Multiple Sclerosis, an invisible disease, affects more than 390,000 Americans—with over 200 people diagnosed daily. It is an unpredictable disease that varies in symptoms and severity. MS attacks the brain and spinal cord, and may cause sporadic or permanent blurred vision, loss of balance, poor coordination, slurred speech, tremors, fatigue, problems with memory and concentration, paralysis, and blindness.
Throughout the year, individuals in the National MS Society host a number of walks to raise awareness for the disease, as well as money to provide support to families and individuals who battle MS. During registration MS walkers are encouraged to write motivational and personal messages about the disease. A lot of people use this to pay tribute to loved ones who may have the disease.
Walkers who are battling MS sign bandanas for bikers who are participating in Bike for MS in May. Most of the bikers don’t have MS and don’t have family members who are affected. Having those with MS write messages to the bikers lets them know that they’re biking for a cause, and aiding those with MS who may not be able to ride a bike.
I had the pleasure of participating in a walk over the weekend in Easton, Ma for the Greater New England chapter of the National MS Society. This chapter raised $19,000 through walks hosted in Greater New England. Funds raised through the society help support research, education, programs. and services to individuals with MS and their family. Before this walk, I haven’t been one to take on a role such as “team captain.” I couldn’t have picked a better place to start than fighting against an invisible and unpredictable disease.