario
> Bloom’N Gales
> Canadian National Exhibition
> Carluke Orchards
> City of Hamilton
> Fortinos
> Hamilton Bulldogs
> Hamilton Chamber of Commerce
> Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra
> Hamilton Ti-Cats
> Hollywood Fun Spot
> King of Signs Limited
> La Cantina
> Marta Hewson Photography
> Siemens Canada Ltd.
> Szpiech, Ellis, Skibinski & Shipton
Barristers and Solicitors
> M & M Meat Shop Hamilton
> Ontario Place
> Pongetti Musical Instruments
> St. John Ambulance
> St. Mary’s Catholic Secondary School
> Sabrina Armani Photography
> Saltfleet District High School
> Scholar’s Choice
> Shoppers Home Health Care
> Symphony Hamilton
> The Keg Steakhouse and Bar
> Toronto Agronauts Football Club
> United Rentals
> Wayne Janus
> Mark & Sharron Walloschek
Stoney Creek MS Walk is recognized as the Most Improved Walk in Ontario.
Anyone who attends the Stoney Creek Walk, will tell you a dozen reasons why they
wouldn’t go anywhere else - it is simply the best executed, the most moving and finest
family friendly event in the city. And the word is spreading. As a result, Stoney Creek
had more people, larger teams and more fun raising $80,000 in 2009. Congratulations
Stoney Creek for being recognized as the most improved Walk in Ontario!
IMPACT REPORT 2008-2009
6

7
Nothing moves us more than the strength
and passion of our Volunteers
If the Hamilton Chapter is able to help others move forward in their lives, it is
because others move us. Volunteers make the Chapter better. Fittingly it is
at our most visible events that volunteers are most visible. See those people
taking registrations at the MS Walk? Handing out pamphlets at the fair?
Delivering Christmas Cakes and Cookies orders? They are the heart of the
Chapter – volunteers one and all. Nothing happens without the strength and
passion for the mission of our volunteers.
thanK yOu tO Our COMMunity fundraisers:
> 9th Annual Fuca Family Dinner for MS
> 2nd Cause for a Concert
> Boston Pizza
> Hamilton Tiger Cat Alumni
Association Wall of Honor Charity
Dinner
> Hearts for MS
> 6th Mulligans fore MS Golf
Tournament
> Shave Ur Head for MS
> 15th Susi Family Dinner
Hit A Ball for MS: Thanks to the outstanding efforts of the fundraising team,
volunteers took our hole-in-one competition to 33 tournaments recruiting 11
more tournaments than the past year. Hit a Ball for MS raised over $13,000
and carried our message to over 2,600 golfers.
Hit A BAll foR MS SponSoRS:
> DHTour Dorchester Holidays & Tours, Burlington > Golf Town > Golfer’s Den
Hamilton Chapter

CHRiStMAS CAkES And CookiES CAMpAign:
How many chocolate covered almond shortbread cookies do you think it takes
to make over $20,000 in sales? - a lot! Thanks to the 177 dedicated volunteers
who are relentless in their pursuit of sales, our Christmas Campaign and
Entertainment Book sales helped us raise close to $7,500.
Bingo:
Revenue from participation in the Charity Bingo program supports our
Equipment Program. Every other Saturday morning throughout the year, a team
of dedicated volunteers rise early to work our Bingo. Without these volunteers,
the Chapter would have less funding to support essential mobility devices. In
fact, more than 15 members have these volunteers to thank for making their
lives easier:
> Bingo Coordinators - Nancy Meadows, Karen McKever
> Bingo Sellers - Angelo Cosentino, Mike Custodio, Delbert LeBeau,
Kathleen MacLean, Justin Zuccolin
MS Champion
Sally Simpson
Ontario Division Certificate
of Exceptional Achievement
Sally Simpson is a true example
of the power of volunteering. Her
dedication and passion for the
mission of the MS Society is remarkable. Sally was instrumental in pioneering the
Client Companion program in 2004. She was the first volunteer to be matched with a
client. Today the two are inseparable and the best of friends. Not only has Sally lent her
support to key fundraising events such as the MS Walk and our Christmas Cakes and
Cookies campaign, Sally eagerly accepts whatever job is pressing and needs doing. She
did not hesitate to volunteer when we established the May Awareness Committee. For
the past three years, Sally could be found securing sponsors for awareness initiatives,
speaking at high schools and promoting the work of the Hamilton Chapter at fairs,
schools and businesses. For all the hours when Sally fostered awareness of the MS
Society in the community, or shared a special moment with her client; for her spirit and
the dedication she brings to sharing the vision of a world where no one will face MS
alone; we celebrate Sally Simpson as a MS Champion and recognize her contribution
with the Ontario Division Certificate of Exceptional Achievement.
