This is an experiment. I am adding a regular crossword puzzle to MS-Selfie as a new feature to try and make learning about MS more fun. The participants who submit the correct answers for the crossword and provide a valid contact address will go into a draw to win a prize; a Lego MRI set.
There is a method to my madness in that making you think about the answers to the crossword is good for your brain health. Yes, people in the general population who do crossword puzzles regularly are at lower risk of getting dementia. I suspect the same will apply to people with MS. Once I close the crossword puzzle on the 21st of June I will do a separate Newsletter explaining the science behind the questions and how it is relevant to people with MS.
Please note the initial prize is an old-fashioned Lego set, which serves several functions. It will tax not only your hand function but your cognitive and visuospatial skills, i.e. it is a form of rehabilitation. My motivation is to nudge you all to do something creative that will act as a stimulus to improve both your cognitive and physical abilities.
I am also willing to outsource the design of future puzzles as a creative challenge to you all. The puzzle has to be short, all questions and answers need to be relevant to MS and preferably around an issue that needs an explanation.
Subscriptions and donations
Paid subscriptions to MS-Selfie are being used to administer the Newsletter and associated MS-Selfie microsite that is currently in development. At the request of several readers, I have now added the option of making a one-off donation. To keep this initiative open to all readers, I would appreciate it if those who can afford a subscription please subscribe. For active paying subscribers, thank you; your contribution is much appreciated.
General Disclaimer: Please note that the opinions expressed here are those of Professor Giovannoni and do not necessarily reflect the positions of Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry or Barts Health NHS Trust. The advice is intended as general advice and should not be interpreted as personal clinical advice. If you have problems please tell your own healthcare professional who will be able to help you.
MS-Selfie Crossword