MSWA Bulletin Magazine Summer 2021

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF MSWA
Summer 2021
mswa.org.au
INSIDE
/ COVID-19 Vaccination Advice
from Professor Carroll AM
/ The Role of the Local Area Coordinator
/ Continence Physiotherapy
Catch up with the attendees of
our men’s Outreach group, p. 29.
/ Counselling: Men, Let’s Talk

WILSON CENTRE
29 Parkhill Way 9365 4888
Fax 9451 4453
Freecall 1800 287 367
See Health Team Dept contacts on this page
SERVICES DIRECTORY
GENERAL MANAGER –
MEMBER & CLIENT SERVICES
Nicola Washington 9365 4840
MANAGER ALLIED HEALTH SERVICES
Carol Chong 9365 4873
NDIS TEAM 9365 4824
OUTREACH GROUPS
Wilson Outreach 9365 4830
Beechboro Lodge 9377 7800
Southside Outreach 9592 9202
Albany Outreach 6154 5149
Bunbury 6454 2800
GENERAL MANAGER - STRATEGIC
SUPPORTS AND RESIDENTIAL OPTIONS
Sue Shapland 6454 3174
MARGARET DOODY RESPITE HOUSE
Manager, Alimul Tasin 9385 9574
FERN RIVER ACCOMMODATION
Manager, Danuta Figurska 9356 2747
HAMILTON HILL ACCOMMODATION
Manager, Jo Nouwland 9331 5780
TREENDALE GARDENS
RESPITE & ACCOMMODATION
Manager, Linda Kidd 9725 9209
BUTLER SUPPORTED
ACCOMMODATION FACILITY
Manager, Chris Rush 6154 5120
CONTACT US
If you would like to comment on anything
you read in this Bulletin please email
bulletin@mswa.org.au or write to
MSWA, Locked Bag 2, Bentley DC WA 6983
General feedback or complaints please
contact Michelle John 6454 3173 or
feedback@mswa.org.au
EDITORIAL COMMITTEE
Greg Brotherson (Editor), Ros Harman
(Guest Editor), Marcus Stafford (CEO),
Paul Cavanagh, Sue Shapland,
Nicola Washington, Libby Cassidy,
Jamey Claffey, Carol Chong and
Geoff Hutchinson.
The Editor welcomes unsolicited submissions.
All articles are subject to a reviewing process.
The views expressed are those of the authors
and do not necessarily reflect the view of
MSWA’s staff, advisors, directors or officers.
CONTENTS
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR. ............ 3
FROM THE DESK OF THE CEO. .........4
GENERAL MANAGER STRATEGIC
SUPPORTS AND RESIDENTIAL
OPTIONS .............................. 5
GENERAL MANAGER
MEMBER & CLIENT SERVICES .......... 6
RESEARCH IN FOCUS .................. 7
RESEARCH ROUND UP. ..............8-11
PROTECTING YOURSELF AND
OTHERS IN THE FLU SEASON. ......... 12
COVID-19 VACCINATION
GUIDANCE FOR PEOPLE
WITH MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS . ......... 13
NURSING
Our neurological liaison nurses are usually the first point of contact after the
neurologist’s diagnosis.
VANISHREE CHETTI, MANAGER: 9365 4818 OR COMMUNITY NURSE: 9365 4888
PHYSIOTHERAPY
Our team provides treatment interventions to develop and maintain mobility and function.
JAMES BECKETT, MANAGER: 9365 4837 OR PHYSIO DEPARTMENT: 9365 4834
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
Occupational Therapists enable Clients to continue their work and other interests for
as long as possible through advice, aids and equipment.
CRYSTAL CHAN, MANAGER: 9365 4804 OR OT DEPARTMENT: 9365 4888
SPEECH PATHOLOGY
Our Speech Pathologists assess, diagnose and create individualised treatment
programs for Clients who experience swallowing and/or communication difficulties.
PAMELA WINDRAM, MANAGER: 6454 3140
DIETETICS
Dietitians are university-qualified nutrition experts who promote general health and
disease prevention/management through dietary changes.
PAMELA WINDRAM, MANAGER: 6454 3140
COUNSELLING, PEER SUPPORT & HEALTH EDUCATION
Talking with a Counsellor creates a safe, respectful and confidential environment for
you and those close to you to explore options, create change or gain understanding
about your life.
TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT PLEASE CALL: LISA PAPAS, MANAGER: 9365 4836
OR COUNSELLING DEPARTMENT: 9365 4811
SOCIAL WELFARE
Social Welfare Officers assist Clients and their families to access services
and supports to remain living independently at home. They specialise in case
management, advocacy and sourcing funding options.
KATH KNIGHTS, MANAGER: 9365 4835
COMMUNITY SUPPORT
We provide long-term and time limited in-home supports including assistance with
personal care for people with MS, to help them remain in their homes. Care and
supports are provided through a combination of funding from the Department of
Communities - Disability Services, and our own fundraising efforts.
VICTORIA AMEY, MANAGER: 9365 4851
CUSTOMER ENGAGEMENT DEPARTMENT
Our experienced teams will provide you with personalised support right throughout
your NDIS journey. From helping you to access the NDIS to working with you to get the
most from your plan, our trained staff are here to help.
GEOFF HUTCHINSON, MANAGER CUSTOMER ENGAGEMENT: 9365 4879
CAMPS & RECREATION
MSWA provides separate recreation camps for Clients, carers, and families, primarily
funded by Lotterywest, and for a nominal cost to participants. These camps provide a
break from daily routines, and strengthen friendships and support networks.
DAWN BURKE, COORDINATOR FOR CAMPS & RECREATION: 9365 4843
AGED CARE
MSWA delivers all levels of Home Care Packages to eligible people with a neurological
condition who are over 65. Services are delivered by staff specifically trained in home
care for older Australians who are living with a neurological condition.
WENDY BROWN, AGED CARE COORDINATOR: 9365 4807
THE ROLE OF THE
LOCAL AREA COORDINATOR (LAC). ... 14
NEW STAFF AT MSWA . ............... 15
CONTINUING TO SUPPORT
DENISE’S JOURNEY IN ALBANY. .... 16-17
THE MSWA QUALITY &
COMPLIANCE TEAM HAS GROWN. .... 17
MEN, LET’S TALK. ..................... 18
MSWA NURSING IN
A HOSPITAL SETTING ................. 19
WE HELPED EACH OTHER . ........ 20-21
PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
STATE CONFERENCE . ................ 22
CONTINENCE PHYSIOTHERAPY ....... 23
SUMMER RULES ......................24
COMMUNITY TEAM LEADERS. ......... 25
NEWLY DIAGNOSED
INFORMATION EVENING. .............26
MSWA FAMILY FUN DAY. .............27
VOLUNTEER AND CAMPS NEWS . .....28
MEN’S OUTREACH IN ROCKINGHAM. ..29
TREENDALE GARDENS &
FERN RIVER AT CHRISTMAS ..........30
WHAT’S ON . ...................... 32-33
CONTAINERS FOR CHANGE . .......... 33
OUTREACH NEWS . ...................34
SUGGESTIONS, COMPLAINTS
AND COMPLIMENTS . ................. 35
2

WELCOME
Welcome to the first Bulletin for 2021. I wish everyone a happy new year, and we certainly
hope 2021 is a good year for all.
COVID-19 dominated the news in
2020 and I am hopeful that it will
not be in the news as much this
year. In this Bulletin you will read
an update on the latest news about
the vaccine and advice for people
with neurological conditions.
The cover for this edition features
attendees of the Rockingham Men’s
Outreach group, who have enjoyed
some fun times together recently.
There is also information about the
various services MSWA has to offer,
with stories about actual events
and people who are involved in the
services. There are updates on areas
such as Occupational Therapy,
Physiotherapy, Counselling and
Nursing, as well as lots of information
about the NDIS and in particular
the role of Local Area Coordinators
who can help with negotiating an
NDIS plan.
There were two Newly Diagnosed
Seminars held recently, which
you can read about in this edition.
These seminars are an important
introduction for new Clients to the
various services MSWA has to offer.
I’m sure we will all enjoy reading
the heart-warming story of
volunteer Marie Harris from
Bunbury who celebrated her 96th
birthday recently. We will also read
comments from Denise Amato who
is looking forward to the opening of
a high support facility in Albany.
Our General Managers, Sue
Shapland and Nicki Washington,
have brought us much valuable
information, including the
latest Research Roundup, and
introductions to some new staff
members. There is also a timely
reminder to Clients to get their
annual flu vaccination.
Now sit back, relax with a
cup of tea, and read the
Bulletin from cover to
cover to be fully informed
about MSWA.
ROS HARMAN
GUEST EDITOR
3

