A Decade of Walking

Lakeland MS Walk celebrates 10th Anniversary in St. Paul

“After a decade, participants don’t even notice the weather,” remarked Mayor of St. Paul, Glenn Andersen as he embarked on the annual Lakeland MS Walk. The Mayor, a regular on the 10 kilometre route, powered through the weather like the other nearly 500 walkers/runner/riders on Saturday. Thanks to their determination over $125,000 has been raised with the totals expected to rise as organizers count donations that are still flowing in.

Brenda Rosychuk Senior Coordinator, Programs & Services and Development with the Lakeland MS Society says it the efforts of the region that make the walk such a success every year.”The word that I can use to describe our region, is amazing. We have amazing volunteers, we have amazing sponsors, amazing donors and fundraisers. We have the top fundraisers in the country, per capita, year after year.” Canada has the highest number of people living with MS in the world. Often referred to as Canada’s disease, money raised from the annual walk helps local patients living with the condition; as well as, national research and programming. “Most of all we have the most amazing people, living with MS [in the region],” Rosychuk spoke to the crowd prior to the start of the walk about the clients in the area. “They think we’re increasing their quality of life, but in turn they are increasing our quality of life; everyday.”

“Despite the weather, it turned out to be a fantastic day and the impact the Lakeland Region has made on the lives of those living with MS is so inspirational and heartwarming.” Fundraising efforts continue year round with various break-out events; including fan-favourite A&W Show & Shine featuring a Toy Car Show in the fall.

If you would like to know more about the Lakeland MS Society, visit them online at mssociety.ca or follow the MS Society on Facebook.