In Loving Memory of Brad Russell
It is with an extremely heavy heart that we share the sad news of the passing of our dear friend and long-time MS Alliance community member, Brad Russell. Brad passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at 6:00 pm, according to his long-time friend Carolyn.
Bradford Harold “Brad” Russell, age 68, of Roanoke, passed away at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital. He was born in Belleview, Washington on November 3, 1956, to the late Vernon Herbert Russell and Erica Marjory Russell.
Brad was a cherished member of our MS Alliance community, and his presence will be deeply missed. Carolyn shared that Brad “sure loved his MS family,” and we know that his kindness and camaraderie touched many lives within our group.
Outside of our community, Brad had a vibrant life filled with passions. He was an avid golfer, enjoyed playing the guitar, and shared his musical talents by singing in a group, solo, and through karaoke. Brad was also a dedicated worker, having owned his own business installing garage doors and most recently working for the City of Roanoke at the Berglund Center.
Brad is survived by his brother, Bruce Russell (Pamela); two nieces and two nephews; and his special friend, Carolyn Rock.
We extend our deepest condolences to Brad’s family and friends during this difficult time. We will always remember his warmth, his spirit, and the connection he fostered within our MS Alliance community.
In remembrance of Brad’s dedication to our community, and in lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to support the MS Alliance and the vital work we do.
Donate in Memory of Brad by clicking HERE.
Bradford Harold “Brad” Russell
November 3, 1956 ~ March 25, 2025
IRX4204 Promotes Myelin Repair, Improves Gait in MS Mouse Model
IRX4204, a compound that Io Therapeutics is developing to treat neurological diseases, facilitated myelin repair and improved walking abilities in a mouse model of multiple sclerosis (MS) in a recent study, scientists report. “Our findings support the therapeutic...
MS Treatments Don’t Raise Miscarriage, Birth Defect Risk: Study
Most treatments for multiple sclerosis (MS) don’t increase the risk of major problems when used during pregnancy, an analysis showed. “We found that most therapies were not associated with an increased risk of miscarriage, premature birth or major birth defects,”...
Changing Neurologists Yet Again to Treat My MS
I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) in 2014. Over the past 10 years, my MS has been managed by five healthcare providers. That’s not how I envisioned my MS care. I’ve had the same primary care provider for almost 20 years, and I naively thought I’d be able to...
If I Knew Then What I Know Now – Neurologist Visit Considerations
It’s true and I know a good majority of you have thought the same thing. If we only knew then, what we know now, we would have acted sooner rather than later. My journey began sometime around 1985. I assumed my physical changes were due to getting older and I adjusted...
Phase 2 Trial Testing Foralumab in Nonactive SPMS Adds 6 US Sites
Tiziana Life Sciences is expanding its Phase 2 clinical trial testing foralumab nasal spray for the treatment of nonactive secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS), with six additional clinical sites across the northeastern region of the U.S. The new sites, all...
The Virginia Energy Assistance Program (EAP) assists low-income households in meeting their immediate home energy needs. The EAP consists of four components: Fuel Assistance, Crisis Assistance, Cooling Assistance and Weatherization Assistance. Click on the flyer for more information.
Our Mission Statement
Provide programs, events, activities and services for people living with MS in Southwest Virginia and the surrounding areas, including veterans.
Educate and empower people with MS, their care partners, friends and family. We will guide people to organizations that may be able to assist with their needs.
Contribute to awareness in the community, including educational programs to young people, first responders and community organizations.
Encourage and expand support groups to include assisted-living facilities, homebound people and help others start upbeat groups like ours.