Rehab Your Mobility
Stepping Up for Those You Love: Walk MS Details Inside
A Daughter’s Make-a-Mark Thank You
Wisconsin Chapter Board of Trustees Kenneth Minor, Chair Sonic Foundry, Inc.
Anne Brouwer McMillian Doolittle, LLP
Martin McLaughlin Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren, S.C.
David Rodgers, Vice Chair Briggs & Stratton Corporation
Robert Buhler Open Pantry Food Marts of Wisconsin, Inc.
Bruce Olson The Marcus Corporation Shelley Peterman Schwarz Meeting Life’s Challenges, LLC
Michael Lutze, Vice Chair Ernst & Young Tom Golden, Vice Chair M3 Insurance Solutions for Business James Rose, Treasurer Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP Robert Sowinski, Secretary Diversified Insurance Services, Inc. Alyson Zierdt, Past Chair Attorney, Retired Colleen Kalt, President & CEO National MS SocietyWisconsin Chapter
Dennis Christiansen Community Advocate Robert Engel Retired, M&I Bank
David Raysich Plunkett Raysich Architects Patricia Raysich Community Advocate
Pamela Evason Windermere Wealth Advisors LLC
Jeffrey Steren Steren Management/McDonald’s
Paul Jones Harley-Davidson, Inc.
Robyn Turtenwald Community Advocate
Wayne Larsen ATI Ladish LLC
Wisconsin Chapter: Where
Molly Walsh Waisman Center
Does the Money Go?
82.6 10.7 6.7 %
Mission
%
Fundraising
%
Management & General
Source: 2011 Audited Financial Statement If you or someone you know has MS: Studies show that early and ongoing treatment with an FDA-approved therapy can reduce future disease activity and improve quality of life for many people with multiple sclerosis. Talk to your health care professional or contact the National MS Society at nationalmssociety.org or 1-800-344-4867 to learn about ways to help manage multiple sclerosis and about current research that may one day reveal a cure. The National MS Society does not endorse products, services or manufacturers. Such names appear here solely because they are considered valuable information. The National MS Society assumes no liability for the use of contents of any product or service mentioned. Information provided by the Society is based upon professional advice, published, experience and expert opinion. Information provided in response to questions does not constitute therapeutic recommendations or prescriptions. The National MS Society recommends that all questions and information be discussed with a personal physician. The National MS Society is committed to seeing a world free of MS. ©2012 National Multiple Sclerosis Society-Wisconsin Chapter MS Connection is a quarterly publication of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society-Wisconsin Chapter. Editor: Maureen Waslicki | Assistant Editor: Amanda Gasper | Art Director: Amy Malo To comment or share a story idea, call 262-369-4421.
MS Connection | 2
We Can’t Do It Without You.
Y
ou’re about to make a huge difference.
Those of you who are planning on taking part in this year’s Walk MS are going to make a difference. Last year’s 12,000 participants raised $1.5 million – money that, right now, is funding cutting edge research in treating and curing the disease; money that is supporting services and programs for Wisconsinites affected by the disease; money that will be paying dividends
for years to come for everyone whose life is touched by MS. This year is no exception. The awareness you raise and the donations you gather will be put to work. You will help STOP disease progression. You will help RESTORE function that has been lost. You will help END this disease forever. None of it is possible without you. If you’ve already signed up, thank you. If you haven’t
yet, please do so today. Then recruit your friends. Tell your family. Invite the neighbors. Get everyone involved. Ask them to support the mission – your mission – of creating a world free of MS. Step by step, dollar by dollar, you’re going to make a difference.
Colleen G. Kalt President & CEO
Call 800-242-3358 or visit walkMSwisconsin.org to register.
Grant Awards The Wisconsin Chapter thanks the following organizations for grants recently awarded in support of research, programs and services that are critical to people affected by MS. • $20,000 from the Ladish Company Foundation for research, patient care and scholarships • $15,000 from the M&I Foundation for research • $10,000 from the Briggs & Stratton Corporation Foundation Inc. • $10,000 from the Mae E. Demmer Charitable Trust for research • $5,000 from the Puelicher Foundation Inc. for research • $5,000 from the Lux Foundation • $5,000 from the David V. Uihlein Foundation • $2,500 from Biogen Idec for Programs • $2,400 from the Mayer Family Foundation • $2,000 from the Greater Milwaukee Foundation • $2,000 from the Barrow Medical Foundation
• $1,500 from the Hinrichs Foundation Inc. • $1,500 from the Waukesha Co. Community Foundation Megal Fund • $1,070 from the Greater Milwaukee Foundation-David C. Scott Foundation Fund for research • $1,000 from the Knier Family Foundation • $750 from Avanir Pharmaceuticals for professional training • $500 from the Sub-Zero Foundation Inc. • $300 from the Greater Milwaukee Foundation - Colton Charitable Fund • $250 from the Shomos Family Foundation LTD • $100 from the Barrow Medical Foundation • $100 from the Madison Community Foundation-Ragatz Fund, Thomas & Karen
In total, nearly $86,000 was received in gifts and grants from October to December 2011. If you are connected to a foundation that you would like to suggest for a grant opportunity, or for more information on how you can help, call Cindy Yomantas at 262-369-4431 or cindy.yomantas@nmss.org. MS Connection | 3
Researcher Bonnie Dittel: In Pursuit of Answers
A
research investigator starts a new study in pursuit of an answer to a question.
Madison before getting her PhD in Pathobiology and Immunology at the University of Minnesota.
“Basically, every biological question we ask in the laboratory revolves around
She was awarded a $440,724 grant to study the role of cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) in regulating inflammation in the central nervous system in EAE, the animal model of MS. Dittel is studying how synthetic and plant-derived cannabinoids – the chemical compounds that bind to CB2 – affect immune system cell activity. Previously, Dittel and her colleagues had found that mice with EAE that did not have CB2 on some of their immune cells, developed severe disease. That would seem to suggest that cannabinoids might be able to regulate the immune response in EAE through CB2.
