Phil Palasz is an advocate for the more than 10,000 people in Wisconsin who live with MS. His work keeps the dream of a better future alive for those afflicted with the disease, including his brother and aunt. Yet his hopes and dreams for his own future were beginning to fade. That’s where the Remodeling Homes Reshaping Lives project stepped in.
Phil was an electronic technician enjoying the life he shared with his wife and two children until a Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis in 1991 changed everything. His health deteriorated rapidly to the point that he now uses a wheelchair and is unable to work in his profession.
Phil’s wife Denise stepped up to the challenge, working full time while balancing the responsibilities of raising two children and taking care of the home. She has recently completed her teaching certification and will be starting her new profession in the Fall as a teacher at St. Rafael School. Daughter Jackie is a student at St. Norbert College where she is studying graphic design. Son Joe is a junior at Whitnall High School where he is active in sports.
While requesting relatively minor changes in the home that would improve accessibility for himself, Phil really wanted to create rooms for enjoyment for his wife and children who he feels deserve the project more than he does.
What makes this project so special is that the family is so wonderfully down to earth. They are committed to their faith, family, and community, and have been humbled by the outpouring of support they have received.
The Palasz family has stood together through the many challenges of MS. The Remodeling Homes Reshaping Lives project has allowed the MBA and its members to send in reinforcements and show the Palasz family that they are not in this battle alone. |
