Special recognition goes to our top fundraisers: Amber Carter, Nicole Mehall, and Claudia King. Their outstanding efforts have made a significant impact. Join the ICA in commemorating 40 years of dedication to the IC/BPS community!

We would also like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors for their incredible support during ICA Awareness Month.

• Platinum Sponsor: Desert Harvest
• Silver Sponsors: Femetry and Prelief

Let’s continue to work together to make a difference!

The webinar aimed to educate the participants about the latest research and evidence-based treatments for IC/BPS, a chronic condition that causes bladder pain, urgency, frequency, and pelvic discomfort.

The webinar was interactive and engaging, with the speakers answering questions from the participants throughout the session. The speakers also shared their personal and professional experiences with IC/BPS and pelvic floor dysfunction, as well as some tips and advice for coping with these conditions.

The ICA would like to thank Drs. Eilber and Scott for sharing their expertise and passion for helping people living with IC/BPS. The ICA would also like to thank Femetry for sponsoring the webinar and supporting the ICA’s mission of improving the quality of life of people with IC/BPS.

If you missed the webinar or would like to watch it again, you can access the recording here:

One of the driving forces behind our success has been the outstanding support of the Toth Family and SPX Corporation, Charlotte, NC. These generous donors pledged to match individual donations, effectively tripling the impact of each contribution, up to $7,500. This means that every dollar donated during IC Awareness Month will be matched not only by the Toth Family but also by SPX Corporation, creating an unprecedented opportunity to make a lasting difference.

We want to applaud our current top fundraisers, Collette, Theda, and Claudia, for their exceptional efforts. Collette has raised an impressive $1,400, Theda has secured $1,001 in donations, and Claudia has raised $620. Congratulations!

Donations are not only crucial for IC Awareness Month but are also an ongoing source of support for our mission. By participating in this event, you are directly aiding efforts to raise awareness about IC/BPS, fund research, provide educational resources, and offer support to individuals living with this condition. Your contribution, when matched by our generous partners, will have a significant impact on the lives of those affected by IC/BPS.

The symposium, held virtually, was a three-hour-long event dedicated to pelvic pain patients and their loved ones. The event was free of charge, ensuring accessibility to all who wanted to attend and learn from national and international experts in the field of pelvic pain from the renowned Northwell Healthcare System.

Prominent healthcare professionals presented a wide range of topics related to pelvic pain, including its causes and new approaches to management. Attendees had the unique opportunity to interact directly with the experts during an extensive question and answer session, allowing for a truly patient-oriented experience.

The ICA would like to thank the experts from The Arthur Smith Institute for Urology, The Katz Institute for Women’s Health, and STARS Rehabilitation of the Northwell Healthcare System for sharing their expertise.

The symposium provided an invaluable platform for patients, their loved ones, and healthcare professionals to come together and explore different aspects of pelvic pain. It offered hope and support to those who have been suffering for years without a proper diagnosis or effective treatment.

If you found this Symposium to be of value, please donate to this month’s “Pain to Purpose” event! Your support allows us to continue to bring you amazing programs like this. Go to the ICA’s website at www.ichelp.org to learn more about how you can support the ICA during IC Awareness Month and beyond.

Distinguished speakers included:

Joel N.H. Stern, PhD
Professor of Neurology, Surgery, and Molecular Medicine
Office of Medical Student Research
Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell
Associate Professor of Neurology, Lenox Hill Hospital
Northwell Health

Bella Grossman, PhD
Clinical Psychologist
Katz Institute for Women’s Health
Assistant Professor
Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell
Supervisor, Behavioral Health
Northwell Health, Psychiatry

Jennifer Fariello-Moldwin, MSN, MEd, WHNP-BC
Female Urogenital and Sexual Medicine
Division of UroGynecology
Northwell Health

Marina Ruzimovsky, NP-C
Pelvic Pain Specialist
Pelvic Pain Treatment Center
The Arthur Smith Institute for Urology
Northwell Health

Robert Moldwin, MD
Professor of Urology
Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra-Northwell  
Director, Pelvic Pain Treatment Center
The Arthur Smith Institute for Urology
Northwell Health

Adi Katz, MD
Associate Professor
Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra-Northwell  
Director, Minimally Invasive Gynecology, Lenox Hill Hospital
Department of Ob/GYN
Northwell Health

Mary Hughes-Johnson, PT, DPT, PRPC
Board Certified Clinical Specialist in Women’s Health Physical Therapy
Academy of Pelvic Health Physical Therapy
APTA APHPT CAPP-Pelvic Certified Physical Therapist

Barb Zarnikow, a dedicated volunteer, facilitated the hour-long session. Her compassionate approach ensured that participants felt at ease throughout the event. With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by IC/BPS patients, Barb navigated the discussion, creating a safe space for attendees to share their experiences, ask questions, and seek support from their peers.

