MS Society of Canada offers transformational scholarship opportunity for youth affected by multiple sclerosis

$25,000 awarded to youth pursuing a post-secondary education in areas of science, technology, engineering or math

February 3, 2016 – Toronto – The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada is proud to announce the John Helou Scholarship – made possible through the generous support of Pfizer and Innovative Medicines Canada – an innovative approach to supporting young Canadians who are affected by multiple sclerosis. Named for John Helou, Immediate Past Chair, Innovative Medicines Canada and President, Pfizer Canada Inc., the scholarshipwill award up to two exceptional youth who plan to complete a post-secondary degree in the areas of science, technology, engineering or math (STEM) – academic streams that directly influence ongoing work to end MS.

“We are pleased to offer the John Helou Scholarship to empower youth with the financial support they need to overcome the financial obstacles that often accompany a personal or familial diagnosis of MS,” says Sylvia Leonard, National Vice President, Programs & Services, MS Society of Canada. “This opportunity will enable high-achieving young Canadians to reach their full potential and become a part of the next generation of MS leaders.”

All eligible candidates are required to submit a completed scholarship application form no later than March 31, 2016, 11:59pm ET. Recipients must be enrolled in a science, technology, engineering or math undergraduate program for the 2016/17 academic year and will receive $6,250 per year for four years to apply to tuition – for a total scholarship of $25,000.

For more information about the John Helou Scholarship, including eligibility criteria, and other scholarship opportunities available from the MS Society of Canada, the public may visit mssociety.ca/scholarships.

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About multiple sclerosis and the MS Society of Canada

Canada has the highest rate of multiple sclerosis in the world. MS is a chronic, often disabling disease of the central nervous system comprising the brain, spinal cord and optic nerve. It is one of the most common neurological diseases affecting young adults in Canada. Most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 40, and the unpredictable effects of MS last for the rest of their lives. The MS Society provides services to people with MS and their families and funds research to find the cause and cure for this disease. Please visit mssociety.ca or call 1-800-268-7582 to make a donation or for more information.

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Contact:

Lindsay Gulin, MS Society of Canada

416-922-6600 ext. 3245
lindsay.gulin@mssociety.ca