Ohio Support Group of The Transverse Myelitis Association

Transverse Myelitis Association
Volume 5 Issue 1
December 2002
Page 39

Ohio Support Group of The Transverse Myelitis Association
Stephen Miller

Inaugural Meeting

The inaugural meeting of the Ohio Support Group of The Transverse Myelitis Association was held Saturday May 4, 2002 at the Radisson Hotel in Worthington, Ohio. There were 14 people with the TM diagnosis present along with several of their family members and friends. Discussions were held regarding ways to organize the group, its meetings, goals, social events and networking amongst both current and new members to the TMA. The afternoon went by quickly and new friendships were formed during the time together. As a result of the first meeting, a committee was developed to welcome new members, develop an Ohio TM newsletter, an Ohio TM web site, and to organize and plan future meetings and events.

September 14th Meeting

The Fall Meeting gathered at the same location on Saturday, September 14 and there were over 40 in attendance, 16 who share the Transverse Myelitis diagnosis. Lunch was served, stories were swapped and old friendships were renewed and new ones developed as everyone enjoyed the time together.

After lunch, the first of two guest speakers was introduced and took the podium. Dr. Joanne Lynn of The Ohio State University and The Transverse Myelitis Association Medical Advisory Board addressed the group about what Transverse Myelitis is, the common theories which the medical community believes could be it’s cause and some of the therapies available for treatment of symptoms. Dr. Lynn also spoke in depth about the mechanics of the central and peripheral nervous system and explained the “why” behind many of the long-term symptoms TM is common for, such as spasticity, sudden involuntary motion of affected limbs and confusing sensations like a feeling of wet or burning skin. An in-depth oration regarding the relationships between TM and other neurological conditions was also given. The similarity between multiple sclerosis and TM was discussed and Dr. Lynn fielded numerous questions from those attending. It was a very beneficial time for all and we are very grateful for Dr. Lynn’s time and efforts on the behalf of our group.

Next, Sandy Siegel, President of The Transverse Myelitis Association took the stage and spoke about the history of the organization, his efforts and successes in fundraising, the Children’s & Family Workshop which took place in July, 2002, as well as some of the upcoming plans and events the Association is developing for the future.

Finally, the group discussed possible fundraising opportunities and various ways that Ohio can get involved to support the TMA at large with volunteer time, writing and editing for the bi-annual newsletter and aiding in logistical issues associated with mailings and information distribution. Additionally, the Ohio TMA group is in the early stages of planning social events in and around the state for members not able to travel or otherwise attend the meetings in Worthington. Please check in to the Ohio Support Group page on the TMA website for additional information regarding future events.

The meeting was scheduled from 11:00am to 3:30 pm; however the last of us didn’t leave the hotel until nearly 5:30. It was a great day with great food and even greater company. Thank you to the Radisson Hotel for their professionalism and warm hospitality and to those who had a hand in organizing this event. Your efforts are certainly not without notice and we extend our deep gratitude.

Be sure to look at the Ohio Support Group web site by following the “support groups” link from the TMA’s main web site: www.myelitis.org.

The Ohio Support Group Committee is comprised of individuals diagnosed with Transverse Myelitis and living in the state of Ohio. If you have any questions, would like additional information about the Ohio TMA Support Group, or have an idea for a social event or fundraising opportunity, please contact one of the committee members.
Margaret “Maggie” Miller –
Columbus
magmil1336[AT SIGN]aol.com
(614) 486-2748

James Tolbert, Jr. - Cincinnati
Jimyt2[AT SIGN]adelphia.net
(513) 724-1940

Kathi Kulow - Wooster
Kathik44691[AT SIGN]yahoo.com
(330) 345-1625

Stephen Miller – Jamestown
smkmiller[AT SIGN]erinet.com

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