On Saturday, June 20 the New Jersey Metro Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society held its annual scholarship award ceremony. This year the chapter awarded scholarships in the amount of $64,000 to 62 deserving area students. The morning was hosted by Board Member Meryl Ravitz who is the driving force behind the program.
The economic impact of MS is substantial. Direct and indirect costs of MS, including lost wages, (even for those with insurance coverage) are estimated at more than $69,000 annually, with a total lifetime cost per family of $3 million. These challenges make funding a college education that much harder. "We know so many families struggling to cope with the financial impact of MS," says Michael Elkow, president of New Jersey Metro Chapter of the National MS Society. "This is why we are fighting this often hidden effect of multiple sclerosis – because MS shouldn't stand in the way of an education."
Ms. Ravitz who grew up with a parent with MS experienced firsthand the all of the struggles associated with the disease. This is why she has made the MS Scholarship Program her passion and works tirelessly each year to see that all those who would like to further their education have the opportunity to do so. For more information about the New Jersey Metro Chapter's Scholarship Program please contact Patti Pasquino at 201-967-5599 extension 206 or patti.pasquino@nmss.org.