Mobility not Taken for Granted by Multiple Sclerosis Supporters

They came out on foot, with canes, and even on electric wheelchairs and power scooters. The Multiple Sclerosis Challenge Walk held April 1st at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena was a grand success, raising $939,000 for research for Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Participants came to support a loved one or as a sufferer themselves.

The Multiple Sclerosis Challenge Walk is held annually in nine different locations throughout the nation. Depending on the event, the distance walked or traveled on an electric wheelchair or scooter is between 30 and 50 miles.

MS is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the central nervous system, specifically the cells in the brain and the spinal chord. Severe cases lead to impaired mobility and disability. MS can take different forms, with new symptoms occurring as the disease progresses. There are periods when all seems normal, then the symptoms return. There is no known cure.

MS symptoms include:

Difficulty walking
Blurred vision
Mood swings—emotional instability
Vertigo and dizziness
Numbness and sometimes pain

It is estimated that about 33% of people living with MS use an electric wheelchair some or most of the time. For MS sufferers without power mobility, it is possible to get a free mobility consultation and this can make a difference.

The Multiple Sclerosis Challenge Walk is not just about walking—it is about being a part of a movement and being part of the community. It is a time to come together. When people share the details of their struggles with each other, the disease becomes less of a burden.

While it is true that the lives of MS sufferers are made easier with the new technology—electric wheelchairs, lifts, vans and computers technology is not what the Multiple Sclerosis Challenge Walk is all about. The many people coming out in support of the MS Walks all want to do something about MS now. They do not take mobility for granted. They are choosing to move forward, one small step at a time.

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