Residents in St. Paul will once again join communities across Canada later this month for the annual Jayman BUILT MS Walk, raising funds and awareness for Canadians living with multiple sclerosis.

The St. Paul walk takes place Sunday, May 31 as part of a national event happening in more than 50 communities across the country. Organizers say the annual fundraiser continues to play a major role in supporting research, advocacy and programs for people affected by MS.

This year marks the 12th consecutive year Jayman BUILT has partnered with MS Canada as the title sponsor for Alberta MS Walk events.

Canada has one of the highest rates of multiple sclerosis in the world, with an average of 12 Canadians diagnosed every day. MS is a neurological disease affecting the brain, spinal cord and optic nerve, most commonly diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 49.

According to MS Canada, more than 90,000 Canadians currently live with the condition.

“MS doesn’t just affect the person diagnosed; it ripples through families, friendships, and entire communities,” said Gemma Cowan, Assistant Vice-President of Community Fundraising at MS Canada. “Our partnership with Jayman BUILT highlights the incredible progress we can make when communities come together.”

Jay Westman, Chairman and CEO of Jayman BUILT, said the cause is deeply personal for his family.

“It’s affected my grandmother, my mother, my sister, her daughter, and family members at Jayman,” said Westman. “When it comes to MS, time matters. Early detection and early treatment of MS make a difference.”

Organizers say this year’s national fundraising goal is $4.4 million. Funds raised will go toward support programs, advocacy efforts and ongoing research.

Community members can participate in person or virtually.

To register, volunteer, donate or find more information, visit MSWalks.ca.