Taking a hike for an important cause

Apr 30  2010

Last Sunday morning, the MS Society had their annual fundraising walk at Somass Legion #169.

Along with the walk, there was live music, face painting, food and door prizes. Participants of all ages were able to choose between walking the three or five-kilometre circuit. There was a great turnout, with more people than last year. The Port Alberni chapter of the MS Society alone raised $12,668.09.

Many individuals fund raised for this event, however the top fundraising teams were the Scene Team with $2,453.62, the MS Support Group with $1,399.48, Team MCFD with $1,180, the North Island College Human Service Workers' program with $465, and Fish Out of Water with $100.

Sunday was a great day for the walk in regard to the weather. The participants were in high spirits as they were having a leisurely stroll while supporting an excellent cause.

During the walk, I got the chance to ask a few people why they chose to do the walk.

"I'm walking for MS because it's a great cause, but I'm also walking because
I'm in the human service worker program [at North Island College] with Ashley Amato and her husband was diagnosed with MS last year," explained Ranu Rai. "She made me more aware of MS."

I also talked with musical guest Kevin Falkenberg, who performed throughout the event.

"I have a good friend who has MS, and I feel like it's my hometown duty to be charitable," he said.

Kevin added that music is the one thing he is able to contribute to the community. Kevin Falkenberg and his band, The Family Stoned will also be performing at Relay For Life in June.

The Port Alberni chapter of the MS Society would like to thank their sponsors for providing breakfast and lunch as well as fruit along the way. One local restaurant also donated the proceeds of a pizza and pint sale to the MS Society. Ashley Amato, of the MS Society, would like to thank all of the businesses that contributed and the volunteers and performers who made it such a success, including the E.J. Dunn students who did face painting.

By going to the MS Society's website you can continue pledging even though the walk is finished. If you'd like to get involved with the MS Society or learn more about MS, you can contact Ashley Amato at 250-731-5305 or go to
their website, www.mssociety.ca.