Pictured is Andy Porrino, of Westport, looking at items during the luncheon.
More than 170 women came out for the 26th annual March Into Spring Women Against MS Luncheon of Fairfield County on Thursday, April 23, to make their mark against multiple sclerosis.
The first March Into Spring event raised a few thousand dollars in 1983 and has since raised more than $1.5 million over its 26-year history. This year’s event had 172 guests and raised more than $40,000.
Each year, event organizers present the Georgina B. Davids Award to someone making a difference for those battling the effects of multiple sclerosis or an individual living life to the fullest in the face of adversity.
This year’s honoree was Pari Kreutter Hirsch, director of sales and marketing for Highgrove Condominium Residences in Stamford. Hirsch has devoted herself for more than 18 years to raising funds to benefit those battling multiple sclerosis. She has been a longtime supporter of the March Into Spring Luncheon and was honored for her inspiration to others that volunteer and her energy in fundraising.
The keynote speaker at the luncheon was Jacquelyn Mitchard, best known for her novel “Deep End Of The Ocean.” The book was a bestseller in 1996 and the first selection for Oprah Winfrey’s popular “Oprah’s Book Club.”
This year’s event featured 26 area vendors showing off their products, including high-end custom jewelry, clothing, accessories, home décor items and children’s items. Marit Price, co-host of the Most Music Morning Show on Star 99.9 FM in Milford, served as the event’s emcee.
Pictured from left: Connecticut Chapter president Lisa Gerrol, Connecticut Chapter development manager Kim Maloney, Connecticut Chapter associate vice president of programs and services Lynette Coleman and Jennifer Carter, of Darien.
According to statistics, three times as many women compared to men are diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. As a result, women across the nation now come together annually, state by state and chapter by chapter, to learn, through inspirational personal accounts, about the effects of this potentially debilitating disease and the latest advances in treatment and care.
More than 6,000 Connecticut residents battle multiple sclerosis and there is no cure. The progress, severity and specific symptoms of MS in any one person cannot be predicted.
Funds raised through chapter events, such as the March Into Spring WAMS Luncheon, ensure ongoing scientific research to find better treatments and a cure. These funds also provide for the continuation of vital programs and services offered by the chapter to those in the state living with multiple sclerosis.
For more information on multiple sclerosis and the many ways you can make a difference, visit www.ctfightsms.org.
