Barbara Appelbaum has been involved with the National MS Society as an MS Ambassador and a volunteer. Through sharing her story and the mission of the National MS Society, she has benefited the MS community by spreading the message, increasing awareness and educating people about how far the research has come and how far it can go. In 2011, Barbara started volunteering in 2011 and was the emcee for the Volunteer Recognition Awards ceremony at the Research Symposium.

“We should all find the time to volunteer because we can give so much back to others and it creates power and energy that is unstoppable especially with people who want to get involved and make a difference,” said Barbara.

Being a wellness coach and consultant, living well is something she focuses on. In one of her lectures about overcoming adversity and recognizing that it is a gift, she uses MS as an example. Being diagnosed with MS in June 2006, she hopes that through her speaking, people will see the positivity and strength that can be associated with MS.

“I think that by volunteering it helps people realize they are not alone and that a person can be healthy even though they have a chronic illness,” said Barbara.

Barbara’s goal is to help free the world of MS.