Fundraiser for Local Woman Set for Blarney Stone Bash

Every other year for the past several years, friends, family and well wishers have gathered at 115 Bourbon Street to support local woman Nancy Lockwood, who has battled Multiple Sclerosis for the past 20 years. The fundraiser not only helps to offset the cost of medical care for Lockwood, but also generates funds for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

"It's good that people are coming out and supporting a good cause," said Pam Faust, Lockwood's niece.

Now, more than ever, Lockwood continues her fight, although the battle has become an uphill one as over the last three years her medical care has turned into a 24-hour requirement. Lockwood currently has a live-in caregiver who oversees her day-to-day needs.

"She's homebound, she's not independent with anything," Faust said. "She needs help with transfers in and out of bed, she basically sits in an electric wheelchair all day. ... She's pretty dependent on her caregiver."

Faust said that although things have gotten progressively worse for her aunt, Lockwood is still determined to do her best to get by.

"I think that's the toughest thing, is that she wants to do it, but she physically can't," Faust said. "Mentally she's capable of doing anything, but physically she just can't."

Though her body might be weak, Lockwood's sharp mind and social openness let her look forward to the fundraiser, Faust said.

This year the event will be held at  on March 31 from 4 to 8 p.m. and will cost $30 at the door. The $30 includes unlimited beer, wine, non-alcoholic beverages and pizza. There will be a cash bar available for mixed drinks, as well.

For attendees looking for a little more fun, there will also be raffles, spilt the pot drawings, a silent auction and more, Faust said.

"We're hoping for a good turnout, not only for my aunt, but for MS in general," Faust said. "My aunt is a little Ms. Social Butterfly and I know it means a lot to her when she sees family, friends and even complete strangers coming out for the events."

More information about the event can be found at the FootSteps For Nancy Facebook page.