IMPACT REPORT 2008-2009
8

9
Finance: Moving forward with balanced spending
The Hamilton Chapter appreciates the gererosity of its donors and takes every
step possible to ensure that funds are used responsibly and effectively as
we move toward an end to MS. The MS Society of Canada meets or exceeds
the not for profit standards of financial responsibility. The Hamilton Chapter is
extremely well respected for its diligence in balancing our financial commitment
to meeting local needs and supporting research. We proudly increased our
contibution to research to $40,519 and provided an additional $55,331 to
support the MS Clinics in Ontario and services in areas of the province that are
not in a position to support a local Chapter. For complete financial information,
please call the Hamilton Chapter at (905) 527-7874.
Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada, Hamilton Chapter
Statement of Revenue and Expenditure
For the year ended August 31, 2009
2009 2008
Revenue $ $
Special fundraising projects, net 283,458 287,097
United Way Grants 64,914 64,411
Donations 53,511 52,642
Grants 28,343 43,259
Bequests 56,227 28,118
Memberships 4,765 3,999
Interest 2,828 3,803
Miscellaneous 162 3,350
Expenses
Program services
494,208 486,679
Client services 179,545 166,194
Public education 71,919 81,519
Social Action 21,322 -
Volunteer resources
Support services
33,216 42,679
Development 48,620 57,228
Administration 43,736 55,502
398,358 403,122
Revenue sharing with Ontario Division 55,331 47,666
Research funds contributed to Ontario Division 40,519 35,891
494,208 486,679
Excess (deficiency) of revenue over expenses for the year - -
(unaudited) (unaudited)
Hamilton Chapter

Mobilizing the talents and resources of thousands of
people who want to do something about MS now
It is the generosity of donors, volunteers and businesses that allow the Chapter to
fund vital research and provide essential local programs. The following individuals,
corporations, foundations and groups have made generous financial contributions
to the Hamilton Chapter in 2008-2009:
We sincerely thank the following members of the Evelyn Opal Society
of the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada who have included a gift
to the Chapter in their estates.
Barbara Carruthers | Harv Devins | Anonymous Donor
Community Champions
The MS Society of Canada, Hamilton Chapter recognizes the generous commitment
of the following donors:
grants
• United Way of Burlington and • G.I.F.T. (Grocery Industry • Bayer HealthCare
Greater Hamilton
Foundation… Together) Pharmaceuticals
• City of Hamilton
• Biogen Idec Canada Inc.
$5,000+
• Estate of George Littlewood
• Hadrian Manufacturing Inc.
$1000 – $4999
• Albert Abrum Lager
Foundation
• Brian Butler
• Robert Busby
• Daniel Chitiz
• Harv Devins
• Paul Festeryga
$500 – $999
• Absolute Pilates
• Jeanne Barbadoro
• Andrew Burgess
• Angela Cameron
• Danielle Cherubin
• Al Dawson
• Beverly Ellis
• June Flewelling
• John and Mary Lou Fuca
• Sonny Goldstein
• Sarah Giovannone
• Jeff Heidbuurt
• Ross Hiscock
• Hamilton Tiger-Cats Alumni
Association
• Richard Gratton
• Samuel, Son & Co.
• Insurance Brokers Association Limited
of Hamilton
• Stryker Canada LP
• Janco Steel Ltd
• Venetor Equipment Rental
• Ontario English Catholic Inc.
Teachers Association
• Greg Paul
• Rob Witter
• Horizon Employees’ Charity • Rise Paquette
Fund
• Carolyn Patenause
• IA Clarington Investments Inc. • Andy & Lorissa Skrypniak
• Investment Planning • Carrie Smith
Counsel Inc.
