PEDAL FAST . . . . That is what my bandana said in last year's Multiple Sclerosis Ride Around the Black Hills, (WRATH).  A person living with MS, a woman named Judi in my case, was paired up with a cyclist who had registered for the event which entailed riding up to 170 miles around the Black Hills of South Dakota over 2 days.  The cyclist received a signed bandana to wear on the ride.  Most riders had a personal connection with MS, but others did not, so this arrangement fostered education, awareness, gratitude, and most of all hope that this disease could be ended someday.  Although Judi was confined to a wheelchair, it didn't stop her from being one of the volunteers and she played a vital role in helping to organize the planning committee that established the ride.  I was also able to talk to Judi several times throughout the weekend and she sent me a thank you card for participating as well as wearing her bandana on my bike.  Ever since that ride I have kept the bandana on my bike so I can ride for people and others like her afflicted with MS who can't ride or who can't even walk.  This weekend I will again participate in the MS WRATH.  Sadly, Judi will not be there as she passed away earlier in the year secondary to respiratory complications as a direct result of her MS.  It is for her that I will ride this year, along with others who have and are yet to be diagnosed with this awful disease.  Hopefully, each year will bring us closer to a world free of MS. 

At Alliance Physical Therapy, we treat conditions including multiple sclerosis and other neurological conditions that rob patients of their ability to move.  We can also educate patients of their healthcare options which may include local programs and services. 

For more information log on to:  http://www.nationalmssociety.org

Yours in health,

Val