Multiple Sclerosis Association of America Offers a Unique Volunteer Opportunity for Individuals Interested in Making a Difference This Summer for the Multiple Sclerosis Community

News provided by

Multiple Sclerosis Association of America

Jun 20, 2012, 01:54 ET

CHERRY HILL, N.J., June 20, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA) is proud to offer volunteers the opportunity to dive into action through the Swim for MS Pool Party. An offshoot of MSAA's popular Swim for MS program, the Pool Party is a one-day event volunteers host in their own backyard or community pool. To begin to plan their Swim for MS Pool Party, volunteers first select a date, then select an activity - such as cannonballs, swimming laps or even a game of Marco Polo - and finally collect pledges from friends and family for the activity chosen. It's as easy as 1-2-3!

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120620/PH27981LOGO )

According to MSAA volunteer Jeannie Leombruno, the MSAA Swim for MS Pool Party afforded her the opportunity to not only celebrate her birthday, but find a meaningful way to give back to the MS community. "I've been blessed and given a chance to help others with MS by participating in the Swim for MS Pool Party," says Leombruno. "Swimming has a special place in my heart since being diagnosed with MS in 2007, especially with YMCA Splash Dancers synchronized swim team in Winter Park, Florida. I am looking forward to our event on July 27 and I hope everyone will join me by swimming in their own Swim for MS Pool Party event!" To learn more about Jeannie and her Swim for MS Pool Party please visit: http://www.msassociation.org/YMCA_WP_Jeannie.

The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA) is a national, nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the quality of life for everyone affected by multiple sclerosis. MSAA provides vital programs and services, such as: a toll-free Helpline; informative publications including a magazine, The Motivator; website featuring educational videos and research updates; S.E.A.R.C.H.™ program to assist the MS community with learning about different treatment choices; equipment distribution ranging from grab bars to wheelchairs; cooling accessories for heat-sensitive individuals; a mobile phone app, My MS Manager™; educational events and activities; MRI funding and insurance advocacy; and more. For additional information, please visit www.msassociation.org or call (800) 532-7667.

The most common neurological disorder diagnosed in young adults, multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system. This disorder damages or destroys the protective covering (known as myelin) surrounding the nerves, causing reduced communication between the brain and nerve pathways. Common symptoms include visual problems, overwhelming fatigue, difficulty with balance and coordination, and various levels of impaired mobility. MS is not contagious or fatal.

SOURCE Multiple Sclerosis Association of America