SEATTLE — According to the MS Society, nearly one million American adults have been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). At Swedish, patients living with MS are encouraged to take part in the Adventure and Recreation Program, which offers fun experiences around Greater Seattle they can enjoy with caregivers, family, and friends.
The program was ideated by Swedish medical director Dr. James Bowen who thought about how those with MS have to continue on with "the business of living." Occupational therapist and adventure guide Simon Gale says this is Swedish's small way of enabling that.
So far, the program has organized a wide array of adventures from archery to paragliding to jewelry making classes. The Pacific Northwest has many opportunities for outdoor adventures, and when planning activities, the program takes into account how much a person can or can't do. Simon does site visits to check accessibility before approving adventures.
Simon recalled a situation where he had a patient in her 60s who really wanted to go kayaking. She was a quadriplegic and in a power wheelchair. Thankfully, the organization they teamed with welcomed the challenge. All it took to get her on the kayak was a transfer bench and a lot of helping hands. "I will never ever forget watching those two just slip off into the lake," Simon said, "It was magic."
Susan Arrieta, an MS patient who has participated in the program, has enjoyed the experiences, "I've had the opportunity to do things I never thought I could do. So that's been really reassuring." Some of her favorite adventures have been kayaking and the annual overnight camping trips.
Susan felt safe in the environment, "You can feel free to share some things that you know someone else may or may not be able to relate to." Everyone participating has their own unique story because the range of MS symptoms is so vast. "It's a nice, supportive environment and I think that's just been so meaningful for me to have that."
Susan was first diagnosed with MS nearly 10 years ago. She was scared when the doctor broke the news but was unsure of exactly what MS is. When she found out there was no cure, she had to figure out ways to stay upbeat and give herself the best quality of life possible. The Adventure and Recreation Program has provided her with that opportunity.
Participation helps people living with MS stay active and provides emotional benefits, "It's allowed me to take an interest in things that I may not have been interested in or may have just taken for granted," said Susan.
Some MS patients may be hesitant to join the Adventure and Recreation Program, but Susan encourages people to try it as someone will always be there to help you. "There are no words to describe that feeling, and just showing up and seeing every smiling face sharing the same experiences ... It's priceless."