Meet Jonathan Englund, diagnosed July 1, 2006
Jonathan Englund, of Brookings, S.D., will participate in Walk MS Sioux Falls for his second time this year. Englund is actively involved with the MS movement, leading the MS Matters Group for the past two years and last March attending the National MS Society’s Public Policy Conference in Washington D.C.
In what way has MS made the biggest impact on your life?
Of course there are so many ways that MS has impacted my life, but I believe the biggest way is it has actually made me a better, stronger person. The initial diagnosis was devastating, but I have worked hard to where I am at today both physically and emotionally.
Why did you decide to participate in Walk MS?
I had two reasons for wanting to participate in Walk MS. First to raise awareness and money to support MS research. The second reason was to accomplish a personal goal of completing the 1.5-mile walk.
What’s your favorite thing about Walk MS?
I really enjoyed seeing all the people who showed up to support the walk. It was great to witness everyone getting together and having fun. The atmosphere is great.
Are you involved in the National MS Society in other ways besides Walk MS?
I have led the MS Matters Group in Brookings for the past two years. I also attended the National MS Society’s Public Policy Conference in Washington D.C. last March.
What is one thing you wish people could understand about MS?
Everyone is affected in a different way. I have yet to meet someone with MS who has all the same symptoms, and challenges that I or others face. I believe there have been huge strides in research to cure MS in the last few years. Further funding for research can/will help those of us suffering to overcome this disease.
To arrange an interview with Jonathan Englund, contact Anna at 612-335-7918 or anna.kucera@nmss.org or Michelle at 612-335-7933 or michelle.leppert@nmss.org.