[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 96 (Wednesday, June 26, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1185]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                THE NATIONAL MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MARCY KAPTUR

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 26, 1996

  Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, 
which today is one of the largest nonprofit health agencies in the 
United States, originated 50 years ago with an idea and a small three-
line classified advertisement that appeared in the May 1, 1945 edition 
of the New York Times. The printed appeal for help was placed by Sylvia 
Lawry, the founder, whose late brother suffered from MS. In her ad, 
Miss Lawry asked that anyone who might know of a cure for MS contact 
her.
  Thus was born the organization which today serves a membership of 
430,000 through 140 chapters and branches. It is the only organization 
supporting both national and international research into the cause and 
cure of multiple sclerosis and a full range of services in areas of 
health, knowledge, and independence.
  In my district, 2,200 people with MS are served by the Northwest Ohio 
Chapter alone. The chapter is able to raise funds that directly benefit 
local programs and allows for educational workshops, equipment loan 
services, aquatics programs, and so much more!
  The Nation is very proud of the work of the National Multiple 
Sclerosis Society and the contributions it has made to biomedical 
research. Since its founding, the society has invested more than $175 
million in scientific grants.
  As a result, we are much closer today then ever before to 
understanding what causes multiple sclerosis and how to treat it. 
Someday soon we may possibly learn to prevent and cure it. Enormous 
strides have been taking place in the neurosciences recently, giving 
rise to a real hope that this may happen soon.
  Sylvia Lawry continues to be active in the affairs of both the 
national and international MS societies. Her dedication, and the work 
of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society are an inspiration for all.

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