Hello friendly faces! It’s a new Chicago North Shore Moms spotlight brought to you in part by Mary Gifford of Gifford Law.
Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) in 2019, Barisa Bruckman has met every challenge of the disease with resilience, determination, and an infectious positivity—just look at that smile! This strong Highland Park mother of two is not only teaching her children the power of adaptability, gratitude, and perseverance but also leading by example through her dedication to public service. In this interview, Barisa shares her journey—from the moment of diagnosis to navigating treatment—along with her passion for giving back and the joys of raising a family on the North Shore. Read on to be inspired by her incredible story and the lessons she hopes to pass on to others. Welcome, Barisa!
Hi Barisa! Please introduce yourself.
I am Barisa Bruckman (pronounced like Marissa, but with a B), and I am a proud Highland Park native. Growing up, my family—my parents Bruce and Marcy Meckler, and my brother David—and I lived in the Ravinia neighborhood, where I attended Ravinia Elementary for Kindergarten. The following year, we moved to Northwest Highland Park, and I continued my education at Wayne Thomas Elementary, Northwood Junior High, and Highland Park High School. After graduating from Highland Park High School, I pursued my passion for public service and political science at the University of Denver. I later earned a dual master’s degree in public policy and public administration from Northwestern University, which prepared me for a career dedicated to improving government and making a positive impact.
You were diagnosed with RIS in 2017 and then it developed into MS in 2019. How does that impact your day-to-day life professionally and as an active mother?
In 2017, I was diagnosed with Radiologically Isolated Syndrome (RIS), an early potential indicator of MS. For those who may not know, Radiological Isolated Syndrome is the identification of lesions on your brain but where you have not had any identifiable symptoms or “episodes.” Because MS is a clinical disorder, until you actually have observable symptoms, you cannot be diagnosed with MS. While I made the decision to proactively treat the disease which required that my husband give me semi-weekly injections, everything changed July 4th weekend 2019, when I awoke to numbness on the entire left side of my body, which lasted for about five days. After that episode, I received a formal MS diagnosis.
This life-changing moment brought uncertainty but also gave me a new perspective on life. Living with MS has been a journey of adapting to new realities while staying focused on living life to the fullest. As a mother of two young, energetic boys, I strive to model resilience and positivity for them every day. My diagnosis has shaped the way I parent, teaching my boys the importance of adaptability, gratitude, and finding joy even in tough situations.
Your strength and attitude is inspiring. The same year as your initial diagnosis brought upon another change to your family. Tell us more about that.
The same year I was diagnosed with RIS, my husband Joel and I made the decision to start our family and I was blessed to get pregnant and carry our first son Brayden full-term without complications. Shortly after delivering Brayden, we made the decision to leave Chicago and return to the suburbs. I always knew I wanted to return to Highland Park to raise our family because of the wonderful memories, childhood and upbringing I had in the community. Together, we’ve built a life centered on gratitude, strength, and hope.
Have you been able to utilize your background in public service in Highland Park?
Returning to Highland Park has been a gift to our family and an opportunity for me to give back to a community that has given me so much. In 2021, I joined Highland Park’s Planning & Design Commission to contribute to the city’s growth and vibrancy. In 2024, I was honored to be appointed, with the unanimous approval of the entire city council, by Mayor Nancy Rotering. This role has deepened my passion for serving Highland Park.
Tell us about your two little cuties.
I have two wonderful boys, Brayden and Cameron, who fill our lives with joy and energy. Beyond school and sports, they’ve inherited our family’s love of music. During COVID, we started a tradition of collecting vinyl records, and it has become a cherished family routine. Since it opened this summer, every Sunday we visit K-Solo Vintage on the east side of downtown Highland Park, where each family member gets a vote on what to add to our growing collection.
Since I joined the City Council, Brayden and Cameron have embraced the idea of public service in their own way. They’ve been lucky to experience so many of the unique and special aspects of Highland Park, with anything involving our Police and Fire Departments topping their list of favorites. They’re particularly proud of their growing collection of HPPD trading cards, with their coveted favorites being K-9 Vinny (aka Duke) and Officer Ginger Stokes.
What are one or two fun things to know about you?
I’ve been incredibly fortunate to experience some truly unforgettable moments throughout my career. I’ve attended holiday parties at the White House and watched 4th of July fireworks on the South Lawn while the Foo Fighters performed—an experience I’ll never forget! Outside of my career, the arts have always played an important role in my life.
