How is it that some people survive adversity and others fall to pieces with the slightest ill wind? According to Wagnild and Young, who developed a resilience scale to measure such things, there are five key components of resilience. Equanimity: This is a sense of balance or stability about yourself and your life, especially during times of stress. Can you take what comes without losing your step? Can you handle the tough times because you know you’ve faced difficult challenges before? Perseverance: This is the ability to hang in there, despite setbacks or Discouragements. Do you feel determined to struggle on even after there's a mountain to climb? Self-reliance: This is the sense that you have the resources within yourself to get the job done. Do you tend to rely on yourself instead of others (and do others turn to you)? If you are in a tight spot, do you believe you can figure a way out? Meaningfulness: This is the sense that there is a meaning to your existence – raising your kids, loving your partner, expressing your uniqueness, making the world a better place – so the struggle makes sense. Existential aloneness: This is the sense that you are on a personal journey, that some experiences must necessarily be stressed alone, and that your thoughts and actions give you a sense of freedom and uniqueness. These five factors can be thought of as centered on two key ideas. The first is personal competence: you have the knowledge, experience and sheer grit to cope with difficult situations. And the second is an acceptance of yourself and your life: you have made peace with who you are and what your life is about, your life has meaning and you are able to maintain your perspective, and can usually manage a good laugh. Resilience isn't a fixed quality and one day's optimism can become the next day's despair. There are always new challenges from MS as it continues on, your life circumstances as they change, from time as we grow older. But there are many resources that can help you overcome adversity in your life, in and around your community, and from the wellsprings of resilience within yourself.

Up coming events:

April 11 Sugaring off lunch (Mon.) May 1 Wine & cheese (Sun. 2- 5 pm) May 29 MS WALK

The West Island Multiple Sclerosis Self Help Group

HORIZON

3869 Des Sources blvd, Suite 204,

Dollard-des-Ormeaux, Qc H9B 2A2

Tél: 514-676-1588

email: grpspbo@videotron.ca

March 2016

Tom

Resilience can help you cope with MS.

11 April Monday meeting ( sugaring off lunch 1 May Wine & cheese ( 2- 5 pm) 29 May MS WAK

Distinguish yourself by wearing your funniest pair of socks !

REGISTER TODAY: mswalks.ca or by phone: 514 676-1588 Pre-registration: Thursday, may 26th, 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 pm- 9:00 p.m. DDO Civic Centre, 12001 de Salaberry, DDO. Sunday, May 29, 2016 MEETING POINT: DES SOURCES HIGH SCHOOL, 2900 Lake Street, Dollard-des-Ormeaux 5 and 10 km Routes: Wheelchair accessible PROGRAM OF THE DAY: 8:30 a.m.: Walker pledges and last minute registrations 10:00 a.m.: Walk kick-off 12:00 p.m. Entertainment and lunch at the finish line

”Knuckles”

Nilan

Chris

Honorary President :

The 25th Espoir Famille conference will take place from October 28th to the 30th, 2016 at the Convention and Exhibition Centre in Lévis. The Espoir Famille congress offers people with MS, their spouses and their children the opportunity to meet other families affected by MS, to discuss with the participants the reality that unites them and to get them out of their isolation. Adults attend workshops and conferences and hear testimonials, while youth between 6 and 17 years participate in MS awareness workshops and discussions all while having fun.

For more information, visit espoirfamillesp.ca or contact Mylène Huet

at 514-849-7591, extension 2236, or 1-800-268-7582.

Congress Espoir Famille

Vic Pietroniro

It is with great regret that we learned of the passing of our great friend and volunteer Vic Pietroniro. He was a man of gold. Vic accompanied his wife Marjorie in her volunteer work with our members for at least twenty years. He also attended the Monday meetings as often as possible and has been present and active in several of our camps. What good memories we have to keep. What struck me was that he would visit and be available for two of our members who could not attend our meetings. Vic regularly visited Denise and Cosette. Once a month, he went to Denise’s home and brought lunch for two. To Marjorie and Vic’s children, we offer our deepest sympathies. We will miss him a lot. Marjorie we share your pain and you can count on our support.

