My Journey to Make an Impact on Multiple Sclerosis & Breast Cancer
Impact isn’t something we stumble into, it’s something shaped by the people we love, the experiences that change us, and the moments that force us to see the world differently. My journey toward advocating for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Breast Cancer awareness began long before I ever held a leadership position or stepped into a nonprofit office. It started at home.
My Why
In 2007, my mom was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. I grew up watching her navigate a disease that can be unpredictable, exhausting, and invisible to the outside world. Her resilience shaped my understanding of strength—real strength—and it taught me what it means to show up for others with consistency and compassion. Years later, in 2022, my aunt passed away from breast cancer. Losing her was heartbreaking, but it also deepened my commitment to supporting those touched by the disease and to advocating for education, early detection, and research.
2nd Dec. 2025
Elizabeth Cox
As Vice President of Philanthropy and Service for my sorority,
I had the opportunity to transform that purpose into action. Our chapter’s philanthropic focus on breast cancer education and awareness gave me the platform to lead impactful initiatives, foster community involvement, and create programs that empowered women to advocate for their own health. I learned how to inspire participation, build partnerships, and turn a mission into momentum. In this role, we broke university records by raising over $23,000.
That path naturally led me to work with the National MS Society,
where I served as an Event Experience Intern. Working behind the scenes on fundraising events and community programs allowed me to connect my personal story with professional experience. I saw firsthand how nonprofits mobilize hope—how every event, every fundraiser, and every shared story becomes fuel for progress.
I have been volunteering with the NMSS for the past 12 years. My passion to work with them came to life over the summer of 2025, where I got to work on facilitating and planning the events.
These Impact Women The Most
Over 70% of Multiple Sclerosis patients and over 99% of Breast Cancer patients are women. This is something that directly impacts not only my family, but also my community. To think that 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their life is absolutely daunting. We CAN make a change, we just have to start trying even harder.
These two causes, MS and breast cancer, are woven into my life. They’ve shaped who I am, how I lead, and the impact I hope to make moving forward. I’m driven to continue raising awareness, supporting research, and creating spaces where patients, families, and caregivers feel seen and supported.
My journey isn’t just about honoring my mom and aunt. It’s about building a future where no one has to navigate these diagnoses alone. And as I move into the next chapter of my career, I’m committed to bringing this purpose with me, whether I’m serving communities, leading initiatives, or amplifying the voices of those fighting every day.