February 5, 2018

Jim Anderson takes part in annual Multiple Sclerosis Fundraiser

Our attorneys are very involved in community organizations. Here is why Founding Member Jim Anderson supports the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America:

Jim Anderson (second from left) and other riders pause for a photo at the entrance to Yellowstone National Park.

“Over the past 8 years of serving on the Board of Directors of the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America, I have learned a little about Multiple Sclerosis (MS). It is an incurable disease affecting millions, and it affects people in many different ways. But there is more to the story, or I should say stories, about the disease that needs to be shared, understood and appreciated.

I took part in a fundraising event this past week in Yellowstone National Park called SnowVenture where people rode snowmobiles through the mountain trails surrounding West Yellowstone, Montana and running into Idaho. Twenty two brave souls completed the all-day rides in sub-freezing temperatures. The most amazing part of the event was meeting several riders who live with the disease. One woman, diagnosed in 1991, brought her 87 y ear-old father to ride with her. Another man was only able to walk using crutches and it was very difficult for him to get on the snowmobile, but he and his wife persevered together.

Being with these people made me realize there is still so much about the disease I don’t know. During an emotional message, one woman said MS should stand for “Multiple Scars” as a reference to the many psychological and physical scars a person endures. She also thanked everyone for the opportunity to participate in such a life-affirming event. There are millions of stories like this around the world and hearing their stories first-hand strengthened my desire to help.

Wonderful people donated money in support of the riders participating in this SnowVenture; and the amount raised as of Sunday night exceeded $51,000! The MSAA will use these funds to support the needs of people across the United States who are dealing with the effects of Multiple Sclerosis.

For those that offered financial support for this effort, Thank You! I am very grateful for many things in my life but the support of my partners and staff at ACB in allowing me to serve the MSAA and have this experience are among the things I will always treasure and appreciate.”