Promoting MS Awareness in Inland Empire through Walk MS Events
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an unpredictable, progressive disease that affects nearly 1 million people in the U.S. Raising awareness and funding research is key to finding better treatments and ultimately a cure. The Inland Empire chapter of the National MS Society sponsors an annual Walk MS event to support local families impacted by the disease.
Understanding MS in Inland Empire
Its estimated that over 9,000 individuals are living with MS across the Inland Empire areas of San Bernardino and Riverside counties. MS symptoms range from blurred vision to numbness, spasticity and even paralysis typically emerging between ages 20-50.
While theres still no cure, increased research and new high-efficacy disease modifying therapies allow many to manage symptoms and continue enjoying productive lives at home, work and in their communities.
National MS Society Inland Empire Chapter
The National MS Society has local chapters across the country offering resources and support tailored specifically for regional communities. The Inland Empire chapter assists local families with:
- Accessing healthcare, medication and symptom management
- Navigating health insurance, disability applications and workplace rights
- Finding MS education, peer groups and mental health assistance
- Securing equipment, transportation and at-home caregiving assistance
Inland Empire Walk MS Events Support Local MS Services
Walk MS serve as the primary fundraiser allowing Inland Empires National MS Society chapter to continue helping local families thrive in face of MS. These family-friendly 5K walk events rally communities to participate while fundraising.
What is Walk MS?
Walk MS brings together teams comprising friends, families, co-workers, neighbors and more - all unified behind supporting a loved one living with MS or the cause overall. Though a recreational group walk, these inspire passion and camaraderie toward creating a world free of MS.
Who Participates in Walk MS?
Anyone can participate in Walk MS events. Those with direct connections to MS are especially motivated, like:
- Newly diagnosed individuals
- Longtime MS fighters
- Care partners, friends and family supporters
- Healthcare providers and researchers
- Corporate/business teams
- School clubs, church groups and more
What to Expect at Walk MS Events
Walk MS offer fun for all ages centered around community, hope and collective determination. Typical event offerings include:
- Inspirational opening ceremonies
- Accessible 5K routes with rest stops
- Kid zones with games and activities
- Photo booths and victory celebrations
- Musical entertainment and guest speakers
- BBB Resource Fair connecting attendees with local programs and services
Joining Inland Empires Walk MS as Individuals or Teams
Supporting Walk MS is easy and accessible to every person wanting to propel MS research, resources and community-building forward. Various involvement options exist whether participating solo or in groups.
Start Fundraising as Individual Walkers
Join individually by signing up online and beginning your personal campaign to raise contributions from those around you. Fundraising outreach can happen both online via custom participant pages and in-person soliciting donations from family, friends, neighbors and more.
Other individual involvement ideas include volunteering event day or joining mid-way through the walk route to cheer others to the finish line.
Rally Group Teams
Form teams united around a specific person with MS or general cause dedication. Recruit any circle eager to commit - co-workers, classmates, gym buddies, book club members, you name it!
Teams breed friendly competition as members can motivate each other in fundraising efforts for greater collective impact. Perks like awards, contests, swag and recognition spotlight top teams.
Set Team Goals and Tell Your Story
Unify teams under achievable yet ambitious fundraising targets. Track progress privately or leverage public team pages to transparently share financial and participation goals.
Have each member share what makes them Walk MS through photos, videos and personal facts or stories. Putting faces to fundraisers makes campaigns more meaningful and successful.
Inland Empire Walk MS Event Details
The Western Riverside County and San Bernardino/Redlands areas both host local spring Walk MS events as the Inland Empire chapters marquee fundraiser.
Western Riverside County Walk MS
2023 Event Date: April 23rd
Location: Lake Skinner Recreation Area
The Riverside-area Walk MS proves one of the largest gatherings countywide each year, spotlighting inspirational stories of local members navigating MS while raising critical funds and awareness.
San Bernardino/Redlands Walk MS
2023 Event Date: TBD April/May
Location: tbd San Bernardino or Redlands
San Bernardino county residents and neighbors convene their own powerful Walk MS demonstrating the widespread reach of MS through personal journeys told across the Inland Empire.
Make Walk MS Part of Your MS Awareness Month Activities
As March represents National Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month, no better opportunity exists to become involved with Walk MS events supporting local families. With an estimated 1 in 1,000 people diagnosed, MS touches countless lives in need of resources, funding and collaborative action toward future cures.
FAQs
Who can participate in the Inland Empire Walk MS?
Anyone can participate! People with MS, friends & family, corporate teams, community groups and more are all welcome to fundraise, walk, volunteer or cheer on event day.
Where are the 2023 Walk MS events held?
The Western Riverside Walk is at Lake Skinner Park on April 23. A second walk in the San Bernardino/Redlands area with details TBA is also planned in spring 2023.
How much money do I need to raise?
All donations make an impact, no matter the size! Many set a goal of $100 to start. Teams often challenge each other to higher fundraising competitions.
What is multiple sclerosis (MS) exactly?
MS is an autoimmune disease causing nerve damage and a range of physical and cognitive symptoms. Over 9,000 individuals live with MS across Inland Empire needing increased research and community support.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
Add Comment