Annual General Meeting 2022-2023 Highlights: Empowering Together
We are thrilled to share the highlights of the Annual General Meeting for the year 2022-2023, which took place on Sunday, August 20, 2023, at the prestigious Hotel Muse Sarovar Portico. This gathering served as a testament to our shared commitment to the Multiple Sclerosis cause.
The event commenced with a warm welcome by Ms. Bipasha Gupta, who eloquently introduced the distinguished Chapter members and the esteemed Head Office representatives. Following this, Mr. Sandeep Chitnis, Hon. National Secretary, and Mr. Ramesh Rao, Hon. National Treasurer presented a comprehensive overview of the financial landscape, shedding light on the balance sheet and income & expenditure statement for the past year. The meticulous examination of accounts culminated in their unanimous approval, signifying a collective dedication to transparent financial management.
Lunch provided a well-deserved break, fostering camaraderie among attendees. The post-lunch session showcased the incredible strides made by our Chapters through cross-learning activities. The Mumbai Chapter exemplified the spirit of collaboration through Grocery Distribution and the impactful joint Medical Seminar with Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital (KDAH) on “Conquering MS Disabilities”.
The Hyderabad Chapter highlighted the potency of Seminars in raising awareness about MS, while the Chennai Chapter unveiled the moving documentary “Battlers with a Broken Wing,” capturing the resilience and unity of MS individuals during their annual retreat.
Among the wealth of shared insights, one initiative truly stood out: the Brain Lab program led by the Chennai Chapter. This noteworthy endeavour involves hosting weekly online group psychological sessions every Thursday, lasting for an hour. These sessions, accommodating approximately 30 participants, are facilitated by a distinguished psychotherapist with expertise in the field. A distinguishing feature of the Brain Lab initiative is the additional half-hour segment dedicated to fostering social connections among participants after the main session concludes. This dual-pronged approach not only provides valuable psychological support but also cultivates a sense of community and interpersonal engagement. The Indore Chapter’s innovative fundraising video that raised Rs. 2.5 lakhs on YouTube, featuring 15 talented singers performing old Hindi songs, exemplified their commitment to our cause.
The Thiruvananthapuram Chapter’s remarkable achievement of registering 150 new members was celebrated, alongside the Pune Chapter’s commendable effort to provide 50 free MRI scans monthly. Additionally, Pune Chapter took the initiative to enroll 63 MSPs for UDID cards, and on World MS Day, they illuminated the Shaniwar Wada monument from 7 pm until midnight, symbolizing their commitment to raising awareness about multiple sclerosis. The Bengaluru Chapter’s large-scale awareness event on India MS Day, where more than 450 people were sensitized, received acclaim. Similarly, the chapter’s historic achievement of uniting 31 Rotary Clubs and 3 Rotaract Clubs, not only in India but globally, to celebrate World MS Day and raise MS awareness, inspiring numerous Rotary Clubs to engage in joint projects with MSSI through RAGAMS, was appreciated by all. Another noteworthy accomplishment was challenging stereotypes through a fashion show featuring 14 models who are Persons with MS confidently taking the ramp. On the other hand, the Kolkata Chapter’s thoughtful birthday celebrations for MSPs showcased the depth of our community engagement.
The Delhi Chapter’s commendable virtual outreach efforts included the establishment of 15 WhatsApp support groups, facilitating direct engagement with a community of 800 MSPs, which was met with high regard. Moreover, their specialized sessions focusing on Yoga and meditation garnered well-deserved acclaim. Another heartening practice that earned significant appreciation was their consistent and unwavering commitment to extending birthday wishes through video calls to over 800 MSPs. The day’s proceedings paused for tea, offering a moment of respite.
The AGM reconvened with Ms. Mamta Gupta, Vice President, enlightening the audience about the collaborative resource development undertaken with MSIF as part of the International Resource Group from India. Her passionate plea for Chapters to print and utilize these resources resonated deeply.
Mr. Javed Hasan, the Project Director then provided insights into the impactful meetings held with Disability Commissioners across several states, underscoring the significance of these engagements. A comprehensive report on the Youth Wing Group’s endeavors was delivered by Mr. Sanket Mestry, Hon. Joint Treasurer outlining various projects.
Ms. Anjali Vyas shared a succinct update as the representative for World Multiple Sclerosis Day, offering a global perspective on our mission. The AGM concluded on a note of gratitude as Mr. Sandeep Chitnis extended heartfelt thanks to all attendees for their unwavering dedication.
The event transitioned seamlessly into an evening of music, entertainment, and networking, culminating in a delightful dinner. Our shared commitment and enthusiasm have once again invigorated our resolve to navigate the challenges of Multiple Sclerosis together, hand in hand. Here’s to another year of progress and unity!
