https://www.xxzza1.com
23.3 C
Newcastle

Great strides for multiple sclerosis

SHARE

A red-and-white-clad army has descended on Lake Macquarie this month to help fight an “invisible” illness.

Seventeen of Whitebridge woman Stacey Hartcher’s biggest supporters have registered to clock ‘50K in May’ – a major fundraiser by MS Research Australia.

Each participant has pledged to run, walk, swim or ride a cumulative 50 kilometres each this month in an effort to help bankroll research into multiple sclerosis, a progressive, debilitating condition in which damaged nerve sheaths disrupt impulses between the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves, causing symptoms such as loss of coordination, tremors, fatigue and speech difficulties.

With two young children, aged five and seven, Ms Hartcher must fight fatigue and pins and needles just to make it through each day.
“The biggest thing about being diagnosed with a progressive disease, is knowing that it’s going to get worse,” Ms Hartcher told Newcastle Weekly.

“But while I’m able to get out and do things and contribute to finding better treatment and a cure, I will.”
Ms Hartcher’s nearest and dearest are right there beside her.

“People must look at Stacey and think, she’s fit, she’s healthy, she runs, plays netball – they don’t see her at her most vulnerable,” Cath Hetherington said.
“It’s an invisible illness.”

Collectively, the group hopes to raise at least $3,000 for MS Research Australia.

It all culminates in a community FUMS Run this Saturday 18 May.

The 10-kilometre social run (or walk, for those who would like to bring their children or partners) starts and ends at Central Charlestown Leagues Club, a major sponsor of the event.

The scenic route will be stopping at pubs and cafés along the way, including Dudley’s Royal Crown Hotel and Whitebridge icon Pegs Café, to draw raffles and collect donations.

“It doesn’t have to be a substantial [donation] – even the little bits plug away at finding a cure,” Cath added.

Each incremental donation of $10 earns you an entry into a major prize draw.

More stories:

More Stories

Newcastle Weekly

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Subscribe to Newcastle Weekly. News, Community, Lifestyle, Property delivered direct to your inbox! 100% Local, 100% Free.

You have Successfully Subscribed!