The Betaseron® Champions of CourageSM program recognizes the extraordinary achievements of people with MS and provides financial grants to support their inspirational activities. Grants can be used to underwrite motivating activities ranging from patient programs and community events to physical challenges.
“Bob’s courage, perseverance and dedication to community service is tremendous,” said Eric Simons, motivational speaker who has MS, and chairman of the Betaseron® Champions of CourageSM Board. “We hope his story will inspire others with MS.”
Climbing Mountains – Despite MS
Hughes, a self-described outdoorsman with a passion for travel, athletics, and wilderness experiences, used the Betaseron® Champions of CourageSM award to participate in a climbing and outdoor course that was specially tailored for people with disabilities. The trip took place in the Sierra Nevada mountains near Yosemite, California, August 24-28.
A graduate of Florida State, Hughes played almost every sport imaginable. Then, at age 32, he was diagnosed with MS. “At first the doctors barely thought I had MS,” recalls Hughes. “But two years later, we were talking wheelchairs.”
Through rigorous physical therapy and consistent treatment with MS medications including Betaseron®, Hughes walks with a cane and uses a scooter for longer excursions. His MS has primarily progressed to his legs, affecting coordination and balance and causing spasticity. He was assisted through the challenging parts of the climbing trip by able-bodied climbers.
“The loss of mobility has been tough – especially not being able to play sports with my kids and do things with my family. But I try to focus each day on what I can do, and, above all, to keep my sense of humor,” says Hughes.
Dedication to Community Service
A successful insurance salesman and Orlando native, Hughes had been active in the community long before the onset of MS. Active in First Baptist Church/Orlando, he served on several community boards, including the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and he chaired the YMCA’s camping board. Upon learning he had the disease, the 42-year-old College Park resident did not curtail his involvement: in fact, he took on new challenges. His latest cause: the Mid Florida chapter of the National MS Society (NMSS).
“I believe that I help myself when I help others,” says Hughes. “Giving back is about the best therapy out there.”
Putting his money where his mouth is, through a broad network of friends and family, Hughes raised more than $30,000 for the NMSS. He currently is a nominee for the Board of Directors of the NMSS Mid Florida Chapter.
“Bob is a tremendous asset to our organization,” said Tami Caesar, president of the Mid Florida Chapter of the NMSS. “We are lucky he has chosen to devote so much of his energy to assisting others affected by this disease.”
“I have been blessed with phenomenal support of family and friends,” says Hughes speaking of his wife of 17 years, Susan, children Jonathan, 14, and Megan, 8, and his parents Wally and Ann Hughes. “And, I’ve held onto my sense of humor. I have seen people become hard and bitter because of their disease, and I have chosen not to be that way.”
“Bob’s positive attitude embodies the spirit of the Champions of Courage program. We hope his example will inspire more people with MS to press on with their lives,” said Randall Schapiro, MD, Medical Director of Fairview MS Center, and Champions of Courage board member. “We want to hear from other patients who have goals that will motivate and empower others – whether it involves a program for patients, a community effort or a physical endeavor.”
About the Betaseron® Multiple Sclerosis Champions of CourageSM
Funded by a grant from Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals, Inc., the Betaseron® Champions of CourageSM (BCC) program provides grants to Betaseron® patients who have demonstrated unique courage or initiative in overcoming MS. To enter, individuals must be taking Betaseron®, demonstrate a commitment to their communities, and outline how they will use a grant to inspire others. BCC will award 3-5 additional grants this year. Applications can be obtained by calling 1-202-363-3378 or at www.championsofcourage.org.