• Beril Sykes
• Peter Long
• Jansje Vandenberg
• Mackenzie Financial Corp. • Venturelink LP
• Grant Mackenzie
• Vicwest Corporation
• Molson Inc.
• Steve and Susan Vucko
• National Steel Car Limited • Wesmat Supplies Limited
• Barbara & Vic Neufeld • Pat and Jackie Wilson
• Katie O’brien
• OCL Industrial Materials Ltd
• Tom Witter
10

11
$100 - $499
401 Dixie Kia
401 Dixie Suzuki
The Canadian Drawback
Agency
A Superior Home Care
Service Inc
Adam Reinforcing Steel
Co Ltd
Aerloc Industries Ltd
Agrium Advanced
Technologies
Cindy Alaimo
Nick Albanese
Alf Alfano
Francis Alphonso
Peter Alphonso
Josie Aloisio
Barry Anderson
William Anderson
Kristine Anderson
Branko Anizic
Ryan Anstey
Cheryl Antonides
Jim Antonides
Maggie Araujo
ArcelorMittal
Domenico Arpino
Diane Arrell
Associazione Culturale
Di Penne EPalso
D’Intorni
Auto Value Hyundai Ltd
Autoland Suzuki
Robin Babcock
Rob Baboth
David Balarda
Maureen Baldry
Jennifer Bane
Sharon Banks
Ken Banks
Laurie Barry
Chris Bart
Donna Bastarache
John Baxter
Fred Baxter
Ron Baylis
Liz Beauregard
Patrick Beglan
Bell and MacKenzie
Co. Ltd.
Randy Benko
Bob Bennett
Sheri Berkeley
Gary Berkeley
Josie Bethune
Viera Bibr
Leonard Bick
Paul Bihun
Bishop Tonnos Student
Council
Ken Bithell
Bob Black
Audrey Blankstein
BMO Employee
Charitable Foundation
Rich Boire
Michelle Bomberry
Bruce Bonnyman
Tom Bontje
Robert Borer
John Borer
Nick Borkovich
Elaine Boucher
Leonard Boucher
John Bradley
Britt Drywall &
Acoustics
Debbie Brisley
Glenn Bronetti
David Brooks
Al Brown
Christopher Brown
Foster Brown
Diane Brunetti
Kathy Brunton
Scott Brunton
Michelle Bruno
Bulk Barn Seaway Mall
Welland
Lorraine Burniston
Michael Burniston
Angelo Buttaro
C & G Pickess
Camber Design Inc
Cambridge Kia
Eduardo Camara
Angela Cameron
David Camozzi
Brain Campbell
Cancord Inc.
CanReg Inc
Althea Carey
Betty Carlyle
Elsie Carr
Carstar Automotive
Canada Inc
Caterpillar Financial
Services Limited
Don Chamberland
Edward Chapman
Ruth Church
Barbara Carruthers
Mike Casciano
Michael Castellani
Catholic Women of
Incarnation
John Cavarzan
Centura Floor & Wall
Paul Chapin
Linda Chaplin
Fran Chesney
John Chun
Jim Cimba
Donald Clark
Lorraine Clark
Myrland Clark
Maxine Clark
Margaret Clarke
Sheldon Clement
Alison Cluckie
Brendan Cluckie
Andrew Coburn
Coldwell Banker Canada
Deanna Cole
Collins Nissan Inc
Joyce Collison
Christine Colliver
Richard Colyer
Mary Conacher
David Conley
Ozie Conner
Frank Cooper
Nelson Correia
Dale Corrigall
Kathleen Corrigall
Angelo Cosentino
Joe Cosentino
John Craig
Joan Crawford
Catie Creighton
Diane Crocker
CTC #154
Gerry Cullen
Peggy Cullen
Paul Cummings
Dale Currie
Rita Czerkaszyn
Thomas Dales
Dan Bianco Agency Ltd
Gerry Davis
Cecilia De Guzman
Dorte Deans
Dan Demsar
Louis Demutis
Tim Dennis
Anne-Marie Depape
Jenn Dickie