Researcher Bonnie Dittel, pictured with Wisconsin Board of Trustees Secretary Robert Sowinski, attended the Wisconsin Chapter’s Annual Meeting in December.
multiple sclerosis,” Bonnie Dittel, PhD, said. “I’m very dedicated to research in MS.” Dittel is a senior investigator at the Blood Research Institute, part of the BloodCenter of Wisconsin, located in Milwaukee. Born in Wisconsin, Dittel completed her undergraduate work at the University of Wisconsin-
“As sometimes happens in science, you ask the right question and you get a very dramatic result,” she said.
With the grant award, Dittel and her team are trying to
“Basically, every biological question we ask in the laboratory revolves around multiple sclerosis” determine which cannabinoids suppress EAE the most. “We want to know to what extent we can regulate central nervous system inflammation through CB2,” Dittel said. “That’s the question I wanted to ask.” Dittel received grant awards previously from the Society and is currently serving on one of several grant application review committees for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. “I see the types of grants that are funded,” she explained. “We try really hard to pick out those that are not only good science, but that will impact or have the potential to impact treatment of MS or give us a better understanding of the disease, which hopefully leads to better treatments.”
8th Annual MS Summit & Getaway, May 18-19, Kalahari Resort Come together with others who are living with MS. Learn more about living with the disease, hear from special keynote speakers, and enjoy time with family and new friends.
For details or to register: Visit wisMS.org or call 1-800-242-3358 and select option 1.
MS Connection | 4
Make a Mark success
S
ophie Nelson remembers the day during the summer of 2011 when she received a call from her mother, Theresa Johnson. She sounded more excited than she had been in quite a while. Theresa was diagnosed with primary progressive multiple sclerosis in the fall of 2008. As her mobility and hand functions began to decrease, she started looking into resources offered by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. She wrote to the Wisconsin Chapter for assistance with a portion of the cost of a new wheelchair. The exciting phone call Sophie received that day was in response to news that the Wisconsin Chapter would pay for a motorized wheelchair in full through the wheelchair reclamation program, made possible through donations to the Make a Mark for MS Tax Check-off program. “It was really amazing to hear such good news,” Sophie said. “Good news isn’t always
plentiful when you have a family member with MS, so it was a really good day.” According to Sophie the new wheelchair has given Theresa Sophie Nelson (right) with her parents. Her mom received a motorized wheelchair from an element of funds generated through the MS Tax Check independence that she didn’t have in her -off program. also expensive – the annual cost life before. Going on of living with MS is estimated walks with her husband, Paul, at nearly $70,000 per year. and having the mobility to go on the porch to overlook her Sophie is glad to know there garden have been blessings to is hope and inspiration for her Theresa and her family. family and she wants other people to know there is help The family has been out there for them too. Sophie participating in Walk MS and encourages others to check Bike MS: Best Dam Bike Ride since Theresa’s diagnosis. They the box for the National MS Society in the “donations” also always “make a mark for section on their tax forms. She MS” through the Wisconsin said, “Even a small amount MS Tax Check-off program. of money to the Society could The funds generated help be what gives someone who improve the quality of life has very little independence or and ensure continued mobility a chance at connecting independence for those with the world again.” affected by multiple sclerosis and living in Wisconsin. MS Written by Sarah Otten, a marketing and is not only a complicated and communications intern for the Wisconsin unpredictable disease, but it is Chapter and recent UW-Madison graduate.
On Your Tax Return …
Make a Mark to Help Those Affected by MS Funds generated by the MS Tax Check-off program improve the quality of life and ensure continued independence for those affected by MS. You can help. Locate the “Donations” heading on your Wisconsin state income tax form and write in the amount you want to contribute. Even $10 will make a big difference.
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Self-Help Groups: New Locations Added
T
he National Multiple Sclerosis SocietyWisconsin Chapter has added three new MS support groups serving the Marinette, Rhinelander and Chippewa County areas. This brings the total number of Wisconsin support groups to 41. Wisconsin Chapter support groups are made up of people diagnosed with MS and are led by trained peer facilitators. Meetings offer participants a chance to discuss issues, share information and feelings, provide mutual support, socialize and listen to educational presentations by professionals. The support groups usually meet once a month and are open to spouses, family and friends. Support groups give those with MS and their families an opportunity to stay current on what’s happening with MS research and other MS-related topics, plus the chance to receive support in a welcoming environment. Members share a belief that positive personal change can happen through individual effort with the support of others. Some groups are geared
towards common interests, such as the MS Mom’s group and the Newly Diagnosed group. •
The Marinette-area support group meets at the Aurora Medical Group, Marinette Clinic on the second Thursday of every month at noon. Call Jean at 715-735-3433 for more information.
•
The Rhinelander-area support group will meet at Grace Foursquare Church on the third Tuesday of each month at noon, beginning March 20. Contact Brian at 715-369-9837 with questions.
•
The Chippewa County-area support group will meet at Alberta May’s Restaurant in Stanley on the third Wednesday of each month at 5 p.m., starting April 18. Contact Maria at 715-577-1455 for more information.
For more information on support groups, contact Meghan Schnabl at meghan.schnabl@ nmss.org, 262-369-4420 or 800-242-3358. Written by Diane Gillan, a marketing and communications intern for the Wisconsin Chapter and a Marquette University graduate.
