Movement for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Program

Posted in GUMC Stories  |  Tagged Arts & Humanities Program, MS, multiple sclerosis, music and movement, neurology

(January 4, 2019) — Julia Langley, faculty director of the Georgetown Lombardi Arts and Humanities Program (AHP), Carlo Tornatore, MD, director of the neurology department at Georgetown University Medical Center and MedStar Georgetown University Hospital (MGUH) and Erika Mitchell, DNP, FNP-BC, researcher and director of nurse practitioners in the department of neurology at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital (MGUH) came together in 2017 to discuss the potential benefits of a music and movement based course for patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).

From these discussions, and with the support of the department of neurology, the Movement for MS pilot program started in November 2017. The second pilot, launched in September 2018 and led by AHP dancer-in-residence Deborah Riley, brought together 15 participants for a 10-week course.

Through this program, participants experience both cognitive and physical benefits of dance as well as the freedom of artistic expression. “I sincerely hope that the dance class continues,” said one program participant. “It is truly a worthwhile endeavor for patients with MS and there are great benefits.”

In addition to the positive changes the participants have experienced due to the program itself, they have also greatly benefited from the community they have formed, built on shared experiences, information and advice on living with MS.

For more information on the Movement for MS program, please contact: Morgan Kulesza, Program Coordinator, (202) 444-1171

Giuliana Cortese
GUMC Communications