Walk MS hopes to raise $45,000 this year

The annual Walk MS Augusta will be held Saturday at Stevens Creek Elementary School.

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"The money that we raise from this event goes toward research and to find a cure for MS. It also goes toward educating people living with MS and their family members about the disease," said Amy Ingram, community walk coordinator.

Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system by interrupting the flow of information from the brain to the body, stopping people from moving.

According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society Georgia Chapter, there are 8,500 Georgians who have multiple sclerosis.

Last year, 237 walkers participated in Walk MS Augusta and raised $40,000. This year, the goal is to have 300 walkers and raise $45,000, Ingram said.

The walk will cover 5 kilometers or a little more than 3 miles. There is no registration fee for the walk. However, since it is a fund-raiser, donations and pledges are encouraged.

"It's a family oriented event so people can bring their children. Also, lunch will be served," she said.

For more information on Walk MS Augusta or other walks held throughout the state, visit www.walkmsgeorgia.org.