FROM THE DESK
OF THE CEO
MARCUS STAFFORD
CEO
I’ve always enjoyed the notion
that the turning of the calendar
page presents fresh and positive
opportunities for the year ahead,
although I was unsure about the
levels of bullish optimism that had
been expressed by some for 2021.
Nonetheless, even with my more
measured stance, I didn’t expect
that February would include both
a further lockdown in WA and a
disastrous bushfire.
It has been troubling to hear the sad
accounts of people who have lost
their homes in the fires. MSWA was
actively in touch with our Clients
and staff located in the affected
areas to offer a range of supports.
Our more vulnerable Clients were
also offered the option to stay at
one of our Respite facilities.
As for the COVID-19 lockdown, I
am reminded how quickly our
world can change. In an attempt
to lose some of my ‘Christmas
kilos’, I had headed out for a kayak
on that Sunday morning. By the
time I returned, I was faced with
the news that lockdown would be
implemented imminently. A hastily
convened teleconference with our
senior managers on the Sunday
evening and the organisation’s
lockdown plan was implemented.
The plan included all facets of
both staff and Client impact, with
the principle of ‘duty of care’ for
all guiding our every step. Steps,
needless to say, none of us wanted
to take, but with the understanding
that they were being taken for
the greater good. I would like to
thank and acknowledge everyone
for doing your part in keeping our
community safe. We have been
in this position before, so it is not
new, and if we can continue to
follow Government Health advice,
I am confident we can continue to
‘one-up’ COVID-19.
Away from the crises and back
to general business, we have
continued to strengthen our
position as the leading organisation
in the neurological supports/
service industry. In fact, we are
now the third biggest not-for-profit
organisation in Western Australia.
It is pleasing to know that our
mission now includes helping such
a broad range of folk as they travel
with their individual journeys. As so
many reading this article know as
they face their everyday challenges,
it can be unspeakably difficult
managing multiple sclerosis,
Parkinson’s, stroke, motor neurone
disease and acquired brain injuries,
to name a few. We hope that our
presence might in some way offer
you some reassurance.
Testing times allow both
organisations and individuals to
demonstrate metal and resilience.
From MSWA’s perspective, it is
that resilience, when paired with
the passion of our charter, that has
allowed us to do the things that
we do. Our business is strong. Our
financials are steady. That allows us
to turn our plans into reality.
We have started development of
our new Services Centre and High
Support Accommodation Facility in
Albany. In February we celebrated
with the Albany community, where
we formally turned the sod on the
site of the development. While
we are only in the early stages of
the build, I believe that this new
Facility will be a game-changer
for our regional community in the
Great Southern.
Hot off the press, we have recently
finalised our agreement with
the State Government for the
development of our Shenton Park
Facility which will provide a new
home for 20 adults living with a
neurological condition, with
24-hour care provided onsite.
Champions shine through in
turbulent times. I am forever
impressed and proud of those
champions who I meet at MSWA
every day.
Thank you.
Until the next edition.
4

STRATEGIC SUPPORTS
AND RESIDENTIAL
OPTIONS
SUE SHAPLAND RN, BN, MSCN
GENERAL MANAGER
STRATEGIC SUPPORTS AND
RESIDENTIAL OPTIONS
“Never regret a day in your
life. Good days give you
happiness & bad days give
you experience.”
Unknown.
I think this quote would apply to
us all at some stage. The ongoing
challenges of COVID-19 have seen
a resurgence in reconnecting
with friends and family (when not
restricted by lockdowns) and taking
up pastimes that bring us happiness
and some reassurance that is
needed in times of uncertainty.
Something many people with a
neurological condition can relate to;
taking some control where you can
when other things may be out of
your control.
Australia is eagerly awaiting the
imminent rollout of the COVID-19
vaccines. Whilst we are one of
the last countries starting our
programs, this gives us insight into
how it is working overseas where
over 25 million people have received
at least one of the vaccines. It also
provides larger data sets to review
regarding the safety and efficacy
of the vaccines, which is always a
good thing. We will provide our
Clients and staff with government
information updates as we receive
them but also talk with your GP
and/or neurologist who are also
being kept up to date directly.
Apart from our recent snap
lockdown, WA has been able to keep
the impact of COVID-19 manageable
through border closures and
quarantining of overseas travellers.
This has also allowed MSWA to
recommence our events and start
the construction of the Albany
Supported Accommodation and
Services Hub, which is really exciting
and moving ahead nicely.
Our high support accommodation
facilities, currently 42 places, are
all full; I am taking expressions of
interest for the Albany site which
will have 10 units. Our residential
respite facilities at City Beach and
Australind do have some capacity
and we are taking bookings.
In December, we held a forum
bringing together a number
of MSWA funded, WA based,
researchers for brief updates on
their exciting work. MSWA is very
proud of our ability to continue to
grow our research funding annually
and of the amazing talent and
commitment by the WA teams.
Their progress will be highlighted
in Bulletin and hopefully through
a seminar for our Clients later in
the year.
For the latest information
you can always have a look
at our website:
mswa.org.au/
commitment-to-research.
Our contribution through MS
Research Australia continues to
grow and we will start receiving
progress reports from the successful
teams funded by MSWA.
I am welcoming two new staff into
our Quality and Compliance Team
and there is a brief introduction on
page 17.
It’s a bit late to say ‘Happy New Year’
as 2021 is well underway already,
however I hope it is a better year
for us all and heralds great things
to come.
The flu season will soon be upon
us and as always, the Health
Department recommends annual
vaccinations for those at most
risk; this will be in addition to the
COVID-19 vaccination. As always,
if you are unsure speak to your GP
and/or neurologist.
As we are in the hotter months
remember to stay cool and stay
safe; remember our Member and
Client Services team are here for
advice and support.
5

MEMBER &
CLIENT SERVICES
NICOLA WASHINGTON
GENERAL MANAGER
MEMBER & CLIENT SERVICES
Welcome to the summer
edition of our Member &
Client Services Bulletin.
As we continue to watch how
the pandemic is still impacting
countries around the world,
Australia remains one of the safest
places to be, with comparatively
few restrictions.
The success of short-term
lockdowns in keeping the numbers
down and controlling community
spread of COVID-19 has enabled
us to plan for some more group
seminars during 2021 so look out
for the information on what will be
planned throughout the year on
the Programs, Workshops & Events
page on our website.
The latest news on NDIS
involves discussions around the
implementation of the independent
assessments. This was first raised
in 2019 and discussed further by
Minister Roberts in an information
paper released late November 2020.
The key points are:
/ Independent assessments are free.
/ An independent assessment will
take around three hours.
/ You can choose to have it at
a place that suits you, or by
video call.
/ The results of your assessment
will help us work out your NDIS
supports and budget.
/ By mid-2021, independent
assessments will be part of
the access process for new
participants.
/ By the end of 2021, independent
assessments will be used as part
of the normal plan review process
If you have any questions
regarding your NDIS plan, please
do not hesitate to contact
ndisenquiries@mswa.org.au – our
team are always ready to help you
navigate any problem or question
you may have.
The following link to the NDIS website provides
more detail on the independent assessments
process for you to review:
ndis.gov.au/participants/independent-assessments/
independent-assessment-process
We are continuing to focus on
how we can improve our service
delivery. This involves reviewing our
processes and supporting systems.
I am very pleased to advise
that we recruited Liz Stewart,
Manager Service Improvement, and
Ierfaan Peck, Manager, Business
Transformation into the team. Both
Liz and Ierfaan will have a dedicated
focus on improving our systems
and processes to ensure we are
working the best we can to provide
service delivery.
I would also like to welcome Victoria
Amey, Manager of Community
Support. Victoria is managing the
services provided in the home
and will also be looking at how we
get this right for you, our Clients.
Victoria provides an update on
page 25 of some of the initiatives
currently being worked on.
Last month you would have received
an invitation to our annual Client
satisfaction survey to understand
how we performed in 2020.
The feedback gathered for this
survey will enable us to continue to
make improvements.
The results from the survey are
currently being analysed and the
findings will be reported in the
next few weeks; we look forward
to seeing the results and your
feedback. Thank you to everyone
who took the time to complete
the survey.
I wish you all the best start to 2021.
6

RESEARCH
RESEARCH IN FOCUS
Here, we provide an insight into the research projects we are funding in Western Australia.
SYSTEMATIC PROFILING IN
NEUROLOGICAL CONDITIONS (SPIN)
RESEARCHERS SEEKING
INTERESTED CLIENTS
One of our research partners,
Edith Cowan University is looking
for people aged between 18 and
85 years living with neurological
conditions, who are keen to
contribute to a novel approach to
tailoring interventions to individual
needs in a project funded by MSWA.
This study will provide valuable
information needed to develop
interventions to help improve the
quality of life and future for people
living with neurological conditions.
What would I need to do to be part
of the study?
/ Attend an annual assessment
at ECU, which will look at your
memory and thinking, as well as
your physical capacity.
/ Donate a blood sample and
undergo a body composition scan.
/ Answer questionnaires in the
comfort of your own home.
Some of the research you could be
part of:
/ Trialling the effects of light
therapy on fatigue and excessive
daytime sleepiness in people
living with neurological
conditions, via specially made
glasses, worn for sixty minutes
in the morning, which deliver
targeted light therapy through
the eyes.
/ Trialling a motion capture and
digital gaming system called
Mindpod to deliver therapeutic
treatments for people with upper
limb impairments – a common
symptom for people living with a
neurological condition.
For further information please contact:
Manja Laws, Project Coordinator
6304 2423 or m.laws@ecu.edu.au
7

RESEARCH
RESEARCH
ROUND UP
SUE SHAPLAND RN, BN, MSCN
GENERAL MANAGER STRATEGIC SUPPORTS
AND RESIDENTIAL OPTIONS
FROM MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS NEWS TODAY
Read more at:
multiplesclerosisnewstoday.com
MS risk may be higher for children
of diabetic mothers, study suggests
Children of diabetic mothers may be
at more risk of developing multiple
sclerosis (MS). Previous studies
suggested a three to 10 times
increased risk of MS in children born
to women with diabetes mellitus
— a disease where blood sugar
levels are too high. However, these
findings still need to be confirmed.
Researchers in Denmark explored
the possible mechanism underlying
the association between maternal
diabetes — diagnosed before
conception (pregestational) or
during pregnancy (gestational) —
and the risk of MS in their children.
16,979 children born to diabetic
mothers were included and
analysis adjusted for age and sex,
as well as maternal and paternal
age and maternal obesity. The MS
risk among children with diabetic
mothers was 63% higher than those
with nondiabetic mothers.
Children whose mothers had
pregestational diabetes were at a 2.3
times higher risk of MS, whereas MS
risk was not statistically significant
among children of mothers with
gestational diabetes or diabetic
fathers.
“Based on high-quality national
register data in Denmark, our large
cohort study corroborates the
view that maternal [diabetes] is
associated with an increased risk of
MS in the offspring,” the researchers
concluded.
Myelin‐specific T cells in animals with
Japanese macaque encephalomyelitis
A study published in the journal
Annals of Clinical and Translational
Neurology reports a new primate
model uncovered by researchers
can help scientists understand
the immune and inflammatory
processes underlying the
development of multiple sclerosis
(MS) in humans.
Japanese macaques (snow monkeys)
can develop encephalomyelitis
(JME), which results in the progressive
demyelination (destruction of
myelin), like MS in humans.
Examining the animals’ lesions,
investigators discovered two types of
immune T-cells that were primed to
attack myelin sheath components.
These T-cells also have been
identified as drivers of inflammation
in MS. These novel findings draw
further parallels between JME and
MS and demonstrate that JME can
serve as an outstanding [primate]
model to investigate mechanisms
that lead to an IDD (inflammatory
demyelinating disease).
Future studies should focus on
investigating the “triggers that
precipitate JME development and
progression, as understanding
how disease initiates could lead
to discovery of mechanisms
driving MS.”
Newly discovered subset of
brain cells fight inflammation
with instructions from the gut,
Francisco Quintana, PhD, Associate
Professor of Neurology, Center for
Neurologic Diseases at Brigham
and Women’s Hospital in Boston.
Scientists reported a newly
identified subset of astrocytes (brain
cells) thought to simply provide
nutrition and support to neurons,
can prevent brain inflammation
by promoting the destruction of
pro-inflammatory immune T-cells.
8

