Hundreds participate in Walk MS: Indianapolis as event goes virtual amid pandemic

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The National Multiple Sclerosis Society of Indiana State isn’t letting COVID-19 stop their mission of supporting people with MS and their families.

“It’s even more important right now to show our support because we are used to those in-person connections,” said Beverley Stafford with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Stafford says last year’s annual Walk MS: Indianapolis saw more than 2,500 people celebrating at White River State Park.

Despite Saturday’s event being moved to a virtual walk because of COVID-19 concerns, around 750 people are still registered.

“I think it’s safe to say that more than 8,000 Hoosiers are affected by MS,” said Stafford.

Interested participants can still get involved by starting a fundraiser or donating to an existing one, but Stafford says this year, they just want to see a lot of orange on social media.

Whether you set up a home route, walk on a treadmill or around the block, Stafford hopes people put on something orange, take a picture and post it to social with the #VirtualWalkMS.

Ambrosia Sauer says she has known she’s had MS for 11 years and while this time has been challenging, she is thankful for the online community for their continued support.

“I see a lot of parallels between what we’re living with the virus and living with a chronic illness,” said Sauer. “The daily uncertainty that doesn’t go away and with each new disability having to adjust to a new normal.”

Stafford wants to remind people that they are still here for those affected by MS. You can find additional resources here.