|
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Former Prizefighter Honored As Outstanding Programs Volunteer BRIDGEPORT, Conn. — Larry Robinson used to be a prizefighter. Now he holds the title in the fight against multiple sclerosis (MS).
"The support of volunteers like Larry is invaluable in the fight against this incurable disease," said Lynette Coleman, associate vice president of programs and services for the Connecticut Chapter. "Larry’s dedication, commitment and determination make him more than deserving of this special recognition." Robinson first became involved with the Norwalk, Conn., office of the Connecticut Chapter two years ago as a volunteer with the AmeriCorps VISTA program, according to Coleman. His assignment was to help people with disabilities throughout Connecticut form self-advocacy groups. Since then Robinson has worked directly with the chapter to help find services for people living with multiple sclerosis. Robinson has also become involved with the Walk MS event, Dinner of Champions, and his cooking skills at the Bike MS event have become legendary, said Coleman. Events like the Bike MS: bkm/Steelcase Bike Ride — Sunday, June 1, in Windsor, Conn., and Sunday, June 22, in Westport, Conn. — raise funds to aid the more than 6,000 Connecticut residents who live with multiple sclerosis, a chronic and often disabling disease of the central nervous system. There currently is no cure. Symptoms can include, among other things, numbness in the limbs, difficulties with vision and speech, stiffness and, in some more severe cases, total paralysis. The progress, severity and specific symptoms of MS in any one person cannot be predicted. Chapter president Lisa Gerrol handed out 17 awards at the annual meeting, March 2. Joyce Nelson, president and CEO of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, gave the keynote speech. 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. 3/18/08 CUTLINE: Larry Robinson is honored as an Outstanding Programs Volunteer at the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Connecticut Chapter Awards Ceremony and Annual Meeting Sunday, March 2. Pictured are, left to right, Joyce Nelson, president and chief executive officer of the National MS Society; Mike Stacy, master of ceremonies, Connecticut Chapter board of trustees member and morning show host at WRCH Lite 100.5 FM; Lisa Gerrol, president and chief professional officer, Connecticut Chapter; and Larry Robinson. |
|
|
Robinson, a resident of Bridgeport, Conn., was honored as an Outstanding Programs Volunteer at the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Connecticut Chapter Awards Ceremony and Annual Meeting earlier this month. The event took place at the Hartford Marriott Rocky Hill.