The Board of the Directors of CCSVI Alliance wants to take this opportunity to THANK Jennine Miller Kelley, Joanne and Charles Miller and their entire community of friends and family for raising $11,100 for the Alliance!

Please check out the great pics from this day

link to photos

Opening Minds for CCSVI--Cruisin' for Multiple Sclerosis 2012 was held Saturday, September 8th in Northford, CT.  Despite the odd weather that rolled in to town that day (with a rare tornado warning issued for the area!)  the event saw fifty unique vehicles participate.  Participants drove in from all over New England.  Attendees listened to the classic music of the fifties and sixties, thanks to D.J. Frankie B., while admiring the vehicles, talking with the owners and chowing down on grilled burgers, prepared by the wonderful volunteers of North Branford Fire Company #3.

Jennine and her parents skillfully handled the set up, welcoming and registration of participants with the help of the Doo-Wop Cruisers, while several local volunteers manned the raffle and prize tables. Many local merchants generously donated goods and services for the raffle.  There were vacations, auto and lawn care items, gift certificates and gift baskets donated.  There were plenty of snacks and beverages to purchase, too.  Prizes were awarded to the vehicles in a variety of categories, including the Kids' Choice and Best in Show.  My Mom, Miriam Miller, and I sat at the CCSVI Alliance information table. I grew up in town, where my Mom still resides. She's the one who first got the news of CCSVI out into her community, by telling her neighbors about the research.  Mom and I sold a dozen of Marie Rhode's book, CCSVI as the Cause of Multiple Sclerosis, with all profits donated to the Alliance.  We also got commitments from several purchasers to place a copy of this important book in their local libraries. 

It was wonderful seeing our community coming together to express their love and support for Jennine, and their hope for more answers for all those living with Multiple Sclerosis.  

It's because of volunteers like Jennine, Joanne, Charlie, my Mom and all of us, that CCSVI research is supported.  It's because of individuals taking time out of their very busy lives --and believe me, Jennine has her hands full with two small boys, a full time job and all that entails---to make a difference in someone's life.  And it's important to acknowledge the work that continues, thanks to Alliance President Sharon Richardson and our dedicated board of directors and administrative support.  The Alliance continues to bring doctors and patients together to encourage the exploration of the connection of CCSVI in MS, and other neurological diseases.

So, if you have an idea for a fundraiser that you think might be suited for your community, please contact us! The Walk and Roll fundraiser in Tampa last year and the Car Show this year are great examples of fun, educational, and inspirational events.   It's these grassroots efforts that bring towns together, and help keep CCSVI research in the local media.

We can't do this without your support!  Our thanks again to the Miller/Kelley families and thanks to all of you who continue to encourage our efforts!

If you'd still like to make a donation to Opening Minds for CCSVI, Cruisin' for Multiple Sclerosis 2012 you can visit www.cruisin4ms.ccsvi.org.  All our THANKS!

Joan Beal for the Alliance Board