The momentum is starting to build for the 2013 MS Walk after the designation of a new walk coordinator.
The Drumheller MS Society recently named Shauna Brown as the new MS Walk coordinator. She replaces Dianne Snyder who held the position since November 2011.
Brown is already thinking big for the upcoming walk, which is being held on May 5 this year.
“My focus this year is getting as many teams involved as we can. It’s more fun to walk with a team, and it gives businesses and organizations a way to expose themselves. We’ve also added a fun run aspect to it as well. Those who are fit enough can go out and run the route as well,” said Brown.
Another change for the walk this year will be its new location. Previously the walk had been held at the Drumheller Memorial Arena. Now, it will take place at the Badlands Community Facility.
“I think it’ll give us a really nice area to work with and give the outlying people a chance to see what the facility offers,” said Brown.
Like many involved in the MS Society, Brown has a personal connection with multiple sclerosis.
“I like this type of work and last year I lost a friend from school to MS. There’s also a couple of other girls from my tiny home town that suffer from it too. When you have a town of 500 and two have MS, it impacts every one,” said Brown. “A lot of the money that goes into research comes from the MS Walks.”
With the appointment of Brown, it is hoped the walk will grow.
“She’s a really enthusiastic woman and will do great,” said Holly Guterson, secretary/treasurer of the Drumheller MS Society. “The walk has held its own each year, but as the population is aging, we need to get young people involved.”
The money raised by the MS Walk helps fund research to combat the disease and support those afflicted with MS in Drumheller in the form of support groups and financial assistance.
“Half of money raised in Drumheller, after expenses, goes to research and the other half stays in Drumheller,” said Guterson. “They’ve made huge strides in MS research over the past 20 years. It’s amazing what they can do for some and what they know about the disease.”
Anyone who is interested in participating is encouraged to register early. To register, click here.