Rockwall, TX (April 29, 2024) – Rockwall High School Sophomore Blake Turley has dreams to someday pursue veterinary medicine but for a few days in March he was immersed in another side of medicine… that of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Blake’s mom, Lori, was diagnosed in February 2021 with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). The diagnosis came as a surprise for the entire family – with Lori’s diagnosis coming within 5 days of falling ill.
The effects were debilitating. But Lori is thankful for a very supportive family including her husband Aaron, and two sons, Blake (16) and Reece (12).
“I had to grow up fast,” says Blake. “My father is a CPA and works a lot, especially in the spring, and when my mom is not feeling well, I have to take care of my little brother.”
Lori says giving up her 21-year career in education was very difficult, “I felt I lost my purpose”.
It was then with encouragement from friends and family she began participation in fundraising walks. From there, she learned of opportunities to participate in lobbying efforts, with a lot of support and education from the MS Society. Now, just a year later and with several lobbying visits under her belt, the exciting opportunity arose for Blake to join her.
“Blake was the youngest person to lobby with the MS Society this year,” Lori says proudly. “He did a great job explaining the impact of his mom having MS on his life.”
Venturing to the national capitol, Blake was admittedly nervous, not sure that he could make much of an impact or sure if he could even help.
The MS Society provided the delegations across the United States with education so they learn all they can in short time about the need for research and extended telehealth opportunities.
Arriving on Capitol Hill, astounded by the vast size of the buildings, Blake says he briefly prepared what he would say in sharing his experience of having a mother with MS. “After that first meeting” Blake says, “I wasn’t nervous anymore. I just spoke off the top of my head.”
As part of the Texas delegation, Blake met Senator John Cornyn, and staff of Ted Cruz’ and Pat Fallon’s offices speaking to the disease, its impacts, and what the greatest needs are. While these meetings might seem to be limited to seasoned politicians, Blake recalls noticing how young the staff members were.
But, while their purpose on the hill was important, Blake says the most compelling moment is learning the many stories of those in attendance from around the nation. He always knew that those diagnosed with MS could be affected in many different ways, but it was different to see that firsthand.
“Sometimes you cannot tell there is anything wrong with my mom” says Blake. “But then you see others in wheelchairs, and you realize how much this disease can impact people’s lives.”
Blue Ribbon News Staff Report. Courtesy photos.
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