Prince George, B.C. – It has come to be known as “Canada’s disease” for the simple yet baffling reason that Canada has the highest rate of multiple sclerosis in the world, with an estimated 100,000 people in this country living with the disease, over 12,000 of them in BC.

MS is a chronic and often disabling disease of the central nervous system which includes the brain, spinal cord and optic nerve.  The disease, one of the most common neurological afflictions affecting young people in Canada, is most often diagnosed in young adults between 15 and 40 but also strikes younger children and older adults.  There are many types of MS and the research community is working to develop methods of early detection, treatment, comprehensive care and a cure.

Today, more than 4,000 British Columbians, including people with MS as well as supporters and other individuals, are taking part in 18 Scotiabank MS walk events across the province to publicly join forces in the fight against the disease while at the same time raising funds for the research that, hopefully, will find the answers to the many questions that remain about it.

The money raised through the walks goes to advancing that research as well as paying for programs and services and advocacy work.

The Prince George walk is being held at Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park and it starts and finishes at the Kiwanis Bowl Bandshell.  The route covers 2.25 kilometres and those wishing to can walk it a second time for a total of 4.5 km.  Participants can walk individually or as a member of a team.

Check-in time is 11 a.m. with the walk beginning at 12 noon.

Once the participants have completed the route they’ll have some lunch and refreshments and everyone is invited to have enjoy the Kids tent, vendors, musical entertainment and family activities.