The Osmond name is synonymous with music.
But it's also synonymous with charity, faith and overcoming physical challenges.
Attendees of Friday's "Women on the Move" luncheon to benefit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Northwest Indiana chapter, will be treated to a performance and inspirational message from entertainer David Osmond.
Osmond, who's been battling MS for the past four years, said he's honored to speak at the fundraiser.
The event will be held at the Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza in Merrillville.
'I'll be singing, doing some music and the spoken word to bring a message of hope that there's great things on the horizon," Osmond said.
The singer, nephew of Donny and Marie, was officially diagnosed with multiple sclerosis three years ago after experiencing debilitating symptoms that left him paralyzed.
"I'd been pursuing a solo musical career of my own and four years ago, I had to give it up. I was forced to put music on hold because ultimately I ended up in a wheelchair. I was paralyzed from the chest down. We didn't know what was going on," Osmond said.
His father Alan, of the group The Osmond Brothers, who's been living with MS for 21 years, has been Osmond's inspiration in dealing with the disease.
"My dad is just a champion of life and an uber optimist. His motto is 'When you can't control things, you can always control your attitude.' And that makes the biggest difference when you control your shift in perspective," he said.
While Osmond's previous severe MS symptoms have lessened a bit, he doesn't take anything for granted.
"It's a constant thing I live with but I'm doing very well. I'm walking and I'm pursuing music again with a whole new appreciation and passion," Osmond said.
The performer, lead singer of The Osmonds: Second Generation, is preparing to release his first solo album this fall.
He was also a contestant on last season's "American Idol" and made it to Hollywood.
"Through that medium, I was able to bring more awareness to MS and that it's still a real thing," he said.
Osmond, 29, and his wife Valerie just had their first child -- daughter Saffron -- two months ago.
During Friday's talk, Osmond said he'll focus on "overcoming adversity," speaking about his life and the strides the organization has made.
"The Society is doing phenomenal things and it's a privilege to speak on behalf of their cause," Osmond said.
FYI: (219) 924-3240 or nationalmssociety.org. Suggested donation is $75 but any donation is appreciated.
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