MUHC Communications [website]
http://www.mcgill.ca/newswire/?ItemID=15220
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Knowledge Equals Improved Quality of Life for Patients

Source: MUHC Communications [newswire]
April 11, 2005

Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital Hosts Myasthenia Gravis
Conference
Over 2000 Canadians can't take the ability to move for granted; the
reason is an autoimmune disorder Myasthenia Gravis (MG). MG attacks the
body's own intricate immune system, leaving many people weak to the
point where simple tasks like walking in the park, climbing stairs and
even rising from a chair become difficult. For some sufferers, even
holding their eyes open can be a challenge.

Although MG is the most widely studied autoimmune disease, medical
science is yet to fully understand why it strikes relatively healthy
people in the prime of their life. There is hope, however-MG is no
longer a fatal disease. Thanks to new advances in treatment, most
patients can live to a 'ripe old age'. Patients must assume
responsibility for daily self-management, in order to optimize their
abilities and lead happy, fulfilling lives.

The McGill University Health Centre (MUHC) Neuro-Patient Resource Centre
in collaboration with Muscular Dystrophy Canada are sponsoring an
afternoon MG Conference, designed to give patients and families all the
latest information on the disease, including new treatments, recent
research advances and issues of concern to patients and families.

The Conference will take place April 16, in the Jeanne Timmins
Amphitheatre at the Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, from
1:00 until 4:00 pm. Admission is free. Parking available.

Dr. Daniel Gendron- Director of the EMG Laboratory at the Montreal
Neurological Hospital of the MUHC and Assistant professor of neurology
at McGill University-will speak about the disorder. Two long-time MG
patients will present their personal experiences. There will also be a
question and answer session, as well as time for attendees to meet and
chat informally.

Contact:
Pascale Rousseau
(to register for conference)
Muscular Dystrophy Canada
514-393-3522 Ext. 231
Sandra McPherson, PhD
Communications Officer
Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital
514-398-1902
Seeta Ramdass
Communications Coordinator
MUHC Public Relations and Communications
514-843-1560