STOPPINGLearn DISEASE RESTORIN the latestPROGRESSION about cutting edge research. BEEN LOST ENDING MS FOREVER STOPPING D Milwaukee Madison PROGRESSION RESTORING WHAT’S LOS Wednesday, June 27 Thursday, JuneBEEN 28 The Pfister Hotel Madison Marriott West MS FOREVER STOPPING DISEASE PROGRESSI WHAT’S BEEN LOST ENDING MS FOREVER STO For sponsorship or ticket information, contact Jamie Baker at 262-369-4435 or jamie.baker@nmss.org, or call 1-800-242-3358. PROGRESSION RESTORING WHAT’S BEEN LOS Featuring Keynote Speaker Dr. John Fleming MS FOREVER STOPPING DISEASE PROGRESSI MS Connection | 6
Blazing the Trail: Snowmobilers Raise $260,00
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riends new and old gathered together for the 29th Annual MS Snowmobile Tour. Headquartered at the Potawatomi Carter Casino Hotel, 130 individuals rode snowmobiles in northern Wisconsin. They raised $260,000 for research, programs and services. The riders, volunteers and friends demonstrated their generosity throughout the weekend. Split into nine “color groups” of riders, the group that turned in the most donations between December 16 and January 22 won a $100 card to a gas station for their Snowmobilers took a moment efforts. In true philanthropic form, the winning “white group” for a photo before heading to decided to auction the card, raising another $150 for the cause! the trails. The Wisconsin Chapter welcomed riders from Minnesota for the first time this year and recognized them for their hard work and dedication to a world free of MS with the Fox Award, named in memory of tour founder Warren Fox. Additionally, Bob Schmidt and the Association of Wisconsin Snowmobile Clubs (AWSC) were the co-winners of the Garland Award, which was named after former trail-masters Ralph and Joyce Garland and is given to participants who have been an integral part of the planning process and enthusiastic promoters of the Tour. Doug Johnson accepted the award on behalf of the AWSC. Registration has already begun for the 30th Anniversary MS Snowmobile Tour, scheduled for January 24-26, 2013. Make sure you’re part of the reunion! Register online at MSsnowmobiletour.org or by calling 800-242-3358. Riders in the “green group” showed their Las Vegas spirit (the theme of this year’s Trail Games) during group photos.
30 YEARS 1983-2013
Thank You Sponsors
MS Connection | 7
Restoring or Maintaining Mobility With Rehabilitation People with multiple sclerosis know when they are not doing well. Some may be concerned about tripping or falling, some may experience difficulties doing daily activities or job functions. But, not everyone knows where to turn for help. This is where Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation can help. Because the primary goal of PM&R is function.
S
hortly after receiving her MS diagnosis, Loren noticed that she would sometimes stumble and fall. These problems, in addition to her existing walking problems were frustrating and discouraging. She began to rely on others to be close by to help her stand and steady herself. She was determined not to use a cane or walker. Loren also cut back her hours at work so she could better deal with her fatigue and mobility issues. But her doctor had another course of action to explore; he sent her for a therapy evaluation. After several months of therapy and medication adjustments, Loren was able to walk without holding on to anything and – best of
stretching, aerobic exercise, Rehabilitation for MS and gait training will be It would be great if we could designed specifically for your wave a magic wand or take a needs. Your program will magic pill to help control the ups and downs of MS. Unfortunately, there is no magic pill. But there are things you can do to change the course of many of your MS symptoms and flare-ups. The therapists at the Sacred Heart Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Institute fits a client with a new walk aide device. is one of those begin with a thorough things. Research and patient assessment of your functional experience show that the mobility by looking at how introduction of physical, you move as you perform occupational and speech your normal daily activities. therapy, often in combination Once your evaluations are with mediWhen you begin rehabilitation for cations and completed, your program will MS, a program of stretching, aerobic assistive usually include a combination exercise, and gait training will be of therapy, education, and devices, designed specifically for your needs. can be instruction in home exercises surprisingly and activities. all – she was able to return to effective. Research also shows her full time job. Today, Loren that the sooner you integrate As you progress through your stays in touch with her physical rehabilitation, your rehab these therapies into your therapist and together they team will also assess your treatment regimen, the better. adjust her exercise regimen to need for assistive devices and stay on top of her fluctuating When you begin rehabilitation medications. These devices can MS symptoms. include such things as canes, for MS, a program of MS Connection | 8
crutches, walkers or braces to stabilize weakened muscles, joints or extremities. Rehab professionals will also consider the use of active devices such as functional electronic stimulation to stimulate nerves and muscles or to correct foot drop. You may also use a special treadmill that supports your body and allows you to do more intensive walking without compromising your safety. In some instances training in the use of a wheelchair or a scooter may be used in order to make the most of your functional movement. With MS, fatigue and mobility often go hand-in-hand.
Basically, the more impaired your mobility, the more energy you put out. You become tired more quickly. In rehabilitation, your energy output and fatigue issues are noted and addressed. This is usually done by prescribing a customized fitness plan that promotes an active lifestyle while helping you avoid excessive fatigue. Overall, rehabilitation for MS focuses on problem-solving with each individual and his/ her family to determine what interventions will work best. The focus and ultimate goal in rehab will always be to enhance the quality of your life.
Information provided by Columbia St. Mary’s/Sacred Heart Rehabilitation Institute (SHRI). SHRI is a licensed 31 bed acute rehabilitation hospital providing expert care for individuals with medical and comprehensive therapy needs. Specialized inpatient and outpatient programs are available for neuro-rehabilitation (including multiple sclerosis). For more information please contact us at 414-298-6735. This is the first in a series of articles submitted by CSM/ SHRI providing information on the role of rehabilitation in the management of multiple sclerosis.
PAID ADVERTISEMENT
MS Connection | 9
How We Move It Wisconsin Chapter News and Notes
Registration is Open! Register online for the Wisconsin Chapter’s fundraising events – Walk MS, Bike MS: Best Dam Bike Ride, Challenge Walk MS and the MS Snowmobile Tour. Visit wisMS.org. MS Awareness Month 2012 March is MS Awareness Month. How are you inspiring others to help create a world free of MS? Share your ideas on the National MS SocietyWisconsin Chapter’s Facebook page! And don’t forget: World MS Day is coming in May. Sell MS Pin-Ups Order National MS Society Pin-Ups by contacting the Wisconsin Chapter at 800-242-3358 or info.wisMS@nmss.org. Selling Pin-Ups to your friends, co-workers or customers is a fun, easy way to fundraise, or visit your local Open Pantry now through May 5 and buy a Pin-Up for $1. Milwaukee Bike Expo Information about Bike MS: Best Dam Bike Ride will be on display at Wheel & Sprocket’s Bike Expo and Sale in Milwaukee, April 6 - 8.
