From Family Challenges to Community Change
How a Family’s Commitment is Powering Hope for Canadians affected by MS
When Diana Joseph thinks about her grandmother, who she lovingly called Nanny, she’s reminded not only of the challenges her family has faced with multiple sclerosis (MS), but how far we’ve come in understanding and treating this complex disease.
“My grandmother had MS. I have MS. My daughter has MS,” says Diana. “For me, it’s very much a family disease. But what’s remarkable is how much good change has happened – especially in the field of MS research over the last 20 years.”
For Diana, who was diagnosed in 1993 at age 33, the MS landscape looked very different. Back then, few treatment options existed, and information about MS was bleak. “When I was diagnosed, my doctor suggested I go on disability,” she recalls. “At that time, I owned my own company and had two young children. It wasn’t an option for me. There just wasn’t a lot of information and it was terrifying.”
But today, thanks to groundbreaking research, supported by donors like Diana and her family, the picture for people living with MS is far more hopeful. “When my daughter was diagnosed, I wasn’t afraid in the same way,” Diana says. “There are more treatments, knowledge, advocacy and understanding. There’s way more hope for the future.”
Turning Personal Experience Into Purpose
That hope is what drives Diana and her family’s extraordinary commitment to supporting MS Canada’s vision of a world free of MS. Through the Westman Charitable Foundation, which Diana is president of, and her brother Jay Westman’s company, Jayman BUILT, her family has donated close to $4 million to advance MS research and support services across Canada.
It began as a deeply personal mission and grew into a business and community legacy. “My brother is the engine behind our ability to give, and when we first started giving, it was out of love for family and community,” Diana says. “But we kept giving because MS Canada has proven over and over again its ability to adapt, to innovate, and to make the most of every dollar.”
As a businessperson, Diana evaluates every investment with care. What keeps her and her brother investing in MS Canada is trust.
“We want to know our donation is working hard, and with MS Canada, we know it is,” she says. “The respect that MS Canada shows in how funds are allocated is world-class. You can’t say that about every organization. That’s why we’re still giving.”
The Ripple Effect of Generosity
Diana believes the impact of MS Canada’s work reaches far beyond those directly affected by MS. “From advocacy wins like improvements to Canada’s Disability Benefit Act, to funding research focused on brain health that could help inform care for other neurological conditions,” she sees every success as part of a wider ripple effect.
“What MS Canada has accomplished doesn’t just benefit people with MS – it benefits all Canadians,” Diana explains. “They’re the small guys in terms of health nonprofits, but their impact is big.”
For Diana, that impact is also visible closer to home – in the workplaces, communities, and families touched by Jayman BUILT’s ongoing support. “Over the years, our employees have really bonded with this cause,” she says. “Many know someone with MS – a friend, a family member, a co-worker. Supporting the MS Walk and other events has become something we all deeply value.”
She smiles when she recalls hearing from new homeowners who bought a Jayman BUILT house because of the company’s visible commitment and connection to the MS community.
“That kind of connection means everything. It’s a win-win-win – for business, for the community, and for all of us who want to make a difference.”
A Family Legacy of Hope
When asked what her grandmother would think if she could see the progress that’s been made in MS research today, Diana reflects:
“My Nanny used to say, ‘I want to live long enough to see a cure.’ And while she didn’t get that chance, I truly believe we will. We’re close, and that’s because of the work MS Canada is doing, and the strong community that keeps believing in what’s possible.”
That belief fuels Diana’s optimism for the future – not just for her daughter, but for anyone affected by MS or beginning their MS journey.
“When you’re newly diagnosed, it can feel overwhelming. But this is not a life sentence,” she says. “There’s so much more hope now. You can live a full, meaningful life. And you’re not alone.”
Every Contribution Creates Change
While the Westman family’s contributions have been impactful across the MS community, Diana is quick to remind others that every dollar and every act of kindness counts.
“Not everyone can give a gift, and that’s okay,” she says. “You can give your time, your voice, your support. You can walk, bike, volunteer, or simply share your story. All of it builds momentum, and a link to solving the mystery of MS.” She continues, “Soon enough, I hope MS stands for ‘mystery solved.’”
As Diana puts it simply, “Success and positivity are magnetic. When people come together, as families, businesses, and communities, the results speak for themselves.”
“If you’re giving to MS Canada, you’re helping us all win. Every step forward, every breakthrough, every bit of hope - it’s something we’ve built together.”
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