By AUBRIE GEORGE
Medford Lakes resident Shannon Walsh-Bacchus is hoping for some sunshine this May 1, just in time for the second annual Medford Lakes walk for the MS Walk Campaign.
The walk, which brought in over 500 participants and $68,000 last year for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, will again consist of 2.7 miles beginning at Vaughan Hall and winding through the borough’s scenic trails. The walk route and areas that will be set up for activities are all paved, fully accessible and equipped with rest stops.
Walsh-Bacchus, community coordinator for the event, said the campaign’s goal is to raise both funds and awareness about multiple sclerosis.
Since last year, she said, the number of people living with multiple sclerosis has increased from 11,000 to 13,000.
“The increase could be due to a number of things, it could that more people are seeking medical attention, it could be that more people are being diagnosed,” Walsh-Bacchus said. “The more we do as a community to raise funds and raise awareness about MS, the closer we are to stopping MS.”
This year, the campaign’s goal is to raise $81,800 and bring in 625 registered walkers for the May 1 event. The funds raised during the campaign support and increase opportunities for those currently living with multiple sclerosis. The funds also go toward research to help find the disease’s prevention and to search for a cure.
“We really want to make a difference and we really want to help,” Walsh-Bacchus said.
Walsh-Bacchus said this year’s event is going to feature a fun alley with activities for every one of all ages and capabilities. There will be local business, local scout groups, live entertainment, and family friendly activities.
Walk-Bacchus, whose husband suffers from MS, started the annual walk in Medford Lakes last year after participating in the MS walk for about eight years in other locations. She decided to get the MS Society to approve a walk in Medford Lakes so that it could be something that local residents could participate in.
Residents can begin registering, creating teams, and making donations now for the springtime event. For more information or to register, visit www.walk4MS.org and find the Medford Lakes page.
For information about the walk or to volunteer to help with planning or during the event, contact Walsh-Bacchus via E-mail at Shannon@WalkMsMedfordLakes.com.