The support group covered a wide range of topics that were of particular interest and relevance to IC/BPS patients. From managing symptoms and treatment options to sharing coping strategies and success stories, the group delved into various aspects of living with the condition. Participants were encouraged to actively participate, contributing their insights and offering support to fellow attendees.

The virtual nature of the event allowed participants from all across the country to partake in this valuable support group. Attendees not only benefited from Barb Zarnikow’s expertise but also formed connections with fellow IC/BPS patients, helping them feel less isolated in their journey. Many participants expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to be part of such a supportive community.

The Virtual IC/BPS Support Group organized by the ICA and led by Barb Zarnikow was a resounding success, leaving participants feeling empowered, validated, and less alone in their battle against IC/BPS. The event showcased the power of compassion, empathy, and a supportive community in navigating the complexities of living with chronic conditions.

This year, the ICA hosted a highly successful educational and fundraising event with the aim of raising awareness about IC/BPS and providing much-needed support for individuals living with this condition and their communities. We are delighted to share that our focused week of content managed to reach an audience that was actively seeking information and support. Some highlights from the event include:

• Comprehensive Information for Care Partners presented by Eric Zarnikow and Kristi Ninnemann.
• Valuable insights on how to obtain IC Awareness Month proclamations in your state delivered by Theda Khrestin.
• An insightful video titled “Handling the Emotional and Mental Impacts of IC/BPS” presented by Tacha Kasper, MA, LMFT.
• An inspiring video on the topic of Men & IC/BPS, featuring Samantha Ginsburg, PT, DPT.
• An informative video titled “The Pelvic Floor Connection” presented by Nicole Cozean, PT, DPT, WCS, CSCS.
• A compelling presentation, “Your Story, My Examination,” delivered by the esteemed Kristene Whitmore, MD.
• Eye-opening discussions on the topic of IC/BPS & Intimacy, featuring Jennifer Fariello Moldwin, MSN, MEd, WHNP-BC and Heather Florio, CEO of Desert Harvest.

Overall, this event provided a comprehensive platform to educate and empower both individuals living with IC/BPS and their support networks. Together, we are making progress in fostering a community that is well-informed and supported.

Join the ICA and ICA past Board Co-Chair, Barb Zarnikow for an immersive and engaging VIRTUAL IC/BPS Support Group. As a highlight of our IC Awareness Month, our dedicated volunteer, Barb, will lead our registered participants in an hour long discussion on topics that are important to you, the IC/BPS patient.

During this empowering gathering, you will have the opportunity to:

1. Connect with Others: Meet fellow IC/BPS warriors who understand your struggles and can offer invaluable support and encouragement.
2. Share Your Story: Open up about your journey with IC/BPS and discover the healing power of sharing. Our safe and welcoming environment will provide you with the chance to express your experiences, challenges, and triumphs.
3. Feel Empowered: Leave the event feeling empowered and inspired to take control of your IC/BPS journey. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge, support, and motivation.

We believe that no one should face IC/BPS alone, which is why we are extending this special invitation to you. Register today and connect with others who are walking in your shoes.

Together, we can make a difference!

Date: Friday, September 15, 2023
Time: 12:00pm – 1:00pm ET
Location: Zoom Meeting
Cost: FREE

Register for the ICA’s Pain to Purpose Event to attend.

Join the ICA at Nova Southeastern University in Clearwater, FL on March 11th at 5:00 PM (following the IC/BPS Symposium) where we will be hosting a Step Up for IC/BPS Awareness Walk!

This empowering event unites people living with IC/BPS! Connect with other IC/BPS patients and their families, symposium speakers, and sponsors. Participate in an energizing one-mile walk while raising IC/BPS awareness!

Get your Step Up for IC/BPS t-shirt, by registering for the ICA Clearwater, FL Awareness Walk today!

IC/BPS AWARENESS WALK SPONSORSHIP

Interested or know of a healthcare provider, therapist, nutritionist, or company that would be interested in sponsoring the ICA Awareness Walk?

IC/BPS SYMPOSIUM

In addition to the Awareness Walk, ICA is partnering with Nova Southeastern University’s Institute of Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine (KPCOM) to bring you an IC/BPS Symposium featuring some of the top IC/BPS experts prior to the Walk.

New today…Topics have been added to the agenda and will include Diet and IC, Getting to Know You and Your IC, Comorbidities and Neuroinflammation, and MUCH MORE! 

Early bird pricing for the IC/BPS Symposium ends February 8th.

WAYS TO PARTICIPATE

• Register for the ICA Awareness Walk for $35 (includes t-shirt).
• Register for the Symposium for $50 (includes lunch). Price increases to $75 on February 9th.
• Fundraise a minimum of $125 to access both the Symposium and the Walk!

HOTEL AND TRAVEL INFORMATION

The registration site also includes travel/hotel recommendations information.

Newly added…cost-friendlier hotel options in nearby Tampa Bay.

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