EVENTS
On the Move to End MS S
omething as simple as connecting for lunch and Since 2002, On the Move has raised more than sharing stories can inspire a group of people into $2.6 million for MS research and services within the raising millions to help end multiple sclerosis. South Central region of the National Multiple Sclerosis MS communities in Baton Rouge, Dallas, Houston Society. But beyond the fundraising, the event provides and Oklahoma City are connecting each year through connection opportunities for everyone involved. On the Move Luncheons to support their family Scott Burford was diagnosed with MS in 2008, and members, friends, and colleagues. They come together in 2012 he began searching for a way to help others living for an afternoon to hear with MS. Timing could not passionate speakers with have been better, because personal ties to MS, and that year, Scott and his they give from the heart to wife, Paula, were asked to fund programs, services, be Chairs of Dallas’ On the and the vital research that Move Luncheon. As leaders will stop the disease course, in the MS movement, Scott restore function, and end and Paula see On the Move MS forever. as a fun and accessible Houston’s On the event for people living with Move Chairman Franelle MS, and a great way to give Rogers enjoys hearing the back to an organization speakers’ personal journeys that has personally helped of living with MS at each of Kirk Dooley (Host Committee Member & Interview Host), them. the luncheons. “We never “Without the National Jean and Walker Bateman (Honorary Chair Emeritus’), and Paula and Scott Burford (Chair Emeritus’) at the 2013 know what people are MS Society, we would going through at home, but Dallas On the Move Luncheon. not know about all of the their courage to share how current research and forms they live day-to-day life with MS, while maintaining a of treatment that have improved Scott’s quality of life,” positive outlook, amazes me and touches everyone who says Paula. “The Society’s global collaboration to find a is involved with On the Move,” she says. cure for MS gives us hope for the future.” Past speakers have included authors Cami Walker On the Move chairs, committees, and supporters and Lester Smith, Grammy winner Steve Tyrell, MS work tirelessly every year to raise critical funds for Ambassadors Tyler Campbell and Sue Thomas, Olympian the National MS Society. These successful luncheons and Basketball Hall of Famer Nancy Lieberman, reality significantly impact the Society’s ability to invest money star Austin Carty, actress Teri Garr, and researchers like into groundbreaking research and programs. Dr. Nancy Monson, PhD. Community leaders with the On the Move continues to educate the public on MS, National MS Society are also recognized during the inspire people do something about MS NOW, and foster luncheon by Person on the Move and Company on the awareness to the Society’s integral role toward finding Move awards. a cure. Franelle Rogers believes in On the Move’s power
6
MSConnection • SUMMER 2014