Home and Family:

Michael Neufeldt, 29, lives in New Berlin, Wis., with his parents, Carol and Ray Neufeldt.

Professional and Community
Achievements:

Neufeldt is a communications specialist for Harley-Davidson Motor Co. in Milwaukee, working in the Interactive Communications/E-Commerce section. He also co-authored a book about college basketball, Tales from the Marquette Hardwood, and in 2006 his alma mater, Marquette University, presented to him the prestigious James T. Tiedge Memorial Award, given to former students of Broadcast and Electronic Communication for professional excellence consistent with the values of ethical behavior and social responsibility.

Dedicated to raising awareness of disability issues, Neufeldt serves on the Accessibility/Disability Advisory Committee for Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin. He also has tutored children with learning disabilities, and in 2006 worked with Young Professional Milwaukee and Independence First groups to promote National Disability Awareness Day.

Personal History:

In 1979, Neufeldt received a diagnosis of Emery-Dreifuss muscular dystrophy (EDMD), a genetic degenerative disease that causes weakness and wasting of shoulder, upper arm and calf muscles, joint stiffening and cardiac complications. Neufeldt uses noninvasive ventilation to assist his breathing and a power wheelchair for mobility.

Positive Message:

Neufeldt says he never wanted to be a teacher, but he’s come to realize that in many ways he’s been teaching people about disabilities his entire life. His words of encouragement hold true for everyone, with or without disabilities:

"Never give up," Neufeldt says. "If you set your mind to something, you can accomplish anything. You will encounter obstacles along the way, but use those obstacles as a learning experience. If you always keep your goal in the back of your mind, you can achieve anything you try."

MDA Leadership:

Neufeldt has long been a leader with MDA, having served as the Southeastern Wisconsin Goodwill Ambassador in 1985 and 1986, and as the National Goodwill Ambassador in 1987 and 1988. He met President Reagan in the Oval Office, filmed public service announcements, and appeared twice on the national broadcast of the Jerry Lewis MDA Labor Day Telethon. Neufeldt co-hosts the Milwaukee broadcast of the Telethon and serves on MDA’s National Task Force on Public Awareness.

As recipient of MDA’s 2008 Robert Ross National Personal Achievement Award, Neufeldt continues his tradition of service to MDA, representing the Association at various fund-raisers and events.

His selection for the award was announced on the 2007 Jerry Lewis MDA Labor Day Telethon.

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