Peter DiGiuseppe
Julia Digiuseppe-Ryan
Vivan Dixon
DJ Die Cutting & Foil
Stamping Limited
Zohra Docrat
Dofasco Minor Baseball
Dan Dooley
Jim & Isobel Doull
Laura & Jeff Doull
Mary Downer
Christopher Drost
Robert Duff
Ruth Duke
Dundurn Castle Staff
Fred Eason
East Side Mario’s
Doris Edwards
Glen Elder
Electrical Materials
Company
Dorothy Elliott
Gord Elliott
Kim Ellis
John Ellis
Anna Emili
Julie Emili
Hanny Elsayed
Enhanced VoIP
Communications Inc
Estate of June Lamb
Olga Etty
Claude Eybel
Lenard Eybel
Lorne Falkenstein
Sandra Faraci
Bruce Farlow
Kevin Farrigan
Sheryle Favel
Eugene Fedak
Mark Fedak
David Festeryga
Tony Festeryga
William J. & Doris
Festeryga
James Finlay
Colleen Flanagan
Anne Foley
Sharon Forrester
Laura Forster
Frank’s Glass & Mirror
Theresa Franics
Melissa Fraser
Geri Frayne
Joan Freeman
Michael Freeman
Friscolanti Funeral
Home
Frank Fuca
Kevin Fullan
Galletti
Rital Gallo
Carla Garbas
Sam Garcea
Dawn Gardiner
Mary Lou Gasparini
Geonis Mechanical
Contracting Ltd
Georgetown Kia
Mark Germann
Victoria Ghubin
Brian Giannini
Duncan Gillespie
Rita Giulietti
Glen Merritt Collision
Glycol Management
Kathryn Goldsmith
Laura Goodwin
Rivaz Govani
Michael Golych
Lauretta Green
Greenhill Wealthcare
Counsel
Joe Guagliano
Edie Guhbin
Greg Guhbin
Warren Guhbin
Doug Guyatt
John Guyatt
Marta Haley
Deborah Hall
Richard Hall
Joyce Hamilton
Hamilton Fire Fighters
Assistance Fund
Hamilton Police
Retirees Association
Joel Hamstra
Melinda Hannusch
Teresa Hanson
Walter Hardie
Ann Marie Harding
Sheila Harms
Raymond Harris
Wilma Hartman
Maria Harvey
Trevor Harvey
Brian Haynes
Greg Hayward
Jeanne Hazell
Elizabeth Heidbuurt
Joanne Heidbuurt
Larry Hermmuys
Cal Hero
Alison Hickerson
Bruce Hietkamp
Highgate Retirement
Home
Paul Higgs
Karen Hill
Daniel Hillis
Judith Hinkson
Sandra Hinkson
Nancy Hinich-Gualda
Barbara Hiscox
Brent Ho-Young
Lynn Hodgson
Tracy Holmes
Lisa Hoo
Sandra Hoshooley
Elizabeth Hubert
Ron Hunter
Barbara Husul
Hydro One Employees’
& Pensioners’ Charity
Trust
Jennifer Ide
Alan Inksetter
Cherie Inksetter
I.O.O.F. Ancaster Lodge
138
Tyler Iorio
Katalin Ivanyi
Invesco Trimark
Paul Jackson
Byron Jacobs
Eileen Jamieson
Katherine Jarvis
Peter Jaycock
JC Hill School
Sarina Jellicoe
Ed Jocelyn
John Howard Society of
Hamilton, Burlington
& Area
John Liefl Electric
Betty Johnston
John Johnstone
Trudy Jones
Elia Jones
Melanie Jones-Drost
Genevieve Jordan
Jason Julian
Anthony Kafato
Chris Kampmann
Ron Kaplan
Kappeler Masonry
Corporation
Arvind Kataria
Hoda Kayal
Clive Kearon
Brad Kelly
Brendan Kelly
Jennifer Kelly
Phil Kelly
Suzanna Kendall
Thom Kennedy
Michael Kennedy
Mike Kennedy
Peter Keung
Dr. J. Khera
Joanne King
David Kirk
Klasanna Management
Inc
Ed Kneller
Tara Knight
Knights of Columbus
#7969
Jessie Knox
Julia Kooy
