Petalumans leading local MS movement

Petaluma residents Doug Richardson and Francesca Smith hope that April 18 will bring the community one step closer to finding a cure for Multiple Sclerosis.

On April 18, Richardson and Smith will take part in Walk MS, a national movement that has become a rallying point for people with MS and their families and friends. Funds raised at Walk MS will support direct services provided by the National MS Society to the nearly 12,500 people with MS and their families in Northern California, as well as contribute to ongoing worldwide MS research.

Richardson, Smith and more than 300 other walkers hope their fundraising and outreach efforts will contribute to finding a cure for this chronic, unpredictable disease of the central nervous system. For Richardson, who was diagnosed with MS 27 years ago, the National MS Society has been a source of personal and family support.

“When I got involved, the focus was on people with MS. Now the view has expanded. The circle is much broader,” said Richardson.

Smith came to work with the National MS Society through a personal connection. She has been inspired by the MS Society’s network.

“MS robs the body of connections, but we rebuild connections through our relationships,” said Smith.

The Northern California Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society will hold its annual Walk MS event at Maria Carrillo High School on April 18. Funds raised also support MS research worldwide.

Walk MS will hold a local fundraiser from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. March 30 at Lagunitas Brewing Co., 1280 N. McDowell Blvd. The event will feature local blues band Randy and the Special Agents.

Admission is $10 at the door.

Walk MS is still accepting individual and team participants for its 1K or 5K walk, roll or stroll. Volunteers are also needed. Walk MS is a family-friendly event, with entertainment on the route and at the finish festival with food, music, face painters, balloon twisters, team booths and fun give-aways.