MADISON, Conn., — More than 6,300 Connecticut residents battle the effects of multiple sclerosis, a potentially debilitating disease that affects the central nervous system. In a show of support each year hundreds of loved ones, friends, neighbors and co-workers throughout Madison and surrounding communities step out in solidarity for a single cause: to create a world free of MS.
For the second year, WTNH News 8 evening news anchor Darren Kramer will step out for Walk MS at the Hammonasset Beach State Park walk site. Kramer, whose mother-in-law battles multiple sclerosis, has served as the event’s grand marshal since 2006. Kramer also heads up his own Walk MS fundraising team, News 8, which over the years has raised thousands of dollars to support the fight against multiple sclerosis.
The 2014 Walk MS attracted 10,500 participants and raised $1.4 million, which they hope to duplicate this year.
More than 550 walkers took to the pavement in Madison last year. Together they raised more than $71,000. This year, the Madison planning committee hopes to raise $74,000.
The top team from last year’s Madison walk was team Dog Walkers, raising $3,850. The top individual walker, Joy Pozefsky, raised $27,820.
The 2015 Walk MS, presented by Travelers, will be held Saturday, April 18 in Enfield, Fairfield and Madison, and Sunday, April 19, in Cheshire, Waterford and West Hartford. Participants can also join Walk MS on Saturday, April 25, in East Hartford and Sunday, April 26, in Litchfield, Simsbury, Stamford and West Haven.
“After receiving feedback from our walkers that a higher level of staff support at our walk sites was desired, our team made the decision to split our 11 walks out over two weekends,” said Michael Branda, senior development manager for the National MS Society, Connecticut Chapter. “We’ve also found that weekends can become so valuable to families and are hoping that if there is a conflict for a team on one weekend, there is another walk close by the next weekend. So, if you can’t make it to the walk in Madison on the 18th, you might consider walking in Waterford on the 19th or West Haven on the 26th.”
Funds raised by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Connecticut Chapter, though events, such as Walk MS, presented by Travelers, ensure ongoing scientific research to find better treatments and a cure, as well as to provide vital programs and services offered by the chapter.
To learn more about the 2015 Walk MS, presented by Travelers, or to register, please visit www.ctfightsms.org.