The Chennai Chapter of the Multiple Sclerosis Society of India (MSSI) marked a significant milestone with the launch of the first session of its Knowledge Series – an engaging Continuing Medical Education (CME) programme on “A Multidisciplinary Approach in the Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis.” Held on 29 November 2025 at Hotel Harrison, Nungambakkam, the event brought together people with MS (PwMS), caregivers, and medical professionals for a day of learning, dialogue, and community.

The programme opened on a warm and welcoming note with Ann Gonsalves, Hon. Secretary, MSSI Chennai, setting the tone for an afternoon focused on collaboration and care. Archana Ganesan, Committee Member, introduced the panel of speakers, who were felicitated by MSSI members in a gesture of appreciation.

The session featured four distinguished experts who highlighted the importance of comprehensive, coordinated care in MS management:

• Dr. Venkatraman Karthikeyan, Neurologist, Kauvery Hospitals, spoke on Integrated management for prevention of infections in MS patients, offering insights into evolving therapies, personalised treatment plans, and long-term disease management.
• Dr. Mathisekaran Thangarasu, Specialist in Neuro-Urology, addressed Recurrent UTIs and their prevention in MS, shedding light on uro-neurological challenges and modern interventions that can significantly improve quality of life.
• Dr. Rajkumar, Consultant – Infectious Diseases, highlighted the need for timely vaccination, underscoring preventive care, vaccine safety, and infection management—especially for individuals on immunomodulatory therapies.
• Ms. Yamini, Chief Clinical Dietician at Kauvery Hospitals, presented on how a good diet can help manage MS, sharing practical, evidence-based nutritional guidance to support symptom management and overall well-being.

A lively and interactive Q&A session followed, allowing PwMS and caregivers to engage directly with the experts. Participants shared experiences, sought clarity, and received practical, easy-to-understand guidance—making the session both informative and empowering.

The programme concluded with the speakers being honoured with tokens of appreciation, followed by a heartfelt Vote of Thanks from Chitra Ramachandran, Committee Member. A fellowship lunch encouraged meaningful conversations and connections among attendees. Adding to the warmth of the gathering, birthdays of Ann Gonsalves, Sivakumar (Committee Member), and PwMS members Abeneyha and Nithya were celebrated, creating a joyful and inclusive atmosphere.

Despite heavy rains, nearly 90 PwMS and caregivers attended, reflecting the strong commitment of the community. The inaugural session of the Knowledge Series delivered valuable insights and practical guidance, setting a strong foundation for MSSI Chennai’s continued efforts to empower the MS community through knowledge, collaboration, and compassionate care.