Brett
MS Advocate

Brett has been a Firefighter/Paramedic with Snohomish Regional Fire & Rescue since 2001 and is a member of the department's water rescue team.  With a background in competitive swimming and water polo, doing a water-related physical challenge in order to raise money for MS seemed like an obvious choice.

"Kristen is one of the toughest people I know.  She never gives up, and very rarely complains.  The physical challenge I'm undertaking is nothing compared to what she, and thousands of MS patients like her, struggle with every day.  

I realize treading water for 24 hours sounds like a crazy idea.  A couple of my fellow firefighters did a similar challenge 15 years ago for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and spent 24 hours on a Stairmaster.  Personally, I think THAT sounds insane.  I've done a few 8 hour sessions in preparation, and although they weren't too bad I know 24 hours will be tough.  In the end I think it will be more of a mental challenge than a physical one, but with the support of my family, friends, and fellow firefighters I know I can do it."

Kristen was a first grade teacher for many years before MS forced her to leave the classroom.  Diagnosed with relapse remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) when she was 22 years old, it eventually progressed to secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS) when she reached her mid 40's. 

"When I was diagnosed treatment was limited.  Now almost 30 years later, thanks to continued research, MS patients have a wide range of treatment options available, from medications to different mobility aids. 

The support of my family has been my biggest blessing, especially my husband Brett.  He has been by my side since my first MRI, pushing me to not let MS rule my life.  He is a great cheerleader and caregiver, and without him I wouldn't be doing as well as I am today." 

Kristen
MS Patient