HERE WE PROVIDE SOME SUMMARIES OF RESEARCH SOURCED FROM WEBSITES IN AUSTRALIA
AND AROUND THE WORLD; WE HOPE IT’S OF INTEREST TO YOU.
WE HAVE INCLUDED BOTH MS SPECIFIC AND OTHER NEUROLOGICAL RESEARCH UPDATES.
READ MORE AT MSWA.ORG.AU/RESEARCHUPDATE
They also found that the
anti-inflammatory activity of
this astrocyte subpopulation is
dependent on interferon-gamma
— a molecule known to control
immune and inflammatory
responses — produced by natural
killer (NK) cells, another subset of
immune cells. The production of
interferon-gamma by NK cells was
seen to be controlled by the gut
microbiome, the set of bacteria
and other microbes that live in the
gastrointestinal tract.
According to the investigators,
these discoveries may help guide
the development of therapies
for inflammatory neurological
disorders such as (MS), as well as to
treat some types of brain tumours
known to exploit natural antiinflammatory
signalling cascades
to avoid being targeted by the
immune system.
“Finding microbiome-controlled
anti-inflammatory subsets of
astrocytes is an important advance
in understanding of the CNS [brain
and spinal cord] inflammation
and its regulation,” the senior
author stated. “This is a very novel
mechanism by which the gut
controls inflammation in the brain,”
he added.
FROM THE MS SOCIETY UK
Read more at: mssociety.org.uk
New research identifies which
type of nerve cells are lost in MS
Research conducted at the MS
Society Edinburgh Centre for MS
Research has shown that a type
of nerve cell called inhibitory
interneurons are lost in people with
MS. This opens up new avenues for
the development of treatments to
protect nerves.
Using brain tissue samples from the
MS Society Tissue Bank, Professor
Anna Williams and her team found a
dramatic reduction in the number of
inhibitory interneurons in tissue from
people who had been living with MS
compared to those without MS.
Another type of neuron –
stimulating neurons – remained
the same, even in people who had
MS for decades. So it is clear not all
nerves are damaged in the same
way by MS. This is the first project
to show the selective loss of specific
nerve cells in people with MS.
Current MS treatments target the
immune system and reduce the
damage to myelin. But to truly stop
MS and stop disability progression,
researchers need to find treatments
that can replace lost myelin and
protect nerves from damage.
This project helps us to understand
more about which nerves are
damaged in MS and why; giving a
greater understanding of how we
might protect nerves from damage.
Professor Anna Williams, explained:
“Our research has shown that a
specific type of neuron, called an
inhibitory interneuron, is damaged
in people with MS. This is really
important because, in the search
for new treatments, it focuses
our efforts on trying to stop the
damage and death of these special
cells. Our next step is to convert this
knowledge into new treatments
that protect nerves and prevent
neurodegeneration – and ultimately
disability – in people living with MS.”
The research team generated a new
mouse model of myelin damage,
which showed the same selective
loss of inhibitory neurons seen
in humans.
Dr Lida Zoupi, who worked on this
study, said: “In our mouse model,
we show that demyelination
directly leads to neurodegeneration,
answering a long-standing debate
between MS researchers in the
process. By confirming this, we have a
vital new insight into the mechanisms
behind neurodegeneration, which
could potentially be used as a
model for the development of
neuroprotective treatments.”
9

RESEARCH
New insights into pregnancy and
early signs of MS
Women with MS often report fewer
symptoms during pregnancy.
But studies exploring whether
becoming pregnant or having
children affects whether or when
someone develops MS have so far
been inconclusive. Now, the biggest
study yet suggests pregnancy may
be linked to a delay in experiencing
one of the early signs of MS.
The new study, from Australia
and the Czech Republic, suggests
pregnancy is associated with a
3-year delay to the onset of clinically
isolated syndrome (CIS).
CIS is a first episode of neurological
conditions that lasts at least 24
hours. It is often the first stage in a
diagnosis of MS, but some people
never go on to experience further
symptoms or develop MS.
Researchers analysed data from
2557 women through MS Base - a
large database with information
from people with MS, and MS
clinics. All the women in this study
had MS and had previously been
diagnosed with CIS. The researchers
then looked back at when they
developed CIS and whether they
had ever been pregnant.
They found women who had been
pregnant were diagnosed with CIS,
on average, just over three years
later than women who had never
been pregnant. The researchers did
not find a link between the number
of times women had been pregnant
and the time of CIS onset.
We don’t fully understand
why pregnancy seems to play
a protective role in MS, but
researchers think it could be to do
with the hormones oestrogen and
progesterone. During pregnancy,
the levels of these hormones
change dramatically, which may
impact the immune system.
Further research is needed to
understand the link between MS,
pregnancy, and hormone levels.
Large registry studies involving
data from thousands of people with
MS – like MS Base and the UK’s MS
Register – are one way to help build
this picture.
FROM MS RESEARCH AUSTRALIA
Read more at: msra.org.au
Ofatumumab – a repurposed
treatment
The American Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) approved
ofatumumab (tradename Kesimpta)
for relapsing MS, including clinically
isolated syndrome, relapsingremitting
MS (RRMS), and active
secondary progressive MS (SPMS).
It has yet to be approved for use
in Australia.
Ofatumumab, originally a cancer
treatment, has been ‘repurposed’
for use in relapsing-remitting MS.
Like some other MS medications,
ofatumumab is an antibody which
targets a protein called CD20 (found
on a specific type of immune cell,
known as a B cell).
It has been used since 2009 for
the treatment of chronic
lymphocytic leukemia (under the
tradename Arzerra).
Ofatumumab is a ‘monoclonal
antibody’, self-administered monthly
by injection at home. Antibodies
are proteins normally made by the
immune system to target foreign
invaders. ‘Monoclonal’ antibodies
are so named because they have
one specific target for destruction.
In this case, ofatumumab has
been engineered to target CD20, a
molecule found on a type of immune
cell thought to be important in
the development and progression
of MS. Other medications used
to target CD20 in MS have
included rituximab (Rituxan) and
ocrelizumab (Ocrevus).
10

Reduction in immune cells has been
especially powerful in reducing
relapses in RRMS, however, it has
had less clinical effect in some
forms of progressive forms of MS
as progressive forms of MS are
thought to generally have lower
levels of inflammation.
In clinical trials named ASCLEPIOS I
and II, ofatumumab was compared
against teriflunomide (Aubagio).
Results showed that average yearly
rates of relapses for patients with
MS were reduced by 51% for those
who received ofatumumab, and
by 58% for those who received
teriflunomide. A larger number
in the ofatumumab group had
no evidence of MS activity during
the trial, measured via number of
relapses, disability worsening, and
MRI activity. No evidence of disease
activity is widely recognised as the
optimal treatment goal in MS.
Potential side effects include
injection-related reactions and
increased risk of infections. We
await review by the Therapeutic
Goods Administration and
Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory
Committee to determine whether
ofatumumab will become available
and subsidised for MS in Australia
and for whom.
How do additional medical
conditions impact a person’s MS?
Three new Australian studies
investigated how common
additional medical conditions are
in people with MS, and how they
impact MS symptoms and overall
quality of life.
People with MS had higher rates
of other medical conditions than
the general population including
depression, high blood pressure
and gastrointestinal problems.
Additional medical conditions can
exacerbate MS symptoms and
reduce quality of life, so early and
targeted management of these
is important to benefit people
with MS.
The Australian MS Longitudinal
Study (AMSLS), MS Research
Australia’s collaborative research
platform, has been running for
almost twenty years. In recent years
there has been increasing interest
in the role of additional medical
conditions (or ‘comorbidities’) in
people with MS. There are many
reports that they can delay an MS
diagnosis, alter the progression of
disability, affect treatment use, limit
physical activity, and significantly
reduce quality of life.
Three new AMSLS studies by Dr
Lara Lo from the University of
Tasmania published in the Journal
of Neurology investigated how
other medical conditions impact
Australians living with MS.
/ The first study surveyed additional
medical conditions in people
with MS in Australia. Of the
19 conditions analysed, 14 of
these were significantly more
common in people with MS
than in the general population.
These included cancer, heart
and vascular diseases, anxiety,
depression, and gastrointestinal
disorders. There was no difference
in the prevalence of these medical
conditions between relapsingand
progressive-onset disease,
but the prevalence was higher in
those with a longer duration of MS.
MS might contribute to the risk
of developing other conditions, or
there might be shared factors that
predispose people either directly
or indirectly to several conditions
including MS.
/ The second study examined the
impact of additional medical
conditions on the severity of
MS symptoms. The researchers
found that MS symptoms were
more severe in people with a
higher number of other medical
conditions, with the greatest
effects on depression, anxiety,
and pain.
When analysed individually, mental
health disorders (such as diagnosed
depression) and musculoskeletal
disorders (such as osteoporosis)
had the most influence on MS
symptoms. Mental health disorders
were linked to increased severity
of MS symptoms including anxiety,
cognitive issues, fatigue, and sexual
dysfunction; while musculoskeletal
disorders were associated with
increased pain, walking and balance
issues, and bowel and bladder
issues.
/ The final study measured quality
of life in people with MS, including
factors such as happiness, coping,
relationships, self-worth, mental
health, independent living,
senses and pain. Not surprisingly,
having a higher number of
additional medical conditions
was associated with reduced
quality of life, with mental health
disorders having the greatest
impact, and musculoskeletal
disorders the second largest
contributor.
These studies highlight the
huge impact additional medical
conditions have on a person’s MS
and their quality of life, as well as
the importance of identifying and
actively managing these conditions.
Early and routine screening for
other medical conditions should
be integral to monitoring. Mental
health and musculoskeletal
conditions had the greatest impact
for people with MS, so successful
monitoring and management is
vital to improving quality of life.
11

