Home - National Multiple Sclerosis Society

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VERNON, Conn. - At its March 2 annual meeting, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Connecticut Chapter named Peter Rusconi the 2007 Outstanding Special Events Volunteer of the Year. The award ceremony and annual meeting was held at the Hartford Marriott in Rocky Hill, Conn., on Sunday, March 2.

"Peter’s support for the cause is invaluable," said Nicole Marohn, associate vice president of development. "Peter motivates and compels others to get involved. His dedication, commitment and determination make him more than deserving of this special recognition."

A resident of Vernon, Conn., and the owner Cardio Express Gyms in Manchester, Southington, Tolland, Vernon and Wethersfield, Rusconi, 47, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) in 2004. Although Rusconi has few visible effects, MS presents a challenge. As a result, he has worked with the chapter to raise awareness.

For the past three years, Rusconi has helped the chapter educate communities statewide on the effects of MS and the need to find a cure. He has also participated in the chapter’s annual walk event in 2005 and participated in A Taste of Hope, an annual wine-tasting event, since 2006. Rusconi captains a bike team, Cardio Express, cycling in the chapter’s annual bike ride at Mohegan Sun. In 2007 his team raised more than $46,000. This year Rusconi’s company, Cardio Express Gyms, has teamed up to serve as presenting sponsor for the ride. The Cardio Express team expects to raise $100,000 at the 2008 ride, which will be held in September. Rusconi will again, for a third year, serve as the official spokesperson for the event, helping the chapter to localize the fight, illustrate the many faces of MS, raise awareness and promote the bike ride.

"I know firsthand how MS can affect lives," said Rusconi. "Although I am involved with the chapter primarily to ensure we find a cure, it’s good to be recognized for our efforts. I encourage others to join us and help move us forward in the fight against this disease."

There are more than 6,000 Connecticut residents, like Rusconi, diagnosed with MS. Multiple sclerosis is a potentially debilitating disease affecting the central nervous system. The cause is unknown, and, as a result, there currently is no cure. Funds raised through chapter events, such as the Bike MS: Mohegan Sun Ride, presented by Cardio Express, ensure ongoing scientific research to find a cure and provide for the continuation of vital programs and services offered by the chapter to Connecticut residents diagnosed with MS.

For more information on multiple sclerosis, the chapter, its efforts to end the devastating effects of the disease and the many ways to help, please go to www.ctfightsMS.org. To register for the Bike MS: Mohegan Sun Ride 2008, presented by Cardio Express, or to register for Team Cardio Express, please visit to www.ctfightsMS.org.

3/10/08