Celebrating 10 years of community, connection, and hope. Discover Our Story

Awards & Recognition

Honoring courage, service, creativity, and hope.

Awards tell stories. They recognize people who encourage others, professionals who expand opportunities, community members who live with courage, and programs that turn ideas into meaningful experiences. MS Bright Spots of Hope is proud to celebrate recognition that reflects the values at the heart of our organization. This page celebrates recognition received by founder Michelle Keating — honors that reflect the values at the heart of our organization.

Honors & Awards

A history of recognition

Recent Honors

  1. 2026

    LiveWiseMS Award

    International Organization of Multiple Sclerosis Nurses (IOMSN)

    Recognizes the contributions of an MS nurse in sustaining health and wellness in herself, her patients and families, and her colleagues.

  2. 2024

    John Elder Spirit Award

    Recognizing someone who demonstrates John’s love of cycles, cycling, and courageous spirit while living with the challenges of MS.

Program & Community Recognition

  1. 2021

    Florence Nightingale Award

    Dance Movement Program

  2. 2020

    Florence Nightingale Award

    Bright Spots Cycling Adventure

  3. 2016

    Award for Dedication

    MS Cruisers

  4. 2012

    Woman of Courage

    National Multiple Sclerosis Society Gateway Chapter

  5. 2008

    IOMSN “Hope” Award

    Consortium of MS Centers

    For “Quilting for Healing and Hope in Multiple Sclerosis”

Professional & Early Recognition

  1. 2005

    Volunteer Hall of Fame

    National Multiple Sclerosis Society

  2. 2003

    Best Patient/Family Education Platform Award

    Consortium of MS Centers

    For “Development of the MS Guidebook”

  3. 2001

    Pathlighter Award

    National Multiple Sclerosis Society Gateway Chapter

  4. 1998

    Health Professional of the Year

    Combined Health Appeal of Greater St. Louis

  5. 1994

    Mother of the Year

    National Multiple Sclerosis Society Gateway Chapter

Help us create the next story of hope.

Every program, partnership, donation, and volunteer contribution helps create new opportunities for people affected by MS.