MS office opens here

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Gateway Area Chapter will soon be offering more programs and services in Southeast Missouri and Southern Illinois through a new regional office.

Because of growing client demands in the region, the chapter is opening an office in Cape Girardeau in June. Programs to be offered include wellness seminars, self-help groups and seminars on symptom management. Multiple sclerosis is a disease that affects the central nervous system.

Having a regional office in Cape Girardeau also will serve to develop better relationships with area neurologists and health care providers that can benefit people with MS living in the area, said Pat Knoerle-Jordan, chapter president.

"I'm very excited to be able to help directly serve clients in this area," said Teresa Birk of Jackson, who will serve as regional programs coordinator and staff the Cape Girardeau office.

The regional office will serve 10 counties in Southeast Missouri and 11 counties in Southern Illinois.