Sign Up for Action Alerts and Read the Blog Sign up today to receive Action Alert e-mails. These updates will keep you connected to the issues that matter most to individuals with MS. E-mail jeremy.otte@nmss.org or call 800-242-3358 for details. You can also keep up with news on federal-level issues with the MS Activist blog at MSactivist.blogspot.com. Peer Telephone Support Connect by phone with others who are living with MS. The MS Friends peer support program is staffed by volunteers from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day of the week. Call MS Friends at 866-673-7436. JUMPSTART Your Life Can Do Multiple Sclerosis is holding a free JUMPSTART program in Milwaukee on Saturday, April 21. Keynote presentations include “Mobility & Fall Risk,” “Maintaining Motivation for Physical Activity,” and “Exercise, It’s Not Just for Fitness Anymore” by Dr. Alexander Ng. Details available at wisms.org.
Dancing the Morning Away
Alexander Ng, PhD, and professional dance instructor Pamela Landin, MS, ATC, led a free Saturday-morning lesson on Feb. 11 for adults with MS. The event was designed to promote the benefits of dance-related exercise as related to stability, balance and mobility for those living with MS. Nearly 40 people attended, including some who hadn’t danced in years.
MS Connection | 10
Spoke Bus
t Teaming With Personality ers Whether on the field, in business or at MS-related events, no two teams are alike. How they’re named shows exactly that, and says a lot about the members who belong to them.
N
ames. We use them all the time. They identify who we are, distinguish us from the crowd and determine how we’re perceived. Team names do the same thing on a much larger scale. They bring individuals together, forge group identities and make people feel they belong to something bigger than themselves. And at Wisconsin Chapter events like Walk MS, Bike MS and Challenge Walk MS, there’s no shortage of symbolic, inspirational and unique names for the hundreds of teams that participate each year.
Saddles and Spoke Busters represent the heart and soul of their team efforts. Corporatealigned names such as Great Wolf Walkers, Sonic Streamers, MG&E Power Peddlers and Sprocket Rockets showcase companies that are committed to giving back. Then there are those with stories begging to be told: Soggy Phlebotomist, Squirrel Fighters, Ronny Big Beard, Slow Cooked Beef.
Sonic Streamers Endure to Cure Shauna’s Zee Rockinators Hope
l l a lk T
a W
Some are personal. There’s no doubt who teams like Walking for Andy, Shauna’s Hope and Team Wendy were created for. Some are inspirational. Names such as Walk Tall, Endure to Cure and Stomp MS remind people of the big picture. Others prefer labels of pride: The Mighty Millers, Blazing
year’s Wausau Walk MS. “The MS Walk is really the only time all of us take a walk together!” Hawkins said. They
Zee Rockinators falls in between the first and last categories. Named mainly for Sue Hawkin’s sister-in-law, Roxy, it also gives a nod to Hawkin’s father. “He liked to add ‘zee’ to some of his sayings,” she explained.
walk to show their support of the National MS Society mission, to raise awareness and to raise funds, she explained, “but also to support my sisterin-law. I have learned that MS is a family issue, not just an individual one.” Hawkins continued, “It will always be important to take part in Walk MS and also to have Roxy know she is loved and supported.”
The Mighty Millers
The team (or should we say “zee team”?) began with four people and has grown to more than 25 family members and friends who take part in each
Tell us about your team name and the inspiration behind it. Email info.wisMS@nmss.org, subject line “What’s in a Name?”
Why Are Teams Important?
On average, people who fundraise as part of a team raise more than those who participate on their own. More than 70% of funds raised through last year’s Walk MS came from teams, and Challenge Walk and Bike MS saw nearly 75% and more than 80% respectively. That translated to almost $2,275,000 raised to fund research into treatments and a cure. If you’d like to join a team or start one of your own, call 262-369-4400 or 800-242-3358.
Soggy Phlebotomist
MS Connection | 11
Walk MS: 2012
Walk MS is a time to come together to raise awareness, raise funds, and celebrate how much closer we are to a world free of MS.
Sign up. Start a team. Volunteer. Donate. Details at walkMSwisconsin.org.
against ms
Brown County - Sunday, April 22 Fond du Lac - Saturday, April 28 La Crosse - Saturday, April 28 ! W NE Lake Country - Saturday, April 28 Menomonee Falls - Saturday, April 28 Wausau - Saturday, April 28 Eau Claire-Chippewa Valley - Sunday, April 29 Fox Cities - Sunday, April 29 Kenosha-Racine - Sunday, April 29
Waukesha - Sunday, April 29 Grafton - Saturday, May 5 Manitowoc-Two Rivers - Saturday, May 5 Platteville - Saturday, May 5 Janesville-Rock River - Sunday, May 6 Madison - Sunday, May 6 ! NE W Marshfield - Sunday, May 6 Milwaukee - Sunday, May 6 Sheboygan - Sunday, May 6
H
elicoptering in to kick off an event is usually reserved for rock stars and visiting dignitaries, but when it’s the Croal Open and you’re the Croal brothers, you use just such an opportunity to make a
their entrance generated a lot of...well…“buzz” – leading to two winning bids of $400 each. It’s just the latest in a long list of antics and exploits that
7 years old at the time. Dan, who was about 5 when his mom died, knows her mostly through the stories he’s been told about what an incredible woman she was.