Madeleine Couillard

Here we are at the beginning of the 42nd year of the west island multiple sclerosis group. We continued on track in 2015, while trying to continuously adapt to the needs of our members - a group that is fully bilingual. The BBQ (94 people) and the Christmas dinner (150 people) were great successes. The corn roast in September (62 people), the wine and cheese in March (90 people) and the sugar shack in April (74 people) were also appreciated by all members. We maintain these activities as they are an opportunity to make friends while enjoying a good meal. The summer camp held in Saint-Alphonse-de-Rodriguez in August hosted 22 members assisted by 9 volunteers. It was a rainy week so we had fun indoors along with many amusing games, a casino evening as well as our very own indoor fair! In terms of member services, our newsletter, the Horizon, created and edited by an exceptional team, is constantly improving and is published three times a year, in April, August and December. Our regular Monday meetings continue throughout the year with several new members joining this year. We welcome 50 to 60 people at the Karnak center every week. The day begins with an adapted yoga class, followed by lunch brought by each member, and finally card playing and board games or a good chat. The purpose of these meetings is to have people socialize and have members share and learn from one another’s experiences in an informal setting. The services of the psychologist specialized in multiple sclerosis are available every second Monday through small discussion groups. Once a month, we celebrate member’s birthdays by singing and offering delicious birthday cakes. As for the aquafitness program, it is still active. We would like it to benefit an even greater number of people. We offer three sessions: spring, fall and winter. In addition, we continue our meetings with caregivers every two to three months. We encourage caregivers to contact the office to learn more. In terms of outings, there were thirty nine people last October enjoying a delicious meal at Madame Couillard’s residence, the Verrières du Golf. In November, we were forty to enjoy a lovely lunch together at the Montreal Casino. Several even won at the slot machines! We contributed to the MS Walk 2015. The organizing committee, aided by an excellent team of volunteers succeeded once again to make this day unforgettable. The participants however, who raised $ 109,383, are the pillars of this fundraising activity. Of the total amount raised, 15% is given to our group to finance the various activities of our section and 85% is given to the Division of Quebec for research.

Coordinator’s report

The Board of Directors met 7 times during the year, to see to the continuity of the group's goals. In closing, I want to acknowledge the constant and friendly work of our volunteers. We count on a dozen faithful volunteers who are always ready to help every week. Furthermore, there are several dozen that help us at special events and activities. Nothing would be possible without them.

Bravo and Thank - You !

On February 15th, 61 of us celebrated a Valentine luncheon at Karnak. The theme was red, and we all embraced it. We were served roasted chicken, french fries and coleslaw by Cote St-Luc BBQ. The portions were more than generous and extremely tasty. Even though we ate like kings, we still left some room for dessert. We got to sample 3 different delicious cakes. The apple crumble, mango and chocolate were all heavenly. This day was also memorable since we got to honor Madeleine’s birthday.

Casino outing 39 of us enjoyed a fantastic day at the casino on November 25, 2015. We had the pleasure of receiving a $10 playing card which was appreciated by all. Some of us even got lucky by ending up with some big winnings. After playing for a couple of hours, we headed upstairs for a wonderful buffet lunch. The setting was inviting as well as accommodating for those in wheelchairs. There were so many choices to choose from that most of us ending up tasting a little bit of everything. It was decided that we would head back on the floor to continue playing for a while seeing that everyone was having a fantastic time. We could not believe that 3 p.m. had rolled around so quickly, and it was time for us to go back home. What an exciting and pleasurable day we all had! Hopefully we will get the opportunity to return soon.

Valentine’s lunch

On February 15th, 61 of us celebrated a Valentine luncheon at Karnak. The theme was red, and we all embraced it. We were served roasted chicken, french fries and coleslaw by Cote St-Luc BBQ. The portions were more than generous and extremely tasty. Even though we ate like kings, we still left some room for dessert. We got to sample 3 different delicious cakes. The apple crumble, mango and chocolate were all heavenly. This day was also memorable since we got to honor Madeleine’s birthday.

Volunteering, a free gesture, a major impact for all.

For the West Island MS self-help group, our volunteers are an essential part of the mix. It is thanks to them that our organization operates at its finest. Without them, no group. Our volunteers have made a free and voluntary choice to get involved, to offer this free gesture, to give generously of their time, skills and energy. They brighten our day with their smiles, their kind words, or by giving us special attention when needed. Volunteers are involved in various ways. Whether on a regular basis at the Monday group and aquafit or occasionally assisting at special events or when walking. What can we possible say to those who offer a week of their time, day and night to allow members to enjoy their week at camp Étincelle. From April 10-16, 2016 is Action volunteer week. During this week, think to offer a volunteer, a smile, a kind word, or simply to say THANK YOU!

