Welcome

Scroll down to learn about our speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, and partners.

Yoga Moves MS presents this special Forum to empower those impacted by MS with information about a range of integrative and holistic mind-body strategies. This event is an opportunity to learn about healthy living and wholesome options that complement traditional medical care.

The purpose of this Virtual Exhibit Hall is to provide a place for exploration for Forum registrants before, during, and after the Live Event on May 21, 2025.  Read about our very special presenters who are renowned experts in their field. Learn about our fabulous sponsors and partners, and the products and services that they offer, as well as relevant and up to date information to help you along the MS journey.

Yoga Moves MS Spotlights Resilient Warriors

Meet Stacy, George and Marcia and let their stories inspire you to join the YMMS community.

Yoga Moves MS Mission & Purpose

Yoga Moves MS (YMMS) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization and supportive community of students, yoga instructors and therapists, and volunteers. Our mission is to foster a resilient and adaptive community, uniting individuals with multiple sclerosis in a journey of inspiration, connection, and empowerment. Through the transformative power of yoga, holistic health, and wellness education, we are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for our community.

The Yoga Moves philosophy cultivates empowerment, healing, and fun. We provide adaptive yoga resources for those with MS and neuromuscular conditions. At home LIVE online classes are provided by donation only.  In person classes in Southeastern Michigan are offered in five locations.  To learn more about our Yoga Moves Any Body classes, you can view the schedule and descriptions.

Resources to help you in your yoga practice anytime and anywhere include our plentiful library of On-Demand Videos,  Adaptive Yoga Moves Any Body Book, and Adaptive Yoga Cards.

Our Holistic Health and Wellness Forums for MS offer opportunities to learn about an array of wellness topics from national MS experts. The videos in the Chicago Holistic Health and Wellness Forum for MS will keep your interest flowing.

The FULL Yoga Moves MS Holistic Health and Wellness Forum for MS presentation along with individual presentation recording links will be available below following the event.

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Speakers and Their Presentations

Dr. Martin Belkin
Medical Director, MIND MS Center

Presentation: Opening Remarks

Dr. Belkin is the Medical Director of the MS Center at the Michigan Institute for Neurological Disorders, which is one of the largest private MS Centers in the country. In addition to his extensive experience as the primary and sub-investigator for clinical trials in Multiple Sclerosis, he is known as a national speaker on the topic of Multiple Sclerosis. He is also actively involved in educating medical students and residents in the field of Neurology as he serves as the residency program director for the Ascension Macomb-Oakland Neurology Residency. As of July 2022, he has developed and serves as the director of the MIND MS/Neuroimmunology fellowship program. Additionally, he serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor at Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine and Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine.

Allison Bell, PT, DPT, CIDN, Physical Therapist specializing in Pelvic Floor, University of Michigan

Presentation topic: Panel Discussion: Desire, Disability and MS – Overcoming Barriers to Intimacy

Dr. Allison Bell is a highly skilled physical therapist with over 12 years of experience, specializing in the evaluation and treatment of orthopedic and pelvic floor conditions. Holding a Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT), Dr. Bell is committed to providing compassionate and individualized care to patients dealing with a wide range of pelvic health concerns, including bladder & bowel dysfunction, pelvic pain, gender affirmation, diastasis recti, and pregnancy & postpartum recovery. In addition to having a special interest in helping those with neurological conditions navigate their bladder and bowel health.

With a deep understanding of the intricate anatomy and biomechanics of the pelvic floor, Dr. Bell utilizes evidence-based therapeutic techniques, including manual therapy, biofeedback, dry needling, myofascial cupping and specialized exercise regimens, to address the root causes of pelvic dysfunction. Beyond the pelvic floor, Dr. Bell carries certifications in barbell rehabilitation, the female athlete and POSE method of running which allows for a further understanding of the holistic workings of the human body and the impact on the pelvic floor and physical health. In addition to her clinical expertise, Dr. Bell places a strong emphasis on education, empowering patients with the tools and knowledge they need to take an active role in their recovery and overall health.

