In the heart of Southwest Virginia, a remarkable story of progress, support, and community unfolds every day. The Multiple Sclerosis Alliance of Virginia (MSAV), situated within the Roanoke Area MS Center (RAMS) in Salem, stands as a beacon of hope for those living with multiple sclerosis (MS) in the region. The invaluable multiple sclerosis support provided by the MS Alliance of Virginia has gained strength from the contributions and efforts from you, our Bike the US for MS community, playing a crucial role in amplifying our impact in the region.
Suzanne O’Connell, the president and founder of MSAV, recently encapsulated the essence of this collaboration. She states “there is no group of people or organization that has done more to financially support and fuel our project, and support the mission of the Multiple Sclerosis Alliance of Virginia, than Bike the US for MS.”
MS Support in Southwest Virginia: A Critical Focus
Tackling MS in Southwest Virginia, MSAV has developed targeted programs to address the unique needs of this community. The alliance operates on a foundational principle: people living with MS helping each other. This isn’t just a tagline; it’s the ethos driving every action, every program. As a 100% volunteer-driven organization, MSAV ensures every penny donated directly benefits their life-enhancing services.
Respite and Renewal
The Respite Weekend, a key initiative by MSAV, underscores the challenges of living with multiple sclerosis. For many individuals and their caregivers, coping with MS is a relentless task. The Respite Weekend, a highlight in 2023, offered much-needed relief, a chance for rejuvenation and connection. These moments aren’t just breaks; they’re lifelines for families.
I’m not able to take regular vacations and having the Brian Mason respite camp to look forward to each year is super exciting! In a beautiful environment I have a chance to rest as much as I need, hang out with my MS family and have exciting & educational activities available.
Catherine Harding – MSAV Member
Essential Resources for Independence
Understanding the immediate needs of those with MS, especially in emergencies, MSAV’s ‘loaner closet’ stands as a fantastic initiative, showcasing their dedication to providing essential support in times of need. Stocked with wheelchairs, scooters, and other vital medical equipment, it’s an invaluable resource for members to maintain independence at home during often lengthy waits for insurance-covered equipment.
A Hub of Empathy and Understanding
At the heart of their operations is the RAMS center, the first-ever MS center in Southwest Virginia. It’s more than a physical space. It’s a focal point for care and knowledge where volunteers, deeply familiar with the MS journey, offer support and guidance.
MSAV: A Welcoming Source of Care and Assistance
MSAV’s emphasis on educational, recreational, and socializing activities is integral to its mission. They’ve brought speakers from around the globe to Southwest Virginia, offering insights and knowledge crucial to the local MS community.
Aiding the Journey: Bike the US for MS’s Role in Supporting MSAV’s Mission
Bike the US for MS has been instrumental in keeping MSAV’s mission alive. Without the funds you raised through cycling events and community support, Suzanne believe MSAV might not have survived beyond its first year. Today, the MS Alliance of Virginia stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved with compassion, dedication, and collective effort.
Suzanne O’Connell aptly summarizes, “We have saved lives, changed lives, and helped more families than you could imagine.” This captures the essence of what Bike the US for MS aims to support—a world where every individual impacted by MS in the US has access to the care and support they need to lead fulfilling lives.
We invite you to visit the MSAV website, a site maintained entirely by volunteers. It’s an opportunity to understanding the depth of their work in multiple sclerosis support.
Bike the US for MS is more than just a bike ride. It’s a movement fuelling organizations like MSAV, turning the wheels of positivity and resilience for countless lives touched by MS. This June, our TransAmerica team will have the opportunity to meet the incredible individuals at MSAV as they cycle across America. We invite everyone in the region to join us in this special meeting. You’ll get to connect with both the MSAV and our TransAm cyclists. You won’t want to miss it!
