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OTTAWA - There is good news for those who suffer from multiple sclerosis (MS), a disease that gradually paralyzes the stricken. Canadians who have been saving to go abroad for a controversial multiple sclerosis treatment have more hope that they will be able to receive the procedure at home in the near future, thanks to a government announcement on clinical trials according to Carol Hughes.

Hughes, MP for Algoma-Manitoulin-Kapuskasing, has been pressing the government to stop dragging its feet and make the treatment for chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency (CCSVI) available for Canadians who are eligible candidates.

Currently, only those with the financial means have been able to travel abroad to receive Liberation Therapy – a common procedure that opens the narrowing or blockage of veins in the neck that drain blood from the brain.

"I am happy to hear that the government will now fund trials for Liberation Therapy in Canada," said Hughes. "Even people who have not had dramatic results from the treatment have told me their quality of life has improved."

The announcement by the Minister of Health late last month puts Canada on track to approve Liberation Therapy, a procedure similar to balloon angioplasty that has been found to improve blood flow, which in turn improved a number of MS symptoms including balance and walking.

"I hope the clinical trials are done in an efficient manner," said Hughes who has been calling for this for years. "There are so many Canadians who want the treatment, but do not have the means to afford it. It has created a degree of inequity in the treatment of MS that is easily addressed."

"It is certainly not a cure," concluded Hughes. "But the hope that it gives to people living with MS cannot be denied and it is our responsibility to conduct these trials."