Every step will matter at Fort George Park on Sunday, June 5 during the ScotiaBank MS walk.
Thousands of Canadians will help raise awareness and funds for multiple sclerosis during the Every Step Matters event, and the Prince George chapter of the MS Society of Canada is inviting local residents to join the effort.
The MS Society provides services to people with the disease and their families and funds research to find its cause and cure.
"People living with MS are at the centre of our work," said Louis Kutin, chapter chair of the local chapter. "The Scotiabank MS Walk plays a critical role in funding community-based support and services. This includes financial support for daily living or equipment needs, running education programs, self-help groups and information and referral services."
The event occurs just weeks after 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 cerebrospinal 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.
And with initiatives like the monitoring system, momentum has never been stronger for finding a cure.
Multiple sclerosis, a chronic, often disabling disease of the brain and spinal chord, is the most common neurological disease of young adults in Canada.
Most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 40 and the unpredictable effects of MS last a lifetime.
"Successful fundraising is not tricky," said long-tome walker and top fundraiser, Ken Carlson. "But it does take 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."
The annual fundraiser takes place in more than 160 communities in Canada, with more than 5,000 people participating and is always wheelchair accessible, which is an important consideration for individuals who have multiple sclerosis.
The MS Walk at Fort George Park begins with registration at 11 a.m. and walk at noon. The walk will start by the band shell and continue along the Fraser River. Inline skaters are welcome.
For more information or to register for the event visit mswalks.ca or call 250-564-7074.
