MELFORT — This year’s Melfort multiple sclerosis (MS) walk raised more than $10,000.
There were over 35 participants signed up for the walk, with over 10 people participating that didn’t register. Last year’s event had about 70 walkers.
The walk serves to raise money for the MS Society. The funds are used to research the disease as well as be used for programs and services for those with MS.
Some research being funded takes place in the University of Saskatchewan as well as the University of Regina.
MS is an autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system such as the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves.
Statistics Canada found that in 2010 to 2011 there were at 290 cases per 100,000 people, making Canada the country with the highest prevalence of the condition in the world.
Its symptoms can vary unpredictably from person to person. Some symptoms include extreme fatigue, lack of co-ordination, weakness, tingling, impaired sensation, vision problems, bladder problems, cognitive impairment and mood changes.
“It can be a lot more extreme for some people and it’s just important that we recognize everybody struggles differently with it,” said Kat Matlock, co-ordinator of campaigns, volunteers and registration with the MS Society.
“Because of the variety of symptoms MS can kind of be a silent disease, so you might not know somebody is living with it.”
Currently the cause of the disease is still being researched.
Matlock said the event came together “really well”, despite the decrease in numbers and donations.
“We had a lot of walk-on registrations and considering we didn’t have a volunteer coordinator right off the bat this year and we had to put it together. It was good.”
“$10,000 is a good number for a fundraiser.”
She said that money typically continues to come in after the fundraiser ends.
Unlike previous years, this was the first time without local organizers. Usually a local organizer is chosen months, or even a year in advance.
“This year we just kind of provided support from our office and reaching out to sponsorships and participants directly from our office, but we also partnered up with the local A&W and the local A&W area manager as well.”
Irene Frier was one of the walkers. She came to support her friend who has MS.
“It’s a good way to donate to MS and have a fun day,” Frier said.
Belanda Simon was another walker.
“MS is huge, it takes people’s lives and it’s something that’s really important and we’re fortunate Melfort is still doing it,” Simon said.
Both Frier and Simon were volunteers last year with the walk that they are now participating in as walker.
“We did the walk last year, but we had other commitments,” Simon said. “It’s really important that somebody does it every year. I think it’s very important.”
For those who are interested in contacting MS Society to learn about their programs and services, they can be reached at 306-244-2114.
