MS Society/Nevada Legislature: Breakfast and Learn

Today my husband and I traveled to our state capital Carson City, NV where we participated in a Breakfast and Learn hosted by the National MS Society at the Nevada Legislature.  There were about 10 of us total and 5 of us were MS patients.  We greeted members of the Nevada Senate/Assembly and staff from various departments at the legislature.  I was supposed to give a speech but most people only had a few minutes to drop in for breakfast in between sessions.  So instead we all took time to answer questions and learn what others knew and didn't know about MS.

One person that really stood out to me was a young woman named Amerika.  Her mother was diagnosed with MS and she didn't feel like the doctor knew enough to really deal with MS and the level of care associated with an MS patient.  These are the people that I have the biggest heart for.  I gave her my personal contact information and told her to tell her mother not to hesitate to reach out to me for support and questions that I could help with.  I hope she calls me.

After several hours we went to the assembly floor where we were paired with an assemblyman or assemblywoman.  I was paired with assemblyman Chris Edwards.  The session was shorter than expected being that it was Friday and everyone was eager to go home to their respective cities to spend a final free weekend.  Things were expected to really ramp up the following Monday.





My husband and I enjoyed this experience.  It was neat to see that our state legislature reps were actually laid back and had a great sense of humor.  Everyone seemed to get along no matter what party they identified with.  Our main goal was to share our knowledge and awareness about MS with the people that would one day have to vote whether to pass a bill that directly affects MS patients and caregivers.

My husband is on the far right and I am in the middle on the bottom.

Walk MS 2011 Reno/Sparks

We had a wonderful time at the walk this year.  My family, friend's and co-worker's came and showed their support.  The weather was actually perfect for me.  It was overcast but it wasn't cold or too windy.  I didn't have to wear sun glasses or anything.  I couldn't have asked for better weather myself.  I was asked to speak about MS, how it affects me and why I walk for MS. 

 This is the first half of my speech.  Afterwards a lot of people told me that I had them in tears, but in a good way.  I couldn't believe how much it affected everyone.  A few people want me to speak at dinner's and other events.  This is something I have always wanted to do but that doesn't mean it's what God wants for me.  We will see, I will have to pray about it and ask God how He wants to use me. 



Me and my sister's in Christ

My Mom bought a raffle ticket and gave it to me.  I won brunch for 2 at Rapscallion's.  We've never eaten there before but everyone's says that they have great food.



My husband and I

Our team collected over $4000 for the MS Society.  I know the funds will be put to good use and I am so grateful to all who donated and helped our team raise money.

MS Warrior's