WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – Restaurateur Rocco Mangel was recently diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, a disease that turns the immune system against the spinal cord, brain and nerves.
Neurologist Dr. Daud Sadiq, the director of the Tisch MS Research Center of New York, told Mangel he was suffering from a mild form of the disease.
Mangel is determined to use his experience to raise awareness and help the National MS Society fund research to find a cure.
Mangel is the owner of the popular Rocco’s Tacos & Tequila Bar, a popular restaurant chain. The 43-year-old foodie is also the father of 3-year-old Charley.
This week Mangel and Charley recorded a video together. They were asking for the community's support as they become activists and move to support the National MS Society's South Florida chapter.
His goal is to raise $25,000. He has two initiatives: Restaurant specials and a Team Rocco event.
During the month of February, his Florida locations will be donating a percentage of their taco and tequila Tuesdays sales. Those who donate $25 will receive a bottle of Dobel Diamante, and those who donate $50 or more will get a bottle of Maestro Dobel Silver.
Team Rocco will be walking and running with the National MS Society's South Florida chapter at 8:30 a.m. Feb. 26 in downtown West Palm Beach. For more information about how to join Team Rocco and to donate, visit the National MS Society page.
"Just walk with me -- me and my daughter," Mangel said. "As many people as I can get."