Members of the Mountain Brook High School varsity cheerleading squad recently spent a day creating holiday ornaments for a cause.
This new fundraiser has served as a way for the squad to give back to the Tanner Foundation, which provides support to people living with neurological diseases, such as ALS, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease.
The foundation has placed Christmas trees in various locations throughout the state, each decorated with the with hand-decorated ornaments.
“These ornaments will then be ‘sold’ for a donation and then the person donating can write on the back with the name of the honoree or in memory of someone with one of those diseases,” said Tanner Foundation Executive Director Mary T. Miller.
The foundation’s cause is one quite close to the MBHS squad. Board member Ashley Powell’s daughter Sibley is a former MBHS cheerleader.
Powell has multiple sclerosis and is a patient of Tanner Foundation founder Dr. Emily Riser of Alabama Neurology Associates.
“Sibley worked for (Alabama Neurology Associates) last summer, shadowing in all areas of neurologic care and treatment to include MD, nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, cognitive testing, as well as swallowing and cognitive therapy for patients with MS, Parkinson’s and ALS,” Powell said.
When the foundation was created in 2003, it initially served persons with multiple sclerosis. The foundation now serves individuals with any neurological disease, seeking to provide emotional and financial support when needed.
“Being involved over the last few years has allowed us to feel like we are a part of the process that this wonderful organization brings to the people it works with,” said MBHS cheer sponsor Shane Martin. “If we can be a part of bringing hope and happiness to these folks, it is our honor to do so.”
Ornaments are available locally at Alabama Neurology & Associates and Holland & Birch in Homewood, as well as ALKMY in Crestline Village.
– Emily Williams
