The direct and indirect costs of MS—including lost wages—are estimated at more than $70,000 annually, per household. Students impacted by MS face especially unique challenges, not the least of which is finding money to pay for college. That's why the MS Scholarship Program exists.

Meet some of our 2016 North Florida Chapter Recipients:

Lisa Mullis, a dental office manager from Atlantic Beach, is a two-time recipient of the award. After being diagnosed with MS in 2008, Lisa developed an interest in health and fitness, which inspired her to further her education and pursue her new found passion. Lisa plans to graduate from the University of North Florida in the spring of 2017 with a Bachelor's of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics.

"Attending university as a women with multiple sclerosis, I have been able to demonstrate that all things are possible and, in my own small way, I am proving that MS does not stop me," said Lisa.

Robert Kemple, a high school senior from Mandarin, is a first-time recipient of the scholarship. Robert is also determined to achieve his goals, despite the effect MS has had on his family. Robert's mother was diagnosed with MS in 2003, which forced him to assume more responsibilities than the average high school student. Robert and his family have had to adapt to a different lifestyle because of his mother's diagnosis, but he says they're making the most of it. "My mom would do anything for me, even with her MS, and I have that same feeling towards her. She may struggle with walking or fatigue easily, buy in my mind, she is still a perfect mother that I have come to love and respect," said Robert .

Khalilyl Bogarty, a computer engineering junior at the University of South Alabama from Jacksonville, is a three-time recipient of the award. He says that his MS sometimes makes it difficult to attend classes and complete assignments. Khalilyl is thankful, though, for the opportunities the scholarship has given him.
 

"The National Multiple Sclerosis Society scholarship has helped to lower the stress of paying for, not only my college tuition, but also my textbooks," said Khaliyl. "I am very grateful for having received the scholarship in the past, and I wear my MS t-shirts and use my reusable MS canvas bags as a form of being an ambassador to spread the awareness of the condition.
 

Since 2003, National MS Society scholarships have helped students affected by MS pursue their education.
Information about scholarships for the 2017 school year will be available in October of 2016. For more information, call 1-800-344-4867 or visit nationalmssociety.org/scholarship.