Monday 26 January at 4pm
Go to our portal area to register to join the classes live or to watch the recording
Our online sessions are free to join. Donations are welcome, and the suggested contribution for this session is £7.
Join us for the first information session of 2026 with Dr Gretchen Hawley, focusing on two vital processes in multiple sclerosis (MS) management, neuroplasticity and remyelination. This informative session will share current research and practical guidance to support movement, strength, and long-term management of MS.
Neuroplasticity refers to the brain’s capacity to adapt by forming new neural connections. Dr Hawley will explore how targeted, MS-specific exercises can stimulate this process, helping the brain compensate for areas affected by demyelination. By repeatedly attempting movements, even those that feel difficult or out of reach, signals are sent to the brain that encourage the development of new pathways. Over time, this can translate into meaningful improvements in balance, mobility, and strength. The session will also cover Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), a key protein that supports brain health, and the scientific evidence behind the brain’s positive response to exercise.
You’ll also gain insight into remyelination, the body’s natural ability to repair damaged myelin sheaths that protect nerve fibres. Dr Hawley will explain why this repair process is essential for slowing MS progression and how certain lifestyle factors and therapeutic approaches may help support it.
In addition, the session will highlight emerging MS treatments currently under development, including Bruton’s Tyrosine Kinase (BTK) inhibitors. These innovative Disease Modifying Therapies (DMTs) aim to target damaging immune cells while preserving healthy ones, with the potential to protect nerve fibres and promote myelin repair.
The event will finish with a live question and answer, giving you the opportunity to ask Dr Hawley questions about neuroplasticity, remyelination, and how they relate to living well with MS. Whether you’re seeking ways to enhance your exercise routine or wanting to understand the future direction of MS treatments, this session offers valuable expert insight.
If you’re unable to attend live, you can still register to receive access to the session recording and watch it at a time that suits you.
To join this session, please login or register in our Portal area. The session is free to join. Donations are welcome, and the suggested contribution for this session is £7.
A recording will be made available on the portal after the class and can be viewed if you have booked a ticket either before or after the session has taken place.
If you would like to know more or you are having trouble registering, please contact us at register@ms-uk.org.
A Doctor of Physical Therapy, with years of clinical practice experience, Gretchen is a Physical Therapist and Multiple Sclerosis Certified Specialist through the Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centres based in the USA.
She has a special interest in the management and wellness of MS patients and presents as the Keynote Speaker at numerous MS events including Living Well with MS events sponsored by the MS Society in addition to MS Views & News. Other collaborations include national MS organisations, including the National MS Society, MS Association of America, and MS Foundation. Additionally, Dr Gretchen shares her expertise to MS support groups, podcasts, and on her own YouTube and social media channels.
If you would like to know more about Dr Hawley please visit our website to see Dr Hawley’s previous blog or visit Dr Hawley’s website The MSing Link.
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