Together, We Fight Multiple Sclerosis
Providing support, resources, and hope for a brighter tomorrow.
Get Set!
World MS Day 2025 – 30 May
The Rotary Action Group Against Multiple Sclerosis invites you to join the global movement on World MS Day, 30 May 2025. This year, under the theme “My MS Diagnosis“, we shine a light on the challenges of early diagnosis and the need for accessible, timely care. Through storytelling, awareness activities, and Rotary-driven initiatives, we aim to support those living with MS and advocate for a world where no one faces MS alone. Together, we can turn awareness into action.
WATCH THIS SPACE!!
”United in hope, driven by purpose - RAGAMS champions the fight against Multiple Sclerosis.
The Inspiring Journey of RAGAMS
In 1989, Jacob Martin Taurins was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a life-altering moment that ignited a powerful mission in the hearts of his parents, Martin and Diana Taurins. Determined to find a cure, they sought to harness the strength of collective action.
Drawing inspiration from Rotary’s remarkable success in eradicating poliomyelitis through the “Polio Plus” initiative, Martin and Diana envisioned a similar global effort against MS. As dedicated members of the Rotary Club of Gisborne in RI District 9800, they launched an ambitious project to raise awareness about MS both in Australia and across the globe.
Their journey began with organising impactful events to fund MS research, establishing the Rotary Fellowship for MS Awareness (RFMSA), and actively participating in Rotary district conferences and Rotary International Conventions worldwide. Their passionate advocacy attracted support and grew a diverse network of Rotarians, families, and friends united by a shared purpose: to end MS.
As their movement expanded, the group forged meaningful collaborations with the Multiple Sclerosis International Federation (MSIF), actively promoting World MS Day events every May. Evolving with their mission, the group transitioned into the Rotarian Action Group for Multiple Sclerosis Awareness (RAGMSA), and in January 2020, in line with Rotary International policy, it was renamed the Rotary Action Group Against Multiple Sclerosis (RAGAMS).
RAGAMS has been instrumental in advancing MS research. In partnership with the Melbourne Neuroscience Institute and Rotary Health Australia, they have proudly supported PhD scholarships dedicated to studying progressive MS. Furthermore, RAGAMS secured a prestigious Rotary Global Grant to bolster cutting-edge research at the Florey Institute and Monash University.
Today, RAGAMS stands as a beacon of hope, driven by passion, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to a future free from Multiple Sclerosis.
Highlights
- Origin of RAGAMS: Founded by Martin and Diana Taurins, parents of Jacob Martin Taurins diagnosed with MS in 1989.
- Purpose of RAGAMS: To raise awareness and find a cure for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) through collective action.
- Activities of RAGAMS: Organising fundraising events, establishing the Rotary Fellowship for MS Awareness, and collaborating with MSIF to promote World MS Day.
- Research Funding: RAGAMS supports PhD scholarships and secured a Rotary Global Grant for MS research.
- Research Partners: RAGAMS collaborates with the Melbourne Neuroscience Institute, Rotary Health Australia, the Florey Institute, and Monash University.
Our Recent Activities
Singapore Convention – May 2024
Shankar Subramanian, India Chair, attended the convention and manned the Exhibition Booth. His first Convention provided an opportunity to experience and meet with international Rotarians…
Leading the cause
MSIF, the National MS Society, MS Australia, and many other partners play a vital role in the global fight against Multiple Sclerosis. Our efforts would not be possible without their continued support, collaboration, and dedication to improving the lives of those affected by MS.
