45 msfocusmagazine.org Life with MS A warrior, by definition, is a person who shows great vigor and courage. This word is often associated with the MS community because these are traits of people who live with MS. Working with our support group network, I have come to know and respect many MS warriors. Sharing your experiences and meeting other people fighting MS can often strengthen your resolve and help you develop a “can do” attitude – If they can do it, so can I. Regular support group attendees report that they benefit from sharing experiences and discussing topics on how to live with and help manage their MS symptoms. And those whohavetakenthetaskofleadingthegroupnot only benefit from those same experiences, but also reap the reward of helping others who fight this disease. MS Focus is proud to support our groups in many different ways and strives to meet the needs of our leaders and members. We recognize the value of support groups in the community and the benefits they provide. Support groups come in manydifferent forms, such as in person or online, and they often offer support to not onlythe person living with MS, but also their care partners, family, and friends as well. I encourage everyone to find a group and to meet and share with your fellow warriors. If there isn’t a group in your area, consider starting one. MS Focus can help and guide you through the process. If you belong to a group, and you are looking for information and ideas, MS Focus can help you with that too. Please welcome these newly affiliated groups: Ocean County Voices of MS Support Group – Brick, N.J. MS Nighttime Support Group – Hampstead, Md. Simi Valley MS Caregivers Support Group – Simi Valley, Calif. MS Support Group of Manitowoc County – Manitowoc, Wis. Men’s Stag for MS Support Group – Henderson, Nev. Upper Valley MS Support Group – Lebanon, N.H. Please visit our website at www.msfocus.org for the meeting dates, times, and locations or to find the support group nearest you. A Warrior By Kathryn Bradbury