March 06, 2009 Michael AugustineLisez en Francais
I enjoy the company of most people.
As an affable guy, I'm not too judgmental of the quirks and peccadilloes of others; however, my own personality is lot more of an acquired taste.
I will gladly admit that I cook and bake better than most anyone I know. Yes, I actually do enjoy doing housework. And, yes, I'm not even slightly embarrassed in admitting that I've watched not only "Breakfast at Tiffany's" at least a dozen times, but that I've cried at the ending with every viewing.
Those supposed "female" traits are merely over-abused stereotypes, proffered by people who cannot recognize true strength when they see it. Truth is those people should be deeply humbled by the realization that Canadians owe the dream of being able to end MS to one woman - Evelyn Opal.
60 years ago, Evelyn, then a young woman, was told by her physician that she had multiple sclerosis. When asked what options were available to her, doctor simply told her to go home and hope for the best. Her reply to that pessimistic prognosis was both firm and concise: that's just not good enough for me.
Armed with nothing but determination, she began her mission to find the answers she wanted. That’s how the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada was born. We exist thanks to her unwavering vision and courage. To this day we continue to follow her lead!
I never had the privilege of meeting Evelyn as she was from an era before mine. I have been truly fortunate that during my decade with the MS Society, I’ve been able to personally meet with thousands of people who were inspired and motivated by her example.
Her influence continues as Canadian women of similar character come together forming WAMS – Women Against MS. Today, women across all aspects of the society are uniting under the WAMS banner with a singular goal: to end MS.
As the rate of MS among women increases, Evelyn's spirit is felt in the determination of the members of WAMS.
Their examples of generosity, commitment and bravery, now act as a shining beacon to those who lose hope, illuminating a clear and focused path to be able to live the lives they choose. WAMS has successfully raised over $600,000 to facilitate important work by researchers, clinicians, and physicians, all seeking to unlock the secrets of MS.
May 28th 2009, the 4th Annual WAMS gala Luncheon will take place in Toronto, Ontario at the Fairmont Royal York. Hundreds of women will meet to share their stories and inspire each other to end MS.
This year's guest speaker will be Dee Dee Myers, the first female White House Press Secretary and author of the book “Why Women Should Rule the World.”
Also honored will be Helen Kearns, former President of NASDAQ Canada and Governor of the Toronto Stock Exchange. Helen, who acts as National Vice-Chair of the endMS Campaign is being recognized for her personal and professional commitment in the fight to end MS.
WAMS's goal this year is to raise $200,000 for the endMS Campaign Career Transition Award. The grant, worth $500,000, is a 5-year research grant awarded to an outstanding postdoctoral or clinical fellow to fund the last two years of their postdoctoral study, as well as their first independent MS or MS-related faculty position within a Canadian university or teaching hospital.
I've been afforded the privilege of attending this event for the previous three years, and I can tell you first hand that if anyone can end MS, it will be these incredible women.
For more information about becoming a member of WAMS, or about the WAMS Annual Gala Luncheon, go to womenagainstms.com, or call Darina Landa for tickets/tables at 416-922-6600 ext. 2304.
Together, we will find the solution. Together - we WILL end MS!
Irreverently Yours,
Aug, who is getting all misty again...
Technorati tags: endMS, Women Against MS, multiple sclerosis