Empowering People, Changing Lives

On Jan. 20, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society will launch its 40th Annual MS Gala, bringing together philanthropists for one of the most prestigious luncheons in South Florida.

The National MS Society has been a refuge for people living with MS since 1946 when Sylvia Lawry founded the organization to help her recently diagnosed brother and others living with the, then unknown, disease. Its goal is simple: to change the world by ending MS. The organization empowers people living with MS to live their best lives through connecting with each other and taking action. “We mobilize all possible human and financial resources to achieve results,” states the National MS Society website.

The disease attacks the part of the central nervous system that affects the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves, disrupting the flow of information within the brain and between the brain and the body. Funding for the organization has helped raise awareness, create programs and services for people living with MS, and provided research into curing and coping with the disease.

“Her [Lawry’s] passion and perseverance launched a movement that’s led to more breakthroughs than the world has seen for any other neurological disease,” states the website. “What began as one woman’s vision and commitment is now a nationwide organization leading the global charge to create a world free of MS.”

Around 800 attendees are expected to gather at this year’s event. Honorary Chair Monica Goldstein will serve as chairwoman. 

“Being the chairwoman for the annual gala is a way for me to make a positive impact on the lives of those living with MS,” says Goldstein. “As someone living with MS, I understand the mystery, challenges and struggles that come with this disease firsthand. It can be physically and emotionally draining, not just for those diagnosed with the disease, but for the patients’ loved ones and caretakers too."

Goldstein, who previously chaired the event in 2007 and 2008, was also recognized as the Hope Award Honoree in 2009.

“This is a meaningful experience for me on many levels, allowing me to give back to a cause that is close to my heart as it has been 22 years since my own MS diagnosis. I am grateful for the opportunity to honor my friend, Samantha Zapoleon, lead a dedicated committee, work alongside my Honorary Co-Chairs Carrie Schulman and Ila Davidoff, and be a part of such a meaningful event in our community,” she says. “I am hopeful that together we can make a real difference in the lives of those significantly affected by Multiple Sclerosis, and in the very near future, ensure that MS stands for Mystery Solved.”

When: Jan. 20 at 10 a.m.

Where: 20583 Boca W. Drive, Boca Raton.

The Boca Raton Observer is the event’s exclusive magazine sponsor.

For more information, visit nationalmssociety.org/msgala.