Since 2002, Prof Jelinek has been running week long live-in retreats for people with MS at the Gawler Foundation in Victoria. Over that time, his research team has been evaluating the outcomes for people attending the retreats. The December 2010 issue of the international peer-reviewed journal Quality in Primary Care reports the findings of this study.

The 7.30 Report featured this on December 16. The story details some of the results of the study, and interviews the Professor, and some retreat participants. Overall, the study showed improvements at 1 year after the retreat of 13% in mental health and 15% in physical health, and at 2.5 years 15% in mental health and 17% in physical health. That there should be such an improvement, particularly in physical health, and that the benefit should continue to accrue with time, are very significant findings. 

People with MS can take genuine hope of a bright future from this research, and the television report. To watch the story online, go to

http://www.abc.net.au/reslib/201012/r690762_5202943.asx Back to News listing