About Us

We are located in southwest Ohio, the Ohio Valley Region MG serves communities throughout Northern Kentucky, Southeast Indiana, Dayton, Cincinnati, and surrounding areas. We currently support more than 55 individuals living with myasthenia gravis and their families.

Our purpose at Ohio Valley Region MG is to improve the quality of life for individuals and families affected by myasthenia gravis through education, support services, advocacy initiatives, social outings, and community awareness programs.

Ohio Valley Region MG is a nonprofit corporation organized and operated exclusively for charitable and educational purposes within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or the corresponding section of any future federal tax law.

Ohio Valley Region MG is a volunteer-led organization. All board members serve without compensation. Any funds raised by Ohio Valley Region MG are used solely to provide direct support services and programming consistent with the Organization’s mission and in service of the myasthenia gravis community.

Our History

Our support group began in 1990 in the Cincinnati area when Herb Byer, who was living with Myasthenia Gravis, recognized the need for connection and support among patients and families. Shortly after, fellow MG patient Sharon Meyer joined him and became the group’s Support Group Leader.

Following Herb’s passing, Sharon continued to carry the mission forward alongside Jack and Sue Paas. Through their dedication and leadership, the group remained a steady source of encouragement, education, and community for individuals and families impacted by MG.

In 2024, Sharon, Jack, and Sue asked Erica Amann to take over the leadership role of the group. In 2025, Erica invited Kacy Self to join her in leadership as Assistant Support Group Leader. Today, Erica and Kacy serve as the Support Group Leaders for Ohio Valley Region MG.

Over the past 35+ years, the group has grown, adapted, and evolved into what is now known as Ohio Valley Region MG—continuing the legacy of those who laid its foundation while expanding services to meet the needs of our broader regional community.

Tribute to Herb Byer

Herb Byer was the founder of the Cincinnati chapter of the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), dedicating his time and energy to building a supportive community for those living with Myasthenia Gravis. His compassion, leadership, and commitment helped create a place where patients and families could find understanding, encouragement, and hope.

Even after his passing, Herb’s legacy continues through his family, who remain actively involved in supporting the chapter in many ways. Their continued dedication reflects the same spirit of generosity and care that Herb shared with so many.

His impact lives on in the community he helped build and in every life touched by the support and awareness he inspired.