Hundreds of cyclists gathered together in Airdrie to bike 150 kilometres to raise awareness and funds for those living and affected by Multiple Sclerosis (MS) last weekend.
Starting at 8 a.m. on June 24, over 300 cyclists strapped on their helmets and took off from the TransCanada Turbine in Highland Park to participate in the bike ride from Airdrie to Olds College. The event is put on by the MS Society of Canada every June.
According to the Government of Alberta, MS is defined as “a disease that affects the central nervous system — the brain and spinal cord. It can cause problems with muscle control and strength, vision, balance, feeling, and thinking.”
One of the top fundraisers for the event, Bradley Arthur, said he rides in memory of his friend who lost the battle to MS in 2012. He wants to make a difference so others who struggle with the disease can get the help they need. This year, Arthur was celebrating his 10-year anniversary taking part in this year’s cycle.
“I saw what he went through over 20 years of battling the disease,” he said. “I just thought I want this to happen to as fewer people going forward as possible, so I relied on his memory and the fibers he put up.”
Arthur has been on the board of the MS Society in Calgary for seven years. He added he has seen first-hand where donations and funds go to support those affected by MS and is a key reason why he takes part in the event.
Recognizing the support of organizations, Arthur said the event would not be possible without them.
“The national sponsor, which is PCL Constructions, they back every single ride across the country,” Arthur said. “It's the support from them and local businesses that mean that I can get on my bike and ride 150 kilometres over the weekend for a good cause.”
Living with MS, cyclist Cory Walliser said that having the ability to participate in the event makes him feel good. He said not only is the experience for him, but for all those impacted by the disease.
Showing signs of MS 20 years ago, Walliser was able to start taking medication to help his condition. He noted that not everyone has had the same experience as him.
“It’s for me [and] it’s for everyone else that has MS and everyone that lives with someone with MS,” he said. “I have friends that are not as lucky unfortunately, but you make every day count and do what you can.”
Though the ride wrapped up on Sunday as the cyclists wheeled their way back to Airdrie, Arthur said people can continue donating to the cause up until Sept. 30. The goal is to raise $450,000 and they are sitting just over $413,000 as of writing.
Those who wish to donate or learn more can visit msspbike.donordrive.com.
Anyone interested in learning more about MS, wanting to volunteer, or donating to MS Society of Canada can visit mscanada.ca.
