Friends,
BikeMS this weekend
The National MS Society has their annual bike ride this coming weekend in Wisconsin. Thank you to all who are riding in it and for all who are volunteering, supporting riders and making this possible.
MANY of us met at these rides through the years. These rides raise a lot of money for the National MS Society to fund research and programs for people with MS. They also connect a LOT of people with each other. A big part of their mission is making connections; whether it’s neurological connections in our bodies or connecting people with other people, the connections part of their mission is impactful. I am extremely thankful for all the connections that have been made in my life through these rides.
I wish everyone riding and helping to make this ride possible a great weekend of riding with friends and family while raising a lot of money for the National MS Society. We need the National MS Society to continue funding research so we can get this MS thing figured out. THANK YOU to all engaging in this event!
Many of our volunteers and friends from our gym are riding again this year. Shelley and Traci will be riding a tandem together again. You all ROCK! Thank you and enjoy your weekend together. Please support anyone riding if you’re willing and able to.
Thank you to everyone at the National MS Society for the work you do and the connections you make. Like John Haupt keeps saying…”We’re going to BEAT this thing!”
John Haupt is riding the National MS Society’s Bike MS ride again – Thanks John!
John Haupt made another fundraising video. It is very well done with a lot of scenes from our gym and our friends with MS. Well done, John!
Here’s a link to his video:
If you’re willing and able to support John on this ride, I would highly encourage you to do so. We all live with MS and the National MS Society funds much needed research for all of us living with MS as well as provides programs and events for people living with MS.
Dr. Sarah Andreucci, PT, DPT, Academic Coordinator of Clinical Education – PTA at Bryant & Stratton College educated us on the mechanics of knee hyperextension and management strategies.
Dr Sarah knows us all so well, it was awesome to see how she tailored her presentation to us and our walking abilities and challenges. If you missed this, I would highly recommend you watching the video linked below. Even if you’re walking fine, she showed us many was to strengthen our walking muscles.
THANK YOU, Dr Sarah for putting this presentation together and presenting it to us!
Link to presentation slides: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1eputVtRhlX4a8hkprFiTj6JMEFO6HyPk/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=116069757124832431910&rtpof=true&sd=true
Youtube link to Sarah’s presentation: https://youtu.be/bkgApk8KfjA
Last Wednesday, Andrew Morris, OTD, OTR/L presented to us about the Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) devices from Bioness. There was enough interest from our members that he will return to perform individual 1 hour evaluations to trial Bioness Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) technology on September 23rd beginning at 1pm. Bioness FES technology helps contract muscles to address drop foot, leg weakness when standing, and opening/closing your hand. The technology is wearable, wireless, and easy to use. Evaluations are complimentary – just reach out to Andrew to sign up.
Andrew Morris, OTD, OTR/L
773-270-3655
andrew.morris@bionessmedical.com
Link to his presentation slides: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1DeGlc0vrGz4zX54TmZs82EE0ySedBSQ0/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=116069757124832431910&rtpof=true&sd=true
Link to Youtube presentation: https://youtu.be/gDZ_pQdfgG4
Vacation life is NOT sustainable – for me and my MS
The past two weeks, I was sort of on vacation. I say sort of because it was great being away with family and friends where we unplugged a bit from the daily schedules, and enjoyed some vacation time together. Unfortunately, as I live with MS, I didn’t get to take a vacation from MS. That’s the other part of “sort of”.
I have been looking forward to this vacation time all year. We scheduled it in January and were excited when the time finally came to go. We rented a house on a lake up north and it was very relaxing. I got up every morning and went fishing and took pictures of nature each morning. This both are things I love to do. Our family members came up and we enjoyed a lot of relaxing, quality time together. I’m not sure we ate any meals inside. We ate them all out on the deck. It was a great time and I’m thankful for our time together in such a beautiful spot.
My MS however, did not respond to vacation time very favorably. I learned that fishing and nature photography is not exercise and does not have the same benefits as exercise. Even though my diet has a lot of room for improvement at home, I did not eat as healthy on vacation as I do at home. Hey…I was on vacation.
We kept busy during the day and were always doing something; however, it was not the same as my daily 1 to 1-1/2 hours of low impact cardio exercise that keeps my MS at bay. Combine that with not sleeping in my own bed and not eating as healthy as I do at home, my MS started giving me grief again. As the week went on, I got more and more weak and fatigued. By the time I got back home and back into my routine, my brain was foggy and my motivation to exercise again was pretty much gone. I was a different person and I didn’t like it. That sure didn’t take long.