NURSING
PROTECTING YOURSELF AND
OTHERS IN THE FLU SEASON
DON’T FORGET YOUR FLU SHOT
Each winter brings the risk of flu, and
annual flu vaccinations will soon be
offered. The Australian Government
recommends that everyone over
the age of 6 months has the flu shot
every year, especially those at risk;
the young, the elderly and those
with pre-existing illnesses.
Our Clients often ask whether they
should have the vaccination.
Our medical advisor Professor
Bill Carroll offers the following
comment:
"There is no evidence that these
vaccinations make MS worse
or cause a relapse. Should a
relapse occur, around the time
of 'flu' vaccination it is thought
to be coincidental. Occasionally
people with MS can have a brief
exacerbation of existing MS
symptoms, due to vaccination
associated fever or fatigue, but this
is not worsening of the MS.
People with MS are advised to
discuss any concerns with their
treating neurologist or physician as
soon as possible as it is essential to
have the vaccination earlier rather
than later to reduce the risk of
contracting the flu.”
Don’t forget that your GP and/or Getting vaccinated against the
neurologist can advise you on these
important health matters.
flu helps protect you and the
people around you. It’s particularly
important to protect vulnerable
It’s difficult to predict who will catch
people in the community who can’t
influenza (usually referred to as the
be vaccinated, such as babies who
flu), or who will become seriously ill
are younger than 6 months and
from it. The flu can require someone
adults with low immunity.
to be hospitalised and it can even
be fatal.
The Government funded Health Direct
(healthdirect.gov.au/colds-and-flu-treatments)
is packed with health information and advice.
You can call a Health Direct RN 24/7
for free advice: 1800 022 222.
SUE SHAPLAND RN, BN, MSCN
GENERAL MANAGER
STRATEGIC SUPPORTS AND
RESIDENTIAL OPTIONS
12

COVID-19 VACCINATION GUIDANCE FOR
PEOPLE WITH MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS
The current number one health priority around the world is the rapid and efficient roll
out of an effective vaccine(s) for the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on known risk factors for
complications and death from the virus several priority groups have been identified for the
roll out of vaccination programs, but this is also heavily influenced by service delivery factors
(eg healthcare workers).
Evidence shows that people with MS
(PwMS) are no more likely to develop
COVID-19 or its complications,
including those on treatment
(with the possible exception of
those on ocrelizumab who may
be at very slightly increased risk of
complications but not death). Those
with higher levels of disability (such
as advanced progressive MS) may
be at increased risk of complications
from COVID-19.
The overall mortality from COVID-19
in Australia is consistent with
other parts of the world at 3.2% (8
January 2021). This means that on
average three out of every 100 who
might contract COVID-19 would not
survive. Although infection rates in
Australia and New Zealand remain
very low, recent outbreaks (mostly
related to quarantine breaches)
have shown that further cases
are inevitable.
Nine vaccines have now been
formally tested in phase III clinical
trials in adults and have been
approved in some parts of the
world, and all have proven to be
highly effective and very safe.
Of the three vaccines currently
available in the US/EU/UK, two are
being organised for distribution
in Australia starting mid-February
2021. These are the Pfizer/BioNTech
mRNA vaccine and the AstraZeneca
or Oxford vaccine.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
As a PwMS should I have the
COVID-19 vaccination?
It is currently recommended that
everyone over the age of 18 years
should be vaccinated against
COVID-19. There is no specific data
relating to the administration of
any of the vaccines to PwMS, but
studies in the US and EU are being
conducted concurrently. However,
there is no theoretical reason
why any of the currently available
vaccines destined for Australia will
pose any particular risk to PwMS.
The risks of COVID-19 are very real,
are higher in PwMS with higher
levels of disability, and far outweigh
any conceivable risk from the
vaccines.
Could the vaccine trigger a relapse
of my MS?
There is currently no evidence to
suggest that this might be the case.
All of the vaccines can produce
side effects that include fever and
fatigue. Fever can on rare occasions
cause a re-emergence of previous
MS symptoms (a so-called ‘pseudorelapse’)
but it is widely thought
that this only lasts as long as the
fever is present (usually less than 24
hours) and does not imply any new
inflammation or damage to the
nervous system. Similarly, fatigue
to vaccination can be similar to MSrelated
fatigue, but this should be
only temporary.
PROFESSOR BILL CARROLL AM
13

CUSTOMER ENGAGEMENT TEAM
THE ROLE OF THE LOCAL
AREA COORDINATOR (LAC)
The year 2015 was significant for many different reasons. A guy call Bruno Mars had us all dancing
to something called ‘Uptown Funk’ while Star Wars: The Force Awakens returned Han Solo
to our screens for the first time in 32 years. However, perhaps most importantly, we started
to see the what the NDIS would look like and how the new disability scheme would function.
One significant announcement was
that the Productivity Commission
would be allocating around $550
million per annum to allow the NDIA
to employ Local Area Coordinators
(LACs) with the stated goal of
connecting people with disability
to services and improving the
way mainstream services support
people with disabilities.
Like most things there was a
slight delay in getting started
with the two companies picked
to deliver the LAC services across
WA (Mission Australia and APM)
not commencing services until the
last half of 2019. Nevertheless, once
commenced these positions proved
a valuable resource for you to help
get the most out of your plan.
The main role of the LAC is to be the
visible ‘face’ of the NDIS. The NDIA
is a massive organisation where it
is sometimes hard to find someone
to have an actual conversation.
Therefore, LACs provide participants
with a human interaction and
help to bridge the gap between
themselves, the agency and service
providers such as MSWA. So, what
exactly do LACs do and how do they
connect with MSWA’s team?
PLANNING
Once you are deemed eligible to
receive an NDIS plan you will be
allocated a LAC who will meet
with you to develop a plan. It is
important to note that your LAC
does NOT approve your plan. They
send recommendations to the
NDIS planners, who make decisions
about what is reasonable and
necessary.
It is also important to remember that
these planning sessions are about
you. No matter what the LAC says,
you can advocate for the services
and/or service providers that suit
you. The plan should suit your life,
not the beliefs of the planner. If you
are not happy with your plan, speak
to your LAC about it.
Finally, do not forget that
MSWA’s Customer Relationship
Coordinators are also here to help
during these planning meetings
and will happily support you with
pre-planning sessions and attend
planning meetings.
PLAN REVIEWS
Despite the best efforts at planning,
at times participants will find that
their active plan is no longer suiting
their service needs. This is where
LACs become very important.
Remember these people are the
face of the NDIS so if the scheme is
not working for you, ask them what
they can do.
It should be noted that LACs are
not available for ongoing case
management support, MSWA’s
Customer Liaison Coordinators (CLCs)
provide that service. But it does mean
that the LACs should be available if
your plan is not meeting your needs.
COMMUNITY LINKAGES
LACs also have an important role
in developing more inclusive
communities for people with
disability, leading to increased
opportunities and choices for you
outside of the funded scheme. LACs
can help you to understand what
community supports are available
in your local area and assist you to
link to these supports.
One word of caution – as noted in the
previous Bulletin – the introduction
of the ‘Independent Assessors’ will
likely have a significant affect on the
planning and plan review process
so the long-term role of Local Area
Coordinators may change, however
for now they remain a valuable
resource that can be called upon.
A good relationship between you
and your LAC is important. While
MSWA’s team will do whatever we
can to help you get the most out
of your plans, there are limits to
our ability to influence the Agency.
That is where LACs come into the
picture by providing a direct link
into the NDIA. They are paid to help.
So, make sure that they do.
GEOFF HUTCHINSON
MANAGER CUSTOMER
ENGAGEMENT
14

NEW STAFF AT MSWA
MSWA would like to introduce you to some of our new managers, who you may encounter
when receiving our services and support.
CRYSTAL CHAN
MANAGER –
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
I started with MSWA as Manager of
Occupational Therapy in December
2020. I have worked and managed
teams within the not-for-profit
sector in the last decade. As an OT,
I have had previous experiences
within Aged Care, Vision
Rehabilitation and Workplace
Modifications. Most recently I
have spent time managing allied
health teams in areas of NDIS
and paediatrics and have enjoyed
seeing growth in staff in their
professions and with each other to
achieve common goals.
My passion in the field of
occupational therapy has always
been to promote a person’s
independence and I count it a
privilege to be able to journey with
the Client and see them grow and
achieve their goals. I am excited
about being able to lead and work
with the MSWA Occupational
Therapy team – whether it is
providing equipment, therapy or
supporting family members – they
all do it with a smile on their face
knowing that they have made a
difference in the Clients’ lives.
JAMES BECKETT
MANAGER – PHYSIOTHERAPY
I came to work at MSWA as a
physiotherapist a little over two
years ago, seeking a more rewarding
place of work. After beginning at
our Rockingham and Mandurah
facilities I quickly realised that
MSWA was where I wanted to be,
which is why I’m delighted to be the
new Manager of Physiotherapy.
I have worn many hats over the
course of my career working as a
coach, an exercise physiologist and
a physiotherapist to name a few.
I have worked in elite sport and in
private practice but have come full
circle to end up back in the disability
sector where my real passion lies.
The common theme across my
career is that it has always been
about people and helping them
to get the best out of themselves.
I plan to approach my new role
in the same way – by supporting
my outstanding team, to together
provide the best possible services to
our Clients.
VICTORIA AMEY
COMMUNITY SUPPORT MANAGER
I am the new Community Support
Manager at MSWA, having
commenced in November 2020.
I have worked primarily in the
community services sector with a
lengthy background in the aged
care and carer sector along with
experience at the WA Department
of Health. I have a passion for
working to support people to
remain living in their home with
the individualised supports to meet
their needs.
15

