MS Symposium Advances Care Collaboration

The Multiple Sclerosis Symposium on March 7 “brought together leading voices, dedicated healthcare professionals, and passionate advocates from across the region for a day of learning, inspiration, and collaboration.”

Dr Kimberley Watkins said, “The recent Multiple Sclerosis [MS] Symposium this weekend on March 7th brought together leading voices, dedicated healthcare professionals, and passionate advocates from across the region for a day of learning, inspiration, and collaboration. Held at BUEI, the event was a resounding success, fostering new connections and advancing the conversation around MS care and research. Notably, the MS Society of Bermuda partnered with the renowned Lahey Hospital & Medical Centre to host the symposium, underscoring the value of cross-institutional collaboration for advancing MS care and research in Bermuda.

“I was honoured to be invited to speak at this impactful gathering with Sandro Fubler [CEO and founder of Evolution Healing Centre], where I had the opportunity to share about MS and physiotherapy [with a focus on exercise]. The symposium featured a distinguished lineup of guests, including Dr Yosbelkys Martin Paez, Dr Jeffrey Bennett, and Dr Laura Safar. Topics covered ranged from challenges in diagnosis, Disease-Modifying Therapies, and Emotional Well-being in MS. The symposium offered a platform for sharing audience questions, scientific breakthroughs, and practical strategies to improve the lives of those affected by MS.

“The success of the symposium was a direct reflection of the hard work and commitment of the organising committee and team. Special recognition goes to Carolyn Armstrong, President of the MS Society, whose leadership and thoughtful planning were instrumental in bringing the event to life. Their efforts were central to developing the agenda, facilitating the collaboration with Lahey Clinic, and ensuring a warm, welcoming environment for everyone involved.

“As we reflect on the symposium’s success, it is clear that progress in MS care and research depends on continued partnership, shared knowledge, and support for the MS Society in its ongoing work.

“Growing scientific evidence shows that appropriately prescribed exercise can improve fatigue, strength, mobility, balance, and overall quality of life for people living with MS. Drawing on recent research and clinical guidelines, different forms of exercise were discussed: such as resistance training, aerobic conditioning, and balance-focused rehabilitation—and how these interventions can be tailored to individual symptoms and levels of disability.

“The session also explored practical ways to reduce barriers to exercise, including strategies for managing fatigue, coping with heat sensitivity, and accommodating symptom variability. Emphasis was placed on making exercise programmes flexible and personalised—seeking support from healthcare professionals, such as physiotherapists, can help tailor activities to individual needs and abilities. Overall, the presentation reinforced the importance of rehabilitation and physical activity as key components of modern MS care, supporting both symptom management and long-term functional independence.

Upcoming Events:

“The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Bermuda will be hosting two major community events on Saturday, April 11, 2026:

• Swim-A-Thon: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the National Sports Centre Aquatics Facility

• Fun Walk/Run for MS: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the North Field, National Stadium

“For more information, visit https://www.mssociety.bm/, email info@mssociety.bm, or call 293-0772.”

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