Throughout her career, Dr. Bell has worked in a variety of clinical settings, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to optimize patient outcomes. Dr. Bell is passionate about advancing the field of pelvic health and regularly participates in continuing education, staying up-to-date with the latest research and treatment innovations.

Dr. Bell is committed to helping patients achieve improved quality of life, regain function, and experience greater comfort and confidence through personalized physical therapy treatment.

Jeanie Cote

Dr. Jeanie Cote
Neurologist, Memorial Healthcare Institute for Neuroscience 

Presentation topic: Beyond the Diagnosis:  Navigating Intimacy and Sexuality with MS

Dr. Jeanie Cote is a lifelong resident of the State of Michigan. She completed her undergraduate studies at Michigan State University with a degree in Nutritional Science. She then attended Wayne State University Medical School in Detroit and completed her neurology residency at the University of Michigan, serving as Chief Resident. Dr. Cote completed a Fellowship at the University of Michigan in Multiple Sclerosis/Neuro Immunology. After spending several years caring for patients at the Multiple Sclerosis Clinic at the University of Michigan, she transitioned to Memorial Healthcare Institute for Neuroscience in Owosso, Michigan, in 2019.

Dr. Cote has a special interests in the planning, prenatal and postnatal care for women with Multiple Sclerosis and lifestyle and weight management related to neurologic disease. Dr. Cote also holds certification in medical acupuncture. Dr. Cote is board-certified in Neurology and is a member of the American Academy of Neurology, the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, and the Academy of Pain Research.  She is board certified in weight loss management by the ABOM.

The Memorial Healthcare Institute for Neuroscience has a clear focus on bringing together world-class talent, ambitious vision, cutting-edge research, and advanced technology to ensure every patient receives personalized, compassionate, and convenient care. Our highly skilled and experienced specialists handle some of the most complex neurological cases in the country while utilizing advanced MRI technology, drug therapy treatments, and cutting-edge clinical trials. The Institute for Neuroscience has 20 Neurology providers 4 specializing in Multiple Sclerosis, and has locations in four counties to service patients: Shiwassee, Livingston, Bay, & Saginaw. 
Mind

Dr. Taylor Hess
Neuroimmunologist, Michigan Institute for Neurological Disorders (MIND) MS Center

Presentation topic: Emerging MS Therapies

Taylor Hess, DO is a graduate of Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine where she graduated at the top of her class. She completed her neurology residency through the Beaumont Health
System and Michigan State University Statewide Campus System. During her neurology training, she developed a sincere interest and passion for helping patients with the diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis and related disorders. She made the decision to dedicate her career to helping patients with MS both from a clinical and research perspective. She completed her fellowship in Multiple Sclerosis at the Michigan Institute for Neurological Disorder’s Comprehensive MS Center where she is currently a practicing Neuroimmunologist.

Mindy Eisenberg

Mindy Eisenberg, MHSA, C-IAYT, ERYT-500
Director and Founder of Yoga Moves MS

Opening and Closing Remarks

Mindy is the Founder and Director of Yoga Moves MS, a non profit 501(c)(3) with the mission of improving the quality of life for individuals with MS, Parkinson’s Disease, and neuromuscular conditions through the provision of adaptive yoga and holistic health and wellness education.  Mindy has provided in person and virtual yoga therapy to individuals with mobility challenges for two decades and thrives on building a strong, mighty community for her students, families, and care partners. She is the author of Adaptive Yoga Moves Any Body, created for individuals with MS and neuromuscular conditions and Adaptive Yoga Cards, daily yoga moves for all ages and abilities. She has trained hundreds of students with her Adaptive Yoga Moves Any Body Teacher Training and is a Qualified Mindfulness-Based Stress reduction teacher, Reiki Master, and Certified Buteyko Breathing Instructor. Her experience as a health care administrator at the University of Michigan Medical Center contributes to her ability to bring the Yoga Moves philosophy of healing to the health care arena. She created the cutting edge and widely acclaimed annual Virtual Holistic Health and Wellness Forum for MS, presents for corporate, academic, and yoga therapy organizations, and offers small group and private therapeutic yoga, breathing, and meditation sessions. She lives with her husband and pets, Felix and Oscar in Michigan, and loves to visit her daughter and son, Julia and Noah, in NYC.

