Thousands of Canadians will put on their running shoes this weekend and walk or run to raise awareness and funds for multiple sclerosis.
The annual MS Walk will take place Sunday, April 17, from the Sherk Complex and hundreds are expected to turn out in support.
Across Ontario, over 24,000 people will unite in an effort to raise over $5.1 million in pledges and bring awareness to the fact that 55,000 to 75,000 Canadians live with multiple sclerosis and that every day, three more Canadians are diagnosed with it.
"People living with MS are at the centre of our work," said Joanne Ticknor, director of client services with the MS Society of Canada, Ontario Division. "The MS Walk plays a critical role in funding community-based support and services to those living with MS and their families. This includes financial support for daily living or equipment needs, running education programs, self-help groups, and information and referral services."
This year's MS Walk occurs within weeks of a significant announcement made by the federal government highlighting the creation of a new national monitoring system for Canadians living with multiple sclerosis. This innovative monitoring system will capture information to help identify disease patterns, track long-term outcomes of current therapies and shed light on important topics like chronic cerebro spinal venous insufficiency (CCSVI), a subject that has generated much hope and discussion within the MS community and beyond. CCSVI describes a treatment theory that suggests the unblocking of clogged veins will improve symptoms of MS. With nationa! l initiatives such as the monitoring system underway, momentum has never been stronger towards finding a cure for MS and supporting people living with it. The MS Society hopes the MS Walks will add to this growing momentum and bring us one step closer towards ending MS.
This annual fundraiser takes place in over 160 communities across Canada. It is a family-oriented event that combines fundraising with fun and community spirit. The MS Walk is unique in the world of spring fundraisers because there is always a wheelchair accessible route - an important consideration especially for individuals who have multiple sclerosis.
Top Fundraiser Ken Carlson adds "Successful fundraising is not tricky, but it takes dedication and effort. Have fun with it, make it a personal commitment and know that your efforts are making a difference in the lives of those living with MS".
Denise Howe concludes: "I encourage you to get out with your scooter, wheelchair, walking sticks and able-bodied friends and join us at this year's walk. Every step counts in our effort to end MS."
Join the MS Walk on Sunday, April 17. For more information or to register for the event please visit mswalks.ca or call 1-888-822-8467. For more information about CCSVI please visit ccsvi.ca.
http://www.leamingtonpostandshopper.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=3074884