NEWPORT NEWS, Va. - Hundreds walked a mile-plus route at Newport News Park on Saturday in support of multiple sclerosis research and those battling the disease.
Organizers of the Peninsula's WALK MS event said more than 600 had signed up for the first of two weekend walks in Hampton Roads.
Multiple sclerosis is a disease that affects the central nervous system and there is no cure. However, the President of the National MS Society chapter for Virginia and West Virginia tells News 3 there have been big leaps in treatment.
“When I started 16 years ago at the National MS Society, we had eight disease modifying therapies. Today we have 25," said Sherri Ellis. "We are seeing the advancements and how a walk like today, a walk and raising money, is accelerating our research.”
Many of those walking on Saturday were wearing orange in support of people diagnosed with MS and were greeted with cheers from volunteers when they finished.
A second walk is scheduled in Virginia Beach on Sunday and Ellis says she hopes to raise more than $190,000 between the two.
Fran Peed, a Board of Trustees member of the National MS Society's local chapter, says she's put together a team of nearly 80 for the event.
She says first began walking and riding for MS research when her sister was diagnosed. Sadly, her sister has since passed.
Then, in September, Peed says she learned she had MS, giving her a new perspective for this year's walks.
“It was emotional losing my sister and riding for her, but then there was also joy in remembering her. This time it is a lot different for me," Peed told News 3. "It’s a little overwhelming at times, but it’s also pretty amazing. I am very supported.”
Organizers say there's no signup needed to participate in Sunday's walk.
Those who wish to join can begin arriving at Old Dominion University's Virginia Beach Higher Education Center at noon. The program starts at 12:45 p.m. with the walk beginning at 1 p.m.
The address for the location is 1881 University Drive in Virginia Beach, Lot 3. One-mile and three-mile routes are available.
