We had a good three counties support group meeting this week. In the end there was a great turn out and we had wide ranging discussions about a host of topics; albeit, inevitably we strayed onto bladders, bums and blood pressure.
Jill Lyon, MSAT specialist nurse gave a fascinating talk about the background to MSA and some of the work of the Trust. We talked a lot about travelling and how it's not as difficult as one might think providing you prepare well and take advantage of things like special assistance.
One tip that came up; see Steve's comment below. Inevitably over time, most with MSA find it more and more difficult to sign their name. Sometime ago we took a good signature of Jackie's (on her passport as it happens) and had a self-inking stamp made with that signature. These are widely available through Amazon etc and provide an easy way of providing a constant signature. A stamp like this is legally accepted (you may need a witness to countersign) and now she signs everything by stamp.
Our thanks to Tewkesbury Porsche centre for hosting the event in their superb board room. One of our female MSA sufferers was particularly impressed as she has owned Porsche 911's in the past.
Our next meeting: NOTE THE CHANGE OF DATE: Tuesday 9th July at 1:30pm - details in due course.
Enjoy the summer ahead everyone; take care, Ian
Advanced MSA / Towards the end
Feeling isolated & not being listened to. 
I'm Just A Support Act
Next steps: living will, DNR and options
Possible environmental impact of diet and medications on the onset of MSA symptoms 