Amy Raad, LMSW, CST, Licensed Master of Social Work, Certified Sex Therapist, University of Michigan

Presentation topic: Panel Discussion:  Desire, Disability and MS – Overcoming Barriers to Intimacy

Amy is a clinical social worker and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist at the center for sexual health.  She is also a counselor at the Michigan Medicine Center for Vulvar Diseases in the Department of Gynecology and a clinical supervisor within the Department of Social Work.  Amy specializes in women’s health, sexual health and intimacy, intimate relationship distress, and trauma recovery.  In her spare time, she is either reading or trying to keep up with her two sons.

Damian Washington, MS Influencer, Actor, and Self-Described Nerd

Presentation topic: MS and the Power of Humor:  Thriving Through Tough Times

If laughter is medicine, then Damian Washington is out here handing out prescriptions.  He has multiple sclerosis (MS), which means his body sometimes does things he didn’t ask it to do that are not at all funny. But instead of getting mad, he decided to help others going through the same thing.  Damian brings an electric presence to the stage, blending storytelling, advocacy, and a touch of well-placed humor to break down complex health topics.  His YouTube channel has over 6,700 subscribers, is a beacon of real talk, inspiration, and straight-up MS truths for the patient community. He’s also worked with major organizations like Genentech, Novartis, and Johnson & Johnson to amplify the voices of MS patients worldwide. Beyond digital advocacy, Damian is a seasoned speaker, chairing discussions at international MS conferences like ECTRIMS and collaborating with patient-focused organizations across the globe to make sure people with MS get the support they need.  At the Yoga Moves MS Holistic Health and Wellness Forum, he’ll bring his energy, honesty, and charisma to talk about MS in a way that makes people feel strong, more hopeful, and maybe even a little lighter.

James Voci, MD Neurologist, AMITA Health Medical Group Neurology, Evanston, IL, and Chair, Yoga Moves MS

James Voci, MD
Chair, Yoga Moves MS

Dr. James M. Voci received his undergraduate training at Haverford College in Philadelphia followed by Medical School at the University of Pennsylvania. There, his interest in Neurology was nurtured by a strong faculty which included Dr. Robert Lisak who later became Chairmen of Neurology at DMC in Detroit. His residency in Neurology was performed at University Hospitals of Cleveland/Case Western Reserve University where he served as Chief Resident in his final year. Upon completion of his training, he served on the faculty there as Assistant Professor Of Neurology, performing both research in molecular biology as well as the instruction of new residents. In 1996 he left for private practice and eventually arrived in the metro Detroit region in 1999 where he has remained since. Dr. Voci currently serves as the Director of Neurology at St. Francis Hosp in Evanston. He is actively involved in the care of Multiple Sclerosis patients both clinically and with clinical research studies. And, yes, he actively practices Yoga. He has been the Chair of Yoga Moves MS since 2014.

