#081: Navigating Treatment and Support for MS, NMOSD, and MOGAD in Montenegro with Dr. Sanja Gluscevic

MS-Perspektive - The Multiple Sclerosis Podcast

Dr. Sanja V. Gluscevic, a neurologist from Montenegro, specializes in MS, NMOSD and MOGAD, and is dedicated to patient care and advocacy.

You can read all questions and answers on my blog: https://ms-perspektive.com/81-sanja-gluscevic

Today I would like to introduce you to Dr. Sanja V. Gluscevic, a renowned neurologist who specializes in multiple sclerosis (MS) as well as other inflammatory diseases of the central nervous system and epilepsy. Hailing from Podgorica, the capital of Montenegro, Dr. Gluscevic has built her impressive career with dedication and passion to improve the lives of patients with neurological disorders.

With extensive training and experience in leading medical centers, as well as her active involvement in international organizations and her own NGO, Dr. Gluscevic is not only an expert in her field, but also a passionate advocate for the education and support of patients with MS, NMOSD and MOGAD worldwide. Learn more about her personal motivation, her professional achievements and her efforts to raise awareness of brain diseases in Montenegro. Be inspired by her story, her knowledge and her tireless dedication to making a difference in the lives of people with MS.

Table of Contents

• Introduction – Who is Dr. Sanja V. Gluscevic?
• Prevalence and Awareness of MS, NMOSD and MOGAD in Montenegro
• Quality of Life for MS, NMOSD and MOGAD Patients in Montenegro
• Access to Treatment and Support Services for MS, NMOSD and MOGAD Patients
• Social Support and Coping Mechanisms
• The Sumaira Foundation
• Quickfire Q&A Session
• Farewell

Introduction – Who is Dr. Sanja V. Gluscevic?

Hello Nele. Thank you very much for your kind invitation to participate in your esteemed podcast today.

I am a neurologist specializing in MS, other inflammatory disorders of central nervous system and epilepsy. I come from Podgorica, the capital of Montenegro, a small and picturesque country in the Balkans, with approximately 620.000 inhabitants. I have completed my residency and fellowship training in epilepsy and clinical neurophysiology at the University of Belgrade, Medical School. During my tenure there, I had the privilege of learning from eminent figures in the realms of multiple sclerosis and epilepsy including professor Jelena Drulović, professor Šarlota Mesaroš, professor Dragoslav Sokić and professor Aleksandar J. Ristić. Currently I am engaged in the pursuit of my master’s degree in MS at the European Charcot Foundation (where I also serve as vice- chair of ECF young investigator/fellow) and PhD thesis in epilepsy at the University of Montenegro. I have also recently been appointed as a first Montenegrin ambassador of neurology and brain health by European academy of neurology (EAN). I am also honored to serve as the ambassador for The Sumaira Foundation, which, in my view, stands as the premier organization worldwide for NMOSD and MOGAD. The palpable engagement, energy, affection, and unwavering support within this vast and diverse community make it the epitome of a unified and inclusive family dedicated to these rare conditions.

Beyond my personal endeavors, I take immense pride in fulfilling roles as a mother, a spouse, and a devoted owner of Russian wolfhound. My passion for exploring diverse cultures through travel is unwavering, and I find solace and inspiration in tranquil nature walks accompanied by classical and rock music, depending on a mood, while delving into the depths of literature exploring the intricacies of human behavior from psychological and neuroscientific perspective.

Finally, what message of hope or encouragement would you like to share with the listeners?

Never surrender! Hold onto hope! You are not navigating this journey alone. Your resilience and personal stories serve as the cornerstone of our advancement, inspiring us to intensify our research efforts. A vast global network of researchers, clinicians, and healthcare professionals stands behind you!

The past decade has witnessed remarkable breakthroughs that have transformed treatment approaches, heralding a brighter future. Our collective aspiration is that one day, discussions will center not only on finding a better cure but on preventing these conditions altogether. Let us forge ahead with unwavering determination and shared purpose.

How and where can interested people follow your research activities?

Interested individuals can follow my research activities through my publications on academic platform (Researchgate), or on professional social media (LinkedIn).

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Sanja-Gluscevic-2

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanja-v-gluscevic-🧠🧪📂-17a41b283

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Thanks to Sanja for the insights and the great commitment to your patients.

See you soon and try to make the best out of your life, Nele

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