Steve Guzman - Foundation offers hope

He has a smile on his face before his first cup of coffee. His cell phone is constantly blowing up with text messages and calls. The number of friends on his Facebook page keeps rising, and he is always the first to RSVP.

Steve ‘Turkey’ Guzman exerts a positive, calm and relaxed energy for a man who is always busy, involved in his community, co-founder of an independent production company and battling with multiple sclerosis.

“Being diagnosed with MS in 2005 really opened my eyes and made me realize I can make a difference and take action in my life, “ said Guzman, who founded Turkey and Friends.

The organization was founded to raise funds and awareness about multiple sclerosis, a neurological disease that attacks the central nervous system.

Since then it has helped many worthy causes. TNF has participated in events to benefit the Children’s Hospital of Orange County, the American Cancer Society, Light the Night Walk, Relay for Life and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Fifteen members have now grown to over 100, who volunteer at different events.

Guzman even discovered a way to have fun, get involved, and do something great for his community, while enjoying the company of friends and family.

Their benefits range from a simple car wash, bake sale or garage sale to larger events like music concerts, art shows, fashion shows and film festivals. Every member of TNF has a passion for the arts.

“We figured it would be a great way to spread our love for the arts and raise money for great charities while doing so,” Guzman said.

Many businesses across Orange County have also noticed Guzman’s activism and his efforts for the community. TNF has worked with big companies such as Obey, Banana Republic, Paul Frank, Hurley, Stussy, Carlton Hair and Pinkberry.

TNF recently opened its first office in the city of Huntington Beach and has filed articles of incorporation as a non-profit in the state of California.

It’s hard to believe that at one point Steve Guzman’s disease made him blind, numb on his left side, unable to taste food and maintain his balance. Now this man stands straight with a broad smile on his face. He savors every moment with friends and family and takes great pride in seeing how the work he’s done has helped thousands.