Hundreds walk in support of MS research, programs and services

Tammy Norris, Volunteer and Community Engagement Coordinator for the MS Society of Canada – Central Alberta Division says the MS Walk is a major fundraiser for them.

“Sixty per cent of the money raised goes to ongoing research,” says Norris. “Forty per cent goes to programs and services for people living with MS.”

She says some of those services include support groups.

“A lot of people don’t know what we have to offer,” admits Norris. “A lot of these groups meet once a month, twice a month. They can come with spouses or caregivers and they just talk about living life with MS and it’s a real sharing experience.”

Norris says MS is a disease that manifests itself differently in different people.

“That’s one of the most troubling things about MS,” explains Norris. “It can affect your vision, it can affect your hands, your feet, your mobility. You can’t handle heat for the most part of any kind, it’s very hard on the body, there’s no two people that have the exact same experience with MS.”

Dawna Morey, Executive Director at the Lending Cupboard in Red Deer, an organization which loans out medical equipment to those in need in our community, says attending Sunday’s event was a natural fit for them.

“It’s just a perfect fit for us to be out here to support the people that are dealing with MS and their lives,” says Morey. “It speaks to their independence and their dignity and so we’re thrilled that Tammy from the MS Society contacted us and asked us to come out and share our information with the people that are going to be participating in the walk today.”

Morey adds they also want to let the community know they will be moving to a new location at Gaetz Avenue and 78 Street in August.

For more information on the Jayman Built MS Walk in Red Deer, click here.

For more information on the Lending Cupboard, click here.

by Sheldon Spackman

Hundreds walk in support of MS research, programs and services

What's Trending