Christine Korol
William Kramer
Nanette Kruze
Ed Kurak
Danielle La Course
William Lacourt
Brian Laing

Paul Lakin
Langford Pharmacy Inc
Roger Laporte
Stan Lasanowski
Nicole Lavigne
Paul Lawrence
Derek Lawson
William Lawson
Kathleen Leach
Lorenzo Ledonne
Sam LeDonne
Dr. Peter Leggett
Mark Lehman
David Leng
Graham Lennard
Mark Lesperance
John Levely
Linda Lipsitt
Megan Lipsitt
RichardLipsitt
Bruce Lockhart
Christina Lovasic
Mary Lee Lovegrove
LubaMera Sap Co Ltd
Dawn Ludwig
Felicia Lukasiewicz
Ken Lukasiewicz
Beverley Lynch
Heather Lynch
Lynden Auto Depot
Kevin MacCarthy
Cathy MacKenzie
Stew Macneil
Sonita Maheshwari
Suzanne Makins
Richard Malecki
Faye Mann
Mansfield O’Connor
Benefit Brokers
Lynda Mantha
Sam Marchese
Robert Marcoux
Suzanne Marcoux
Lee Marcus
Peter Margetts
David Marks
Evelyn Mark
Yea Mark
Linda Martin
Arnold Massey
Sara Mattachini
Debbie Mattina
Mavis Maynard
Angela Mazza-Whelan
Helen McArthur
Ellard Opal Mcbane
James McChesney
Annette McCollum
Tom McCracken
Natalie Mcculloch
David Mccullum
Paul McDonnell
Lori Mcdougall
Rick Mcdowell
Lillian McGee
Ann McGlone Rankin
Kathryn McIntyre
Donna McKinnell
Jeff Mclaughlin
Roger Mcmechan
Craig Mcmullan
Laurie Mcnair
Gord McNulty
Kirk McPherson
Margaret McSevney
Bob Mech
Elena Medeiros
David Mekker
Meritas Financial Inc
Roy Merwin
Jackie Metcalf
Lawrence Micheli
Jane Milanett
Hess Millwork
Henry Mizzi
John Mokrycke
Doris Montgomery
Dr. Bill Montgomery
Claude Morin
Ted Moroz
Mike Morrisey
Tony Mouskos
Paolo Mule
Jean Mullens
Bob Murphy
Shirley Murray
Gary Musgrave
Lynn Musick
Neil Montague
Construction Ltd.
Carol Nelson
Mindy Nelson
Nancy Nelson
Todd Nelson
Victoria Nelson
Mary Newell
Josephine Nicholl
Glenn Nicholls
Charles Nicholson
Nick’s Welding
Robert Nixon
Northern Provincial
Grocers
Northway Ford Lincoln
Martha & George
Novoselac
Oakville Kia
Obelisk Systems Inc.
Wendell O’Blenis
Dennis O’Brien
Tom O’brien
O’Connor MacLeod
Hanna LLP
Rose Oluszak
Janice O’Neill
Alison Orr
Brian Osinga
David Oswald
Janina Otto
Our Lady of Lourdes
Council No. 12453
Shirty Pack
Michael Packham
Joseph Paglia
Vince Paparo
Joe & Joan Paquette
Sharon Paquette
Ron Paquette
Richard Paradowski
Paragon Appraisals
Limited
June Parke
Katherine Parlee
Madge Passmore
Alipa Patel
Carolyn Patenaude
Aurelia Paul
Liz Paul
Mark Paul
Susan Paul
Greg Peachey
Peak Performance
Physiotherapy
Richard Pearce
Allan Pearlman
Katelyn Pearlman
John Penny
John Pepper
Michael Perron
Craig Peters
Williams Peters
Harvey Peterson
Laura Petrie
Petro Pass
Irene Polidori
Brian Poncelet
Gary Pope
Helena Posner
Mark Posner
POWERGROUP
Communications
Kevin Pressburger
Nessie Priems
Silena Primavera
Trent Pringle
Dr. Ralph Profetto
Julian Ptasinski
Trisha Ptasinski
Margaret Puchalski
Darvin Puhl
Gino Puzzuoli
Pyramid Traffic Inc.
