this unique workshop was held for the first time following the diagnosis of very youngpatients with Multiple Sclerosis.

During the workshops for their parents, the children with MS, as well as their brothers and sisters, assembled to participate in a special and wonderful dog training workshop.

The parents, following the opening lecture given by a doctor, found ways to express their feelings, thoughts, worries and hardships. Dealing with a child suffering from a chronic illness is difficult and exhausting.

A range of issues were raised – What is the optimal possible treatment for a sick child? How do I find the strength to cope? How and whether to make decisions for the child? How do we include the child and his/her brother and sisters in confronting and dealing with the disease? How can we relieve fear and concerns? Dealing with endless worry and feelings of self-blame? And more and more…

All of these topics were expressed and discussed during the workshop meetings, in an atmosphere that felt protected and enabled joint discussion, advice and support.

The sense of encouragement and sharing felt during the workshop greatly contributed to the participants, who said that it was a unique and empowering experience for them.