The May 50K is a global fitness and fundraising challenge to raise money for MS research worldwide and help fund a variety of different information, support, advocacy and services on a national and regional level including the National MS Care Centre.
The premise is simple, walk, roll or run 50 kilometres during the month of May in return for sponsorship. Take part on your own, create a family team or get your workplace involved. It’s a virtual event and can be done anywhere. Clock those kilometres on the way into work, around your garden, in the supermarket or around the office, as it all counts.
Speaking of the upcoming challenge MS Ireland CEO Ava Battles said “Not only will taking part in this challenge help support the vital services provided by MS Ireland, but from a health viewpoint it will also really benefit those taking part. I would encourage as many people as possible to take part in the May 50K Challenge. There are over 10,000 people in Ireland living with multiple sclerosis. Every step you take, every kilometre you clock, helps people get access to the treatment they need today and provide vital funding for international research into MS. 30% of all funds raised go towards funding life-changing MS research and 70% goes to local services and supports in Ireland”.
Olivia Kirwan, from Ballbriggan, Dublin, is taking part in the challenge for the 2nd year in a row “I was diagnosed with MS 16 years ago and I wanted to challenge myself, to push myself and show both myself and others that I can do it. When I did it last year, the best part was making sure I got outside in the fresh air as often as possible. There were days I couldn't go out, but knew I could just add it on to others days where I felt better and more able to manage it. I got so much from it last year and I can’t wait to get going again this year”.
All fundraising is done through the website www.themay50k.ie where people can log their KM’s, hook up to their fitness devices and blog their way through the month.