This episode is the fourth installment in our international series where Kathy talks to MS’ers from around the world, to see how their diagnosis and treatment experiences differ from in the U.S.

Today's guest is Dave Head, a writer and patient advocate from Calgary in the Canadian province of Alberta. Canada not only has the second highest rate of MS globally, it also has the highest rate per capita in the world.

Topics covered include:

• Dave's initial symptoms and diagnosis with MS
• Support which was available for both Dave and his fiancée (now wife)
• Socialized/Federal medicine versus employment-provided benefits for Alberta residents with chronic illnesses, including Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH)
• The cost of health care and MS medication in Canada
• Benefits and support available to Dave following his diagnosis with a number of additional immune system conditions

Resources mentioned in this episode (clickable links):

• Dave's blog
• Dave on Twitter
• Dave's profile on Instagram
• Dave on Facebook
•  Information about the Calgary Multiple Sclerosis Clinic and the OPTIMUS Rehabilitation Program (Out Patient Treatment In Multiple Sclerosis)
• Information about the financial and health benefits available through the AISH program.

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And remember to speak to this stupid disease as it deserves: tell it FUMS every day!