Financial executive received MDA award

? Harley Russell, Leavenworth, is the winner of the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s 2007 Robert Ross Personal Achievement Award for Kansas.

The national awards program recognizes the accomplishments and community service of people with disabilities caused by any of the neuromuscular diseases in MDA’s program.

Russell became a licensed pharmacist in 1962 and went on to own and manage several retail pharmacies. In 1988, he became vice president of MidAmerican Bank & Trust Co., where he is director of marketing, trust officer, executive officer and a member of the board of directors. He continues to sconsultant with retail pharmacies, nursing homes and prisons.

Russell is founder of the Keep In Touch support group for people with inflammatory myopathies. He publishes a quarterly newsletter for the group, recruits speakers and runs meetings. He also developed a catalog for members of helpful hints and information on obtaining assistive devices.