b'Simple Application, Big Rewards Meighan requested a Foredom Flex Shaft The application process is straightforward to a precision tool for polishing rocks, gemstones, ensure accessibility for all eligible individuals.and fossilsa hobby that has helped her cope Applicants must be U.S. residents, older thanwith anxiety, rebuild her ne motor skills, and 18(oraparentofaminorwithMS),andstay connected to a passion she shares with demonstrate nancial need not covered byher daughter. "Being able to have something insurance or other programs. The request mustI can look forward to, something I can actually also not be available through other MS Focusdo has been everything to me since I retired grants, such as those for healthcare assistancefrom nursing," she said. or mobility aids.Her experience working with Allen stood Once applications are received, a five- out as a particularly meaningful part of the member committee reviews each submission.process. "Ms. Allen treated me with so much "We meet weekly to go through the letters," Allenrespect and dignity. She followed up on my said. "We look for requests that clearly explainapplication with an urgency I didn\'t expect, how the grant will make a tangible differenceand that made me feel so valued," Meighan in someone\'s life."recalls. The grant provided her with the tool she Inspiring Stories needed to continue her hobby, and shifted her For many, receiving the grant is more thanperspective. "This showed me that the little a nancial boostit\'s a lifeline that restoresthings that make me who I am are important. hope and optimism.Having something to hold onto, beyond the For Nia Jones from Portland, Ore., the Brighternecessities, is what gives me a reason to keep Tomorrow Grant brought her closer to nature,going every day," she said. a passion she holds dear. "I really enjoy beingJennifer Saulters Hall, of Columbia, S.C., out in nature, and receiving a foldable Orua nursing student and mother of three, used kayak through the Brighter Tomorrow Granther grant to change her purchase to request has made it so much more accessible," shea three-wheeled bicycle. "MS has taken so said. "For me, a Brighter Tomorrow with MS ismuch from me, but this trike has given me continuing to do what I love. Sometimes thatback some independence and a way to enjoy looks like adapting activities, and other timestime with my family," she said. like nding new ways to explore."Looking AheadA nurse for more than 17 years, MeighanThe Brighter Tomorrow Grant is more than Smart from Big Spring, Texas, has had toa programit\'s a testament to the power of step back from her career because of MS, acommunity,generosity,andresilience.As transition that left her grappling with feelingsAllensaid,"Helpingsomeoneachievea of loss and uncertainty. Her journey to applyingbrighter tomorrow is an incredible feeling. It\'s for the Brighter Tomorrow Grant was deeplya reminder of why we do what we do." personal. "I realized I was telling my patientsFor those considering applying in the future, to put themselves first, but I wasn\'t livingAllen offers this advice: "Think about what what I preached. Applying for the granttruly makes you smile. What\'s that one thing allowed me to embrace discomfort and askthat would make your life better but seems for something I wouldn\'t have dared to before,"just out of reach? That\'s what the Brighter she said.Tomorrow Grant is here to provide." msfocusmagazine.org 25'