Event raises funds for MS Center

FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP- CentraState Healthcare Foundation held a wine tasting last month that raised a record $216,000 for its Multiple Sclerosis Center. More than 400 people attended the event.

The hospital also recognized three honorees for their longstanding commitment to philanthropic activities, support of nonprofit organizations and professional accomplishments. They were John Franco, retired pitcher for the New York Mets who has supported several charitable organizations, including the March of Dimes and charities for children of 9/11; Dr. Stuart D. Cook, retired president of the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey and director of the UMDNJ Medical School Department of Neurology/Neurosciences MS Center; and John M. D'Amato, a supporter of CentraState's MS Center and a member of the CentraState MS Benefit Committee who died this year after a long battle with MS.

"MS is an important subject," said Franco, whose longtime friend Frank Caparaso with MS also attended the event. Franco and Caparaso played baseball together at St. John's University. "CentraState is doing a great thing. I'm here to show support for my friend Cappy and others with MS. There's a great need for such services in the community."

According to a press release, the CentraState Multiple Sclerosis Center was developed with the support of the Mid- Jersey Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society to bring comprehensive care to people with MS and their families. Patients receive coordinated care for evaluation, education and treatment in a range of specialties.

A multidisciplinary team includes a nurse coordinator, neurologist, and physical, speech and occupational therapists, and other specialists as required. The center also offers nutritional services, patient education/counseling, and complementary medicine therapies such as Reiki.