Bill Brayer is president and chairman of the board for MS Helping Hands, an Edmonds-based nonprofit that provides services and resources to people with multiple sclerosis. Brayer was diagnosed with MS in 1987 and was struck by a lack of practical services.
Q: When and where did your business open?
A: My wife and I started organizing in 1999 with a 501(c)3 charity with 100 percent volunteers. We’ve been going strong ever since.
Q: How, or why, did you decide to open your organization?
A: I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1987 and had it a good number of years but doctors didn’t know what it was. I volunteered for a major MS group, but when I found out where the money went – to special interests – I formed one myself. Their needs weren’t being addressed the way they needed to be.
Q: What convinced you that this was the job for you?
A: I walk in their shoes. I know what they need. I sold my business in 1998 and when I started the organization, I committed myself 100 percent.
Q: What does it take to blend your passion with your livelihood?
A: I’m 79 and going strong but I’m so concerned about MS Helping Hands. The last two years I’ve been looking for someone as passionate about it as me. Jan Vance is our new executive director. … It gives me a chance to step back just in case something happens to me. She’ll keep it growing. … I’ll continue to put in hours and do what I love doing. I know what we’re doing is needed. Since 1999, we’ve helped over 100,000 people. I know they need help, and I’ll do whatever I can. We’re the only one like it in the country.
Q: What has been your biggest challenge and how did you meet it?
A: Staying on my feet and doing what I can. I’m a diabetic; I have a heart condition and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). I thank the good Lord for allowing me to keep serving.
Q: How did your friends and family react when you told them you were getting into this business?
A: My wife and children are very supportive. They’re there for me no matter what.
Q: What motivates you?
A: I push myself. I look back and smile and say, “We did it again.” This may sound corny, but I have the opportunity to serve the great Lord. I say, “Why me, Lord?” and he says, “Because you can handle it.” He never gives me more than I can handle.
Q: What personal qualities do you think are needed to excel in this business?
A: I’ve been a risk-taker and a gambler all my life. I like waving a red flag in front of a bull. My doctors work with me. My friends know well enough that I push myself. I’m enjoying my life. I’m doing it because I want to, not because I have to. I’ve run businesses and upper and top management. I owned a business. My business experience and being involved in charities. My ability to talk. I’ve been in marketing and sales most of my life. I can get in front of one or 1,000 people. I believe so much in this. I can talk about MS and how it affects you and how to help.
Q: When you’re not working, how do you enjoy spending your time?
A: I average 50 to 60 hours a week with the foundation. My wife works there three days per week. We go to church on Sundays. Sunday is hers and my day. With the new executive director I can back up a little bit and do the things I’ve wanted to do, like go to Whidbey Island. MS keeps me restricted physically.
MS Helping Hands
WHERE: Donor Closet, 409 Howell Way, Edmonds
PHONE: 425-712-1807
WEB: www.mshelp.org
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
