MS Champions are instrumental in helping to mobilize people and dollars, actively working with the Chapter and encouraging others to support our mission. We are pleased to introduce the 2011 MS Champions for the significant role they play in our fight to end MS.
Dr. Ted Higgins
Dr. Ted Higgins’ determination to support the fight against MS began as he witnessed the devastating effects multiple sclerosis had on his friend/surgeon, Dr. Dave Tomlinson. The first time Ted posted a Bike Ms sign-up sheet in the operation room, he was amazed with the number of people who were also passionate about the cause. The overwhelming support sparked inspiration for Ted to set up a self-directed research fund, Dave Tomlinson Research Fun, in his friend’s honor.
Ted’s passion for helping those affected by MS has led to his deeper involvement with the Society as an advocate for people living with MS. He continues to attend the Missouri Advocacy Day at the State Capital in Jefferson City, offers his medical expertise and talents as the Surgeon of Record for the Kansas City Free Health Clinic and often travels to Haiti for medical mission trips. Not only does Ted offer his medical help but he also serves as team captain for the Bike MS team Research Rough Riders. As a top fundraiser for Bike MS, Ted has earned the privilege of restriction his funds for the sole purpose of research to find a cause and cure for MS. Ted was also recently inducted into the Volunteer Hall of Fame.
For almost two decades Ted has been a leader in the fight for a cure and continues to be a driving force for research. Although he saw his friend struggle until the end, Ted continues to set his sights on raising funds so the cure for MS can be found.
Deanna Markley
Deanna Markley, a physical therapist for over 30 years, has been involved with the National MS Society Mid America Chapter for more than a decade. Markley came to the realization that there was something unique about MS patients, while working with Mid America Rehabilitation Hospital. From then on, she has dedicated her time to helping those living with the disease. One of her most successful achievements was creating an outpatient physical therapy group for people with MS to gain support and resources. To this day, the group still meets at the hospital and continues to flourish.
Through community service, Markley has built up various volunteer activities. Some involvements that she participates in are the following: MS Conference as a presenter, Long Term Care Continuing Education Program as a speaker, and is a Chapter Programs Committee member. She was named “Healthcare Professional of the Year” by the Mid America Chapter in 2009, has numerous articles written about her and was inducted in the National MS Society’s 2010 Volunteer Hall of Fame in Health Professionals. She is a true leader and advocate for the fight against MS.
Lyla Perrodin
Lyla Perrodin, Vice President and Chief Information Officer of MRIGlobal, has been a supporter of the National MS Society Mid America Chapter for over 10 years. She is an inspirational Walk MS team captain for the Ragin Cajins. She also serves on the Walk MS committee for both Johnson County and Kansas City walks. She never ceases to amaze the organization as she continues to maintain a large team for the events she participates in and has a very involved family.
Her roles within the Mid America Chapter are endless. She helps with sponsorships, logistics, and speaks out to others about multiple sclerosis. Whether they be an MS patient themselves or a loved one, it gives Perrodin joy to know that she is making a difference in others’ lives. She is passionate about discussing the affects of MS and reaching out to those living with it, as she is a fellow MS patient. She is definitely a great asset to the organization and has made a difference through her generous contributions.