Since 2001, the Bryon Riesch Paralysis Foundation (BRPF) has raised nearly $5 million to support cutting-edge medical research through seven annual outings and events.
BRPF board president Bryon Riesch formed the nonprofit organization in Waukesha nearly 20 years ago after injuries from an accident caused him paralysis from the chest down and left him with limited arm use.
Several fundraisers – including the This is How We Roll fashion show, showcasing models using wheelchairs, and June’s Kayak for the Cure event held on Oconomowoc’s Fowler Lake – help educate the public about BRPF’s mission in a creative way.
In addition, BRPF offers scholarships to individuals and families with a parent living with paralysis.
“Previous belief showed that spinal cord injuries were incurable,” said Janet Curtis, BRPF executive director. “With today’s modern medicine, however, the question is no longer, ‘Is a cure possible?’ but rather, ‘When is it possible?”’
