MSF Cruise for a Cause 2013 - Alaska!

Here we go! The MSF Cruise for a Cause® is ready to set sail to Alaska on June 14^th, 2013 and we are very excited to introduce the speakers who will be joining us on our educational journey back to “The Last Frontier.”

Ben W. Thrower, M.D., is the Medical Director of the Andrew C. Carlos MS Institute at Shepherd in Atlanta, Ga. Dr. Thrower is a clinical instructor of neurology at Emory University and participates actively in clinical research. He serves on the board of directors of the Georgia Chapter of the National MS Society, has served on the board for the Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers, and is the Senior Medical advisor to the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation. In 2005, he was the first physician inductee into the Georgia Chapter of the National MS Society Volunteer Hall of Fame

Timothy West, M.D., is the Director of the Multiple Sclerosis Program at Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, in Las Vegas, Nev. Dr. West is very involved in clinical research and has experience running clinical trials within an MS Center. Dr. West has taught within the medical school at UC San Francisco for the past three years. He frequently participates in patient education programs and is very committed to providing comprehensive care for patients with MS. Part of his clinical fellowship included special training in neuro-urology, spasticity management, and neurodiagnostics.

Deborah Backus, Ph.D., is Director of MS Research for the Andrew C. Carlos MS Institute at Shepherd Center in Atlanta, Ga. Dr. Backus is responsible for developing and leading a research program that includes cutting-edge therapies and treatments to improve clinical outcomes and the quality of life for people with MS. Previously the Associate Director of Spinal Cord Research, she is an experienced physical therapist clinician, educator, and researcher.

Emily Cade, M.S., CRC, CCM, CLCP is a Certified Case Manager, Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, and Certified Life Care Planner, at the MS Institute at Shepherd Center. Emily was chosen as the 2008 Medical Provider Volunteer of the Year by the National MS Society, GA Chapter. This award honors volunteers for their years of dedication and success in helping to raise awareness for MS, raise funds for MS, and provide direct services and resources to clients living with MS.

Gerald Bilsky, M.D., is a staff physiatrist for Shepherd Center's Acquired Brain Injury and Spinal Cord Injury Programs. Dr. Bilsky is co-chair of Shepherd Center's Ethics Committee. He is recognized as a leader in the field of physical medication and rehabilitation and has served on numerous committees and organizational boards of directors. Dr. Bilsky has been published in regional and national medical journals and frequently gives presentations in relevant areas of the specialty of rehabilitation medicine.

For more information contact Gabriela Aragon at Aragon Travel. Phone: (954) 322-1030 or gabriela@aragontravel.com.  Or contact MSF Educational Programs Coordinator Alisa Farber atcruise@msfocus.org or at extension 1-800-225-6495 x148.

http://www.msfocus.org/Cruise-for-a-Cause.aspx