Every day, despite the challenges, people living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) do whatever it takes to move their lives forward. HBF and our Official Community Partner, National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS) celebrate their perseverance during the month of March, also MS Awareness Month.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an unpredictable disease of the central nervous system. It disrupts the flow of information within the brain, and between the brain and body. MS is unpredictable and no two people experience MS the same way. While scientists believe genetics and environment are both factors, causes of MS are still unknown. People affected by MS can count on the National MS Society to be a supportive partner throughout their journey with MS. In turn, MS Navigators work closely with HBF connecting people with MS in need of home modifications.
A Ramp For Christopher
In 2021, HBF along with Haberer Carpentry, completed home modifications for Christopher T. Christopher was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2003. Through the years’ the disease has progressed significantly. He can move his legs but cannot walk without some form of assistance. He has had to consistently use a walker and recently started using a motorized scooter to get around.
Christopher aspired to enter and exit his home safely, easily, and independently, but their home had steps at both entrances so using the scooter was impossible. Being able to access the home without the fear of falling would relieve stress and anxiety and give him a sense of independence. Through her work with Brookfield Residential, Christopher’s wife Jill was familiar with HBF. They completed the application process and were paired with Project Captain Chuck from Haberer Carpentry. Chuck built a front ramp and back deck for Christopher. He also made a couple of new friends!
Christopher and Jill had the most wonderful things to say about Brian (HBF), and Chuck. In fact, Christopher said “Chuck really lifted my spirits” when building the ramp and deck. Christopher also talked about how he’d been inside for SO LONG because it wasn’t safe for him to go outside; in fact, he didn’t even *think* about going outside. Now he feels comfortable and confident getting in and out of his home. “I’m amazed at how easy I can get in and out by myself – to go to doctor’s appointments or simply check the mail.” He also can’t wait to spend some serious time on the back deck, basking in the sun, drinking a cup of coffee or reading a book. He even has plans to get a bird feeder and enjoy nature more outside.
More About National Multiple Sclerosis Society
The vision at National Multiple Sclerosis Society is bold: A World Free of MS. In pursuing that vision, the Society’s mission is: People affected by MS can live their best lives as we stop MS in its tracks, restore what has been lost and end MS forever. To attain these goals, NMSS mobilizes people and resources, so everyone affected by multiple sclerosis can live their best lives. Lives elevated and independent!
NMSS is pleased to work collaboratively with HBF, and together we march toward the common goal of increasing independence and improving the quality of life for the people we collectively serve. Being Official Community Partners means giving people, like Christopher T. pictured above, the opportunity to live their lives fully and on their own terms.
Are you interested in your organization partnering with HBF to elevate lives for your clients? If so, find out about becoming an Official Community Partner of HBF by contacting Beth Forbes.