Multiple Sclerosis Newsletter
March 2025

What You Should Know:

Ocrevus Zunova (under the skin injection) Approved by the FDA

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a subcutaneous injectable formulation of Ocrevus. When administered via this route, the disease modifying therapy (DMT) shows the same effectiveness as when administered by an IV infusion. This formulation is faster to administer, saving time and money.

The exact timeline for the VA to add this to the formulary is unknown at this time, but in speaking to a neurologist at the VA, it is anticipated that this medication will be available within the next year.

This article is for informational purposes only. Paralyzed Veterans of America does not endorse the use of Ocrevus Zunova for the treatment of MS or for any other purpose.

LEARN MORE

Bladder and Bowel Symptoms in Multiple Sclerosis

The following first appeared in Multiple Sclerosis News Today on March 22, 2024.

Bowel and bladder incontinence are common first symptoms of multiple sclerosis. Unfortunately, there are many support groups that do not support discussing “negative things” and the more personal, challenging symptoms of MS.

The VA’s Multiple Sclerosis Centers of Excellence podcast discussed this very topic in January. If you have any questions about bowel and bladder dysfunction, you should listen to this episode.

LISTEN NOW

Resources for Family Caregivers

Many Veterans are fortunate to have their spouse, siblings, or family members serve as their caregiver through the VA's family caregiver program. Sometimes we don't think of it, but caregivers need care, too. The VA has put out a list of resources available to family caregivers.  

READ MORE

MS Pathways: Mapping the Road Ahead

These articles and resources seem to be aimed at those who are newly diagnosed, but they are valuable to any of us. Be sure to share them with anyone you know who is living with multiple sclerosis, not just the newly diagnosed.

We all remember when we received the diagnosis. I don't know about you, but I had hundreds of questions and concerns. To say the least, I needed direction. I not only wish that I could go back in time and give myself some advice, but I also wish that I'd had this sort of road map.  

SEE THE ROADMAP HERE

Resources

National MS Society Webpage for Veterans

National MS Society’s Veterans with Multiple Sclerosis webpage includes information and links to Veterans resources including a Virtual Veterans-Self-Help-Group for Veterans, Military Members, and Care Partners, as well as an Ask an MS Expert Veterans Program.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE NATIONAL MS SOCIETY

MS & Vets Podcast

The VA MS Centers of Excellence MS & Vets podcast series discusses important issues related to the health and quality of life for Veterans with multiple sclerosis. During every episode you’ll hear subject matter experts weigh in on MS issues and VA services. A new podcast is posted the second Monday of each month.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PODCAST

Can Do MS

Can Do MS offers free programs and resources to help people living with multiple sclerosis and their care partners make each day the best it can be. Learn how MS can impact your life, find motivation and personalized guidance to overcome challenges, and build a positive support network.

Be sure to check out their fantastic webinar series, as well as educational posts like this one on MS fatigue.

LEARN MORE ABOUT CAN DO

Print Brochures and Flyers

You can print or download brochures from:

We Need Your Input...Join the MS Committee TODAY!

As we work on initiatives, we need more input and assistance from you. Check out more about our different MS Committee Teams below.

Recreation Team

We know MS presents unique challenges when it comes to participating in traditional sports and recreational activities. Some of the events we’d love to coordinate or highlight include: a PVA MS Committee Retreat, similar to the annual PVA Women Veterans Empowerment Retreat, as well as Chapter-led events like local MS Walks. This team will work with PVA’s Sports & Recreation Department to explore and organize new opportunities for Veterans living with MS.

Newsletter Team

Ben Hofmeister from the Mid-South Chapter oversees our MS newsletter efforts.
If you are interested in helping out or have questions about the teams, email us at MSCommittee@PVA.org.

PVA National MS Committee Members

Izzy Abbass – Co-Chair
Ken Ness – Co-Chair
Joe Bludeau – External Orgs Coordination
Jerrod Harris – Chapter MS Lead Liaison
Shayna Goerdt – Committee Member
Mike Partridge – Committee Member
Ben Hofmeister – Committee Member

PVA Staff

Juliet Pierce – RN, Associate Director of Medical Services

PVA Chapter MS Lead

To contact your chapter MS lead, please call or email Jerrod Harris at 410-635-0145 or jharris@colonialpva.org or reach out to your local PVA Chapter office.

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