So, what did I do? I didn’t want to exercise with the people I normally exercise with because I knew I wouldn’t be able to keep up. I went out for a bike ride by myself and rode as slow as I wanted to. I didn’t feel like riding fast. I did some two-to-five-minute bounces on the trampoline…not hard, no videos, I just bounced and did a few jumping jacks. I started to get my motivation back and finally got back out on the bike with the guys I usually ride with. I was right, I couldn’t keep up. They were patient with me and I have been back on the bike and short rebounding sessions for a week now. I’m back to my baseline…thankfully! I’m thankful I had a strong base going into this.
This just goes to show me personally how important daily exercise, eating healthy and getting some good rest is. I’ve been through this before so it didn’t surprise me. I guess I just have to realize that if I’m going to go on vacation, I still need to exercise daily on vacation or be prepared to go through a tough time mentally, emotionally, motivationally and physically. Is it worth it? For me, it definitely is. This vacation showed me how life changing it can be…both ways.
So, what’s the moral of the story? If we live with MS, we need to “Just Keep Moving”. At least I do.
Bluemound Road Closed – Again
Just like living with MS, many times, the paths we’re on get changed. That doesn’t stop us and just because the road to the gym is closed, we can’t let that stop us from coming to the gym. We just need to take an alternate route.
Construction work on Bluemound Road is set to begin June 8, 2026, and continue through August 28, 2026. https://www.waukeshacounty.gov/news/posts/highway-construction/
There is an alternative entrance to the industrial park located off of Springdale Rd. across from Majestic Theater. The name of the road is Northmound Rd. If you are traveling from the West on 94 you will get off at Hwy F down to Moreland, and if East Brookfield Hwy 18.
The address to that theater is: 770 Springdale Rd. Waukesha, WI 53186 – it may be helpful to put this landmark in your GPS when traveling here.
Thursday Morning Walk – Lapham Peak this week
Due to road construction by St Anthony’s, we’ll be meeting at Lapham Peak State Park this week. We will meet in the lower parking by the new ski building.
The long-distance walkers will be starting at 6:30 am. The shorter distance walkers will be starting at 9:00am.
Come a few minutes early so we can start walking as close to the starting time you choose as possible. It’s going to be warm by the time we are done so bring water and dress accordingly.
For those who wish they could walk but can’t; we are walking for you and have you on our minds and in our hearts as we walk.
Friday Morning Bike Ride
NOTE: Starting at the trailhead again this week due to road construction
Looking at the weather for this Friday, it looks like there is a chance of rain. I guess it depends upon when it comes if we ride or not. We will not ride in the rain. Watch your e-mail and facebook as we get closer.
We’ll be meeting Friday morning at 7:00am at the start of the Lake Country Trail by the Ingleside Hotel. It’s called the Landsberg Center Trailhead / Golf Road. The GPS address is: 2810 Golf Road, Pewaukee, WI
Come a little early so you can get your bike out of your car and be ready to ride as close to 7:00am as possible. We’ll ride until about 8:45. Let’s ride and have some fun!
For those who wish you could join us but can’t; please know we have you in our hearts on these rides. We’re riding with you and for you. I hope you too can join us someday.
Volunteer needed for bike maintenance
If you have the skills to do adjustments to brakes, derailleurs, tighten loose nuts and bolts, etc. We could use your help. The trikes need quite a bit of tender loving care. Please let me know if you are willing to help…thanks!
Educational Videos
More of our speakers and educational presentations are being uploaded on our YouTube channel. Here’s a link, check them out.
https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UClvyB43uSl1wJSoGBJkSeCw
Let’s get together – Open Gym plus programs!
We’ll be getting together from 7:00am – noon on Monday through Friday mornings at the gym. Plus, Monday and Wednesday evenings from 4:30pm – 6:30pm and Tuesday afternoons for the aquatics program. I hope you’ll join us!
Where:
Wisconsin Metal Parts – Westmound Building
MS-Just Keep Moving, Inc.
W228N791 Westmound Drive
Waukesha, WI 53186
Email Dr Kate Kern at kborn1234@gmail.com with any questions.
Exercise class schedule Feedback welcome to make this as best as it can be!
Nutrition Program.
Janine and friends talked about Blueberries this week. Blueberries are really good for us living with MS for lots of reasons. I eat them in my soaked oatmeal almost every day.
If you are not engaging in our nutrition program, I would highly encourage you to do so. At least read the handouts that Janine prepares for us each week and apply the information into your lifestyle.
Here’s a link to the full handout:
Nutrition: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1sAzhmh4V_Y0OtqrBVsTS05h8umCtXiN2/view?usp=drive_link
Janine puts a lot into these presentations. It’s wonderful for her to share these presentations with those who can’t be here. It’s even more impactful for people who can be here in person to get the information first hand and be able to get questions answered and learn from others living with MS.
