Champions Stories- Success Stories

I don't have a personal connection - I already have a personal connection - I have MS

About MS - Client Programs

The Champions program is one of the most important links between National MS Society event participants and people living with multiple sclerosis. The connection between Champion and participant fosters education, awareness, gratitude and most importantly, hope. As a Bike MS participant, you will have the opportunity to ride in honor of a person with MS. Join the movement and become a Bike MS Champion!

TRICIA CHANDLER

I used to love to run, and I was very athletic growing up. I loved playing sports- but now I can only watch them. When I was 12 years old I lost vision in my left eye. That vision loss reoccurred as optic neuritis until, when I was 24 years old, an MRI confirmed my diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. I was relieved to have a name to put with my symptoms, but I had no idea what MS meant for my future.

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ANGEL VISITATIONS

Originally from the Philippines, Nena moved to America with her husband, Lito, and five of her children. Nena, who was diagnosed with progressive multiple sclerosis, now shares a room with two other people at the Balboa Rehabilitation Nursing Home in San Diego. Due to her extreme stiffness, paralysis, loss of muscle control and pain in her limbs, Nena requires around-the-clock professional care.

Lito must spend every minute working and raising their five children, so he rarely gets a chance to visit his wife. Nena knows that her husband and children must work hard and live their lives, but still, Nena misses them, and she feels lonely. READ MORE

We will match you with an inspirational Champion to make Bike MS a more meaningful experience.
Once you have registered and indicated that you do not have a connection to MS and would like to ride on behalf of a person with MS, you will receive an email or letter with your Champion's story and photo. You will also receive information about where to meet your Champion on the day of the event. You can ride in honor of them and show your support in several ways:

• On your personal fundraising webpage, add their photo and explain why you are riding.
• Spread the word and share your Champion's story when fundraising. Tell others about your experiences.
• Honor your Champion on the Wall of Hope at the event.
• Ask your Champion to partner with you for the next MS event (i.e. Walk MS or Challenge Walk MS) and stay in touch!
• Wear an "In Honor Of" bib or bandana with your Champion's name. Bibs and bandanas are available at the Champions tent at the event.

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If you are already riding in honor of someone you know with MS, both you and your inspiration are already Champions. Ride in honor of them and show your support in several different ways:

• On your personal fundraising webpage, add your inspiration's photo and explain why you are riding.
• Spread the word and share your Champion's story when fundraising. Tell others about your experiences and the reason you participate.
• Honor your Champion on the Wall of Hope at the event.
• Wear an "In Honor Of" bib or bandana with your Champion's name. Bibs and bandanas are available at the Champions tent at the event.
• Invite your Champion to the event so they can cheer you on every step of the way!

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Consider becoming an inspirational Champion to make a difference in the commitment level of Riders who do not have a personal connection to multiple sclerosis. The
Rider(s) you are paired with will carry you in their thoughts, raising money to help create a world free of MS. You may plan to meet your Champion at the event to thank them for their participation.

In addition to Bike MS, you will also be invited to participate in the Champions program year-round for other fundraising events including Challenge Walk MS and Walk MS. Help others become connected to the mission of the National MS Society by sharing your story. To share your story and to become a Champion, please contact Heather Cavazos.

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