SCHERERVILLE, Ind. – Albert’s Diamond Jewelers, owned and operated by Fred Halpern and his son Joshua, recently presented the National Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society – Indiana State Chapter with a donation of more than $220,000 to help fund the Society’s five-year, $250 million Now Opportunity Wasted (NOW) Research Campaign.

Each year, Albert’s Diamond Jewelers hosts a one-day auction with proceeds benefitting the National MS Society. Since the auction’s inception, it has raised more $1 million to fund cutting-edge research and life-changing programs and services for those living with MS.

“Albert’s has been a fantastic support to the National MS Society and a champion in helping us accelerate vital MS research for many years,” said Leigh Ann Erickson, Indiana State Chapter President. “The nationwide NOW Campaign has produced unprecedented research progress and because of individuals like the Halpern family, we can continue to push for a world free of MS.”

Since the start of the NOW Campaign in 2010, the Society has launched 818 new research projects, fast-tracked five new treatment options and come closer to understanding the causes of MS. The campaign is expected to reach its goal of $250 million by December 31, 2015.

For more information about the NOW Campaign and the National MS Society’s long term commitment to MS research, click here.