Why I’m Walking For Multiple Sclerosis
Zwanger-Pesiri Radiology hosted their Walk MS at Belmont Lake State Park on Saturday, May 4. It was a fabulous day for the walkers, with bright sunshine and moderate temperatures. Several teachers from the Hicksville School District walked, in support of all who suffer from this unpredictable disease.
On Saturday, May 17 you will find me at the Zwanger-Pesiri Radiology Walk MS at Jones Beach, bright and early. I’ve been captaining a team for six years; this year will mark my seventh year participating. I look forward to it, because I become something larger than myself. The best part of the walk is the unity that one feels at the event. Vendors of medical supplies, as well as other sponsors, set up tables, and everyone is a winner — there are freebies galore, as well as information for assistive devices, medications, and other items that can benefit one with MS.
I’ve had the honor and privilege of walking with friends, family, and people who support and bless my efforts. One year I had members of the Hicksville JV softball team along for the ride. That year, we raised over $1,100 in donations. Last year, some very dear friends donated a great deal of money and we raised over $900! The support that I have received has been instrumental in my progress with the illness, as well as helped me through some very difficult and dark times.
Last year’s walk was moved from Jones Beach to Eisenhower Park due to Hurricane Sandy’s devastating effects on the boardwalk at parking fields 4 and 5. This year, with the newly repaired boardwalk in order, we are looking forward to a banner year! Last year’s event had over 10,000 participants. I’m hoping to see at least that many again this year.
I’ve had the honor of working with those at the National Multiple Sclerosis Society of Long Island for over seven years. During that time, I’ve received publications about the disease, a bi-monthly magazine with articles about struggles that an MS patient faces, and wonderful ways that those like me are overcoming what could very easily be one of the largest hurdles a person has to face: chronic, possibly debilitating, illness.
My daughter is my co-captain and she is the bright light that keeps me going. From the beginning, she was there at my side, walking, helping me to walk when I was unable, and coaching me through the entire experience. I’m moving better than ever these days, yet, she still coaches in my ear: “Come on, Mom, we have to get in shape for the walk! Do it for Team Zamboni!” (Our team’s name.)
If you have been newly diagnosed with MS, or are struggling with the effects of the illness, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society of Long Island is there to help. For more information, please visit their website at www.nmssli.org, or call them at 631-864-8337. The toll-free number is 1-800-344-4867.
Multiple sclerosis is an unpredictable, often debilitating disease that can affect all parts of a person’s life. Visual changes, gait disorders and imbalance are only part of the myriad of symptoms that this illness can bestow upon its victim. It’s pretty scary to have to experience, but I face each day as it comes. My hope is to educate the public about the disease, as well as to raise funds to help to annihilate its existence. MS tries to prevent people from moving; I’m living proof that I won’t let it hold me down.
Hope to see you all at Jones Beach!