Agathe Tremblay, since 1995

Bob Bourdage, since 1989 Carmen Basler, since 1985

Christina Karavolas, since 2014 Christine Boutros, since 2015

Claudette Roy, since 2002 Colette Gauthier, since 2013

David Boily, since 2016 Jack Muller, since 1993

Jacqueline Brodbeck, since 1975 Krista Hughes, since 2016

Monique Devine, since 2015 Monique Sliman, since 2008 Nicolas Brodbeck, since 2007 Nicole Duchastel, since 2014 Nicole Montpetit, since 1998

Pat Cotnam, since 2006 Peter Nauth, since 2016 Pierre Girard, since 2003

Raven Brown, since 2015

Laurent Gingras, since 2004 Lina Roy, since 2012

Lise Brodeur, since 2012 Louiselle Rouleau, since 1998

Lucien Martin, since 2007 Lynn Kozinsky, since 2013

Madeleine Couillard, since 1974 Marcella Callies, since 2004

Mario Barjon, since 2009 Marjorie Pietroniro, since 1998 Renée Desmarais, since 1998 René Montpetit, since 1999

Rita Schlippes, since 2014 Robin Little, since 2006

Susanne Samaan, since 2014 Tom Ramsay, since 1994

Vaughn Bolduc, since 2014 Vic Pietroniro, since 1997

Nicole Montpetit

Annual B.B.Q Please join us for the annual B.B.Q that will be held on Sunday, July 10th, at the Surrey Community Centre, located at 1945 Parkfield, Dorval, from 11 - 3 pm. Looking forward to seeing you there! Registration required

by July 1st at christina.karavolas@scleroseenplaques.ca

or by phone at 514-676-1588.

Welcome new members We would like to welcome new members that have joined our group in 2015. Welcome Rosette, Maria, Frank, Mario and Marvin.

Train your brain The majority of Canadians of a certain age will have serious cognitive problems such as Alzheimer, dementia, etc. To avoid this, we must train our brain just like our muscles, and before it is too late, because the handicaps, both physical and intellectual are very difficult to lose. The best way to train your brain is found on the LUMINOSITY site prepared by many experts. It includes 24 different games to train memory, attention, speed, ability to solve problems and adaptability to different situations. About once a month, luminosity announces a sale of $ 25 or $ 30 for a year and you can exercise all you want, 5 or 7 days per week as an example. After each game, the points obtained are displayed, and at any time we can compare our results with the people of our age group for each training aspect. For each game, the system indicates our 5 best life results, gives bonus points if we classify, and therefore puts us in competition with ourselves, which is far from negligible, as we always try to surpass oneself. We can also check our performance (named IPL) and its variation for a month. Every day I get an email reminding me that I have to train today because I chose to train seven days a week, and it suggests different games to me. Luminosity is highly recommended by experts because it is currently the most effective method to train the brain, as it’s designed for this; it has even been advertised on television recently. Do not wait until it's too late!

Volunteer’s lunch

We were 23 people who savored a fantastic lunch at Madison’s New York Steak & Grill on February 17th. There were plenty of choices to choose from the diverse menu and everyone was pleased with their meal. Madeleine Couillard and Renée Desmarais both celebrate their birthdays in February, and were delighted when they were surprised with chocolate cake and ice cream. A couple of speeches took place to praise our tremendous volunteers for their hard work and devotion. René Montpetit was also acknowledged for his 17 years of volunteering within the group. It was a marvelous afternoon relished by all.

Jean-Yves Gagné

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

12 speed bike for sale There is a 12 speed bike for sale. It is 3 ½ years old and requires air in the tires. The price is $ 25 and is negotiable. If you would like more information, please contact Agostino Di Ciaccio at 514-766-7570 or by email at dino8@videotron.ca.

Adapted House for SALE Adapted house for people with reduced mobility for sale in Fabreville (Laval). For more information, call Katy at 450-962-1992.

Offered by Chantal Schlippes services

CONDOLENCES On December 3rd, 2015, passed away Carmela Mastrogiorgio. Our most sincere condolences to her brother Agostino Di Ciaccio and his wife Assunta Di Trapani.

INFORMATION Online petition organized by Johanne Fournier. Johanne would like this mobility aid platform to be accepted by the RAMQ. For more information, contact johanne.fournier@gmail.com https://secure.avaaz.org/en/petition/RAMQ_RAMQ_add_this_platform_to_the_choices_available_for_the_disabled/?nKjLjkb https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FTR

WkN7kZY0

Youth Camp Two camps will be offered again this year free of charge for children aged 7 to 17 who have a parent with multiple sclerosis: June 26th to July 2nd, 2016 at Richelieu Camp Saint-Côme, in Lanaudière, August 7th-14th, 2016 at Camp Edphy International, Val Morin in the Laurentians. Interested youth must submit a text or drawing explaining their motivation to participate in the camp. Details at www.campsp.ca. Pre-registration deadline is April 29th, 2016.

