b'Charo SledgeNominated Michael SledgeConyers, Ga.I was diagnosed with MS in 2011. My husband, Michael, immediately began to learn all he could about MS to support me. Now, 11 years later, he is an unwavering and supportive caregiver. He encourages me beyond the limitations I inadvertently place on myself, and the victories are much sweeter. He has never once complained or appeared frustrated with me or the illness when I have less-than-stellar days. He works with me and holds my hand when I dont feel like working out. With his support, I continue to thrive despite MS.Debera ReileyNominated Gavin DerekSeattle, Wash.Gavin is my special person. I live alone and have issues with balance and some cognitive decline. In the past nine years, besides MS, I have had breast cancer, four surgeries, cataract surgery, and foot surgery (drop foot as a result or cause). If I have needed help getting down the stairs, moving boxes, driving to the doctors office, or someone to talk to and sometimes complain to or spend Christmas with, Gavin is always there. He remembers my birthday, the day my son was killed in an accident, the holidays, or just for no reason, I nd owers at my door. Sometimes, he goes for coffee and leaves one for me on the porch. He tells me by text with a photo and arrow where he left the hot coffee. It is not just to me to whom he is kind"his kindness and caring is passed to any and everyone throughout his day." Gavin is unique in more ways than I can tell you. Yet, he has his own physical issues. He was born with physical deformities. He will never complain, but I can see it on his face. My life would be decidedly empty without himnot for what he does for me, but who he is.Laurie KorbaNominated Mike KorbaStreetsboro, OhioIve had MS for 25 years, which has progressed to total quadriplegia for the last ve years. And, theres no way I could manage it or be blessed with still being able to get around without my husband, Mike. He is the one who gets me through each day. He is the greatest caregiver, beyond patient, my biggest cheerleader, and he takes care of me in every wayfrom making and feeding me all my meals to daily hygiene and stretches to simply taking me to the mall to shop or to a concert to enjoy life. He puts me before anything else, we are a team, and I love him very much.23 msfocusmagazine.org'