MSWA CLIENT
CONTINUING TO SUPPORT
DENISE’S JOURNEY IN ALBANY
Denise Amato was leading a very busy life in 2011, running a small business with her husband
and looking forward to future travel plans, when, at the age of 56, she started experiencing
fatigue and muscle weakness in her legs and the left side of her body. This, she would later
come to realise, was the beginning of her journey with primary progressive multiple sclerosis
(PPMS), the neurological condition she was diagnosed with two years later.
Denise has lived in Albany most
of her life and has always been
a very active member of the
community, spending a lot of time
outdoors – walking, swimming and
bodyboarding. Today, symptoms
of reduced mobility and fatigue
have meant taking a step back
from some of the more highintensity
activities. She recalls one
of the hardest things to give up
after her diagnosis was her regular
involvement in ‘Granny Grommets’ –
an over-50s women’s bodyboarding
group who meet every Friday, rain,
hail or shine. Happily, she remains
a social member and is in regular
contact with the group.
Denise continues to swim
recreationally, and in 2019 – along
with a squad of her family and
fabulous ‘swim buddies’ – raised over
$14,000 for MSWA by participating
in the annual MSWA Albany Swim.
Until recently, Denise had avoided
a traditional mobility walker but
was delighted when her MSWA
Support Coordinator, Lisa, sourced
a stylish, ultra-lite graphite design.
“I’m very pleased with my new
super-duper ‘oyster white’ walker,”
laughs Denise.
She credits MSWA with opening so
many doors for her that wouldn’t
have been accessible otherwise.
“The thing I value the most about
MSWA is that for the past seven
years they have been the one and
only constant in my journey. The
facilities MSWA provide and the
money they are contributing to
research, I know from personal
experience, make a real difference
to the lives of ordinary people trying
to come to terms with living with
multiple sclerosis.
“Before my diagnosis, I had been
used to being independent and
keeping active. It took me a long
time to realise I could call on help
and that I should not feel guilty
about accepting it. For example,
Maureen, the MSWA nurse in
Albany, encouraged me to sign up
to the NDIS before I turned 65. I
didn’t think it was appropriate for
me, but it opened up a whole lot of
doors for us. My husband had polio
as a child, so he is also living with
a disability. An NDIS plan enabled
us to get a yard man, which is a
fantastic help.
“I have a very supportive
family and close friends
whom I value greatly and
MSWA have taken a lot of
the stress off them as I can
source help independently.”
Currently, Denise accesses MSWA’s
physiotherapy, yoga and nursing
services. She also attends the annual
retreat in the Great Southern, which
she adores. “I love the yearly MSWA
Camp in Denmark. Everything
is taken care of for us. It’s a little
bit of a break and allows some
respite for family. I probably think
about MS less than I ever do when
I’m on those camps. They are so
much fun.”
Denise welcomed the recent
announcement that MSWA have
begun constructing a new stateof-the-art
$7M facility in Albany.
A purpose-built Services Centre
will continue to provide MSWA’s
regional Clients with services such
as physiotherapy, occupational
therapy, nursing, counselling,
speech, dietetics and outreach.
“Everyone’s very excited about
the new Centre. I go regularly
to physiotherapy at the current
Lotteries House location. It’s a
shared facility and the physios
operate out of a couple of small
rooms, so it’s very constrained.
They do an amazing job with
the space they have but the new
dedicated location will make a huge
difference.”
16

In addition, an adjoining High
Support Accommodation Facility
will feature 10 fully accessible
units to cater for MSWA’s high
support Clients, with 24-hour care
provided on-site. It will be the first
accommodation facility of its kind
in the Great Southern.
“The opportunity for people living
with neurological conditions in
Albany to have specialised living
facilities is so important,” explains
Denise. “There’s people younger
than me who are currently in
nursing homes because there’s
nowhere else to go.”
“Nobody living with MS really
knows what the future holds
for them, but I do know that
I am in very good hands with
MSWA and that means a lot.”
MSWA Client, Denise Amato, at home in her garden.
THE MSWA QUALITY & COMPLIANCE TEAM HAS GROWN
The MSWA Quality and Compliance Team now comprises of two new staff – Alison Cox, Manager Quality
and Compliance, and Michelle John, Complaint Liaison & Compliance Coordinator.
Quality and compliance are an essential function of any organisation – especially those providing care and
services to people. MSWA is committed to ensuring that the care and services provided to our Clients is
safe and of the highest possible standard.
We always want to hear what is working well, and what we could look to improve on. The MSWA Quality
and Compliance team are a small team who, with the support of Clients, staff, and managers, identify our
strengths and what areas require development. Even if we are providing care and services to a very high
standard, there are always things that we can do better.
MSWA also needs to demonstrate to both our Clients and external governing agencies that we meet certain
standards, such as the NDIS Practice Standards and the Aged Care Quality Standards. These standards
have been put in place to ensure all organisations delivering disability or aged care services provide high
quality and safe supports to Clients.
MSWA is committed to putting all the necessary safeguards in place to allow our staff to provide the very
best care and services, and our Quality and Compliance team are working hard with all the teams to make
sure this continues!
17

COUNSELLING
MEN,
LET’S
TALK
MICHAELA MUNDY
MSWA SENIOR COUNSELLOR
The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted every Australian in some way. However, in broad
terms, men especially are still very reluctant to speak up about the stresses and pressures
that they are experiencing.
Everyone has an understanding
about physical sensations, for
example a headache or sprain,
but many men grow up never
being able to acknowledge mental
health changes. When we go
through significant changes, as
with chronic health conditions, we
can experience mood changes,
feelings of anger and intolerance,
difficulties sleeping or feeling
unmotivated. You may not feel like
you can concentrate as well as usual
or you forget things. Many people
feel something isn’t quite right but
don’t connect it to anxiety.
There is nothing inherent about
men or masculinity that would
say men don’t experience mental
health challenges, or that they can’t
talk about it. It is experiences and
society’s rules that create this certain
way of thinking. If you are a man
struggling with your mental health
or experiencing anxiety, it does not
make you any less of a man – all men
go through something in some way.
It is so important to be kind to
yourself and be able to say it’s okay
to feel these things and it’s okay to
get support.
Talk it over – either with a
mate or maybe touch base
with a qualified Counsellor
at MSWA.
If you have a mate who seems to be
struggling, it can be a challenge to
know how to broach the subject.
There is research that has shown
that men find it easier to have these
conversations when they are sitting
side by side. Beyond Blue call it
‘Chat Lap’ (link for website is below)
– encouraging men to talk whilst
side by side in the car. Think of other
activities that you and your friends
or family enjoy, such as fishing,
walking, cooking, that would
enable you to bring up challenging
subjects in a less confronting way.
Having a distraction can just make
it feel less in-your-face.
MSWA run an open Men’s Group
at Kelmscott four times a year. We
are also looking for expressions of
interest from men in Mandurah to
meet at the Mandurah Centre. We
combine educational topics and a
chance to connect with other men.
If you are interested in either of
these, please contact Michaela or
Janice for more information.
Men’s Group
michaela.mundy@mswa.org.au or
janice.petrovic@mswa.org.au
Beyond Blue
beyondblue.org.au/who-does-itaffect/men/looking-out-for-yourmates
18

NURSING
MSWA NURSING IN A
HOSPITAL SETTING
As we reflect on what has been an extraordinary year in every industry and business, MSWA has
continued to support people in the community living with neurological conditions.
MSWA provides support to the
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) clinics
and Motor Neurone Disease
(MND) clinics at various hospital
locations across Perth including
The Perron Institute, Fiona Stanley
State Rehabilitation Centre, Royal
Perth Hospital and St John of God
Midland. At present, support is
provided to at least nine MS clinics
and three MND clinics weekly. In
2021 we will continue our efforts to
expand this service for our Clients.
An opportunity to collaborate with
the clinics supporting individuals
with other neurological conditions
such as Parkinson’s has arisen and
will be thoroughly explored.
Role of Neurological Liaison Nurses
at clinics
The last six months has seen a
huge shift in the Nursing team at
MSWA. Not only have we expanded
our scope of practice to include
clinical nursing, but we have also
progressively increased the number
of nurses supporting clinics in
the hospitals. Known as the
Neurological Liaison Nurses (NLN),
their role in the hospital clinics
includes:
/ Providing support to the
neurologist during the clinic visit
/ Providing emotional support to
the Client during the consultation
/ Assisting the Client with
connecting to Allied Health
Services and other health
professionals where required
/ Providing education and training
related to MS medications
/ Liaising with the Client’s GPs if
and when necessary, in order
to advocate for ongoing care in
the home. Discussions related to
symptom management can be
had with the nurse during and
after the clinic consultation.
Once connected to a NLN,
every Client is supported in the
community as they journey
together, from the time of diagnosis
through to the later stages of their
condition.
Our aim in the MSWA
Nursing team is to continue
to provide a quality service
of support and education
to our Clients living with a
neurological condition,
both in the clinic and
community settings.
To find out more about the
clinics please speak to your
MSWA nurse.
19

