Runway for MS Brings Long Island Community Together for a Night of Fashion, Hope and Impact

Fashion met purpose on June 11 as nearly 300 Long Islanders gathered at the Inn at New Hyde Park for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s 11th annual Runway for MS, an inspiring evening to raise awareness and critical funds in the fight against multiple sclerosis.

In partnership with Macy’s, the event featured a runway show spotlighting 12 local models whose lives have been touched by MS. Representing communities across Long Island, including Blue Point, East Islip, Bay Shore, Medford, Holbrook, North Bellmore and Williston Park, the models shared powerful stories of resilience, courage and hope.

Since 2022, Runway for MS has raised nearly $2 million to support groundbreaking research, treatments and programs for people living with the disease.

Among the evenings models was Angie Gensler, who was diagnosed with MS more than two decades ago. After years of living with the disease, she became a certified personal trainer, MS fitness specialist and health coach, helping others build strength and confidence while living with chronic illness.



Kenia Aquino Garcia shared her journey from years of unexplained symptoms to finally receiving an MS diagnosis in 2023. For Garcia, walking the runway represented “strength and hope for everyone living with MS and fighting battles that no one else can see.“

The night also honored people making a difference in the MS community. Dr. Lauren Gluck, Director of the Montefiore MS Center and Assistant Professor at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, received the Hope Award for her leadership and dedication to advancing MS care and research. Jon Feingold, Ph.D., Executive Director of The Hagedorn Little Village School, was recognized with the Spirit Award for his commitment to helping people and families facing complex challenges.

Co-chaired by David M. Rottkamp, Partner at Grassi & Co., and Elaine Lichas of LNK International, the event was powered by a volunteer committee of Long Island business leaders, advocates and community supporters.

This year, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society celebrates its 80th anniversary after founder Sylvia Lowry placed an ad in the New York Times seeking others affected by the disease – sparking a global movement.

Nearly 1 million people in the U.S. live with MS, an unpredictable disease of the central nervous system that can affect mobility, vision, cognition and other functions. There is currently no cure for MS.

Funds raised through Runway for MS help support research, advocacy, and programs that connect individuals and families with critical resources and services.

For the hundreds who attended Runway for MS, the event was about more than fashion. It was a celebration of strength, community and a shared vision that a world without MS is possible.