“We will go to any extent to fight MS.” very clear statement: “We will go to any extent to fight MS.” The brothers – Tim, Mike and Dan – were flown in along with their dad, Jim, to land
The brothers, known for their hijinks, got the crowd buzzing with their entrance at last year’s Croal Open.
on the 1st fairway to mark the official start of the 22nd Croal Open last July. Since a one-hour helicopter ride was a featured auction item for the annual golf outing fundraiser, MS Connection | 14
“You feel like something was stolen from you because of this dreadful disease,” he said.
have added to the brothers’ notoriety over the years. As fun loving as they are passionate for creating a world free of MS, they have grown what started as a reason to get together with their buddies into a five-figure, 200-plus person, annual golf tournament with a dinner and silent auction. It’s something Dotty Croal is at the heart of their whole family gets all the family’s MS fundraising involved with in one way or efforts. another, including siblings Kathy and Mary, step-siblings As their father noted, more Tere, Colleen and Tommy, than any physical pain was the all the respective spouses and mental anguish of lost mobility an ever-growing number of and activity. “However, Dotty children, nieces and never complained; ’till the nephews. Their reason? end she made self-deprecating Dorothy (Berghaus) Croal. cracks about her lost abilities, always with her wry, knowing “I remember the pain she had smile,” said Jim. to go through,” said Mike of his mom. Affectionately known In 2002, Mike ran into as Dotty to friends, she passed childhood friend Chuck away at age of 35 from Scherwinski and learned he complications of living with had been diagnosed with MS. MS for years. Mike was about
The funds go toward the total for their Bike MS team, Chuck’s Athletic Supporters, which is led by Scherwinski, a 2011 National MS Society Volunteer Hall of Fame inductee. “Our Open and Bike MS are two events of the summer that I look forward to as much if not more than anything else,” Dan said. “We now have a lot of friends impacted by MS and want to make a difference for those people since we can’t do that for our mother,” Mike added. Of course, now that the planning for the 23rd annual Croal Open is underway, the brothers are faced with finding a way to outdo last year’s entrance. Joked Dan, “Maybe it’ll be something with an F-18.”
“It’s a party disguised as a golf outing disguised as a fundraiser, and we’re pretty successful in all three categories,” say the brothers of the Croal Open, which will mark its 23rd consecutive year in 2012. A fundraiser to benefit MS research and related services since 2002, it has raised more than $200,000 to date. The event itself includes a day-long golf competition with a few oncourse fundraising opportunities for participants to improve their scores. There are also door prizes and raffles, along with a dinner Dan, Mike, Tom and Tim Croal and silent auction in the evening. Partner with a good location. Don’t underestimate the value of the venue, especially when it comes to the staff’s expertise and willingness to help. “Mike Lehman and the people at Ironwood Golf Course are so incredible to us,” Dan said. “They make us look like we know what we’re doing.” Tap into your network. “Have a lot of friends with money,” Mike joked. “You’ve got to want to do it and have the passion to want to make it successful,” he added. “We go right to our friends and look for sponsorships and dollar donations. That’s a big percentage of the numbers we raise.” Think about growth. In their first fundraising year, the Croals asked for donations and gave out door prizes. In the years since, they’ve added a raffle, on-course events (e.g. selling “Boomer Balloons” that allow groups to move up from the T box to attempt to improve their score), a dinner, and silent and live auctions. Have fun with it. “If it’s not fun for you to do, you’re not going to be successful at it,” Dan said. “If you put the energy in, good things will happen.” To learn more about the Croal Open for Multiple Sclerosis, visit www.tournevents.com/23rdCroalOpen.
MS Connection | 15
What do they attribute their success to?
That’s when the brothers decided to turn their golf outing – which was entering its thirteenth year – into a fundraiser for MS research and services. More than $3,000 was raised that year and it has grown exponentially ever since; nearly $40,000 was raised in 2012.
3rd Annual Shout Out to Wisconsin’s Amazing
E
very year, individuals join the movement through Do It Yourself fundraisers, benefiting the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. These events raise awareness and funds for research, programs and services for everyone affected by MS. Nearly 200 events were registered with the Wisconsin Chapter in 2011, including golf outings, dances, craft sales and more. There were 12 Mission Drivers, highlighted in orange, that raised more than $10,000 each at their events. Thanks to everyone who organized events or took part in them. Your participation makes a difference. For more information about holding your own DIY fundraiser or if you currently host a fundraiser that is not included on this list, contact the Wisconsin Chapter at 262-369-4400 or email dawn.thaves@nmss.org. January Facebook Birthday Wish, Event Organizer: Hayden Johnston
Neighborhood Bar & Grill Silent Auction and Fundraiser, Event Organizer: Paul Stoltman
Candy Bar Sales for Walk MS Eau Claire-Chippewa Valley, Event Organizer: Renee Goodell
6th Annual Help Find a Cure for MS Dance, Event Organizer: Rick Romenesko, Raised $18,700
Campbell Construction, Event Organizer: Chase Campbell
9th Annual Bell Family Rabbit Hunt, Event Organizer: Don Bell, Raised $22,025
February MS 8 Pin Tap Bowling Tournament, Event Organizer: Jim Kowal
Culver’s Give Back, Event Organizer: Cindy Koffman
Heart of Harmony Barbershop Quartet Singing Valentine, Event Organizer: Jack Ryback, Raised $243
Melissa’s MS Fundraiser, Event Organizer: Melissa Caira
Spin Event at the Mall, Event Organizer: John Bartow
Mood Swings-Swing Music, Event Organizer: Scott Smith
Columbus Snow Club White Elephant Chili & Gift Exchange, Event Organizer: Steven Smith, Raised: $2,225 1st Annual Monona Bay MS Fisheree, Event Organizer: Ryan Kirsting MS Connection | 16
Laps for MS, organzied by Anthony Hall, featured a relay event at Arrowhead High School and a raffle.
