MS Bike raises more than $4M for MS Canada

MS Bike‘s cycling fundraiser events have raised at least $4.3 million over the last four months to support MS Canada and people with multiple sclerosis (MS) in a country with one of the highest rates of the progressive neurodegenerative disorder.

The organization predicts up to $4.6 million will have been raised after the total is counted. The money will support MS Canada programs and services such as peer support groups and the MS Knowledge Network, which provides information about the condition. Funds also will aid research on MS causes, treatments, and cures. Fundraising for the event ended Sept. 30.

“Every year we are impressed by the way the MS Bike community shows up and this year was no exception,” Nicole Sullivan, MS Canada director of community fundraising, said in a press release. “We are deeply grateful to each and every person who rode, cheered, and donated over the last four months and made the 2023 MS Bike season a success. Every participant brings our cause to the forefront of their community, helping us spread awareness about MS and ways to get involved and help.”

Recommended Reading

June 22, 2022 News by Lindsey Shapiro, PhD

MS Bike, Canadian Society’s Annual Fundraiser, Returns to Live Rides

Riding and raising funds

For the past 34 years, thousands of Canadians, including more than 3,100 participants this year, have come together in the spring and summer to support MS patients and raise awareness about the condition, which is diagnosed in an average of 12 Canada residents daily.

Rides for 2023 — 12 total — took place in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Quebec, and Saskatchewan from June to September. A Canada-wide MS Bike event, wherein participants biked distances and locations of their choosing, raised more than $103,00. The goal was $10,000.

So far, at least $135 million has been raised for MS Canada through MS Bike, an event that typically features activities and speaking presentations. Lifelong friendships are also forged as part of the event.

“I had no idea that after I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis almost 18 years ago, I would be where I am today,” said Melanie Bennett, MS Bike participant and ambassador. “As I often do when I speak at MS Bike events, I want to say thank you to everyone who participated this year. Without this funding, there would be no dollars for research, and without that research I might not be able to walk right now, let alone run or ride a bike.”

Locations for the 2024 MS Bike have been announced for British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Ontario, and Saskatchewan. Registration is open for these events and for the 2024 Canada-wide event. To remain connected to the MS bike community, participants may complete a 90 km ride and share their experiences using the hashtag #MSBike.

All in-person events also offer virtual participation options. More information is available by calling 888-822-8467 or sending an email to [email protected].