VOLUNTEERING
WE HELPED
EACH OTHER
Marie Harris has served as an MSWA volunteer for 30 years.
“In 1989, I’d hardly ever heard of
multiple sclerosis,” says Marie Harris.
“I’ve learned a lot about MS over
the years.”
1989 was the year she moved from
Perth to Bunbury to be closer to
one of her daughters. “I didn’t have
much to do down there, so when
I saw an ad to be the secretary
of the MS Society (now MSWA), I
volunteered.”
Back then, the team in Bunbury
was very small. Initially, Marie’s role
was connecting newly diagnosed
Clients with the MSWA nurse in
Perth. Then, she started helping
with the Outreach group – making
tea and accompanying Clients on
picnics in the country.
“The group in Bunbury really grew,”
recalls Marie.
She realised she wasn’t the only one
who knew little about MS. “People
knew nothing about it. I enjoyed
raising awareness. I’d do the car
raffle each year – going to the
big shopping centres, sitting there
on a little stool and people would
donate.”
It was also Marie’s task to deposit
any money raised into the
organisation’s bank account every
Wednesday. “It was a very serious
job – very important,” she laughs.
She also started the Outreach
group’s lottery club. “I started
buying a lotto ticket every Saturday
for the group. We occasionally had
little wins but it was mostly for the
fun of it. They’re still doing it now,
someone took over.”
In 2016, Marie received the state
government’s ‘WA Volunteer Service
Award’, given to individuals who
volunteer for 25 years at a single
organisation. “The medal I received
is very dear to me,” she says. “I keep
it in my jewellery box.”
Marie was born and raised in Chile.
She left to join the air force in World
War II, which took her to Ceylon
(now Sri Lanka) where she met her
English husband. In 1968, the pair
and their four children immigrated
to Australia.
Another impressive aspect of
Marie’s life is her involvement in
the mature age Masters swimming
club in Bunbury, a group that she
founded 30 years ago.
“When I was living in Perth, I was
really lonely for a time. I wanted
to do something other than just
sit and watch TV and go to sleep. I
found out about a swimming club
nearby. It was marvellous! They
helped me with my swimming and
we all formed strong friendships.
Like Outreach, it was about people
helping each other. When I moved
down to Bunbury, I said, “There’s a
pool here, there’s mature swimmers,
why not?” So I started digging and
finding people to join.”
Three decades later, the group has
over 70 members, and Marie has a
large collection of medals for her
swimming achievements in the WA
State Masters Games, mostly for
backstroke.
Marie recently moved to Perth
to live with daughter and son-inlaw,
Carol and Dennis. At age 96,
problems with her vertebrae mean
she can no longer live alone.
Lynda Whitton, who lives in
Bunbury, first met Marie upon
joining MSWA 25 years ago. The
pair have had many adventures
together over the years and remain
firm friends.
20

“She’s an inspiration,” says Lynda. “She was still
competitively swimming at the age of 89. She ran
with the Olympic Torch through Bunbury. I would
like to think I’m as active and mentally alert as her
at her age. So would ninety percent of the people
at the MSWA hub in Bunbury. Since she moved to
Perth last year, not a week goes by where someone
doesn’t ask ‘have you heard from Marie?’”
In 2018, Marie was recognised for
her incredible 30 years of service
to MSWA. “It was a lovely time,”
she recalls. “Marcus Stafford was
there. He gave the Certificate of
Appreciation to me.”
She says she misses Bunbury but
that the memories stay with her. “I
have fond memories of the people
I met in the Bunbury Outreach
group. They were all wonderful
people. We helped each other.”
L to R: Celebrating her 96th birthday with the Bunbury crew (2020),
cuddles with a Client’s granddaughter (2010), Bastille Day at Bunbury Outreach (2017).
WOULD YOU
LIKE TO RECEIVE
THE BULLETIN
ONLINE?
Register your email address today to start
receiving our monthly Vitality e-newsletter
or the Bulletin magazine online.
Email damien.hill@mswa.org.au or call 9365 4814
and let us know your current email address,
or to update your contact details.
21

COUNSELLING
PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
STATE CONFERENCE
ELLEN-MAY EATON
MSWA CLIENT
CHERRY CHAPMAN
MSWA COUNSELLOR
In November, we both attended the inaugural State Conference, organised by People
with Disabilities WA (PWdWA). PWdWA plays a key advocacy role for both individuals and
systemic issues.
The conference was largely planned
by a committee of people with
disabilities and most sessions
were presented by people with
disabilities. It was certainly a fresh
approach to attending a conference
and one where we were made
to feel welcome. Arrangements
considered a full range of disabilities
– from access for wheelchairs, to
supports for those who were deaf,
blind, as well as many other issues.
The significant key speakers shared
their life stories of achievement
and overcoming adversity. Prue
Hawkins, who created her own
successful law firm here in Perth,
was inspiring, as was Senator
Jordan Steele-John (WA Greens
Senator) who highlighted the
disability rights movement, its
achievements to date and areas for
future focus. Samantha Jenkinson,
the State Director, gave a detailed
account of the new NDIS Quality
and Safeguards Commission, and
finally Dr Rita Kleinfeld-Fowell,
professional advocate and disability
discrimination lawyer working for
Midlas (Midland Information Debt
and Legal Advocacy Service), shared
her life’s journey through adversity.
A smaller organisation we became
aware of was WA Individualised
Services (WAis) which works
in partnership with people,
families, service providers and
government to promote and
advance individualised, selfdirected
supports and services.
It was difficult to choose between
the many workshops on offer at
the conference. We came away
filled with information, energy, and
excitement about what is out there
to support people with disabilities.
PWdWA website: pwdwa.org
WAis website:
waindividualisedservices.org.au
22

PHYSIOTHERAPY
CONTINENCE PHYSIOTHERAPY
Hello everyone, please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Marga and I am a
physiotherapist who recently joined MSWA. I am currently finishing a post-graduate in
Continence Physiotherapy at Curtin University.
I am currently promoting bladder
and bowel healthy habits. In this
article, I would like to focus on
bladder issues and some tips on how
we can support these symptoms.
Bladder function in neurological
conditions
MS, Parkinson’s and other
neurological conditions can affect
the nerves that connect your brain
with your bladder, and this may
produce a change in your ability to
empty or store urine.
What are the common symptoms?
1. Issues with storage
- Urgency: the need to urinate
in a rush. For example, before
opening the door at home
- Frequency: the need to urinate
regularly more than 6-8 times
per day
- Nocturia: needing to go to
the toilet more than one time
per night
2. Issues with emptying
Failure to empty your bladder
completely. Some issues can
include interrupted flow, poor flow,
straining when emptying, dribble
post emptying and needing to
empty again immediately.
3. Issues after emptying
Incomplete emptying is the feel
that your bladder is still full after
urination.
What does a physiotherapist
ask or do during a continence
assessment?
We ask what symptoms are
bothering you the most, as we want
to focus on your individual goals.
During your initial assessment,
we ask questions in relation to
your bladder symptoms, your diet,
your current medication and your
previous treatment.
During the assessment, we may
provide you with a bladder diary
that you will have to complete at
home for three consecutive days.
This is a simple way of having a
measurement of input versus
output of your fluids. With your
bladder diary information, we can
determine if you have issues with
storage or emptying and make a
joint decision of what can help your
symptoms.
During examination, we can also
perform a pelvic floor muscle
examination.
What can I do to help my symptoms?
1. Bladder habits: including bladder
retraining, avoiding bladder
irritating foods and drinks,
suppression strategies to calm
your urgency.
2. Pelvic floor muscle strengthening:
if your main bladder symptom is
leaking with coughing, sneezing,
lifting, or moving between
different positions, pelvic floor
muscle strengthening can help
your symptoms. It is common
not to be aware of your pelvic
floor muscles. In some cases,
people find it hard to strengthen
them correctly.
Margarita Ruiz Martinez,
the newest member of the
MSWA Physiotherapy team
3. A review with your MSWA
Neurological Liaison Nurse would
be indicated if you are having
symptoms of urine retention.
In this case, your nurse will go
through an assessment and
treatment options.
4. Further management: review
with a specialist to discuss other
options such as Botox.
If you would like to book a
continence physiotherapy review,
please speak to your MSWA Nurse
or Physiotherapist for a referral.
MARGARITA RUIZ MARTINEZ
MSWA PHYSIOTHERAPIST
23

