Re: “Thousands with MS lose a ‘lifeline’,” Oct. 16.
I protest the sale of the South and Central Vancouver Island Multiple Sclerosis Chapter building at on North Park Street.
As a person who has had MS for 29 years and participated in the many programs provided at the building, I find the decision to be short-sighted, lacking in long-term thinking and not sensitive to the clients’ needs. The decision certainly does not fit MS Canada’s mission statement of “enabling people affected, by enhancing their quality of life.”
The building provides the space to offer physiotherapy treatment with exercise equipment, exercise programs, educational opportunities, art programs, a library with computers, social activities, peer support, self-help groups, individual and legal advocacy and fundraising, all of which “enhance a person’s quality of life.” All services are under one roof, which is extremely convenient, especially for people with mobility issues.
If the building is sold, where will all these programs be offered? Also, many chapter members use the building as a home away from home. It is their gathering place. If there is no central location for them to get easy access to the programs and to socialize, many people with MS will be isolated.
MS Canada needs to re-evaluate and reverse its disrespectful decision to sell this building.
Nancy Chamberlayne
Victoria
