The winner of this year’s Barancik Prize for Innovation in Multiple Sclerosis Research is Canadian neurologist and researcher at the University of Manitoba, Dr. Ruth Ann Marrie.

Since 2013, the late Charles and Margery Barancik have recognized outstanding innovation and originality in work regarding multiple sclerosis (MS). Marrie, who holds both a M.D. and a Ph.D., will receive a $100,000 award, to be used as she sees fit. The Baranicks said they always hoped for a world without MS. 

Marrie earned the award for making significant discoveries that help further understand how and when MS evolves. According to a press release, “Marrie's holistic approach to understanding how MS affects individuals in the context of their unique life experiences and exposures, including childhood experiences, social circumstances, comorbidities, health behaviors, and other factors, is groundbreaking.” 

The Baranick Foundation creates initiatives and awards grants in Sarasota and beyond in the areas of education, humanitarian causes, arts and culture, the environment and medical research.

For more information, visit www.barancikfoundation.org