MADISON, Conn., — More than 6,000 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 first time ever, 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 Hammonasset Beach State Park will, for the first time, host the 2014 Walk MS, presented by Travelers, on Saturday, April 5. Walkers will check-in at 9 a.m. and step out at 10 a.m.
The 2013 Walk MS attracted nearly 10,000 participants. This year, the Madison planning committee hopes to raise $69,200. The National MS Society, Connecticut Chapter, hopes to raise $1.3 million this year.
“This year Madison-area residents are expected to step out in large numbers to demonstrate support for those in their community battling multiple sclerosis,” said Karen E. Butler, National MS Society, Connecticut Chapter, vice president of marketing and public relations. “Our Madison walk site planning committee members do an exceptional job of rallying the troops, bringing people together from all walks of life in a single effort to raise funds to find a cure.”
At this year’s event, the Manchester site will feature a new start line, The River 105.9, the UConn marching band, an open stretch courtesy of Tolland Fitness & Zumba, popcorn, cotton candy and a Kids Zone with fun activities and face painting. Margaritas Mexican Restaurant of East Hartford will also be present, offering chips and salsa.
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.
The 2014 Walk MS, presented by Travelers, will be held Saturday, April 5, and Sunday, April 6, 2014 at 12 sites across the state. Lunch will be provided by Coca Cola and Subway.
This year, the chapter expects to raise $1.3 million. Check in for Walk MS begins at 8 a.m. Participants step out at 9 a.m. Lunch is provided compliments of Subway and Coca-Cola. Walk MS community partners include News 8, WUVN/WHTX Univision and WUTH Telefutura and Clear Channel Radio Connecticut, which includes The River 105.9, Country 92.5, KISS 95.7, 97.9 ESPN, 1410 Fox Sports AM, KC 101.3, 960 WELI, and ESPN 1300 AM. Other community partners include 95.9 The FOX, WCTY 97.7 and La Puertorriqueñisima 1120 AM.
To learn more about the 2014 Walk MS, presented by Travelers, or to register, please visit www.ctfightsms.org.
3/7/14