SIMCOE David Horton is making strides toward returning the Simcoe-Norfolk MS Walk to an in-person fundraising event on May 29.
“Whether you do the walk in-person or virtually doesn’t really matter,” said the Simcoe resident, who is chair of the Grand Erie chapter of the MS Society of Canada. “The in-person walk is always fun to do, and it’s a great day.”
The walk has been held virtually over the past two years due to pandemic restrictions. Horton is keen to see the event back at pre-pandemic levels.
In 2019, the event raised more than $45,000 in Simcoe, while Brantford’s walk raised about half that amount.
He said the challenge faced in Brantford in past years has been that the annual Hike for Hospice – benefiting the Stedman Community Hospice — has been held the same day as the MS Walk.
“It’s much tougher to get people involved in the MS Walk, except for people that want to support us.”
As a result, a decision was made not to hold an MS Walk in Brantford this year.
“The Brantford component is now going to be invited to come to the Simcoe walk, if they choose to do so,” said Horton, adding that out-of-town participants can opt to take part virtually.
“The important thing for everyone who wants to get involved is to get registered and to start thinking about the fundraising component. Reach out to friends and family, and try to get sponsorships.”
MS is a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system.
According to the MS Society, Canada has one of the highest rates of multiple sclerosis in the world, with an estimated 90,000 Canadians living with the disease. On average, 12 Canadians are diagnosed with MS every day. Most people are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 49.
Nationally, the MS Society hopes to raise $4.5 million with the walks. The local goal is $31,600.
Horton said a large portion of funds raised go towards research.
“That’s what our members seem to want to have done with the money,” he noted. “They want to get that next medication, and they want to get closer to a cure.”
Funds also help the MS Society to offer programs and services that provide wheelchairs, scooters, walkers and bathroom aids, health and nutrition courses and support groups.
Horton’s wife, Judy, has had multiple sclerosis for 42 years.
“She is what is called a secondary progressive in the four stages of MS,” he explained. “She does use a walker and is not as mobile as she used to be. That’s the progression of the disease in some cases.
“We can only hope that it stalls at this point and she maintains this level of mobility for some time yet.”
Horton said plans for this year’s walk on May 29 are still being finalized.
Participants will gather in the parking lot of Holy Trinity Catholic High School at 128 Evergreen Hill Rd. in Simcoe before heading out on two- and five-kilometre walks. Food will not be available.
To register, visit www.mswalks.ca and select Simcoe Norfolk.