MSWA CLIENT
SUMMER RULES
Summer can be a tough time for people living with multiple sclerosis. Many people with
MS find that when the body heats up they feel weaker and more fatigued. Strangely, I don’t
like the very cold weather either. I have poor circulation and when it gets cold my feet feel
freezing and it’s hard to warm them up. Consequently, I need to use my air conditioner (and
Ugg boots!) to keep my house at a comfortable liveable temperature.
During this summer, I went in my
electric wheelchair down to the river
as often as I could. I enjoy watching
the black swans and getting some
fresh air. I also have a school friend
down there who operates a surf cat
business. A million years ago I was
at high school with Andrew, who
reminisces we “ran the school”.
Although Andrew and I were both
prefects I think the school could
have managed perfectly well to run
itself without us!
This summer also I was looking
forward to my daughter Eleni and
little grandson Henry coming over
from Queensland for a visit in
January. Unfortunately, a new case of
COVID was identified in Queensland
not long before they were due, and
the WA government re-instated the
hard border policy, which meant they
had to cancel their trip. At least we
have regular video chats and Henry
now calls me “nanna” all the time. His
other favourite word is ‘bin’. He has a
fascination with wheelie bins. Eleni
told me that just before Christmas
their rubbish truck driver, seeing
Henry watching the collection every
week and noticing his excitement,
gave him a toy wheelie bin of his own
to play with. Eleni and Henry’s father
Will bought Henry a little toy rubbish
truck for Christmas, so now he can
‘tip rubbish into the truck’ whenever
he likes. It is his favourite game.
I was really looking forward to seeing
my little family, so of course I am so
disappointed that they cannot now
come over to WA. Eleni is pregnant
again and due in June, so I am
hopeful that restrictions will ease by
then so I can travel later in the year to
visit them. I find travel difficult and
will have to put considerable effort
into finding wheelchair accessible
accommodation, as Eleni’s house
is unsuitable. A friend of mine has
promised he will accompany me
on the trip to help, so that is bliss. I
just hope that the virus stays out of
Queensland till then.
Many people are separated from
their loved ones at this time. And all
know it is so hard when we cannot
visit. At least we have wonderful
technology these days that allows
us to stay connected.
Back when I was a teenager, I grew
up in Albany on the south coast of
WA. My sisters and I all knew we
would move to Perth when we
graduated from high school as
there was no tertiary education
available in Albany. Now of course I
can feel how my parents must have
had to swallow their grief as one
after another of their four daughters
packed up and left home. Mind you,
my father moved all the way from
Greece to Melbourne when he was
18 years old, and both my parents
moved away from their families
in Melbourne to Western Australia
in the early sixties, so they
couldn’t complain.
In those days we kept in
touch by writing letters
and posting them!
Remember letters? Hardly anyone
does that any more. About once a
month my mother would ring me
and we would have a chat, but in
those days STD phone calls were
very expensive and were kept
short. Some people complain about
our obsession with smart phones
and social media, but I love the
increased connectivity it brings.
I regularly keep in touch with
my daughter, and my cousins in
Queensland, Victoria and England
by social media and we know each
other better now than we ever
did before.
Nevertheless, there is nothing quite
as lovely as seeing someone face
to face. I am counting down the
minutes till I can see my daughter
and grandchildren later in the year.
Please, fellow-Australians, stay at
home and wear masks!
ROS HARMAN
GUEST EDITOR
24

COMMUNITY SUPPORT
CTLS: OUR COMMITMENT TO PROVIDE
QUALITY CARE FOR CLIENTS AND SUPPORT
FOR COMMUNITY SUPPORT WORKERS
As part of our commitment to high quality care and services at MSWA, we have created a
brand new role within the Community Support team. The Community Team Leader (CTL)
position has been rolled out across the metropolitan area over the past few months to work
closely with our 300 plus dedicated Community Support Workers (CSWs).
Yes, it is another acronym to
remember! But what it boils down
to is improving the way our teams
work and the way they are able
to deliver service and support in
your home.
To ensure quality care in the
community is achieved, MSWA
recognises that it is essential to
support all staff, particularly those
who are working autonomously
in the community. This dynamic,
proactive new team will focus
on mentoring, supervision, and
training of all the CSWs to meet
individual Client needs. The team
will have a presence both in Clients’
homes as well as in the community,
focused on supporting our staff.
A key component to the delivery
of quality services is the ability to
provide opportunities for new and
existing staff of learning through
buddy shifts (two or more care
support workers, working together
to learn and observe). Buddy shifts
not only ensure standards of care
by new staff are met, they also allow
staff to work with other Clients,
providing relief support during
periods of illness or holidays taken
by our CSWs. This approach ensures
all that all our Client needs are met.
The Rostering Coordination team
will continue to oversee the
bookings of services for all our
Clients. They will work closely with
the CTLs as well as the Client Liaison
Coordinators, to ensure services are
provided and CSW are matched to
our Clients. We are embedding a
culture of enhanced collaboration,
teamwork and partnership to
support the individualised needs of
all our Clients.
We have already received
positive feedback regarding
the CTL role from the Care
Support Workers who
have commented on the
wonderful support, and
response to regular
meetings has also
generated lots of feedback.
VICTORIA AMEY
COMMUNITY SUPPORT
MANAGER
25

COUNSELLING, PEER SUPPORT & HEALTH EDUCATION
NEWLY DIAGNOSED
INFORMATION EVENING
Our Newly Diagnosed (MS) information evening made a comeback last year at two locations,
MSWA Belmont and MSWA Rockingham. Our newly diagnosed Clients were invited to bring
their family or support person for an informal opportunity to meet with others in a similar
situation and the chance to ask our experienced staff any questions.
Our Rockingham Centre had 14
people in attendance, as well as six
MSWA staff: Jill Crombie (Senior
Neurological Liaison Nurse), Janice
Petrovic (Counsellor), Sharon
Mundy (Senior Physiotherapist),
Misty Reinkowsky (Dietitian), Ann
Hall (Neurological Liaison Nurse)
and Dajana Tesevic (Counsellor &
Coordinator of Health Education
and Peer Support).
The focus of the information
evening is to create a safe place for
Clients and their support persons,
to listen to others and share
experiences of living with MS. The
group also provides a place to seek
support from those with a lived
understanding of MS, and MSWA
staff members. Feedback from
attendees at this recent session, was
that the group was a way for them
to gain new information about MS,
listen to others’ experiences and to
participate in the support system.
Our Peer Volunteers, Vanessa
Baker and Warren Henry, were in
attendance to share their personal
stories of being diagnosed with MS
and their journey so far. They spoke
about how they manage their
symptoms, how they maintain their
wellbeing and positive outlook on
life with MS over the years.
Feedback from attendees included:
“I have learned strategies for
moving forward and placing
importance of my own journey.”
“I found it very useful having peer
support people living with MS
to come and speak to us, as it
puts things into perspective and
reassures you are not alone.”
“The content was most beneficial
for my sister to have a better
understanding of MS. My sister now
feels comfortable knowing that
there is a lot of support for me and
others who are living with MS.”
With very positive feedback
from the groups, we will
be holding more Newly
Diagnosed information
evenings in 2021, so keep
an eye out on our MSWA
website under Programs,
Workshops & Events.
Alternatively, if you are interested
in attending or would
like to
provide any feedback, please phone
Dajana Tesevic on 9365 4858 or
email dajana.tesevic@mswa.org.au
DAJANA TESEVIC
MSWA COUNSELLOR/
COORDINATOR OF HEALTH
EDUCATION & PEER SUPPORT
26

BRAND, MARKETING & SALES
MSWA FAMILY FUN DAY
In November we welcomed over 50 families to our first MSWA Family Fun Day at Caversham
Wildlife Park. It was the perfect venue. We fed the kangaroos, cuddled the wombats, and got
up close and personal with the koalas, reptiles and other animals.
As it warmed up, we retreated to
the shaded area for refreshments
while the kids lined up for face
painting and made some giant
bubbles. It was not long before they
were moving off again to catch
the penguin feeding and the farm
show. Then it was time for lunch,
which kept the kids quiet for a little
while, and one last round of the
wildlife park before home time.
The Family Fun Day was made
possible by the children and
families who participated in the MS
Readathon in August last year. The
5,000 children who participated
raised over $300,000 to help
MSWA fund initiatives that support
children of families living with a
neurological condition in WA.
It was great to meet all the lovely
families who came along and
was very rewarding for my sevenyear-old
to see the result of her
MS Readathon fundraising efforts.
Everyone appeared to enjoy
themselves and we look forward to
welcoming you all again to the next
one. We are already planning the
next event, so stay tuned.
If you and your children or
grandchildren would like to take
part in our future events, email me
at family.events@mswa.org.au
You can also register your interest
to get involved in the 2021 MS
Readathon – join the fundraising
fun and help us make more MSWA
Family Fun Days possible!
SHELLY THOMPSON
GIVING MANAGER
27

VOLUNTEERING, CAMPS & RECREATION
VOLUNTEER
AND CAMPS
NEWS
DAWN BURKE
COORDINATOR OF VOLUNTEERS
AND CAMPS
Hello and welcome to 2021, where we start afresh and go into the year full steam ahead.
I hope you all enjoyed your well-earned break and are starting to get into the swing of
things again.
I took my yearly pilgrimage to
Hamelin Bay (near Augusta) with
my daughter and four of my little
grandies in tow. Such a beautiful
spot. If you haven’t been before it
is well renowned for the stingrays
that cruise up and down along the
water’s edge waiting to be fed fish
offcuts by those who dive and fish
daily. People take joy and wonder in
feeding them and the size they are.
It is always extremely important for
me to welcome you all back and
thank you for last year’s volunteering
efforts and send out my gratitude
for the future volunteering efforts
in 2021. I really rejoice in our fortune
in having so many dedicated and
long-serving volunteers. You are
truly appreciated. For those who
are joining us for the first time this
year, I send out a big welcome and
offer you our thanks for joining the
MSWA team.
Hopefully, all regular celebrations
will be running smoothly again
this year and we may be able to
host you at our Annual Volunteers’
Luncheon currently planned for May.
Details will follow shortly, and if it is
like all our previous luncheons, the
company, atmosphere, and food
will be truly amazing.
In December, I attended a
Volunteering Manager Network
meeting which was held at the
new Kings Park volunteer hub call
Wanju Mar (‘welcome hand’). It
was a beautiful new building with
an outdoor area and BBQs for
volunteers to sit and come together.
It is always lovely to see where other
volunteers go and see what they
do. I had not been to Kings Park
for some time and it was nice to
have the awesome view of our city
laying out before me. When it cools
down a bit, I would suggest a visit to
check out our beautiful city that is
the heart of WA.
Depending on how the next few
months pan out, Camps will still
be running. Hopefully I will have a
better idea of dates for the 2021/22
camps and retreats for our Clients
and carers. Watch this space for
dates as they arise.
It is always so wonderful
talking to you all, please
take care in this precarious
environment of ours and
be safe in all you do.
If you have any questions, ideas
or feedback, please email me
dawn.burke@mswa.org.au as all
or any suggestions are welcomed
and valued.
That’s it from me for now.
Until next time.
28