Liliane Racheter
Michelle Rathwell
Reeves Financial
Services
Marcia Reid
Vincejackie Restoule
Jean-Paul Restoule
Peter Ricci
Debbie Richardson
Lance Richter
Pamela Riley
Brian Riordan
Susan Roach
Steve Robb
Marcia Roberts
Karen Robertson
Gary Roland
Ernie Romain
Phil Romaker
Sieglinde Rooney
Roque Roofing Inc.
Tim Rosenberger
Walter Rosizky
Anne Ross
Harold Ross
Marcia Rottman
Dorothy Rowe
Dennis Roy
Renee Roy
Royal LePage State
Realty
Donna Rutherford
Antonio Sabatini
Saint-Gobain Abrasives
Canada Inc
Lisa Sanelli
Brigette Sassen
Scarfone Hawkins LLP
Margaret Schoen
Adolf Schuldt
Gilliam Schwarz
Tara Sciara
Laura Scott
Lynn Sharkey
Anne Sharp
Michael Shea
Janice Shelton
Ian Shepherd
Gordon Sherwood
Michael Sienna
Rita Signorini
Richard Simmelink
Joann Simpson
Richard Sincerbeaux
Peter Sirko
Susan Slaats
Sandra Slaats
Mary Slump
MaureenSmith
Marlon Smith
William Smythe
Lillian Socha
Ryan Sparks
Spectrum Abrasives Ltd
Paul Spencer
Dan Spicer
Helene F. Spidle
Paul Spino
Ken Sprink
Stella Spytkowsky
Team Squires
St. Catharines Concrete
Forming
Walter Stachnyk
Jennifer Steen
Mary Ann Steen
Rebecca Steen
Tanya Stephens
Darren Stephenson
John Struger
Martin Strybosch
Margherita Susi
Bard Sutton
Penny Swatyk
David Sweet
Magda Swisher
Donna Syms
Nocolas Tamayo
Tammy’s Place
Restaurant
Mary Lou Tanner
David Tapajna
Brandon Tarasuk
Rick Tasker
Ernie Taylor
Michael Taylor
Temkin Canada
Ten Star Life Insurance
Brokers Inc
The Brant Flooring Co.
The Electronic Caddy
Shack
The Pita Pit (1374261
Ont Inc)
Shirley Thibodeau
Thomas-Ruth Electrical
Inc
Julie Thompson
Grayham Thomson
Paul Tigchelaar
Joan Tilley
Joseph Tkach
Dr. Dorothy Todd
Tomco Steel
Wendy Tompkins
Peter Torosantucci
Harry Trankner
Triple M Metal
Lucy Trombetta
TSL Services Inc
Jim Turnbull
Louise Tymocko
Andrew Ukrainec
Unique Chrysler Dodge
Jeep Ltd
United Association
of Journeymen and
Apprentices
United Ukrainian Credit
Union
Unity Lodge # 47
USB Promotions
Susan Van Baardwijk
Wade Van Bostelen
David Van Der Woerd
Jon Van Deventer
Gerrit Van Geyn
Neil Vanderkruk
Amy Vandermeer
Dave Vandermeulen
Louis Vecchioni
Wendy Veldman
Village Fish and Chips
Ron Vine
Sharon Vize
Joanne Vording
Wendy Vording
Wade Group
Nancy Walker
Richard & Sylvie Walker
William Walker
Sandra Ward
Monique Waring
John Wark
George Wark
Mark Warren
Jan Webb
Elizabeth Webb
Elizabeth Welch
Wentworth X-Ray and
Ultrasound Inc
Florence West
Wheels International
Jill Whelan-Graves
Janice Whittaker
Alan Whitte
Judy Wilkinson
William Hilson
Dentistry Professional
Corporation
Jay Wilson
Michael Wilson
Patricia Wilson
Charles Witter
Joseph Woo
David Wood
Lauren Woods
Craig Worden
James Wynen
Irmina Wypych
Brian Young
Robert Young
Sandra Young
Zap-It Drains Inc
Rick Zeron
Hans Zundel
IMPACT REPORT 2008-2009
12

13
Research: Propelling us towards a cure
We are moving research forward by relentlessly pursuing prevention, treatment
and cure. The Campaign has created tremendous momentum and
had a profound influence on uniting the MS community behind some very
big but achievable targets. The Hamilton community has responded with a
resounding Yes! Whether asked to pledge a Walker, sponsor an event, invest
time in volunteering, host a global dinner party or display the magnet,
our community has enthusiastically joined the movement to end MS.
