Apr 26, 2009
Eleven Walks: One Step Closer
The Northern California Chapter of the National MS Society thanks the over 6,000 people who participated in the 2009 Walk MS events throughout region. The Northern California Chapter hosted walks in eleven Northern California cities with the goal of raising $1.75 million to fund vital programs and services to more than 20,000 people living with multiple sclerosis in its 40 county region and to fund cutting-edge research projects to help develop better treatments and find a cure.
Local walkers joined over 200,000 walkers at 600 sites across the country to raise money to find the casue and cure for multiple sclerosis. The Northern California communities participating in Walk MS 2009 include: Alameda, Eureka, Modesto, Monterey Bay, Rocklin/Roseville, Sacramento, San Francisco, San Jose, Santa Rosa, Walnut Creek and Yuba City.
Participants walked either 5K or 10K to help raise money and awareness for MS. Walk MS was a fun and festive event for the whole family out to enjoy a great day in the sun. Each site had engaging programming, including: energetic fitness gurus warming up the crowds, celebrity guests, live music, acrobatic performances, belly dancing, karate demonstrations, and more. Walkers were also treated to a hearty breakfast before the walk and were greeted by lunch provided by Subway upon their return.
Walkers secured pledges from friends and family totaling over $675,000 to date. Many teams have been in place for years and wear team t-shirts in honor of friends and family members living with MS.
MS doesn’t slow down when the economy does, and people with MS and their families need the National MS Society now more than ever. Request for financial assistance have nearly doubled compared to last year and we expect to this increase to continue.
Today there is no cure for multiple sclerosis, but with your help, tomorrow there could be. We are asking our Walk MS supporters go that extra mile and continue to fundraise. All funds collected through May 25th will apply to incentive prizes. In this uncertain world, we are the one thing people with MS can count on, and we are counting on you.