2010 Most Inspirational Walkers

Frank Austin - Orange County

Frank is an active member of our chapter. He is a long-time member of four government relation committees and has worked with the California Volunteers Disaster Corps.

He is an ambassador for our chapter, a self-help men's group leader and leads his own walk team. He is the champion for the Mitsubishi Motors Bike MS team; they ride in his honor every year.

And he is a social media enthusiast - blogging and Facebooking to raise awareness about and raise funds for multiple sclerosis. He is truly an inspiring individual.

Chris Smigliani - San Diego/Carlsbad

Chris first experienced symptoms of MS at the age of 22, though he wasn’t diagnosed until he was 30. An athlete, he played hockey and baseball throughout high school and pitched for Tulane during his college years. After receiving his law degree, he decided to join the intel department of the US Border Patrol.

Chris got involved with the chapter in 2001 by becoming one of the first volunteers for the MS Angel visitation program. He visited Richard in a long-term care facility and brought support and friendship over the span of two years. He was always sure to bring pizza and stay for awhile and make sure Richard knew he was not alone in his battle against MS.

He has faced his own mobility challenges due to MS but he hasn't let it get him down. His wonderful attitude, sense of humor and humility has inspired the entire staff of the National MS Society. He is an integral part of the Team Smig golf committee as well as a top fundraiser who attends the San Diego walk.