Vilmarie Ocasio

I am currently a student from Coastal Carolina University in the Communication Department. I have been fully involved with Girl Scouts and with serving others. I have received the three highest awards a GS could obtain, the silver, gold, and selected as a National Young Women of Distinction GSUSA 2017. I am the founder and CEO of the 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization called: Community Organization of Multiple Sclerosis and Cancer, Inc. In 2015, I became leader of the Youth Catholics Group in "El Salvador" Church, during the Relay for Life event. The group received several awards and was recognized for being the one who collected more donations. In that same year, I decided to work on my GS Gold Award project. My project focused on raising awareness about Multiple Sclerosis and Cancer. Giving people with that diagnosis, easy access to resources and information. Also, I advocated for the approval of the Senate Bill 1180 that requires a registry for people diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in Puerto Rico. I defended and worked on the Act for three months and obtained an unanimous approval of the measure by the Legislative Chamber of PR. My effort was accomplished on July 22, 2016 when the legislation created Law number 85. In addition, I have created several innovative initiatives and participated in the process of educating people about the characteristics or symptoms of multiple sclerosis, cancer prevention, as well as the challenges faced by patients, their families and caregivers. In the course of my work I have received several awards for the benefit of the community. At such a young age I have been recognized as a woman with leadership and dedication. To benefit people with multiple sclerosis and cancer, I have been able to promote many important initiatives and establish support with alliances that will continue for the course of my work.