Northwest Washington Businesses Help Kick Multiple Sclerosis

Don Wick, Executive Director for the Economic Development Association of Skagit County, emceed the program for area residents who attended the event along with Anacortes officials Mayor Dean Maxwell and Director of Public Works Bob Hyde and the Skagit MS Support Group. Local businesses including Outback Steakhouse, Rolfson’s Home Furnishings, Sunland Bark and Topsoil, Skagit Furniture and Mattress, Nooksack River Casino, Trojan Battery Company, KAFÉ FM and Northwest Java helped sponsor the informational event.

More than $1,500 was raised at the luncheon to assist Magno in his upcoming cross-country trek in his antique, electric wheelchair Blu. Nicknamed the MS Express, Magno and assistance dog Katie will travel from Seattle to New York City this summer to raise awareness for handicapped accessibility issues and $1 million to kick Multiple Sclerosis.
During the luncheon, Magno announced the beneficiaries of the MS Express: National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Multiple Sclerosis Association of America, Trigeminal Neuralgia Association, Accelerated Cure Project for MS, and Summit Assistance Dogs.

“Our turnout for the luncheon was fantastic,” Magno said. “We received some great community support, giving us hope that we’ll accomplish our goals this summer.”

Founded by Carlo Magno, The Spirit of Hope Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation dedicated to raising awareness for handicapped accessibility and quality of life issues. The foundation is committed to helping affected individuals to maintain independence, physical health, and emotional well-being through resource networking. Magno has received the endorsement of Washington Governor Christine Gregoire and the City of Anacortes, along with numerous organizations, individuals, and businesses.

For more information about The Spirit of Hope Foundation or the MS Express, visit the foundation’s Web site at www.thespiritofhope.org or contact Dana Blozis at 360-920-1737.