BRANDHI'S  STORY

In the spring of 2003 I woke up blind in my right eye and numb on my left side. A few weeks later I was admitted to the hospital, barely able to walk.  At the age of 13, I learned that Multiple Sclerosis (MS), an incurable and devastating disease, was responsible for these attacks on my body.

I quickly learned that the attacks weren’t just on my body, but on my mind as well.  As hard as I searched, there were no support groups and very few resources.  But worst of all were the people, including doctors and nurses, who just didn’t understand or know very much about pediatric MS.

In the ensuing years, my symptoms have not stopped. First, one side of my body would be numb and then the other.  My hands would go numb or maybe my feet, my right leg and then the left.  My eyes would be blurry or spotty or I would not be able to see anything at all.

In the early years, my greatest challenge was my own lack of hope. But, as I was reaching out for help and searching for hope I turned to God’s word where I read: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” 

I have constantly been told that I am too young to make a difference.   Since my diagnosis, God has laid it on my heart to serve the youngest people affected by Multiple Sclerosis . . . kids.  I am living proof that God has a service for ALL His children.  God has impressed upon my heart that

I am NOT too young to make a difference!

I am NOT too young to follow His plan for my life!

I am NOT too young to be used by Him!

I know God is calling me to serve these families by helping and providing them with educational programs, resources and support.  But most importantly sharing with them the HOPE that I have within me.   In October 2005, through God’s grace and mercy, I was blessed with the ability to start an organization dedicated to bringing HOPE to families affected by MS.  MS Kids Connection, Inc. is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization.  

 I know that God is my sustaining power and strength in all my weaknesses.  I look to Him everyday for guidance and strength.  I have many tasks to accomplish through the MS Kids Connection for God.  I desire and need your prayers as I follow God’s will on this journey.  I want my testimony to inspire, bring hope and challenge people to trust God no matter what.

My story is one of hope and divine blessing, not one of sympathy, frustration or fear.  Above all, it is to be an encouragement to those who have a heart to hear, a need to understand the certainty of God’s word and to be challenged to keep living their lives in pursuit of their dreams while trusting in God.

In His Service,

Brandhi Russo

Co-Founder, MS Kids Connection, Inc.