MORE THAN A MS MEETING w/Allié McGuire

An hour before I left to catch my flight from Detroit to Phoenix for the 2025 CMSC (Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers) Annual Meeting, I was at the Memorial Healthcare Infusion Center in Owosso, Michigan, receiving my monthly treatment. MS doesn’t take a vacation—so neither can its needed care. With my infusion complete and my bags packed, I boarded a plane not just to attend a conference, but to step into a space where every part of the MS journey was represented—from research to treatment to real, lived experience.

The largest MS event in North America did not disappoint. Held in the heart of Phoenix, the 2025 CMSC Annual Meeting brought together every corner of the MS landscape—researchers, neurologists, pharmaceutical leaders, and patient advocacy groups like NMSS, Can Do MS, and MSAA—all under one roof and one shared purpose: to move the MS community forward.

For me, it was more than an event. It was an experience that reshaped the way I think about MS—my own journey with it, and the paths walked by so many others. I asked questions I’d never thought to ask. I learned things I didn’t know I needed to know. And I connected—not just with experts and professionals—but with people. People living with MS, like me. People caring for others, like me. People who get it.

One of the most moving moments was the tribute to June Halper, the late founder of CMSC. Described as larger than life, not just in her work but in her heart, June’s legacy was beautifully honored by her son, Michael Halper. Through his words, we glimpsed the power of one woman’s unwavering dedication—not only to the MS field but to her family and the entire community she helped build. Her impact endures in every conversation, every breakthrough, every act of care.

Meeting Kathleen Costello, interim CEO of CMSC, was another highlight. She carries the torch of June’s mission with grace and grit, embodying the same deep commitment to the MS community. She stands as a testament to what leadership in this space should look like—rooted in compassion, backed by action.

That same spirit of support and empowerment was brought to life during More About MS, the CMSC Patient Program hosted by Can Do MS. As a featured exhibitor with AwareNow, I had the privilege of participating in this incredible event, which explored how people living with MS can feel better and live better. Connecting with Laura Allen and her dedicated Can Do MS team added another meaningful layer to my experience. Their program wasn’t just informative—it was empowering. It reminded me that while science and research move us forward, so does community and care.

Another memorable moment was rising bright and early to greet the day with Sunrise Yoga, led by Mindy Eisenberg of Yoga Moves MS. This 6 a.m. session brought a peaceful flow to a busy conference. Sharing breath and movement with others in that quiet morning hour was a grounding reminder that healing happens in many forms—and that care can look like science, but it can also look like stillness.

The 2025 CMSC Annual Meeting wasn’t just about lectures and research updates—it was about moments. There were moments of clarity, of connection, and of collective hope. As someone living with MS, I left Phoenix with something no treatment can provide: the deep knowing that I’m not alone. That none of us are.

While there may not yet be a cure, there is a way forward. And CMSC is committed to that journey—one step, one stretch, one story at a time. ∎

Learn more about CMSC:
www.mscare.org