In 2014, Beth Berry attended her first Florida State Action Day (known as Tally Watch) at the state capital in Tallahassee with little experience in advocacy but a powerful story to share. “Sharing your story makes you feel like superman,” says Beth, an implementation manager for Bank of America. After more than 18 years as a volunteer for the MS Society in everything from Bike MS to Walk MS to retreats and planning committees, Beth became an MS activist in 2015. Beth’s late aunt and late father lived with MS, and Beth was drawn to advocacy because of the focus for the Florida legislature: access to MS therapies. “When my father was diagnosed with MS, there were no medications, there were no MRIs. His life would have changed forever with these additions – that’s why I remain involved with the MS Society.” This year, Beth serves on the planning committee for Tally Watch 2016 and hopes to make the day a memorable experience for all. “It’s a whirlwind day because of how much you’re able to accomplish in a matter of hours. The relationships I built that day with elected officials and fellow MS activists were the highlight of the entire experience for me. Having others understand my story, and allowing that to play a role in changing legislation to help better the lives of people affected by MS, that’s the icing on top of the cake!”
Join Beth as an MS activist today.