Transcript
A (0:00)
Hello, everyone. Thank you so much for tuning in today. I am very excited to introduce Amy Stowe from Shift Ms. Amy has been working there for seven and a half years and she's the head of operations who's been leading their incredible Buddy Network program. And when I say incredible, I truly mean it. They have supported over 2000 people who who are newly diagnosed with Ms. By pairing them with buddies who actually get it because they are living with Ms. Too. And here's what blew my mind. 82% of people coming into their program don't know a single other person with Ms. Can you even imagine that? I mean, maybe you can, maybe that's also been your experience, but you get this life changing diagnosis and you literally don't know anyone else who understands who what you're going through. That's why programs like this are so incredibly important. And Amy's team has created something extremely special. On today's episode, we talk about how this buddy matching program actually works. And it's way more thoughtful than you might think. We also dive into the amazing results they're seeing. Like people feeling 60% less lonely and 50% more confident about their future. And Amy walks us through how you can get connected with a buddy in just two to three days through their app. And honestly, by the end of this conversation, you're going to want to tell every newly diagnosed person you know about this resource. So let's dive in.
B (1:46)
The big question is, how does someone with Ms. Actually improve their mobility, strength, energy independence? The list goes on. My name is Dr. Gretchen Holley, physical therapist and multiple sclerosis specialist. Welcome to the Missing Link podcast. Tune in as I share the top strategies and exercises to help you gain control over your life with ms, using research driven insights and advice from top industry experts. Whether you're newly diagnosed or have had Ms. For over 30 years, whether you have relapsing Ms. Or progressive MS, this podcast is for you. You're sure to feel empowered and inspired after each episode.
A (2:36)
Ready?
B (2:37)
Let's dive in.
A (2:45)
Amy, thank you so much for being here with us today.
C (2:48)
Thank you so much for inviting me. It's lovely to be here.
A (2:51)
It is lovely. I'm really excited to have you share all about SHIFT Ms. And the Buddy Network. It's so important for people to know that programs like this exist, so I'm really excited to dive into that. But before we do, is it okay with you if I ask you a question from my interview deck?