Team 'Demyelinate This' raises $7K for MS research

WEST MILFORD — Tom Ziegenbalg of State Farm in West Milford wanted to do something special for one of his employees. Lyndsay Wright is a young woman who lives each day with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Wright is active in the National MS Society and a participant each year in the group's fund-raising walk-a-thon.

Ziegenbalg has held a community shredding event for the past two years - and he hopes for many years to come. This year, though, Ziegenbalg decided to raise money on behalf of the National MS Society in honor of Wright, as well as the many others who face the unpredictable nature of MS. The shredding event was free to community members but Ziegenbalg asked for donations to the MS Society.

Not surprisingly, the community came through, raising $1,000 for MS.

"As someone who personally faces the unpredictable nature of MS, I can't even tell you have incredibly kind and generous the community of West Milford is," said Wright. "Everyone was more than willing to donate and we even had people who weren't even participating in shredding day, walk over and place a donation on behalf of the MS Society. It was an amazing feeling and I am so very thankful for all those who donated."

For his part, Ziegenbalg said Wright is an inspiration.

"Lyndsay has been an inspiration to many and it was with great pleasure that we were able to successfully run this event a second year and raise money for a great cause," he said. "We owe each and every one of you a big thank you for your support."

Wright had her team in place on April 14 in Ridgefield Park for the MS Walk. Her team, Demyelinate This, consisted of 35 members and raised about $7,000 this year, all going to research for multiple sclerosis, a chronic, often disabling disease that attacks the central nervous system. Wright was diagnosed with the debilitating disease in 2008, when she was just 17. Her positive outlook and determination have helped her continue to live a vital and active life.

"I actively involve myself in MS-related events and always stay on top of the latest developments and research efforts," said Wright, who is head of marketing for an electronic component distributor. "I've kept my motivation and determination at a top level. Having MS doesn't mean your life has to stop; it means it can only get better."

Wright was grateful for the support from the public and especially Ziegenbalg. The support, she said, helps.

"You learn about new strengths you never knew you had and it makes dealing with the bad days, much easier. It definitely helps that I have a strong support system who is there for me through thick and thin."