"Can you imagine... Having multiple sclerosis means that one morning you may not be able to walk when you wake up. Or that you may suddenly have impaired vision. Or that your memory will fail you for no apparent reason. The symptoms of MS are many and vary for everyone. It's estimated that approximately 55,000-75,000 men and women in Canada have the disease, and every day about three more people are diagnosed." (MS Walk website)
On June 3 Wawota hosted its 17th Annual MS Walk that boasted over 50 individuals who partook in the walk. A beautiful day was enjoyed by friends, family, and animals. Many brought their dogs out to enjoy the walk through Wawota.
Registration began at 2 p.m. and by 3 p.m. they were ready to move. Gathered together they took off. Kids rode push bikes and a garden tractor towed a wagon behind for those needing a short break.
Half way through the walk a stop was made for homemade treats and some refreshments before carrying along. Some chose to walk back to the start/finish line as young children were beginning to tire out. The rest finished the walk basking in the sun as they reached the finish line.
Following the walk many stayed around to enjoy the feast that the organizers provided. A barbeque with a variety of salads had everyone smiling, enjoying their time to relax and visit after the walk.
The total funds raised for the day was $16,773.10, surpassing last year's total by approximately $2,000. There were six teams entered this year for the walk and many individuals who took part in the day. Top individual earners included Wendy Greenbank ($4,075), Tanya Raffey ($2,450), and Nicole Gervais ($1849). The RBC in Wawota had held a penny drive for the cause raising $268.71, which weighed 125 pounds.
Happy with the outcome coordinator Shawna Cudmore is already looking forward to next year's walk.
