Twenty-five years of progressing toward a world free of multiple sclerosis (MS) is being celebrated on April 27 at the New Jersey Metro Chapter of the National MS Society’s annual Walk MS.
Each year, the society hosts the Walk MS movement in an attempt to raise awareness and funds to support those who have been affected by MS.
This 3- to 5-mile, fully accessible walk features 12 different sites and the option to enjoy the view of the Atlantic Ocean or the New York City skyline.
Last year, with almost 850 teams participating, about $1.8 million was raised. This was accomplished in only one year. In the 25 years that Walk MS has been occurring, many strides have been made in finding a cure for the disease.
Through Walk MS, the National MS Society has furthered the public’s knowledge about MS and increased the quality of life for those living with MS. Hundreds of studies have been executed, and more studies are ongoing and planned to find potential therapies for the disease.
In addition, Walk MS has provided funds for research in the field that has led to Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved medications that have the ability to reduce disease activity. The National MS Society has been a leading force in the movement to eliminate MS and has helped to make these advancements possible.
This year, the New Jersey Metro Chapter hopes to continue this progress at the 2014 Walk MS event. Volunteers make the events successful and contribute to the cause in different ways. Volunteers have the opportunity to walk, help with registration, provide entertainment and more.
For the second year in a row, Walk MS will host a Fun Run in Ridgefield Park and add one to the Clark and Lincroft sites.
The runs will have a shotgun start at 8 a.m. and will be completed before Walk MS begins. Runners will be timed during the 3- mile course through the beautiful park paths. New this year is a 25-mile Challenge Walk.
These events, like many others the society implements, are aimed at one thing: putting a stop to MS. A cure for MS is in the making. With help from volunteers, the National MS Society New Jersey Metro Chapter will help to find that cure.
The 2014 Walk MS will be held on April 27 at the following locations: Bergen County, Ridgefield Park; Essex County, Roseland; Hudson County, Jersey City; Hunterdon County, Flemington; Mercer County, Hamilton; Middlesex County, North Brunswick; Monmouth County, Belmar, Freehold, Lincroft; Morris County, Roxbury; Ocean County, Seaside; and Union County, Clark.
To register or for more information, visit walknjm.nationalmssociety.org or call 732- 660-1005.
Bonnie Bardinas
National Multiple Sclerosis Society
New Jersey Metro Chapter