Life with MS
By Jen Gawler
Lorri of San Jose was diagnosed with relapsing-remitting MS in 1998 and has faced numerous challenges in the sixteen years following her diagnosis. “I no longer work,” said Lorri. “I'm on disability. I used to run 5k's and my husband and I rode mountain bikes every weekend. We've had to learn to adapt to losing my mobility." She now uses a cane to balance, as well as a scooter for long distance outings. Despite her limited mobility, Lorri (AKA Scooter Girl) found a new passion through her connection to the National MS Society: Walk MS.
Via Scooter, Lorri will be participating in her sixth Walk MS event this May at the new Silicon Valley Vasona Park location. She loves the diversity of the event and wouldn’t miss it. "There are so many people at the Walk for so many different reasons,” she said. ”I love reconnecting with people I've met from previous Walks and meeting and making new friends." Walk MS also helped to lift Lorri's spirits and bring her closer to her husband. "Walk MS has given me another reason to fight MS. I'm now a member of the Walk MS Committee. My husband, Dean, helps me deliver flyers and literature to promote the Walk. I like that we're involved together!"
Lorri encourages others to participate in Walk MS because she believes the event brings the world closer to finding a cure. "Being a part of Walk MS is emotionally uplifting,” said Lorri. “Experiencing the energy of the day shouldn't be missed. Donating to Walk MS is a MUST. The money that is raised helps people whose lives are impacted by MS. It also brings us closer to finding a cure for MS!" Lorri also believes Walk MS is a great way to build connections. "Walk MS is a great way to meet people who are like-minded in the battle with MS. There are many opportunities to find information about learning to live with MS. More importantly, it's a lot of fun!"
Please join us for a Walk MS in your area. No matter your mobility, Walk MS is for everyone! The Walk MS festival atmosphere is a great place to meet, greet and mingle. Find your walk today because every connection counts! Register at www.walkms.org.