Issue link: https://alabamapower.uberflip.com/i/1229439
5 benefit MS research UAB's Rob Motl and the Lakeshore Collaborative are making great strides in how exercise affects MS and other neurological diseases. A national leader in exercise rehabilitation research, Motl is driving major advances in beating MS. Motl's research shows that, compared to the general population, most people with MS don't engage in much physical activity. His findings, uncovered in research funded through the National MS Society, show that exercise can be a beneficial rehabilitation strategy for MS patients, helping to manage symptoms, restore function, boost activity in daily living and optimize quality of life. Motl is trying to improve outcomes by changing patient-clinician interactions and promoting physical activity for those with MS. That's great news to Garrett: "Anything that can help, I'm interested in," he said. Before diagnosis, Garrett's symptoms ran the gamut. In 2015, he had numbness in his legs and hands, which his doctor diagnosed as a pinched nerve. As the pain worsened, four years later Garrett had several MRIs and a spinal tap before learning he has MS. "I've had nerve pain, limb numbness, extreme fatigue, and different aches and sharp pains," Garrett said. "I've had memory loss and my speech has stumbled. Since I've been on medicines for MS, I haven't relapsed and I'm praying that is why." Riding to fight MS More than 40 bikers and 10 kayakers joined in the 2019 Dam Ride. The company and the National MS Society hope for more success stemming from the ride to Lay Dam in May. Jim Heilbron, senior vice president and senior production officer, is among Alabama Power's Power Pedalers in the 2020 event. A board member of the Alabama-Mississippi MS Chapter and an avid rider, Heilbron said, "I believe everyone should use their personal passion to benefit others. Through cycling we are not only able to raise awareness, but the financial resources needed to support those dealing with MS. Our hope is to ultimately help find a cure for this terrible disease." Miller said he is happy to see the great partnerships created through APSO-sponsored events and – even more so – the benefits to Alabama residents. By Donna Cope Shooters rode golf carts to Selwood shooting range. More than 40 bikers joined in the 2019 Dam Ride.