Why Multiple Sclerosis?

In the mid 1980’s, our mother Carol Oosterwyk began developing symptoms that could not be diagnosed to a specific disease. The loss of her motor skills was accompanied by fatigue and fear. By 1991, doctors were able to fully diagnose our mother with Multiple Sclerosis.

After a long deterioration that took Carol from having balance trouble and a loss of strength in her right arm, to requiring the assistance of a cane to walk around the house to being completely wheel-chair bound, she became fully dependant and unable to care for herself in any way. On March 29, 2006 Carol succumbed to the many complications set upon her by MS and passed away amongst family and friends. On April 1, 2006 Carol was laid to rest in her hometown of Wilmington, NC.

Another person affected by MS is our father, Dick Oosterwyk. Although he does not have MS himself, like many, he suffered the devastating effects that MS has on a loved one. Married for over 49 years, almost half of that was spent as the primary caregiver of someone suffering from MS, watching the toll it was taking each year on his wife until she could fight no longer.

Since then, we have personally discovered dozens of people affected by Multiple Sclerosis. Some of whom that have MS, others who have family members with MS. Some of who have friends that are suffering from MS. MS touches thousands within our community.

To show our support in the fight against Multiple Sclerosis, we have organized the Oosterwyk Golf Classic. The Oosterwyk Golf Classic is our way to help spread information and awareness about Multiple Sclerosis and help raise money so that the National Multiple Sclerosis Society can continue its fight against MS. All proceeds raised from the tournament will go directly to the Hampton Roads Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. With your support, we can help the National Multiple Sclerosis Society fund vital research and provide local services to improve the lives of people with MS and their families. Whether you support the cause through your participation in our charity golf event or with a generous donation, your time and money is deeply appreciated.