The Multiple Sclerosis Foundation awarded the crew of “Oceans of Hope” its prestigious National Beacon Award during the “Hats Off” Gala on December 6. This award acknowledges achievements in generating broad awareness of multiple sclerosis and the challenges faced by those affected.

“Oceans of Hope” is an initiative of the Sailing Sclerosis Foundation. The nine-member international crew of the vessel is comprised primarily of persons with MS, whose project is to circumnavigate the globe aboard a 67-foot sailboat. A leg of their extraordinary journey brought them to Fort Lauderdale, Fla., coinciding with the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation’s premier event on Dec. 6. Their next stop is the Panama Canal. During their visits, local MS patients have the opportunity to go out on the water with the crew. They also offer opportunities to travel the long legs between destinations.

“The members of the crew with MS are true champions of courage as they endure the challenges presented by their long ocean voyage,” says Jules Kuperberg, Co-Executive Director of the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation. “Their efforts demonstrate that individuals with MS can continue to accomplish their dreams, in spite of their diagnosis.”

The Multiple Sclerosis Foundation is a leading publicly funded non-profit organization with national headquarters located at 6520 N. Andrews Ave., Fort Lauderdale. Visit msfocus.org.