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"I learned to see life in a different way."

Dave, MS LifeLines Ambassador

Living with RRMS since 1998

Taking Rebif® since 2003

Andrew — MS LifeLines® Ambassador


“I've become a resource for information and a strong advocate for research and a cure. I'm finally at peace with myself.”

After I started taking Rebif, I finally shared the diagnosis with my family, but I didn't tell anyone at work. I was afraid people wouldn't understand, and they'd think I couldn't do my job. But here came that second lesson.

In February 2005, I wanted to support the 2005 MS Walk in Vancouver, Washington, but I couldn't do that and still keep my relapsing MS a secret. I created a web page through the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Oregon Chapter web site. I started recruiting family and friends to my team. Then, I emailed my web page to many of my co-workers and all of the corporate officers of my company. I received an outpouring of support for my fundraising cause. I was overwhelmed by the show of support.

Our team's name is Andy K's "A" Team 5881. Sounds like a flight number, but it actually represents the number of people in Oregon and Southwest Washington who've been diagnosed with MS. Our goal was to raise one dollar for each one of us with MS, but we raised even more—$6,700 in total. My employer donated bottles of water and airline tickets—they really got involved. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Oregon chapter presented my company with the "Community Champion Award" for their outstanding support in the fight against MS. The award is on display in the boarding area of our terminal where it is passed by several thousand people a day.

By refreshing others, I have been refreshed. I no longer have to worry about who might find out about my relapsing MS. I've become a resource for information and a strong advocate for research and a cure. I'm finally at peace with myself. Before MS I was full of energy and always eager to try something new and adventurous—and I still am!

This story reflects the personal experience of one person, and others can be different. Results and experiences vary from patient to patient. It is best to contact your doctor to discuss what's best for you. Andrew is an MS LifeLines Ambassador, and he has chosen to share his story with other people living with MS.

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Brought to you by EMD Serono, Inc. and Pfizer Inc., the co-marketers of Rebif® (interferon beta-1a) in the US EMD SeronoPfizer

Prescribing Information - Medication Guide

This information is intended only for residents of the United States.

Rebif is used to treat relapsing forms of MS to decrease the frequency of relapses and delay the occurrence of some of the physical disability that is common in people with MS. Efficacy has been established in controlled studies up to 2 years in duration. Rebif is not approved for the treatment of chronic progressive multiple sclerosis. Rebif is available by prescription only in 22 mcg and 44 mcg pre-filled syringes and a titration pack.

Before beginning treatment, patients should discuss with their doctor the potential benefits and risks associated with Rebif. Let your doctor know if you have a history of depression, seizures, liver disease, thyroid problems, and blood count or bleeding problems or if you have had previous allergic reactions to medications. Tell your doctor about all medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements. Rebif and other medicines may affect each other causing serious side effects. Talk to your doctor before you take any new medicines. Rebif is not recommended for women who are or plan to become pregnant.

Potential serious side effects of Rebif include depression, liver problems, risk to pregnancy, injection site problems and severe allergic reactions. Allergic reactions are rare and may be associated with difficulty breathing and loss of consciousness, which requires immediate medical attention.

The most common side effects with Rebif are injection site reactions, flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, muscle aches, tiredness), depression, abdominal pain, increased liver enzymes, and blood cell count decreases. Let your doctor know immediately if you have any of these symptoms or feel sad, tired, hot or cold, experience hives, rashes, bruising, yellowing of the skin, or a change in body weight (gain or loss).

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

This information is not intended to replace discussions with your healthcare provider. For additional information about Rebif, please consult the Medication Guide or Prescribing Information and talk to your doctor. You can also call toll free 1-877-44-REBIF (1-877-447-3243). Rebif is available by prescription only.

MS LifeLines is an educational support service for people living with MS and their families. MS LifeLines and MS LifeLines Ambassadors are sponsored by EMD Serono, Inc. and Pfizer Inc.

Rebif, Rebiject II and MS LifeLines are registered trademarks and the Rebif logo is a trademark of EMD Serono, Inc. or its affiliates.

MS in Balance is a service mark of EMD Serono, Inc. or its affiliates.

Copyright 2008 EMD Serono, Inc. All rights reserved.