West Island MS SUMMER CAMP Our summer camp at the Centre Plein Air l’Étincelle in St-Alphonse-Rodriguez will take place from August 15th to August 19th 2016. To be eligible, you must have partcipated at least 5 times in our group actvites. You can register by calling Christina at 514-676-1588 or writing us at Christina.Karavolas@scleroseenplaques.ca

In all we were 53 people who enjoyed an assortment of dishes prepared by most of the members. From chicken cutlets to meet balls to cheese platters to a variety of salads and Much more. There was certainly something for everyone to revel in. The desserts soon followed, and they too offered a great selection. Chocolate and vanilla cupcakes displayed in a gorgeous bouquet were one of the many hits. Everyone appreciated exchanging their recipes as well as devouring the tasty dishes. Many laughs and stories were shared amongst the group.

Potluck Dinner

Notes:______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

INFORMATION Online petition organised by Johanne Fournier. Johanne would like this mobility aid platform to be accepted by the RAMQ. For more information, contact johanne.fournier@gmail.com https://secure.avaaz.org/en/petition/RAMQ_RAMQ_add_this_platform_to_the_choices_available_for_the_disabled/?nKjLjkb https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FTRWkN7kZY0

Shower with grab bars and wheelchair access . .

Retractable housings toilet and wheelchair access to the sink.

Sidewalk sloping ramp and wheelchair access ..

Tub with grab bars

RAAP PROGRAM If you have a disability and your participation in everyday activities in your home is limited, you may be eligible for the Residential Adaptation Assistance Program. Details at:

http://www4.gouv.qc.ca/EN/Portail/Citoyens/Evenements/aines/Pages/adaptation-domicilepour-personnes-handicapees.aspx Built by Procomconstruction.com

Notes:______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Information In simple terms, a planned donation is a charitable donation that allows you to support the West Island self-help group in the future without presently reducing your income. It involves preparing a donation today in view of the future. For more information, please call 514-676-1588

Retro corner

17 March Aquafit

21 March Monday meeting

24 March Aquafit

28 March No Monday meeting ( Happy Easter)

31 March Aquafit

4 April Monday meeting

7 April Aquafit

11 April Monday meeting ( sugaring off lunch)

14 April Aquafit

18 April Monday meeting

21 April Aquafit

25 April Monday meeting

28 April Aquafit

1 May Wine & cheese ( 2- 5 pm)

2 May No Monday meeting

5 May Aquafit

9 May Monday meeting

12 May Aquafit

16 May Monday meeting

19 May Aquafit

23 May No Monday meeting (Victoria Day)

26 May Aquafit

29 May MS WALK

30 May No Monday meeting

2 June Aquafit

6 June Monday meeting

9 June Aquafit

13 June Monday meeting

16 June Aquafit ( end)

20 June Monday Meeting

27 June Monday Metting

4 July Monday Meeting

10 July Annual B.B.Q Surrey ( 11- 3 pm)

A special thanks to those who work to bring us the

Horizon: Michèle Paré, Tom Ramsay, Jacqueline Brodbeck, Jean-Yves Gagné, Nicole Montpetit, Christina Karavolas, Vaughn Bolduc, Madeleine Couillard

and Nicole Duchastel.

Aquafitness The aquafit sessions, tailored to our needs, at the DDO Aquatic Centre, 12001 De Salaberry. When: Thursdays from 10:30- 11:15.

West Island MS Self-Help Group.

CHRISTMAS PARTY The annual Christmas party was held on December 13th, 2015 at Karnak. It was a huge turnout. We had the pleasure of meeting some new faces as well as greeting our regulars. 150 people came to join in on the festivities all while enjoying delicious food and wine. In the background, there was beautiful music playing by Don Musical. The kids could not wait to see Santa and were anticip-ating his arrival. They were thrilled once they saw him, and got a chance to sit on his lap. It was a delightful evening filled with joy and laughter!

Caregivers Meeting Our next caregivers meeting will take place on Tuesday, April 12th from 7-9 pm. Please confirm your presence by calling Christina or Nicole at 514-676-1588 or by email at grpspbo@videotron.ca.