Action MS walks are great boost of MS community

At a “Thank You” luncheon in Belfast representatives from schools across the country gathered to hear how their Walk for MS fundraising last year had made all the difference.

Action MS Chief Executive, Ann Walker, said the commitment and enthusiasm of those who took part in the various “Walks for MS”had been inspirational.

“Parents and teachers made a great team and the children stepped up the mark and made it all happen raising an astonishing £135,000.00”, said Ann Walker. “This result is very encouraging and we are very grateful to all who made it possible.”

Four Mid-Ulster schools were honoured at the Luncheon.

“St Patrick’s Primary Moneymore collected their award from Cool FM presenter Connor Phillips, who is the Ambassador for Youth of Action MS. Also receiving awards were St Pius X College Magherafelt, who raised a magnificent £3,400, and Cookstown High School, who raised £2,558 and were Runners-Up in the Western Area secondary school division. Lissan Primary School, who unfortunately could not attend the celebrations on the day, won second place among Primary Schools in the Western Area and have received their award at a specially arranged presentation.

Ann Walker concluded: “These four Mid-Ulster schools have outdone themselves in their efforts to support people facing the daily challenges of living with multiple sclerosis. I would like once again to thank the teachers and students for their dedication and energy.

“In these difficult times when fund-raising is such a tough job we are all heartened in Action MS by the support we receive across the community. The surge of interest generated by the Walk for MS events gives the MS community a great boost. Now we take on the challenges of 2012 with renewed confidence.”

“Action MS supports people living with multiple sclerosis, their families and carers through an extensive range of services including information, advocacy, befriending, a digital inclusion programme, legal advice and a listening ear service.”

For further information about Action MS services please contact senior professional care advisor Sandra Humes at Action MS, Knockbracken Healthcare Park, Saintfield Road, Belfast, BT8 8BH Tel 028 907 907 07 or email [email protected] Alternatively please visit the Action MS website www.actionms.co.uk