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Andrea Martin, huge part of Comox Valley Scotiabank MS Walk

Andrea Martin has raised upwards of $100,000 for the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada since 2004
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DEDICATED AND PROLIFIC fundraiser Andrea Martin has raised more than $100

The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada – North Vancouver Island Chapter recognizes the fundraising achievement of Andrea Martin, who has raised upwards of $100,000 since 2004.

The primary focus of Martin's efforts is the Comox Valley Scotiabank MS Walk. This year, she raised $15,000, again making her the top individual fundraiser of the event — as has been the case since 2006.

"It is no understatement that the Comox Valley MS Walk would be a very different event and the financial outcome would be very much impacted without Andrea's involvement," said Cherie Kamenz, chapter fundraising co-ordinator. "She consistently raises anywhere from 25 to 35 per cent of the total funds brought in by the MS Walk. We are very grateful for her support and believe she deserves to be recognized in the wider community for her work with the MS Society of Canada."

Martin's network of support includes her husband, Ryan Williams, her parents and her mother–in–law, Susan O'Boyle, all of whom make generous annual donations to the society by way of personal donations, sponsorship of Ski for MS, and third party fundraising events.

Her husband, a realtor, contributes every year with contributions based on a specific amount per transaction from the past year. In April, he donated $3,300 to his wife, which brings his overall MS Walk donations to just over $17,000 since 2004. He has also been a bronze level sponsor of Ski for MS since 2008.

O'Boyle hosts an annual fundraising auction and dinner under the banner of Andrea's Atlantic Allies. Since 2004, she has raised more than $59,000 at this event. She was instrumental in ensuring that Andrea surpass the $100,000 milestone this year.

Martin also receives donations from friends, family and members of the community.

In 2005, she created her fundraising team, Andrea's Allies, to encourage others to get involved in the fight against MS. A teacher at École Robb Road, Martin educates students about MS and inspires them to join fundraise with her. Over the years, Andrea's Allies have included students and former students who, with the support of parents, have raised $3,116.95 at the MS Walk and Ski for MS.

In addition to those who become Andrea's Allies team members and fundraise, many more of her student's families make donations directly to Andrea and then come out to the MS Walk to support her. With all of this support, it has not been unusual over years to have upwards of 40 people in Andrea's Allies team photos.

As well as being an avid MS Walk fundraiser and team captain, Andrea has also volunteered for our annual Carnation Campaign and assisted with initial planning Ski for MS. She is always happy to help, eager to be involved and brings out the best in everyone around her.

The MS Society of Canada raises 95 per cent of its revenue independently through personal and corporate donations.

— MS Society of Canada