Week 13 of #52weeksofgiving - National Multiple Sclerosis Society
To close out Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month and support a cause extremely near and dear to our hearts, we are donating to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society for week 13 of #52weeksofgiving.
If you’ve been a part of the LeMay Family Goodworks community for some time, you likely have an idea of our story and what Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is. But for those who are just joining us, read on to learn more about this disease and Michelle’s experience.
What is Multiple Sclerosis?
MS is a neurological disease in which the body’s immune system attacks and damages the central nervous system, slowing or stopping nerve transmission.
MS symptoms vary widely and are unpredictable. Every person experiences different symptoms, which can change or fluctuate over time. These include:
Walking difficulties
Numbness or tingling in the face, body, or extremities
Muscle spasms, particularly in the legs
Vision problems like optic neuritis or blurred vision
Cognitive changes
Clinical depression
…and many more.
Nearly 1 million people live with MS in the United States. While scientists still don’t know what causes MS, they believe it’s triggered by a combination of factors. There is ongoing research to find treatments, a cure, and prevention — and the National MS Society has played a significant role in the progress.
The LeMay family was affected first-hand by MS when Michelle was diagnosed with the disease in 2003. Her symptoms began with facial paralysis, and her MRI revealed five brain lesions that led to the official diagnosis.
At just 32 years old and the mother of two young children, Michelle was scared of what this meant for her future. Over the next few years, she experienced minor relapses and a bout of optic neuritis. Fortunately, she fully recovered from all of them.
Michelle started following a paleo diet and a highly active lifestyle. When she decided to have more children, she knew it wouldn’t be an easy road. Michelle underwent many unsuccessful rounds of IVF and fertility treatments. Her outstanding physician, Dr. Maria Houtchens at Brigham & Women’s, guided her through pausing and resuming MS medications, which eventually led to two healthy pregnancies and the birth of her daughter Belle and son Beau. Michelle now has four healthy children and lives each day to the fullest.
In 2015, Dr. Houtchens gave Michelle fantastic news, informing her that her MS had taken a benign course and she could expect to remain relapse-free with little to no disease progression. Michelle’s experience inspired her to get involved and help others dealing with MS and other neurologic diseases. The LeMay family is pleased to contribute to the National MS Society as the organization works toward a “World Free of MS.”
About the National MS Society
Sylvia Lawry founded the National MS Society in 1946. With no medical or scientific background, Sylvia was driven to find treatment and a cure for her brother Bernard who had MS. According to the Society’s website, “Her passion and perseverance launched a movement that’s led to more breakthroughs than the world has seen for any other neurological disease.” Sylvia was an influential woman who reminds us that anyone can make a difference, regardless of their experience or knowledge.
Today, the National MS Society is 500,000+ volunteers strong and offers:
Countless resources, educational tools, and support options
Advice and care for those affected by MS
Innovative MS research funding
Ways to get involved and support the cause
The organization even provides a tool to connect patients with doctors and resources near them, many of whom have strong relationships with the Society. Additionally, the Society has invested more than $1 billion in MS research to date.
How You Can Help Fight Multiple Sclerosis
The National MS Society provides multiple ways to get involved and contribute to their crucial research. Fundraising opportunities include:
Walk MS: Team up with friends, loved ones, and colleagues to participate in a Walk MS fundraiser near you.
Bike MS: Cyclists can team up to fundraise, too! There are over 70 rides nationwide, so find one near you.
Challenge Walk MS: Join a community to walk 30 to 50 miles within 2 to 3 days. There are a few events each year.
Finish MS: Join a Finish MS team in a marathon near you and push your athletic abilities for the cause.
DIY Fundraising: Groups and organizations with a unique idea for supporting MS research and progress can create their own fundraiser!
Whether you want to participate in or volunteer at one of the events above, everyone can contribute.
There are also ways for companies to come together and support the Society, including:
Corporate fundraising teams
Event sponsorship
Grants for programs and services
In-kind product donations
Cause campaigns
Volunteer engagement
Workplace giving
For individuals who want to quickly and easily support the Society, you can simply make a donation on their website.
Find more details about getting involved with the National MS Society. You can also keep up with them on Instagram @mssociety, like them on Facebook, or follow them on LinkedIn. Spread the word with your loved ones affected by MS who would like to learn more or participate in their fight against the disease — not only during MS Awareness Month but also year-round.
Is there a cause or charity you’d like us to know about? Reach out today to let us know who they are and how they’re making a difference!