Schedule of Events

Mindy Eisenberg, MHSA

Event Kick-off and Message from Yoga Moves MS Founder and Director

Martin Belkin, DO

Opening Remarks

Damian Washington

MS and the Power of Humor:  Thriving Through Tough Times

Taylor Hess, DO

Emerging MS Therapies

Jeanie Cote, MD

Beyond the Diagnosis:  Navigating Intimacy and Sexuality with MS

Panel Discussion

Panel Discussion:  Desire, Disability and MS – Overcoming Barriers to Intimacy

Allison Bell, PT, DPT, CIDN,

Jeanie Cote, MD

Amy Raad, LMSW, CSD

Closing Remarks/Namaste

Mindy Eisenberg, MHSA

Top Sponsors

Over the past four decades, Biogen has been committed to translating science to meaningful advances for the MS community. Our industry-leading portfolio – backed by established safety and efficacy profiles, ongoing investment in our products, as well as our comprehensive services and solutions – enables us to offer a broad range of options to meet the ever-evolving needs of MS patients and drive greater individualized disease management.

Learn more about MS support and resources from Biogen

Considered the founder of the industry, Genentech, now a member of the Roche Group, has been delivering on the promise of biotechnology for more than 45 years.

Genentech is a biotechnology company dedicated to pursuing groundbreaking science to discover and develop medicines for people with serious and life-threatening diseases. Our transformational discoveries include the first targeted antibody for cancer and the first medicine for primary progressive multiple sclerosis.

We celebrate our unique history as the pioneers of scientific breakthroughs that have an incredible track record of improving lives. And yet, our ambitions are bigger and bolder. Together, we are united in a bold quest to solve the world’s most complex health challenges and serve society.

Our ability to bring transformative medicines to patients depends on the positive experience, engagement and resilience of everyone who works here. Our employees are the heart of Genentech and the driving force behind the progress that brings important new medicines to the people who need them. We believe a great people experience is critical for revolutionizing healthcare and living Our Promise. That’s why we’re committed to cultivating an environment where people feel valued, included and able to thrive.

Novartis is an innovative medicines company. Every day, we work to reimagine medicine to improve and extend people’s lives so that patients, healthcare professionals and societies are empowered in the face of serious disease. Our medicines reach more than 250 million people worldwide.

https://www.novartis.com

TG Therapeutics was founded with one goal in mind—to leverage scientific advances in B-cell biology to develop novel treatments for patients.

We’ve dedicated ourselves to this simple concept and to the study of B-cells and B-cell diseases. To achieve our goal, we search the globe looking for medicines in early research that we believe could become valuable treatment options for patients.

www.tgtherapeutics.com

Exhibitors

Alexion is a global biopharmaceutical company focused on developing life-changing therapies for people living with rare disorders.

Amgen harnesses the best of biology and technology to fight the world’s toughest diseases, and make people’s lives easier, fuller and longer. We discover, develop, manufacture and deliver innovative medicines to help millions of patients. Amgen helped establish the biotechnology industry more than 40 years ago and remains on the cutting-edge of innovation, using technology and human genetic data to push beyond what’s known today.

www.amgen.com

Bristol Myers Squibb is a global biopharmaceutical company whose mission is to discover, develop and deliver innovative medicines that help patients prevail over serious diseases.

At Bristol Myers Squibb, we work every day to transform patients’ lives through science. We combine the agility of a biotech with the reach and resources of an established pharmaceutical company to create a global leading biopharma company powered by talented individuals who drive scientific innovation.

Interested in learning about a treatment option? Take a look at ZEPOSIA® (ozanimod)—a pill by exploring the resources below and visiting ZEPOSIA.com. There you’ll get the information you need, including clinical study results, safety and side effects, support from the ZEPOSIA 360 SupportTM program, and more.

About Bristol Myers Squibb

ZEPOSIA Ad

Learn more about ZEPOSIA

About EMD Serono

RMS Oral Therapy Website

RMS Oral Therapy Patient Info Kit

RMS Oral Therapy TV Ad

RMS Injectable Therapy Website

RMS Injectable Therapy Patient Info Kit

We are a global healthcare company uniquely positioned to bridge the traditional divide between generics and brands, combining the best of both, to more holistically address healthcare needs globally. With a mission to empower people worldwide to live healthier at every stage of life, we provide access at scale.

http://www.betterlifehomecare.com

http://www.motownmassage.com

Sally and Bob Goldman Therapy Dog Program – Henry Ford Health

Henry Ford Health’s National Award-Winning therapy dog program is comprised of facility-owned dogs and owner-handled pet therapy teams.

