5 msfocusmagazine.org It started with a single phone call more than 30 years ago. Someone, having just been diagnosed with MS, had arrived at home shortly after returning from the doctor’s office. Our phone number was likely provided by directory assistance (yes, 411). We weren’t in the phone book yet and the Internet as we know it today did not exist. As you can well imagine, underthe circumstances, this person was probably very anxious and concerned. There were, no doubt, many questions in need of answers. This scenario has been repeated countlesstimesinwhat,internally,wegenerally referto as a “first call” – meaning a person’s first call for guidance following diagnosis – but on that day, forus, itwas actuallyourfirst call ever. While there has always been widespread agreement on the importance of research and the need for a cure, we quickly learned that the first priority of those calling in was to addresstheirimmediateconcernsandongoing issues – primarily those involving treatment options, quality of life, and financial matters. In the many years since, we have found little has changed in this regard. These inquiries have always offered excellent opportunities to not only provide assistance, but to gain insight into the needs of our constituents, as well. It is the latter that has provided us with the vision to gradually develop the nationwide programs and services that we offer today. Over time, we have been able to determine the “what” and the “where” of unmet needs affecting the MS community. Once identified, it was just a matter of determining the most feasible way of fulfilling those needs. What initially began as a service for information and referrals graduallyblossomed into a broad array of programs and services that now also includes on-site educational programs, assistive equipment, homecare assistance grants, caregiver respite, health and wellness grants, emergency assistance, crisis intervention, highly acclaimed publications, a growing national network of 175 support groups, and more. But most of all, we are especially proud of our reputation for caring, and that has been an essential part of our core since the early days of the organization. MS Focus has proven itself as a leading provider of vital services and is utilized daily by patients, caregivers, healthcare providers, and fellow advocacy organizations throughout the country.Whetheryou findyourself needing answers to questions, or practical assistance with the needs MS brings, make MS Focus your “first call” for help. Jules Kuperberg Co-Executive Director Alan R. Segaloff Co-Executive Director Leading the Way to Patient Resources