'MS is BS Gala’ provides support for families in community

By Ed Pierce

When Skylar Welch’s husband Bryan was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis three years ago, she could have given up and become just another family member victimized by this tragic disease. But as many people know, Skylar Welch is no ordinary individual, and the former Windham resident helped her family create a gala to support MS families and raise awareness about MS in the community.

Skylar Welch, right, and her husband Bryan Welch, are
hosting the Second Annual 'MS is BS Gala' on Saturday,
June 14 at Moonlit Ride Estate in Otisfield to assist
those suffering from Multiple Sclerosis and their
families. Bryan Welch, 42, was diagnosed with MS
three years ago. SUBMITTED PHOTO  

The Second Annual “MS is BS Gala” will be held from 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, June 14 at Moonlit Ride Estate in Otisfield with proceeds to benefit ‘MS is BS New England,” assisting those with MS with expenses not covered by insurance.

“I knew the first thing I had to do was to host a gala to raise money for the cause and to raise awareness about MS,” Welch said. “It affects so many people. In everyday conversations I have with others, I hear about cousins, aunts, nieces and hardships faced by those with MS. There are needs that insurance isn’t covering such as some people who can’t get their scooter into their car and need an attachment to do that.”

Through last year’s event at Moonlit Ride Estate, Welch and her family raised $68,000 for “MS is BS New England” at the 300-seat venue.

“We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support and are excited to build on that momentum this year” Welch said.

Multiple Sclerosis is a long-lasting (chronic) disease of the central nervous system and is thought to be an autoimmune disorder, a condition in which the body attacks itself by mistake. Physicians say that MS is an unpredictable disease that affects people differently. Some people with MS may have only mild symptoms while others may lose their ability to see clearly, write, speak, or walk when communication between the brain and other parts of the body becomes disrupted.

The Welch family lived in Windham for five years before moving to Falmouth and she said it was heartwarming to see so many of her former neighbors and friends attend last year’s MS Gala.

“It’s been honestly so amazing to see the support for this and to see so many businesses donating to help,” Welch said. “We know what people are going through. The newly diagnosed are looking for support but find that there aren’t a lot of resources out there.”

The Welchs and their three children ages 7, 10 and 13 are all actively involved in the fundraiser, including making “MS is BS” bracelets.

The formal-attire event features a live and a silent auction with more than 100 items, including a full weekend wedding and planning services and a gorgeous new wedding dress.

There will be live bands and live performers, dessert bars, cocktail stations, an aerialist stilt troupe and a 360-degree photo booth.

Tickets cost $100 and that includes a drink, a food ticket and shuttle service if needed. The Moonlit Ride Estate is 6 miles from Oxford Casino and onsite parking is available.

“It’s very fulfilling to see so many people to love and support us,” Welch said.

To purchase tickets, go to https://givebutter.com/Moonlitgivesback2 or to learn more about the “MS is BS Gala,” call 207-239-3741. <