Debbie King refuses to stand idle. Twenty years ago, her mother found out that she was living MS. Only seven years later, her 18-year-old daughter received the same diagnosis. This spurred Debbie into action.

“I needed to do something to help them, and the best way that I could find was through volunteering,” she explains. “I know that the Society is working hard to find a cure, and I want to do my part in making that happen as soon as possible.”

In the time since her daughter’s diagnosis, Debbie has become heavily involved with the Greater Illinois Chapter. As an MS activist, she has been to Springfield for Action Day half a dozen times. For the last ten years, she has been on the volunteer planning committee for Walk MS St. Charles, and she has served as the chair for half of that time.

“I raise awareness and funds to help find a cure,” says Debbie. “At the Walk, I try to give hope. I am a shoulder to lean on for parents whose children have also been diagnosed.”

Debbie’s time as a volunteer has led to the formation of several life-long friendships, and she knows that what she’s doing is having a huge impact on the lives of many.

“It is so empowering,” says Debbie. “I am making a difference in someone’s quality of life. I am helping to find a cure for MS.”