Carnation Sale, Event Organizer: BeckyHall Candy Bar Sales for Walk MS Fox Cities, Event Organizer: Patricia Moehn
March 6th Annual Pinnacle Health & Fitness 2 Hour Spin, Event Organizer: Dennis Hilsenhoff Capital Brewery Anniversary Charity Campaign, Raised $1,790
Milwaukee Street Traders-Mention Hoops for Hope, Event Organizer: Jenna Wolfsohn Pampered Chef Party, Event Organizer: Kimberly Link, Raised $700 Milwaukee Qdoba Fundraiser, Event Organizer: Megan Johnson Schenck SC Denim Day, Event Organizer: Frank Windt, Raised $225 Blarney Bash for MS, Event Organizer: Mary Topp, Raised $24,883 Pizza Ranch, Event Organizer: Cindy Koffman Shop for a Cure, Event Organizer: Michelle Ibsen 29 Days of Giving-Author Cami Walker Book Signing Iron Cupcake Madison at High Noon Saloon, Event Organizer: Nancy Sorensen Sheboygan Pig Roast, Event Organizer: Joni Schubert 3rd Annual Music Can Beat MS, Event Organizer: Steve and Jane Schmieding, Raised $2,700 Weary Traveler’s MS Awareness Night, Event Organizer: Carrie Dainty
Texas Hold ’em, Event Organizer: Connie Plier, Raised: $15,000 Mary Kay Sales, Event Organizer: Lori Kolosowsky TriBeta Bake Sale for MS, Event Organizer: Michelle Ibsen
Madhatters Music Sale, Event Organizer: Becky Hall Associated BankAssociated Advisory Committee Drawing & Casual Day, Raised $1,169
Zumba Fundraiser for MS, Event Organizer: Barbara Labish Devine Consign Clothing Sale, Event Organizer: Lorraine Lahdenpera Dodge for a Cure Dublin Schools Dodge Ball Tournament, Event Organizer: Dan DeNoble April Casual for a Cause Day-Johnson Bank, Event Organizer: Mari Suokko, Raised $271 St. Matthias Dress Down Day, Event Organizer: Mary Topp Bake Sale, Event Organizer: Angela Zimmerman Sargento Dress Down Day, Event Organizer: Joan Butters, Raised $685 Easter Egg Pin-Up Sale, Event Organizer: Jennifer Nunn
Cindy Koffman organized a Culvers Gives Back day for a tasty way to fundraise.
4th Annual We’re Egan to Cure MS Fundraiser, Event Organizer: Jennifer Egan Quarter Auction and Bowling, Event Organizer: Renee Goodell Bowl to Strike out MS, Event Organizer: Kate Bertram, Raised $10,843 Culvers Gives Back, Event Organizer: Cindy Koffman National MS Society Raffle-US Bank, Event Organizer: Heidi Grinker Hoops for Hope Basketball Tournament, Event Organizer: Jenna Wolfsohn Mr. De Pere Male Talent/ Beauty Pageant, Event Organizer: Kerri Herrild MS Connection | 17
Mike Bruesewitz Hair Cut, Event Organizer: Chad Wutke, Raised: $5,100 Family Fun Day, Event Organizer: Luann Schreiber Buffalo Wild Wings Eat Wings Raise Funds Day in Wausau, Event Organizer: Carole Kober Hill Yeah! Hot Dog Sale, Event Organizer: Maggie Sonnemann Michael’s Birthday Fundraiser Facebook Cause, Event Organizer: Melinda and Michael Edwards, Raised $36 Kappa Beta Gamma MS Benefit 2011, Event Organizer: Michelle Maher, Raised $1,969 Musical Satisfaction Night-Beloit College MS Club, Event Organizer: Canberk Dayan, Raised $140 Fond du Lac Qdoba Fundraiser, Event Organizer: Cindy Koffman UW Whitewater 5K Run/ Walk, Event Organizer: Amy Edmonds, Raised $350 Tosca Limited Health Fair, Event Organizer: Martha Mineau, Raised $2,337
MS Connection | 18
Waunakee Intermediate School Bake Sale, Event Organizer: Angela Zimmerman Ultimate Frisbee-Beloit College MS Club, Event Organizer: Canberk Dayan The Cornerstone Sports Pub-Eatery Percentage Sales, Event Organizer: Jody Broom
Cinco de Mayo EventPremier Bank, Raised: $79 Texas Roadhouse 10% Back Night, Raised: $584 Boo Boo’s 9 Pin Tap and Raffle, Event Organizer: Julie Madden Wausau Applebee’s, Event Organizer: Stephanie Pacey Half Marathon, Event Organizer: Amy Jacobs, Raised: $250
Walk with Strength –Weywauwega Walk, Event Organizer: Zach Mielke, Raised: $6,900 Salon Event, Event Organizer: Stephanie Pacey Instructors donated Bake Sale & Flower Sale, Event Organizer: Cindy Koffman
their time for a Zumbathon fundraiser.
Ripon Medical Center Bake Sale, Event Organizer: Cindy Koffman MCT Sales, Event Organizer: Michelle Wright May Yoga for Good, Event Organizer: Megan Wambach, Raised: $190 Packaging Corporation of America-Corporate Summer Cookouts, Raised: $500
Pizza Ranch Donation Night, Event Organizer: Laurie Anderson Wells Fargo Jean Day, Raised: $370 Beach Blast out MS, Event Organizer: Sara Geszvain
Rummage Sale, Event Organizer: Lori Kolosowsky Fox Valley Road & Track Classic XI-Di Renzo & Bomier, Event Organizer: Roy Fine, Raised: $2,226 Sister Bay Morovian Church Concert, Event Organizer: Sue Raye Hughes, Raised: $714 Quaker Steak & Lube Make a Difference, Event Organizer: Maggie Sonnemann
Laps for MS Relay Event, Event Organizer: Anthony Hall Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration Denim Day
Brew at the Barn II, Event Organizer: Christin Harding
BAMS Ride, Event Organizer: Ron Sweeney
Eau Claire Noodles & Company Discount to Dine, Event Organizer: Laurie Anderson
Damn Yankees Duck Race, Event Organizer: Ron Scherwinski
Fat Old White Guys Concert, Event Organizer: Paul Joski, Raised: $500
Eggs & Bacon Wagon, Event Organizer: Joyce David
Minor’s Open House, Event Organizer: Ken and Karen Minor Kicking it on the Quad for MS, Event Organizer: Becky Hall RW Baird Denim Day, Raised: $153 Trig’s Grocery Store Brat Fry, Event Organizer: Lori Rousseau Team Hill Yeah! Hotdog Sale, Event Organizer: Maggie Sonnemann Online Music Sale, Event Organizer: David Daniels Madison Marathon Volunteering-Madison Festivals, Event Participants: Becky Hall and Jill Nondorf June American Legion Poker Run, Event Organizer: Mary Carraux
United Healthcare Dress Down Casual Day, Raised: $90
Apple Hollar “put some bite into the fight against MS” with the 7th Annual Orchard Walk, raising nearly $15,000.