Our facility dogs include Bravo and Josie (Yellow Labradors); George, Buddy, Hank, Envy and Gilbert (Golden Retrievers); and Ace (a Goldendoodle and our first rescue). In addition, approximately 40 volunteer pet therapy teams visit patients, visitors, and employees as part of our furry team. Our dogs come in all shapes and sizes!

https://www.henryford.com/locations/west-bloomfield/visitors/pet-therapy

https://www.qultureclub.com/about-us/our-team/

Partners

Memorial Healthcare serves over 68,000 residents in the greater Shiawassee County region by providing high-quality services not only at the main hospital but through its many satellite locations in Chesaning, Durand, Perry, Laingsburg, Ovid, Elsie, and Corunna. Our footprint now expands into seven counties: Shiawassee, Clinton, Ingham, Genesee, Bay, Saginaw, and Wayne. The medical staff at Memorial Healthcare totals over 200 physicians representing 34 different medical specialties and over 1,500 employees.

About MIND
MIND Center for Comprehensive MS Care Virtual Exhibit

The National MS Society brings the MS movement together—and turns our power and passion into real results. When the Society was founded more than 75 years ago, MS was neglected and poorly understood. What began as one woman’s vision and commitment is now a nationwide organization leading the global charge to create a world free of MS.

University of Michigan Canton Health Center

At the Canton Health Center Therapy Clinic, we work together collaboratively with PT and OT to provide individualized care to our patients. By working together, Neuro PT and Pelvic PT can create a holistic treatment plan that enhances both the neurological and pelvic function, improving patients’ quality of life. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that MS patients receive care that addresses all aspects of their physical well-being, fostering better functional outcomes and greater independence.

We see our patients one on one for an hour which gives patients ample time to experience different interventions, ask questions and get valuable feedback without their therapists rushing to the next patient. We strive to be innovative with our space and equipment utilizing what we have and what the patients have at home to optimize their recovery and function.

Michigan Medicine is home to one of the largest health care complexes in Michigan. It has been the site of many groundbreaking medical and technological advancements since the Medical School first opened in 1850.

Today, Michigan Medicine continues to deliver the Michigan Difference through cutting-edge research and premier patient care. According to U.S. News and World Report, we’re among the best in the nation in a broad range of adult and pediatric specialties. We’ve earned national recognition from other hospital-quality organizations, too.

Michigan Medicine is one of the largest hospitals in Michigan and a premier academic medical center made up of:

Our Mission

To advance health to serve Michigan and the world.

Our Vision

Our discoveries change care; our care changes lives.

Our Core Values
  • Caring: I will treat everyone with dignity, kindness and respect, promoting the well-being of self and others.
  • Innovation: I will promote a culture of creativity, flexibility and curiosity that inspires new ideas and ways of thinking, behaving and improving the world.
  • Inclusion: I will foster an environment where every individual has a sense of belonging, a voice that is heard, and the opportunity to achieve and thrive.
  • Integrity: I will adhere to the highest ethical standards, demonstrating courage, truth and transparency in my words and actions.
  • Teamwork: We will work together with a shared purpose rooted in equity and fairness where diversity is celebrated, respected and valued.
Connect with Us

Walk The Line is your leading authority in rehabilitation and recovery. Our innovative therapy team creates the most effective treatment options for your unique situation. We have a highly skilled team of Physical Therapists, Physical Therapy Assistants, Occupational Therapists, Occupational Therapy Assistants, and Athletic Trainers available to assist you in developing long-term functional improvement using hands-on treatment and education. We are here to support you wherever you are in your journey and will create a customized plan that helps you to meet your goals now and in the future.

Learn more about Walk the Line Recovery Therapy

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