Mary Claire Youpel

After transitioning out of the service, Mary was expecting to face a new chapter of life. But then came a diagnosis that changed everything—multiple sclerosis (MS). What followed was a struggle to navigate the complexities of both MS and the Veterans Administration (VA) system, with countless barriers and challenges along the way. Through her personal journey, Mary Claire realized that many veterans face the same difficulties—fighting a battle they never expected.

Determined to make a difference, Mary founded the Veterans MS Alliance to ensure no veteran has to go through this fight alone. She saw firsthand how early intervention could dramatically change the course of MS and wanted to build an organization that raises awareness, advocates for legislative change, and connects veterans with the services they need.

Her mission is to provide veterans and their families with the resources and support that can truly preserve quality of life, offering veterans a fighting chance against MS.