I would highly encourage you to engage in our nutrition program Monday mornings @ 9:00am so you can benefit at a high level. All are encouraged to come; people with MS, loved ones, care takers, volunteers, etc.
Thank you, Janine!
Prayer Group We’ll be having our prayer group Wednesday from 11:00am – noon.
I just love the way we share, pray and laugh together while we witness prayers being answered weekly. It’s truly amazing!
Thanks go to God and to everyone that joins us. Let’s get together to share, listen, talk, give thanks, and pray however God leads us.
MS-Just Keep Caring – Our Caregivers support group will be the first and third Friday of each month from 10:00 – 10:30am. The next one will be this Friday, July 31st, 2026. If you’re a caregiver of someone you love with MS, please join us and share your experience of caring for your loved one. This has been very helpful for many. Thanks to all who participate!
Member Spotlight – Sandi with an “i” Smith
We’ve had the pleasure of walking many miles with Sandi on many Thursday morning walks this year. It’s certainly a pleasure walking and talking with Sandi as she is so determined and well-rounded in so many aspects of life. Despite her challenges with MS…she can really walk.
I’m so happy Sandi is enjoying her Day of Endurance training journey as much as she is. If you get a chance to talk to her about it, please do. I love her excitement and enthusiasm about it.
Ed and Adam’s Podcast
Adam and Ed made a new podcast this week talking with friends.
Here’s the link:
Talking with Friends by Positive Vibes Living with MS
Educational Sessions
This Friday, July 31st 11:00- 12:00pm: Join us for a day of endurance kickoff / informational event! Learn about the event, set your goals, get a t-shirt if you don’t already have one and let’s get training in gear for this year’s event on August 29th.
If this is your first year doing the Day of Endurance, your T-Shirt is free. We are using the same shirts as last year. If you received one last year and need one for this year, we asking for a $20.00 donation per shirt to help cover the costs.
Wednesday, August 5th 9-10:00am: Joy Cochran, DPT, will review her demo of “how to fall” safely and effectively. We all fall, so let’s practice how to do it well! In theory, the more we fall, the better we get at it…if we fall the way Joy teaches us to fall. This event was rescheduled.
Friday, August 7th 11:00-12:00pm: Ava Govek, MS, RDN, will present on her findings on the connection between MS and anti-inflammatory foods with emphasis on the Mediterranean diet.
Wednesday, September 9th 9:00 – 10:00am: Independence First is a resource organization for people with disabilities located in Milwaukee. They will share information related to their services and their assistive technology program https://www.independencefirst.org/
Friday, September 18th 11:00-12:00pm: Lauren E. Shuda, MD, Assistant Professor Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the Medical College of Wisconsin, will talk to us about spasticity management.
Future topics could include: emotional health, nutrition, yoga, tai chi, wellness topics, safe use of gym equipment for your body, best exercise for you and more. What topics would you like to see? Please let Dr Kate, Joan, Traci, Ricky or Dan know.
Day of Endurance Training
Event is Saturday, August 29,2026 – Training is now
What: Do what you can
- Consistent Daily Exercise
- One long day per week – increase each week – no more than 10% per week
- Buddy up and exercise together
- Enjoy the journey 😊
Shoe Donations
Do you have any shoes you can donate? Becky Thomas is collecting old or new shoes supporting Soles for Jesus. These shoes will be distributed to people in need of shoes in Africa. Becky dropped off a box for us to drop them in. Please bring in shoes if you have any extras.
Coughs, colds, flus, etc. – Let’s not share
There are a lot of bugs going around. If you are experiencing any symptoms, please stay home and recover from them instead of sharing with the rest of us at the gym. We look forward to you getting over it and having you back quickly.
Research Needs us!
Marquette University, UW Milwaukee, University of Illinois, and Carroll University have research opportunities they would like us to engage in. We have flyers and more information about these opportunities at the gym. Please engage in these opportunities if you qualify. You could make improvements yourself and you could be helping so many other people with MS as they face their challenges. We really need to get this MS thing figured out and you can help by engaging in these research opportunities.
Dr Alex Ng from Marquette University reached out to me this week with this message. I would highly encourage you to participate in this research if you’re able to.
HI Dan,
I want to resend our study recruitment notice for our “singing study”. We actually have two studies going and we can sort eligible participants into the best one for them. Note that our age range has expanded to 20 to 80 yr. Still not completely inclusive but a step in the right direction. Any help you could give us to help get the word out would be appreciated! Thanks for what you created for the MS community.