ACCOMMODATION & OUTREACH
MEN’S OUTREACH IN ROCKINGHAM
In 2020, MSWA introduced a Men’s Outreach Group, held every Wednesday morning at the
MSWA Rockingham Services Centre.
Nicola Ryan, Senior Outreach
Coordinator, explains that the group
was started after the COVID-19
lockdown last year.
“We needed to make the existing
Friday group smaller due to the
limited space for social distancing,”
says Nicola. “Some of our male
Clients were already attending
physiotherapy on a Wednesday so
the opportunity arose to schedule
a men’s Outreach group on the
same morning.
“It’s been fantastic to see how the
men have formed friendships. They
have been able to reach out to other
men who are in a similar situation,
with the support of the friendly
Outreach staff.”
David Perry, an MSWA Client who
was diagnosed with MS in 2012,
says, “It took me a while to feel ready
to sign up for the Outreach group.
What helped me was coming
into the Rockingham Centre for
physio and getting to know the
guys slowly that way. Once I joined
the group, everyone was so great.
We don’t load each other with
problems. It feels normal to chat or
joke, knowing that everyone is in a
similar situation.”
MSWA runs many different
Outreach groups and welcomes
all Clients to attend. To enquire
about joining this group or
your local group, please phone
Nicola Ryan on 9365 4830, or email
nicola.ryan@mswa.org.au
“It’s good to get together with
people in a similar situation.
We can all relate so well.” – David
“On Wednesdays it’s boys’ day at
Outreach. It’s good to meet up and
share stories.” – Philip
“I come for physio then stay for
lunch with the Outreach crew.” –
Charles
“I’m younger than these guys,
but we’re alike in other ways.
And it’s a great feed!” - David
“We drink tea and coffee. And
there’s craft, board games and
conversation.” – Graham
“It’s a great crowd at
Outreach.” – Peter
29

ACCOMMODATION & OUTREACH
CHRISTMAS AT TREENDALE GARDENS
Whilst we have been unable to have large gatherings at Treendale Gardens due to government
restrictions, we did our best to celebrate in December, including a small Christmas party and
other holiday activities. ‘Pin the beard on Santa’ was very popular!
All the residents and respite Clients,
as well as some family members,
staff and volunteers, attended our
annual pre-Christmas luncheon,
with special guests from Perth –
Marcus Stafford and Sue Shapland.
Whilst our accommodation
facility is currently at capacity,
we often have vacancies in our
homely respite facility as well as
our wonderful 3-bedroom holiday
unit. If you would like to hear
more please contact me or
Linda Kidd on 9725 9994 or email us
at treendale@mswa.org.au
PAULA KENNEDY
COORDINATOR – SUPPORT
ACCOMMODATION, TREENDALE
CHRISTMAS AT FERN RIVER
Whilst it seems so long ago, we would like to share our Christmas event with you. It was a
smaller affair than usual, but residents, families, and staff enjoyed a well-deserved Christmas
celebration that finished off a very challenging 2020. Following the months of limited
socialisation, social distancing and frequent monitoring of the COVID-19 status, the chance
to relax and enjoy each other’s company for the evening was welcomed by all who attended.
Our Christmas lights were enjoyed
by the entire Wilson neighbourhood,
with passers-by slowing down
to look at the colourful display.
The evening included a variety of
delicious foods and treats, light
refreshments, the traditional raffle
and many prizes. The raffle raised
just over $195 and will be spent on
items that will benefit our residents.
The highlight of the evening was
the photo ‘big screen’ display of
the residents and staff giving their
own personal Christmas wishes in
English and their native languages.
The photos showcased the
residents’ participation in various
activities throughout the year,
with some very funny moments
captured on film, bringing laughter
and tears to family and staff.
Fern River Manager Danuta
Figurska would like to thank the
staff and residents who participated
in, and contributed to, the evening
which was a great success. Everyone
is looking forward to Christmas 2021
and we are all wondering what
we will be planning to take the
celebrations to the next level!
DANUTA FIGURSKA
MANAGER –
ACCOMMODATION, FERN RIVER
30

TAKE A BREAK
IN THE SOUTH
WEST.
MSWA TREENDALE IS NOW TAKING BOOKINGS FOR 2021.
Whether you or a loved one need a break from daily routine, we have a range of rooms
with 24-hour care at MSWA Treendale Gardens Respite for a much-needed break.
Located next to the respite facility is a wonderfully appointed family holiday unit, where
families can get away from regular routines whilst accessing support for their loved ones.
To find out more please contact us on 9725 9994 or treendale@mswa.org.au

BRAND, MARKETING & SALES
WHAT’S ON
MSWA Client Sharon Murray, with
her two sons David and Mathew,
and their friend Trent
ALBANY
SWIM
MSWA ALBANY SWIM
15 May 2021
We're very excited to let you know
that the annual MSWA Albany Swim
is back for 2021 and is coming up
on Saturday, 15 May at the Albany
Leisure and Aquatic Centre. As you
may know, the MSWA Albany Swim
is an amateur swimming event
that encourages teams to swim the
most laps in a set 8-hour period. It's
a fantastic, family-friendly event
that is suitable for swimmers of
all ages and experience levels.
However, there's more than just
swimming on the day, with plenty
of competitions, activities and
games – including the very popular,
annual Inflatable Race!
For more information, or to sign
up, just visit the MSWA Albany
Swim website: mswaswim.org.au
STEP UP FOR MSWA
20 June 2021
Step Up for MSWA challenges
you to climb 1,103 steps to the top
of Perth’s tallest building – once,
twice, or even multiple times (new
for 2021!).
The big event takes place on Sunday
20 June, and there is even a special
Mini Climb challenge (435 stairs)
designed exclusively for children
(aged 6 and over).
Join us at Central Park this June
and challenge yourself to reach
new heights, whilst making a real
difference for people living with all
neurological conditions.
Find out more at:
stepupformswa.org.au
CENTRAL PARK PLUNGE
14 November 2021
Are you ready to take the plunge
with #TeamMSWA this November?
The Central Park Plunge offers
a unique opportunity to abseil
220 metres down Perth’s tallest
building, Central Park Perth, while
making a real difference to the
thousands of people living with
all neurological conditions here in
Western Australia.
It’s a great opportunity to get
together with family and friends
to conquer a once-in-a-lifetime
challenge. With 48 plunge spots
available on Sunday, 14 November,
we’d love you to join our team!
For more information, or to
sign up, get in touch with the
MSWA Events team today –
events@mswa.org.au or 6454 3131.
32

CONTAINERS FOR CHANGE
Did you know that since the
introduction of Containers for
Change in October, over 168,427,763
containers have been returned in
WA? This is simply amazing – and
what better time to add to this
number! Let’s collect and return
our own containers and make a
difference for MSWA.
To find your closest location
and learn which containers are
eligible for return, check out the
Containers for Change website:
containersforchange.com.au/wa/
Simply select ‘MSWA’ by
scanning the barcode below,
or enter our scheme ID:
C10268744.
The funds will come straight
through to us, ready to start
making a real difference to
people living with neurological
conditions here in WA.
33

ACCOMMODATION & OUTREACH
OUTREACH NEWS
Small Christmas celebrations were held at our Outreach centres during December 2020.
The Albany Outreach enjoyed a
superb Christmas morning tea
with Caroline Clarke-Smith at the
helm. It was a great turnout on
the day with many laughs shared
around the tables.
The Beechboro Outreach celebrated
Christmas by holding a Monday
(Eastside) party and Friday
(Northside) party, with many
dressing up for the occasion. Father
Christmas even paid a visit on both
days, thanks to the Coordinator
Chrystal for stepping into his shoes!
For many years these two groups
have visited local restaurants for their
Christmas celebratory lunch and this
year the cook Brenda ‘brought the
restaurant to them’. The menu was
a traditional hot Christmas lunch.
In-home Christmas parties are
going to be remembered with fond
memories for a long time to come.
Bunbury was the place to be on 16
December, where the atmosphere
was buzzing with the sounds of
Mr and Mrs Claus singing their
hearts out to the group. The
special Christmas morning tea
was a delight, while the singing of
Christmas carols was also a great
celebration of the day.
Rockingham ‘rocked’ the week
away having three separate parties
for their groups. The Physio team
joined forces with the Outreach
staff to create a morning of party
games while Clients were doing
their exercises. The highlight
was the amazing lunch provided
by Rosemary. Many said this was
the best Christmas lunch they had
ever had!
Wilson Outreach had a week of
small parties that proved to be heaps
of fun for everyone who attended.
Many games were organised
throughout the week, with many
Clients taking home a small gift.
Games included Christmas bingo
and pass-the-parcel. Lunch was a
buffet style each day, cooked and
prepared by Justine and her everwilling
volunteers.
Our Outreach Clients are looking
forward to the various events at
all our Centres throughout 2021.
There is no doubt that the MSWA
staff in all the Centres will continue
to provide another great year
of creative activities for the
Outreach groups.
NICOLA RYAN
SENIOR OUTREACH
COORDINATOR
34

SUGGESTIONS, COMPLAINTS
AND COMPLIMENTS
We want to hear from you. Your feedback helps us to understand what is working well and
where we can improve.
You can raise a concern or
acknowledge the supports an MSWA
staff member has provided by:
/ Talking to the coordinator of
your services
/ Telephoning the Complaints
Liaison and Compliance
Coordinator, Michelle John,
on 6454 3146.
/ Emailing
feedback@mswa.org.au
/ Writing to Quality and
Compliance; Locked Bag 2,
BENTLEY DC 6983.
Please tell us:
/ What happened
/ When it happened
/ Who was involved
/ What you would like to see
occur as a result of sharing your
feedback
All feedback is reviewed, and
complaints investigated in a timely
manner with the team responsible
for the service.
Our goal is to achieve a positive
outcome for all people involved
and improve the quality of the care
and services provided. You will be
included in the process and the
outcomes shared with you.
Please note, you have the right to
have support from an advocate at
any point in a complaint process.
The Complaints Liaison and
Compliance Coordinator can help
you to access an advocacy service
if you wish.
35

Whatever your
neurological condition,
whatever your needs,
our team of nurses, counsellors,
speech pathologists,
care support workers,
occupational therapists
and more will be right
there by your side.
Get your best from the
NDIS at mswa.org.au
MSWA.ORG.AU