Caring for a loved one with MS is a journey that looks different for everyone, with needs that change over time. While it can be deeply rewarding, it also comes with challenges that may feel isolating and overwhelming. If you’re a caregiver seeking support, resources, or guidance, the MS Care Partner Connection is here to help. This comprehensive platform offers a wealth of tools and information to empower caregivers, ensuring they can navigate their unique responsibilities with confidence and care.
An estimated 1 million people in the U.S. have been diagnosed with MS and it is likely between 30 and 50 percent receive some level of informal care from family and friends.
What is MS Care Partner Connection?
The MS Care Partner Connection was developed by a team of MS care partners, clinicians, and researchers, led by iConquerMS in partnership with Jon Strum, founder and host of RealTalk MS, and supported by EMD Serono’s Embracing Carers initiative. This website was created to provide essential information and carefully vetted resources for anyone caring for a loved one with MS. Whether you see yourself as a care partner, caregiver, support partner, spouse, or family member, the site is designed to support you at every stage of your caregiving journey.
The Care Partner Advisory Board guiding this project includes spouses – both opposite-sex and same-sex – of people with MS, a parent caring for a child with MS, and an adult child supporting a parent with MS, helping ensure this resource reflects the diverse experiences of care partners. These advisors worked closely with MS clinicians to identify key challenges and essential resources for caregivers – from the moment of diagnosis through every stage of their loved one’s MS journey.
“The MS Care Partner Connection is the resource I wish I had when I was caring for my wife. We struggled to find useful information and real support during her illness, and it took a heavy toll on us. I hope this resource will help others avoid some of the challenges we faced.” – Jon Strum, host of the RealTalk MS podcast and Care Partner Advisory Board member.
What Resources Does It Offer?
The MS Care Partner Connection provides key insights about living with MS, trusted resources, and an AI chatbot for support anytime.
Caring for the Care Partner This section provides support resources, including organizations that help you find local support groups, as well as articles and guides to navigate the workplace, legal, and emotional challenges of caregiving – plus essential information about your rights.
MS 101 for Care Partners Caring for someone with MS? Understanding the disease is crucial, and these resources are here to help. You’ll find a comprehensive overview, a helpful podcast from RealTalk MS, and booklets that cover everything from managing progressive MS to making your home safe and accessible.
Navigating the Healthcare System The healthcare system – doctors, hospitals, pharmacies, and insurance – can be intimidating. This section offers helpful information on finding doctors, accessing financial assistance for MS medications, exploring alternative medicine options, and even an app to record your doctor’s appointments for you.
Relationship Support Caring for a loved one with MS can place extra strain on a relationship. These resources offer support for maintaining intimacy, managing resentment, and finding community through virtual meetups for caregivers.
Financial Planning for Care Partners Living with MS often brings uncertainty, especially regarding your family’s financial future. These resources equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions that strengthen your financial position. You’ll find guidance on topics like higher medical costs, life insurance, disability and more!
Additional Resources This section offers practical guidance to help you navigate other important aspects of living with MS. Whether it’s choosing the right assistive equipment, driving safely with MS, or hiring help at home, you’ll find expert tips and best practices to help you make informed decisions and save time.
Have a Question for our AI Caregiving Expert? If you can’t find an answer to your question in the above resources, this AI chatbot offers general information and support. However, it’s not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult trusted sources before making decisions based on its responses.
“We’re excited to provide such a valuable service to people who are caring for people with MS. These carefully vetted resources, which will be regularly reviewed and updated, promise to help caregivers find the information and support they need.” – Sara Loud
Why Should MS Caregivers Explore This Website?
Being a caregiver means looking after your loved one – but your well-being matters too. The MS Care Partner Connection provides free, expert-backed guidance to help you balance both. With accessible and reliable content, it offers the support you need to make caregiving easier and more manageable.
Caring for a loved one with MS is a profound act of love and commitment, but no caregiver should have to navigate this journey alone. The MS Care Partner Connection is more than just a resource – it’s a lifeline, offering the knowledge, tools, and community you need to feel supported and empowered. Whether you’re seeking practical advice, emotional support, or expert guidance, this platform is here to help you every step of the way. Explore the site today and discover how it can make a difference in your caregiving experience!
Did you know? The iConquerMS Caregivers community was created by MS caregivers, for MS caregivers. Here, you’ll find support, valuable resources, and opportunities to participate in MS research – empowering you to make a real difference in the lives of both caregivers and those they care for! Learn more and join at: iconquerms.org/caregivers.
