When the green flags waves to open the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East season at Bristol Motor Speedway on March 16, Eddie MacDonald and the entire Grimm Racing team will have added meaning for the event. The #71 will proudly display the National Multiple Sclerosis Society logo on the rear quarter panels in support of MS Awareness Week running March 11-17 during the Bristol 125 on “The World’s Fastest Half Mile.” This disease recently hit close to home in the Grimm Racing family when Megan Spaulding, the daughter of team owners Karla and Rob Grimm, was diagnosed with MS.
“Rob and Karla have been so supportive of our racing efforts, it’s time for our entire race team and fans to support them and Megan at this time,” said the veteran driver. “We have been working very hard to prepare our new car for Bristol to run well and set the tone for the season. Now we are more determined to have a great finish for Megan and raise awareness for MS. Like many people, we knew of the disease but knew little about it. Now that it has affected a member of our family, we will do whatever we can to help.”
The cars will also display the MS logo on the pillar posts for the entire season with the crew wearing patches, pins, and bracelets during each race to show their support. In addition to team involvement during race days, Megan, family members, and members of Grimm Nation plan to participate as a team called “MS Warriors” in the MS Walk at Pocono Raceway on Sunday May 5. This is the third consecutive year the raceway will host the event that is open to everyone to walk the three mile course around the track.
“Even though we compete against each other on the track, NASCAR race teams and fans always step up to help others in need,” said Eddie Mac. “Now we ask everyone’s help to raise awareness and funds to continue the research to find a cure for this disease.”
Anyone who wishes to donate to MS research in Megan’s name may stop by the #71 hauler at Bristol or throughout the season. Donations may also be made in Megan’s name and mailed to Jolene Drandson 43 Elizabeth Road, Sandown, N.H. 03873.