msf_staff

I was shocked to login and find that it's been nearly two months since I added anything to this blog. But now that I think about it, that sounds about right. Eight weeks to plan, implement, test and deploy our new website = eight weeks of radio silence from me. Still, I apologize to anyone reading! Very shortly we'll have new editions of Six Questions With, a video interview with MS specialist Dr. Andrew Brown, and more of my general philosophizing. Expect a flurry of posts in the next few days. :-)

For now, I'll just give you the quick lowdown.

1. The new MSF website is live and fully functional. There are a lot of new features that I'm really proud of, but perhaps I'll go into more detail about that later. For now, just check it out: http://www.msfocus.org

2. The MSF forums are FINALLY working again. If you were a former forum member, you'll need to change your password. There's an announcement at the top of each forum with instructions. The doctors are already back to work answering questions on the Ask the Doctor forum, so go hit 'em up with your questions before the deluge comes in. You can get to it through the Online Community section of the website, or at http://www.msfocusforum.com

3. The Brighter Tomorrow Grant and Computer Grant Progams are ON! Make a wish and see if it comes true. :-) The grant applications are available on the website under the Programs and Activities section. I'll post in more detail about these programs and their requirements soon.

Well, that's it for me right now. Anything on your minds?

We're in the middle of the application cycle for one of my favorite programs - the Brighter Tomorrow Grant. The purpose of this grant is to provide funding for things that aren't normally covered by our other programs. But it's not just meant for needs, the beauty of it is that you can ask for wishes, too. The name says it all: through this grant, you can ask for whatever will make your tomorrow brighter.

What that is - what makes tomorrow a better day for you - is different for every person. We've seen requests for everything from riding lawn mowers to a trip to be on The Price is Right; from new drapes to a new blow-torch for an Alaskan sculptor.

Can a lawn mower change a life? You bet. Absolutely. For a person who has lost the ability to take care of this basic chore using a conventional lawn mower, a riding lawn mower gives them their independence back. It's one less thing that MS can take from them.

And some people use their wishes on behalf of others. I'll never forget the artist with MS who asked for supplies to help her give pottery classes to terminally ill children. Her story had the entire grant committee in tears.

And that's what I love about the program - each story is unique, each grant is special. It's a joy to be involved with.

If you're interested in learning more or applying for a grant, visit http://www.msfocus.org/programs_grants_bwmg.php. (Unfortunately for any international folks, you do have to be a U.S. resident.)

And to help you out, here are some inside tips about your application: ( 3 tips )