MSRCNY Social Work Support
The MS Research Center of NY
Dr. Saud Sadiq
1 year grant, $25,000
The Multiple Sclerosis Research Center of New York conducts medical research directed toward the treatment and eventual cure of multiple sclerosis. MSRCNY's research activities are designed to explore all aspects of MS, including the cellular and molecular levels, in order to treat and cure MS. Its programs have expanded the overall body of knowledge concerning the causes and effects of MS. Through integration into treatment systems and research methods, their findings are continually benefitting MS patients and helping them manage their illness.
Among its notable achievements are
- Leadership in the intrathecal treatment of spasticity
- Introduction of intravenous immunoglobulin to treat MS
- Discovery that some MS patients develop beta-interferon antibodies, thereby negating its beneficial effects
- Groundbreaking use of intrathecal methotrexate to treat MS before any other MS center
- Identification of three proteins unique to the cerebrospinal fluid of MS patients. These proteins could serve as important biomarkers of disease activity, drug effectiveness or safety. \
The MS Hope for a Cure grant will underwrite the salary of an existing social worker in MSRCNY's social work department to ensure the continued receipt of comprehensive care through this program. The social work department provides patients and their families with the concrete, therapeutic and educational services needed to enhance their physical and emotional well-being and quality of life. In existence since 2002, the department offers a range of ongoing and time-limited support groups for individuals with MS and their family members. Social workers in the department have been trained in psychotherapy and can offer ongoing psychotherapy to individuals with MS and their families when appropriate.