Take care,
Alex
Alexander Ng, PhD, FACSM
Professor Emeritus
Program in Exercise Science
Department of Physical Therapy
Marquette University
Milwaukee, WI 53201-1881
414-288-6209 (ph)
414-288-6079 (fax)
Here’s a research opportunity that Marquette University is doing for all of living with MS. I would highly encourage you to engage in this if you qualify.
Health and Wellness Massage Opportunity – Carroll University
Our Facebook page is private. That means you’ll need to join if you want access to all our fun and progress. We broke 700 friends! We’re now at 701 members. That’s awesome! https://www.facebook.com/groups/2639832389489709
Our Facebook page is active and fun. Lots of people are doing more and sharing their journey on Facebook. Feel free to join, post and share your experiences and comments.
There were some awesome pictures, videos and comments shared again this past week. Thank you to all who are sharing!
Metals for MS
Thank you to all who brought in aluminum cans, gutters, copper, brass, etc. Please keep bringing them in…you are helping us. We took some more in last week and received another $136.40. Our total up to $2,437.19 so far. That’s really good…thank you!
Parking
If you are able-bodied and willing to park across the street in the Acuity Foam lot so people with mobility challenges can park in our lot, please do so. We want to make it easy for people with mobility challenges to park and get into our building safely. Thank you for doing that!
Gym Open and Close Procedure
If you’re the first to come or the last to leave the gym, please use this procedure for opening and shutting down.
Thai Massage with Ricky and Nyani
Ricky will be here on Wednesdays doing Thai Massage.
Nyani will be here on Fridays doing Thai Massage
Our goal is to serve as many people who come to the gym consistently as we can with these Thai Massage services. Going forward we will be doing a rotational schedule to accommodate as many people as we can who need and want a massage.
There are some guidelines written up at the gym. Please respect the guidelines so we can serve as many people as we can. Please sign up according to the guidelines.
Here’s a link to the guidelines: Thai Massage at MS-Just Keep Moving
Reiki on Fridays
Reiki is available at the gym, for FREE on Fridays with Linda C, 9:30am until noon. Sessions typically last 20-30 minutes. Sign up for a session on the white board.
Reiki (ray-kee) relaxes the body so that healing can occur! The “magic” of Reiki has helped some of our members with pain, insomnia, constipation, and so much more! Try it the next time you are at the gym!
Here’s a Link to information about Reiki: Reiki at MS-Just Keep Moving
Inspirational Humor with Adam Wollert
We’ll be having our inspirational humor zoom call with Adam again next Tuesday. Adam is a gift to all of us. Thanks to all who joined us today!
Please join us if you can.
Tuesdays @ 1:30PM
Here’s the link to join us…I hope you do!
Join Zoom Meeting with this link
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9431389152?pwd=bWlYbFNaazVnM1M1cWxWMitlODdXUT09
Meeting ID: 943 138 9152
Passcode: 3qP2hu
Phone: 1-312-626-6799
Let’s reach out
I encourage you to share a smile and encouragement with someone. Perhaps you could call someone that you have not talked with for a while just to say hi and see how they are doing. We all could use a little extra love and encouragement.
MS is tough. Let’s have faith, remain calm, be flexible, help each other and learn as much as we can about the challenges of each day as we make good choices and take action.
Let’s keep moving, smiling, and loving 😊 It helps in many ways!
In God We Trust…we are in good hands.
Dan
Our Website: http://msjustkeepmoving.org/
Phone: (262) 232-8552
P.S. Yesterday morning, I went to Lapham Peak with my camera. I didn’t have any pictures to share for this newsletter yet. This is a great time of the year to go the butterfly garden and just stand there for a couple hours. It was an active couple of hours.
There were quite a few butterflies to follow around with the camera
I’m amazed at all of God’s beauty He blesses us with when we are out there
I’m thankful to have the ability and camera to be able to get out there and capture these moments and share them.
For years, I’ve been hoping to capture a hummingbird in nature eating what’s natural to them.
I got lucky yesterday as I was able to watch this little guy go from flower to flower
After years of hoping for pictures like this, I was fortunate to have these moments out there with these little beauties.
Not only are the hummingbirds beautiful, the flowers and the lighting is beautiful too
Speaking of the lighting being nice, this little bird was in a good spot.
This little guy was wondering what was all going on.
This Indigo Bunting thought he was pretty cute. He is 😊
Even this turkey was curious…quite the morning to be out there. Truly, many Blessings.
For those who cannot get out and enjoy nature due your challenges with MS…my heart is with you. You are with me every time I am out there. I enjoy being able to share with you. I know how hard it is not to be able to get out and enjoy nature. Let’s enjoy nature and God’s beauty together this way.