Teed Off at MS Golf Outing, Event Organizer: David Blavat Dogleg Open, Event Organizer: Dylan Guendert 7th Annual Neipert MS Golf Outing, Event Organizer: Alan Neipert, Raised: $2,095 Avon Sale Online, Event Organizer: Connie Bendickson, Raised: $739 Support Live Music Festival 2011, Event Organizer: Nick Hadaway Madison Mallards MS Community Spotlight Game, Event Organizer: Brian Sather
July Northwestern BankChippewa Falls and Lafayette Jeans Day, Event Organizer: Michele Koch, Raised $62 DORO Inc Donation Buckets, Event Organizer: Dan Cole, Raised $5,260 FIS Dress Down Day, Event Organizer: Michael Jahnke, Raised $2,573 Birdy’s Scramble for a Cure, Event Organizer: Patrick Haak, Raised $18,720 Lynn Ann’s Family Woods and Water Fest, Event Organizer: Wayne Newby, Raised $370 Marie’s Miles for MSAnnual Motorcycle Rides across US, Event Organizer: Marie Sarnowski Transportation Services Brat Roast, Event Organizer: Ken Bare MS Connection | 19
Jon Lancaster Toyota MS Fundraiser, Event Organizer: Sam Lancaster Wasabi Mike & Fresh Ground Pepper Concert to Benefit MS, Event Organizer: Michael Van De Kamp Rock for the Ride, Event Organizer: Stephanie Swinney Pig Skin Inn Poker Run and Book Sale, Event Organizer: Lisa Forbes, Raised: $169 Triple C Social and Raffle Night to Benefit the MS Society, Event Organizer: Jacob Maguigad 5th Annual Fighting MS Golf Scramble, Event Organizer: Karen Pagel, Raised $10,500 POPA Training CampChildren Fundraiser and Competition, Event Organizer: Dale Schulz, Raised: $729 Rockin Red Hatters Luncheon, Event Organizers: Ladies with Hattitudes, Raised: $124 Michael’s Cycles Bike Auction, Event Organizer: Ryan Williams Wausau Noodles & Company Dine in Night, Raised $104 MS Connection | 20
22nd Annual Croal Open for MS, Event Organizers: Dan, Mike and Tim Croal, Raised $35,486
Dunk Tank, Event Organizer: Stacy Remington
Keeping up with Curtis, Event Organizer: Curtis Momsen
August Kohl’s Cares: Associates in Action Bake Sale, Event Organizer: Jeanne Ketterhagen
Giselle Schultz Memorial Ride & MS Benefit, Event Organizer: Stacy Rogne, Raised: $1,219
9th Annual Drive for MS/ Bogey Bare MS Scramble, Event Organizer: Ken and Karen Bare, Raised: $8,634
Volunteers helped at the Packers 5K Run/Walk by handing out water to thirsty participants.
Reel Brothers HarleyDavidson (Castle Rock HOG Chapter) Benefit Ride and Roast, Event Organizer: Robyn Reel, Raised: $315 Pedal and Party in Pardeeville with a Purpose, Event Organizer: Harry and Kay Lum Minoqua Antique Boat Show and Parade, Event Organizer: Gordon Moore, Raised: $6,711
Madison’s Premiere Antique and Classic Boat Show, Event Organizer: Andy McCormick, Raised: $4,000
Brass Monkey Fundraiser, Event Organizer: Ann Schram ISM Golf Outing, Event Organizer: Peggy Mat-Siewert Challenge Walk MS Car Wash, Event Organizer: Patricia Winkler Brat Fry-Germantown Pick N Save, Event Organizer: Amy Mangan-Fischer
Packers 5K at Lambeau Field, Raised: $3,000
11th Annual Pat’s Par Tee Golf Outing, Event Organizer: Pat Klotz
Spartans v. Blue Devils Home Game-Raffle and Half Time Contest, Event Organizer: Philip Cockroft
Walworth County Annual Poker Run & Car Show, Event Organizer: Jeff Green, Raised: $1,000
Dine In at Dairy Queen, Event Organizer: Amy Mangan-Fischer Pin Up Sales-Lieno’s Gas & Goods, Event Organizer: Terri Bahe, Raised: $72
September Rummage Sale for MS, Event Organizer: Connie Plier
Rocktoberfest Beer Tapping, Event Organizer: Rock Bottom Restaurant and Brewery, Raised: $845
Aldrich-Farrell Wedding, Event Organizer: Lisa Aldrich 5th Annual JMO: A Drive for MS Golf Outing, Event Organizer: Heidi Erdman, Raised: $2,900 MS SkyDive Fundraiser, Event Organizer: Debra Gorman, Raised: $635 7th Annual Apple Holler Orchard Walk, Event Organizer: Sheri Gavin, Raised: $14,561 Auto Paint & Supply Car Show for MS, Event Organizer: John Scherwinski Golf MS – Wausau Golf Outing, Event Organizer: Wendy McCarthy, Raised: $3,133 Milton Mad Challenge Mud Run, Event Organizer: Heidi Crull Chicago Triathlon, Event Organizer: Jennifer Thorpe, Raised: $487 Party Like an ’80s Rock Star, Event Organizer: Fran McLaughlin
Mukwonago High School Walk/Run, Event Organizer: Bruce Lammers, Raised: $150
UW-Madison basketball player Mike Bruesewitz shed his famous hair, raising more than $5,100 for Walk MS. Zumbathon Fundraiser, Event Organizer: Kirsten Quam, Raised: $30 2nd Annual MS Golf for a Cure, Event Organizer: Marty and June Hillert, Raised: $21,391 Brat Fry & Raffle, Event Organizer: Tina Bonikowske Party on the Porch Wine & Cheese Tasting, Event Organizer: Kelly Malucha Zumba for MS, Event Organizer: Amy Oechsner 6th Annual Ken Fest, Event Organizer: Tomken’s Bar & Grill Client Appreciation BBQ, Event Organizer: EWH Accounting, Raised: $626
Driving Towards a Cure Golf Outing, Event Organizer: Mellisa Johnson, Raised: $ 5,719 Quaker Steak & Lube Make a Difference Monday, Event Organizer: Amy Mangan-Fischer Community First Fox Cities Marathon Run, Event Organizer: Laura Fadrowski, Raised: $616 October Brewing to Make a Difference Coffee Sales, Event Organizer: Macayla Quinn, Raised: $123 Fox Communities Credit Union Golf Outing, Raised: $387 The Lawrence Charity Golf Outing, Event Organizer: Tony Lawrence and Mike O’Keefe, Raised: $1,041 Stafford Rosenbaum Casual for a Cause, Event Organizer: Stafford Rosenbaum, Raised: $90
MS Connection | 21
Silpada Jewelry Sale, Event Organizer: Mary Karsten MS Palooza Concert for a Cure, Event Organizer: Travis Kluewer Y-Not MS Fundraiser, Event Organizer: Shaleigh Fitzpatrick, Raised: $200
Freedom Elementary School Orange Fundraiser, Event Organizer: Freedom Elementary School, Raised: $250 Spookwalk Haunted House, Event Organizer: Wayne Newby, Raised: $1,100 4th Annual American Cancer Society and National MS Society Benefit Rummage, Event Organizer: Lorraine Lahdenpera
Debra Gorman took fundraising to new heights by collecting donations for her first skydiving jump.