As a child, I was passionate about singing and musical theater and even took voice lessons from the wife of Joey D’Auria, also known as “Bozo the Clown.” One of my favorite memories is performing at age 12 in the Highland Park Players’ production of Fiddler on the Roof. While my brother David inherited the athletic talent in our family—he went on to become a professional hockey player after being drafted by the LA Kings—you can still find his Falcons photo on the wall at Centennial Ice Arena and even in the Hockey Hall of Fame.
In addition to K-Solo Vintage, what are your favorite North Shore places, spaces and eats to frequent.
During the summer, you’ll often find us enjoying live music at Ravinia Festival or Port Clinton Square. We also love spending time at Rosewood Beach and cooling off at Hidden Creek Water Park.
When it comes to food, Tamales—A Mexican Joint is a favorite of mine, especially for their pumpkin tamales. For unbeatable Chicken Tikka Masala, Indus is our go-to (yes, our kids love Indian food), and Michael’s Grill & Salad Bar holds a special place in my heart—it’s where my love affair with Chicken Teriyaki Baked Potatoes began! You are also likely to find us over-ordering at any of the great sushi spots in Highland Park.
For quick pick-me-ups, Perfect Blend, Mil Colibris, and That Little French Guy keep me fueled, and satisfied with the scones and pastries. Mizrahi Grill is another standout with its delicious pita and hummus that’s hard to beat. And for a sweet treat, Loves Yogurt is a nostalgic staple—if you know, you know!
For self-care, I rely on ALX Salon—Alex is a true talent—and Spa Dabin, my oasis for a little peace and quiet. That’s right! I mentioned before that during COVID, we began collecting vinyl records as a family, a tradition that continues with regular visits to K-Solo Vintage in downtown Highland Park. On our latest trip, Brayden picked Beastie Boys, Cameron chose Harry Belafonte, Joel went with Grateful Dead, and I picked the Rolling Stones.
What’s one piece of advice you’ve gotten that’s guided you?
“Lead from your heart.” To me, this means approaching every decision with empathy, integrity, and authenticity. It’s a guiding principle I hold close in both my personal and professional life.
Your Mantra?
“I’m still standing,” inspired by the iconic Elton John song of the same name. As someone who loves music and finds it to be a powerful way to connect, heal, and express emotion, this song resonates deeply with me. Its message of resilience and triumph over adversity mirrors my own journey and reminds me to keep moving forward, no matter the obstacles.
March is MS Awareness Month. As someone living with this diagnosis, what does highlighting MS this month mean to you?
This life-altering diagnosis has shaped not only my personal journey but also my perspective on resilience, advocacy, and the importance of community. Living with MS has taught me the value of raising awareness about this unpredictable disease, which affects nearly one million people in the United States. For many, MS is an invisible illness, with symptoms ranging from fatigue and pain to mobility challenges and cognitive changes. By bringing attention to MS, we can foster understanding, compassion, and support for those navigating its impact. MS Awareness Month is also a time to shine a light on the incredible advancements in research and the ongoing efforts to find better treatments and, ultimately, a cure.
What would you like our readers to know about people living with MS?
People living with MS can accomplish incredible things and lead full, meaningful lives. When I was first diagnosed, it was a frightening time, filled with uncertainty about what the future would hold. For me, living with MS has not stopped me from achieving my goals or pursuing my passions. Since my diagnosis, I’ve continued to raise two beautiful, perfectly healthy, and energetic boys who fill my life with joy and purpose.
I’ve also continued to embrace my passion for public service, dedicating myself to our community by serving on Highland Park’s City Council. Every day, I strive to live life to its fullest, cherishing every moment and every opportunity to make a difference. The advancements in MS treatments over the past 20+ years have been remarkable. What was once a daunting diagnosis is now a manageable condition for many, thanks to cutting-edge therapies and ongoing research. Each year, new treatments emerge, bringing us closer to even greater breakthroughs—and maybe one day, a cure.
What’s on the horizon for you, Barisa?
I am currently running for election to a full four-year term on Highland Park’s City Council, with Election Day on April 1, 2025, and early voting starting on March 17. Serving on the City Council has been a privilege, giving me the opportunity to contribute to the prosperity of our city and to support the people and businesses that call Highland Park home. I’m passionate about ensuring Highland Park continues to thrive—a community where families grow, businesses succeed, and neighbors support one another.
Is there anything else you’d like us to know?
This interview is the most public I have ever been about living with MS. At first, I kept it a secret outside of my family, and then as I got more comfortable, I started to tell close friends. I want to thank North Shore Moms and all its readers for giving me this platform to take that next leap and learn more about me as a person. I hope this gives you a sense of who I am, and what drives me. I am always eager to connect with other Warriors living with MS, and any members of our community, so whether you want to share ideas, discuss challenges, or simply say hello on Instagram and Facebook.
