Photo | Simcoe-Norfolk MS Walk, Facebook
May is multiple sclerosis (MS) awareness month. Which means the Simcoe-Norfolk MS Walk is on the horizon. Over the past 25 years, the local MS Walk has raised nearly $1 million to support research and services for people living with MS. Walk organizer David Horton tells us that multiple sclerosis basically means many scars. Scars form on the myelin covering the spinal cord and parts of the brain. This is brought on by attacks from the body’s own immune system where it destroys this myelin.
Horton adds that people with MS will lose different strengths and sensations in the body, whether it be their hands or their feet or their legs, their ability to walk. It can affect their eyesight and balance and with time becomes more progressive affecting other systems in the body. Mental health also becomes a concern for those living with MS.
The struggle of living with a chronic disease is very personal. Horton reflected that he sees people locally, out walking, struggling perhaps, but still participating.
There is a great deal of hope though, as the majority of money raised from events like the MS Walk and others MS Canada puts on, goes directly to research.
Funding is also important for client services, helping people retain their mobility through the purchase of wheelchairs, scooters, and mobility aids for bathrooms, for example.
The 25th Annual Local MS Walk will take place on Sunday, May 25. The walk will start at the Simcoe Legion on West Street, with check-ins opening at 9 a.m. Opening ceremonies featuring local dignitaries will begin at 10:30 a.m., and the walk will kick off at 11 a.m. The event will offer a light breakfast and lunch from Kaylee’s Food Truck, and participants can choose to walk either 2K or 5K. Even if you can’t walk, organizers encourage everyone to come out, enjoy the food, and support the cause.
To further support the MS Walk, Kaylee’s Restaurant (at Kent and Robinson in Simcoe) will host a special Mother’s Day breakfast fundraiser on Sunday, May 11, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., with all proceeds going to the MS Walk.
Horton says it’s a great way to celebrate with Mom and support the cause. Last year the breakfast raised, close to $1,200.
To sign up or donate, visit www.mswalks.ca and look for the Simcoe-Norfolk walk.
Organizers hope for sunny skies and a great turnout — and with strong community support, they are determined to make this year another success.
For updates, follow the Simcoe-Norfolk MS Walk on Facebook.
Written by Jeremy Hall