Turning Pages, Saving Lives

Kim and Tamir Kordov’s journey with MS and their involvement in MS Read-a-Thon is a heartfelt example of how a family can come together for a meaningful cause. Tamir has been living with MS for over 30 years, and as his condition has progressed, the challenges of everyday life have become more apparent, especially with mobility. He reflects on how things have changed for him and his family: "Like most people, I was diagnosed in my 20s, and now it’s been over 30 years. I had a few small hiccups along the way, but it wasn’t until I was around 50 that it really started to impact me and my family."

Through it all, Tamir’s family has been his unwavering support. His wife, Kim, is inspired by his resilience. “What I’ve admired the most is Tamir’s positive attitude. He doesn’t complain, even when things are hard. He faces challenges and just keeps moving forward. It’s something I truly respect, and I think it sets a great example for our kids as well.”

Despite the difficulties, the Kordovs have found creative ways to give back to the MS community, especially through their love of reading—a passion they share as a family. Kim is the author of The Tale of the Toy Troll, a children’s book about a troll who takes toys away when kids don’t clean up. The book took on new meaning in their lives when Tamir connected it to MS. "Tamir realized that parents with MS could also benefit from having their kids keep things tidy, especially when they’re feeling fatigued," Kim explains.

This connection led them to MS Read-a-Thon, a campaign that aligns excellently with their passion. “It all came together so perfectly,” says Tamir. “Kim wrote this wonderful book that really connected with our lives, our kids, and my situation with MS. It wasn’t planned, but it feels like everything just synced up naturally.” For the Kordovs, MS Read-a-Thon was the perfect fit. “Reading is something we’ve always loved doing with our kids," says Kim. "We’re excited to help raise awareness and funds in a way that aligns with our strengths."

Kim has generously donated 500 copies of her book to MS Read-a-Thon participants. “We have a friend who has known us since childhood—he’s actually the one who introduced Tamir and me,” Kim shares. “When he heard about the book, he donated a bunch of copies for us to give to libraries and for good causes. We thought MS Read-a-Thon would be the perfect opportunity to continue that spirit of giving.”

For Kim and Tamir, MS Read-a-Thon is more than a fundraiser—it’s an   opportunity for families to connect and for children to learn about the power of giving back. “Reading has always been a huge part of our family,” Kim says. “Our kids loved reading, and we tried to balance their screen time with books. MS Read-a-Thon is a great way for families to bond, and kids love the competition aspect of it too.”

Kim fondly recalls her own childhood experience with MS Read-a-Thon. “When I told my cousin we were going to be ambassadors, she remembered doing MS Read-a-Thon when we were kids. We used to go door-to-door asking for donations and competing to see who could read the most books.”

Now, as a parent, Kim is excited to see a new generation of kids embrace the challenge and get involved in supporting people living with MS. Tamir finds it inspiring too. “It’s incredible. It’s really touching to see people, especially kids, getting involved. It’s always heartwarming to see people taking time out of their lives to help.”

Kim encourages other families to participate. “Do it! It’s a great way to connect with your kids, whether they’re little and you’re reading to them or they’re older and choosing books on their own. It also teaches them the importance of fundraising for a good cause, and it’s a fun way to open up conversations with your children.”

For Kim and Tamir, MS Read-a-Thon is about more than books—it’s about the bonds reading can create, the impact it has on those living with MS, and the valuable lesson of giving back.