Mark Mueller and his wife, Jackie, took a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) and turned it into an opportunity to help others. Jackie was diagnosed with MS in 1998, and the couple sought to treat the disease as naturally as possible, without medication. They experimented with nutrition and exercise to see what worked and what didn't, and their research led to MS FitEffect, a free, 10-week program for people with MS. The next session will run from Saturday, Sept. 6, through Saturday, Nov. 15, at Elizabethtown Fitness Club, 626 S. Market St.

"Each participant selects a time with their trainer for their private one-hour weekly session," Mark explained. "We have sessions available Monday through Saturday in the morning, afternoon and some evenings. It is based on the participant's and trainer's availability."

As Mark shared, MS FitEffect is personalized.

"The program is different for everyone, as the trainer custom-designs the program for the particular participant," he stated. "MS is different for everyone; there are no two people who share the same set of symptoms at the same intensities with the same presentation of symptoms."

While specifics vary for each participant, the program focuses on strength, stamina and stability for all sessions.

"We use a combination of stretching, relaxation techniques, weight training, cardiovascular training, balance and gait training and functional training," Mark said. "We meet each participant where they are at and move them forward from there. We focus on helping them achieve a better quality of life by working with them on activities of daily living that have become difficult for them."

MS FitEffect is open to anyone with MS or any demyelinating disease.

"We accept any age but require a parent or guardian signature for anyone under the age of 18," Mark shared. "Whether the person uses a wheelchair, walker, cane or is mobile without assistance, the program is for them. All we require is proof of diagnosis."

The Muellers held their first MS FitEffect sessions in 2015. Since then, they have received positive feedback and plenty of client testimonials touting the benefits of the program.

"Many of our participants tell us that they wish they had started the program sooner and not have put it off thinking they did not need it," Mark said. "They are all very surprised at how much unrealized potential they had."

Mark encourages anyone who may benefit from the program to learn more about MS FitEffect.

"We are not physical therapy," he said. "We are unlike any other organization. When you work with us, you will have our full attention for one hour, and we will work together on the custom program designed for you. We will work at your pace and move you forward in steps that you can manage."

To learn more about MS FitEffect or to register for the upcoming program, visit http://www.msfiteffect.org or email msfiteffect@gmail.com.