It was National Sisters Day recently, a time to celebrate the unique bond between sisters. It got us thinking about the two sisters we know who share an unbreakable bond. 

Sure, we bet that Kelly Ann and Christine used to fight over clothes and toys back in the day – don’t all sisters? But sisters always have the other’s back, and today their relationship is pretty special. After all, sisters are forever.

Her fight is my fight

Family are the people who are there for you always – especially when you need it most. When Christine was going through countless medical examinations, scans, and tests, her sister was with her every step of the way. When she received the diagnosis of MS in 2020, it was a devastating blow that sent a shock wave through the family. Kelly Ann was there to help her pick up the pieces.  

MS is a neurological condition that can affect the brain and spinal cord, causing a wide range of symptoms including problems with vision, movement, sensation, and balance. Christine receives regular medical care including bi-annual infusions to help her manage this progressive disease. 

Thankfully, she has an amazing network of family and friends surrounding her with love and support.

A foundation is born

When Kelly-Ann and her husband Jim saw what a toll that MS takes on your physical and financial health, they knew it was time to step up. 

Of course, Christine is not alone. Many MS patients struggle to carry the financial burden. Did you know that the average yearly expense for MS patients is $69,000? Kelly Ann and Jim started to think about all of the many others in the community going through the same difficult journey – there are around 2,000 people affected by MS in the Tampa Bay Area. Who is helping them to fight their battle?

MS Happens was set up to share the load. We provide financial assistance to patients and their families in the Tampa Bay Area and raise awareness of the disease. 

There’s no cure for MS, but together there is hope. 

Sister, sister

So, what way do the sisters describe each other?

“The love and support I have received from the effort of my sister and MS Happens has been incredible. To have my sister do something like this for me really goes to show just how much of an amazing person she is.â€Â  – Christine

“I never knew what true strength was until I watched my sister learn she was diagnosed with MS.†– Kelly Ann

Hey, we’re not crying. You’re crying.

We’re in this together

Now, we know that as individuals these sisters have strength and courage and that they inspire us. So, just imagine how powerful they are when you put them together. 

MS Happens is a foundation based in St Petersburg, Florida, supporting people with MS. It was set up so that people like Christine who are suffering from this disease in the Tampa Bay Area can get the vital support that they need. 

The foundation aims to raise awareness of the disease and help those that are struggling to deal with their rising medical costs. They’re not alone. They’ve got a strong community behind them.

Want to learn more? Email us at [email protected]