Chilly Willy Open Horse Show, Event Organizer: Becky Perron, Raised: $1,631 Chili’s Pepper Partner Program, Event Organizer: Lori Rousseau Generation OptimisticMillerCoors Brewery, Event Organizer: Kim Muszynski, Raised: $4,168 2012 MS Snowmobile Tour Golf Benefit, Event Organizer: Becky Blauert Night at the Nitty, Event Organizer: Becky Hall
MS Connection | 22
Climbing for Causes Coin Toss, Event Organizer: Nick Comande, Raised: $409 Halloween Costume Ball for the Cure, Event Organizer: Debra Forbes, Raised: $2,300 November Soiree for Success: A Fundraiser to Fight MS, Event Organizer: Shayla Rosen and Katie Walsh, Raised: $25,108 Marching for Mia Raffle & Birthday Party, Event Organizer: Maria Phelps
Bon Ton Community Day, Event Organizer: Bon Ton, Raised: $360 Schwann Walk MS Fond du Lac Fundraiser, Event Organizer: Cindy Koffman Loopy’s Ladies Day: Supporting MS Research, Event Organizer: Chad Janssen, Raised: $240 Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School De Pere Wisconsin, Event Organizer: Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School December NEWD’s Five Year Anniversary Party, Event Organizer: Robert Kessler Volleyball Tournament and Raffle, Event Organizer: Scott and Linda Wittmann; Raised; $1,600 Shop for a MS Cure at Lillian’s, Event Organizer: Trudy DeRemer Walk MS Fond du Lac MS Night at Northwinds Supper Club, Event Organizer: Cindy Koffman Ugly Sweater Party, Event Organizer: Jesse Juedes Recipe for a MS Cure, Event Organizer: Sharon McNeiley
Wisconsin Chapter Calendar of Upcoming Events Teleconference Physical therapy April 9
Generation Optimistic Milwaukee Public Market June 21
MS Research NOW Speaker Series Madison April 14
On the Move Luncheon Milwaukee June 27
Generation Optimistic Vino Cappuccino, Brookfield April 19
On the Move Luncheon Madison June 28
Teleconference Being your own care partner May 14
Teleconference MS symptoms on bowel and bladder July 9
MS Summit Wisconsin Dells May 18 - 19
Bike MS: Best Dam Bike Ride August 4 - 5
MS World Day May 30
Teleconference Spasticity August 13
Teleconference Tools for Everday Life June 11
Generation Optimistic Alterra at the Lake Milwaukee August 16 MS Research NOW Speaker Series Milwaukee September 8 Teleconference “MS What a Pain� September 10 MS Research NOW Speaker Series Green Bay/De Pere September 15 Challenge Walk MS September 21 - 23 Please visit wisMS.org for the latest listing of Chapter activities and Community Events.
Walk MS Brown County Sunday, April 22
Wausau Saturday, April 28
Grafton Saturday, May 5
Madison Sunday, May 6
Fond du Lac Saturday, April 28
Eau ClaireChippewa Valley Sunday, April 29
ManitowocTwo Rivers Saturday, May 5
Marshfield NEW! Sunday, May 6
Fox Cities Sunday, April 29
Platteville Saturday, May 5
Kenosha-Racine Sunday, April 29
Janesville-Rock River Sunday, May 6
La Crosse Saturday, April 28 Lake Country NEW! Saturday, April 28 Menomonee Falls Saturday, April 28
Milwaukee Sunday, May 6 Sheboygan Sunday, May 6
Waukesha Sunday, April 29 MS Connection | 23
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Brown County - Sunday, April 22 Fond du Lac - Saturday, April 28 La Crosse - Saturday, April 28 Lake Country - Saturday, April 28 Menomonee Falls - Saturday, April 28 Wausau - Saturday, April 28
Eau Claire-Chippewa Valley - Sunday, April 29 Fox Cities - Sunday, April 29 Kenosha-Racine - Sunday, April 29 ! Waukesha - Sunday, April 29 NE W Grafton - Saturday, May 5 Manitowoc-Two Rivers - Saturday, May 5
Platteville - Saturday, May 5 Janesville-Rock River - Sunday, May 6 Madison - Sunday, May 6 Marshfield - Sunday, May 6 Milwaukee - Sunday, May 6 Sheboygan - Sunday, May 6
WALK MS IS A COMMUNITY CELEBRATION. REGISTER & INVITE OTHERS TO JOIN YOU. walkMSwisconsin.org or 1-800-242-3358