In Good Company
Putting Every Dollar to Work
Since 2006, ziMS has directed over $3.5 million to the organizations and programs leading the fight against MS — from world-class research institutions to the families navigating life with the disease every day.
ziMS Foundation support of UVA Health
Advancing Multiple Sclerosis Research Together
Since 2008, the ziMS Foundation has invested $2.3 million in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) research at UVA Health. This long‑standing partnership is advancing critical discoveries, improving patient care, and helping shape the future of MS medicine.
Vitamin D, obesity, and MS progression
Dr. Brenton’s research demonstrated that low vitamin D levels are associated with increased inflammation and disease progression in MS. Notably, vitamin D levels were similar regardless of whether MS began in childhood, adolescence, or adulthood. These findings helped launch additional research into the role of obesity and nutrition in MS, including the potential benefits of targeted dietary approaches.
Exploring the ketogenic diet as a complementary therapy
With ziMS Foundation support, Dr. Brenton examined the effects of a high‑fat, low‑carbohydrate ketogenic diet in patients with relapsing‑remitting MS. After six months, participants experienced meaningful improvements in MS symptoms. The study also revealed positive changes in immune function and reduced inflammation, suggesting that dietary therapy may serve as a valuable complement to traditional MS treatments.
Understanding blood sugar responses in MS
In collaboration with colleagues at the University of Virginia, Dr. Goldman explored how MS patients respond to steroids by studying changes in blood glucose levels. The research found that people with MS experienced higher blood sugar responses than patients treated for headaches, suggesting insulin insensitivity similar to what is seen in diabetes. These findings opened new avenues for understanding metabolic health in MS care.
Measuring quality of life through walking speed
Dr. Goldman demonstrated that a simple, timed 25 foot walk provides valuable insight into how MS impacts everyday activities such as cooking, grocery shopping, household tasks like laundry, and managing medications. This practical measurement is now recognized as an important indicator of quality of life for people with MS.
The research above was conducted by two UVA Health faculty members with deep expertise in multiple sclerosis. Dr. Nick Brenton, MD, PhD, directs the Pediatric and Young Adult MS and Related Disorders Clinic at UVA Health Children's, where his work focuses on improving outcomes for younger patients across the full age spectrum. Dr. Myla Goldman, MD, served as Chief of the Division of Multiple Sclerosis and Neuro-Immunology until 2018, during which time her research brought meaningful insight into how MS shapes daily life and overall health.
Building the Next Generation of MS Leaders
Support from the ziMS Foundation has done more than advance research—it has helped cultivate a strong pipeline of future MS clinicians and scientists.
Over the course of UVA’s partnership with ziMS, numerous PhD candidates, medical students, undergraduates, and postgraduates have participated in humancentered MS research under the mentorship of leading UVA faculty.
Through this handson experience, students have developed a deep commitment to improving the lives of people with MS. Many have gone on to medical school and research careers, carrying their expertise into communities while helping fuel the next wave of MS discoveriesVenture was built to do what others can’t: Reach remote communities with the tools, supplies, and training they actually need. We don’t promise quick fixes. We focus on moving light, working alongside local leaders, and creating the conditions for long-term strength.
The organizations we are proud to give back to.
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