For people living with multiple sclerosis the “cure” means different things to
different people. For people who have just been diagnosed, the cure will stop
MS in its tracks. For people who have lived with MS and have experienced loss
of mobility and other serious impairments, the cure means repair of the nervous
system and recovery of lost functions. For people with a family history of MS,
the cure will allow their children or grandchildren to live a life free from MS.
The research funded by the MS Society addresses all three definitions of
a cure. Research is multi-faceted but with a clear purpose:
• to find a cure for MS,
• protect the nervous system and repair damage caused by MS, and
• improve monitoring and management of the disease.
And we are making progress on many fronts:
• There are treatments for some types of multiple sclerosis.
• Researchers have developed “windows” into the disease through
technology.
• We have evidence myelin can and does regrow spontaneously which
indicates repair is possible.
• Investigators have a better understanding of the nature of MS which
means some types of MS can be more effectively managed.
• Scientists have identified key molecules responsible for initiating
the abnormal immune system response in MS.
• There is understanding that both genetic and environmental factors
are important in the cause of MS.
Because we know that together our combined efforts move us forward faster,
the Hamilton Chapter proudly contributed $40,000 to research in 2008-2009.
Your dedication and commitment to finding a cure for MS was recognized when
the Hamilton Chapter was one of a handful of Chapters across the province to
receive the prestigious Platinum Research Award at the 2008 Ontario Division
Annual Meeting.
Hamilton Chapter

MS Society values
At the MS Society of Canada, we uphold the following values:
• We provide meaningful benefit to
the greatest possible number of
people affected by MS.
• We acknowledge the grassroots
of our organization as one of its
greatest strengths.
• We recognize that volunteers,
donors, and employees are critical
to our success, and we celebrate
their commitment.
• We believe in and work toward
the full integration of people
with multiple sclerosis in all
aspects of life.
• We keep those affected by
MS at the centre of our
work at every level of the
organization.
• We treat everyone with respect
and dignity, and protect their
privacy and rights to make
decisions about their lives.
• We give hope to people affected
by multiple sclerosis.
• We demonstrate ethical
behaviour and integrity.
• We adhere to the highest
standards of quality,
transparency, and accountability.
• We create safe and
collaborative environments that
foster positive relationships.
IMPACT REPORT 2008-2009
14

Our MissiOn
To be a leader in finding a cure for multiple sclerosis and enabling people affected by
MS to enhance their quality of life.
Leadership
An outstanding group of key volunteers serve on the Hamilton Chapter Board of
Directors to establish the Chapter’s goals and strategic directions, and to guide the
staff as they delivery on the promise of the Society’s mission:
Martin Strybosch, Chair Bill Anderson Angelo Cosentino
John Ellis Anne Foley Barbara Neufeld
Peter Jaycock Renee Roy Tom Witter
haMiLtOn Chapter staff
Fran Chesney, Executive Director
Barbara Carruthers, Senior Client Services Coordinator
Catharine Everets, Client Services Coordinator
Dawn Ludwig, Administrative Assistant
Carley Smith, Fundraising and Public Relations Coordinator
Pamela Fowler, Senior Fundraising Coordinator
Alison Foreman, Fundraising Coordinator
hOw wiLL yOu heLp end Ms?
The actions of just one person can make a powerful impact on today’s world. Now think
how powerful we could be if we all moved forward to end MS together. What we do
today will make a significant difference in the lives of more than an estimated 1,300
people living with MS in Hamilton.
•
•
•
Be a voice for MS in the community • Volunteer at an event
Participate in the MS Walk
Donate generously
• Join a committee
Help us gain momentum to and respond to the needs of people with MS
and their families who are always at the very centre of what we do.
For more ways you can get involved, contact
Hamilton Chapter
5-94 Cannon Street West, Hamilton ON L8R 2B6
Tel (905) 527-7874 • Fax (905) 527-8484
info.hamilton@mssociety.ca
www.mssociety.ca/hamilton