The Chatham-Kent Mandarin MS Walk. May 7, 2017. (Photo by Natalia Vega)The Chatham-Kent Mandarin MS Walk. May 7, 2017. (Photo by Natalia Vega)
Windsor

MS Walk aims for a brighter future for Canadians with Multiple Sclerosis

Thousands of Canadians in 50 different cities will spend their May 31 walking to raise money to help those living with multiple sclerosis, including Windsorites.

Canada has one of the highest MS rates in the world, and the event has set a goal to raise $4.4-million to provide support for those living with the neurological disorder, advocacy work, and research.

Already, the organization has raised $2.1-million across Canada, including over $14,000 in Windsor.

The local walk starts at the Riverside Sportsmen Club. Registration is at 10 a.m., and opening ceremonies get underway at 11 a.m. The entire route is 5 km.

Those who wish to participate can register or donate online.

Approximately 90,000 Canadians live with MS, which disproportionately impacts young people and women. Women are three times more likely to be diagnosed than men, and 60 per cent of new diagnoses are given to people between 20 and 49. MS Canada says 12 Canadians are diagnosed every day with the condition.

"MS doesn't just affect the person diagnosed. It ripples through families, friendships, and entire communities," said Assistant Vice President of Community Fundraising at MS Canada, Gemma Cowan. "When we walk on May 31, we're fostering a sense of belonging and showing our loved ones that they don't have to face their MS journey alone. Together, we are walking towards a brighter future for all Canadians affected by MS."

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