Donna Wattman first became involved with the National MS Society more than 30 years ago, shortly after she received her own diagnosis. It had become too challenging for her to continue working full-time, so she instead dedicated her time as a volunteer for the National MS Society in the New York City office. For many years, she helped with whatever was needed to be accomplished within the office and at events.
Eventually, Donna's MS progressed to a stage where she couldn't manage riding the bus any longer and had to stop volunteering. Around that time, her husband Malcolm ("Mal") — a man with many years of legal and financial experience on Wall Street — joined the Board in New York City as an outlet to support his wife and other people living with MS.
Today, Donna describes her husband as "Mr. MS" and says he is "the smartest guy she's ever known." Through his contribution of time, Mal has played an important role in the progress of MS research, as well as making life easier for those who are living with this disease. As a longstanding board member (serving as both a National Director and local trustee), he's optimistic about where things stand today.
"The Society has recently renewed their focus on talking about a cure" says Mal. "Researchers are far enough along that the concept of a cure is now possible. We are getting on top of the progression of the disease, and maybe someday will be able to end it forever."
Mal and Donna have been recognized for their incredible contributions at a virtual version of the New York City Dinner of Champions, something that Donna says was "such an honor." In addition to their generosity of time, Donna and Mal have recently achieved an incredible milestone in their personal giving and fundraising — they have given and raised a collective $1 million in support over the years.
Armed with a fierce desire to help however they can, Donna and Mal have also become members of the prestigious Lawry Circle by designating gifts through their will and the charitable annuity program. By making this commitment, they hope to set an example for all other supporters concerned about finding a cure in the future.
"We hope to support cures and different ways of helping people who have this disease," Mal says. "Fortunately, we have had a good life, and we want to give back to other people," adds Donna.
You can change the world for people with MS. Visit our website to learn more about planning for retirement and options for leaving a planned gift to the National MS Society, or contact giftplanning@nmss.org.