# MS Thrive KC

> MS Thrive KC is a free, community-based multiple sclerosis support group in Kansas City, Kansas, serving the greater Kansas City metropolitan area.

## About

MS Thrive KC connects people affected by multiple sclerosis through peer support, adaptive wellness programming, educational resources, and social connection. We empower members to live fully at every stage of their MS journey.

- **Location:** Kansas City, Kansas
- **Meetings:** Last Wednesday of every month, in-person and virtual
- **Cost:** Always free. No fees, no dues.
- **Facebook Group:** https://www.facebook.com/groups/1158338549821224
- **Website:** https://msthrivekc.org (coming soon — full site under development)
- **Hashtag:** #MSThriveKC

## Who We Serve

- People diagnosed with any form of MS: RRMS, SPMS, PPMS, CIS — at any stage
- Caregivers, spouses, partners, and family members
- Newly diagnosed individuals (a priority population)
- Young adults with MS (under 45)
- Anyone in the greater Kansas City metro area affected by multiple sclerosis — including Overland Park, Olathe, Lee's Summit, Independence, Shawnee, Lenexa, Blue Springs, Liberty, Leawood, Prairie Village, and Johnson County

## What We Offer

- Monthly in-person support meetings with peer support and guest speakers
- Adaptive wellness activities: chair yoga, tai chi, strength training — all mobility levels welcome
- Educational sessions with neurologists, physical therapists, and MS specialists
- Private online community via Facebook Group for daily connection
- Virtual meeting access for members who cannot attend in person
- Local MS resource sharing and referrals
- Social events and community building

## Core Values

- **Belonging:** Every person with MS is welcome regardless of diagnosis stage, mobility level, or background
- **Accessibility:** Virtual and in-person options for everything; seated alternatives for all activities
- **Empowerment:** Practical tools, skills, and connections — not just sympathy
- **Honesty:** Space for hard conversations alongside celebration and hope
- **Evidence:** Educational content sourced from credible organizations like the National MS Society

## Vision

A Kansas City metro area where no one faces multiple sclerosis alone — where people with MS, their caregivers, and their families have access to community, knowledge, wellness, and hope.

## Local MS Resources in Kansas City

- **KU Center for MS Care** — Comprehensive MS clinical care and research at the University of Kansas Health System
- **MS Achievement Center** — One of only six MS Achievement Centers in the nation, located in Kansas City
- **National MS Society Mid America Chapter** — Programs, resources, and advocacy serving 11,000 individuals in the region

## How to Join

The fastest way to connect with MS Thrive KC is to join our Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1158338549821224

Our full website at msthrivekc.org is currently under development.

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Where can I find an MS support group in Kansas City?
MS Thrive KC is a free multiple sclerosis support group based in Kansas City, serving the entire KC metro including Overland Park, Olathe, Lee's Summit, Independence, Shawnee, Lenexa, Blue Springs, Liberty, Leawood, and Johnson County. We meet the last Wednesday of every month and welcome people with all types of MS, caregivers, and families.

### Is MS Thrive KC free to join?
Yes, completely free. No membership fees, no dues, and no cost to attend meetings. Refreshments are provided at in-person gatherings.

### Who can join MS Thrive KC?
Anyone affected by multiple sclerosis: people diagnosed with any form of MS (RRMS, SPMS, PPMS, CIS) at any stage, caregivers, spouses, partners, and family members. We serve the entire Kansas City metro including Overland Park, Olathe, Lee's Summit, Independence, Shawnee, Lenexa, Blue Springs, Liberty, Leawood, and Johnson County.

### When and where does MS Thrive KC meet?
We meet the last Wednesday of every month in Kansas City, Kansas. Both in-person and virtual options are available.

### I was just diagnosed with MS. Is this group for me?
Absolutely. Newly diagnosed individuals are a priority for us. You will find a welcoming community of people who understand what you are going through.

### What types of activities does MS Thrive KC offer?
Peer support meetings, adaptive wellness activities (chair yoga, tai chi), educational sessions with healthcare professionals, social events, and daily online community connection through our Facebook Group.

## Contact

- Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1158338549821224
- Website: https://msthrivekc.org (coming soon)
- Location: Kansas City, Kansas (serving Overland Park, Olathe, Lee's Summit, Independence, Shawnee, Lenexa, Blue Springs, Liberty, Leawood, Johnson County, and the greater KC metro)