Multiple sclerosis has given Julie Wichman a lot to handle since she was diagnosed in 2002.
She’s survived a severe brain infection, lost her ability to work, drive her car and live on her own. Today, Julie uses a wheelchair and lives in a long-term care facility.
Thanks to the MS at Home Access (MAHA) program, there’s much more to Julie’s story.
Led by Nebraska Medicine and the University of Nebraska Medical Center, MAHA offers patients and families a vital connection to the long list of resources they need.
Support includes house calls, telemedicine and a transdisciplinary clinic; coordination with community home health agencies, durable medical vendors and other medical specialties; and collaboration with community-based services and resources.
The MAHA team has been “such a lifeline” for Julie and her family, said her sister, Sandy Washa. “This is a program that is so collaborative and builds partnerships that benefit the people that they’re serving, and that’s just rare and unique.”
They’ve helped the family navigate everything from teaching staff where she lives how to better understand Julie’s complex MS medical needs to moving health care paperwork through the system.
Julie also enjoys a special camaraderie with the MAHA staff. She always keeps a decorated Christmas tree in her room and welcomes compliments about her purple and blue hair highlights and colorful manicures. The ever-present sunglasses she wears for light sensitivity have earned her the nickname “Doc Hollywood” from the staff.
Perhaps most importantly, the MAHA team has shown Julie she’s able to make a difference.
“Recently, they helped us coordinate a call with her mental health provider,” Sandy said. “He asked her, ’How do you feel about life?’ She said, ‘I have a good life.’ They help her find joy in making people laugh, making people smile.”
Events like the MS Strong Community Race Event, to be held Sunday, Oct. 5, at Heartland of America Park in downtown Omaha, help fund essential services for patients.
“As the only program of its kind in the country, the MAHA program’s continued success relies on philanthropic support,” said Aubrie Lindner, program coordinator. “Private funding is essential in helping us provide salary support for our dedicated team and additional support that directly benefits the individuals we serve. Generous gifts ensure this vital program remains available to those who need it most.”
To make a gift to support Nebraska Medicine Multiple Sclerosis at Home Access Program, click here or contact Emily Tiensvold at [email protected]. To learn more about MAHA, contact Aubrie Lindner at 402-559-7859 or [email protected].
