News
Twelve walks. One destination. A world free of MS
By Press Release
May 2, 2008 - 10:20:13 AM

More than 6,000 Connecticut residents battle the effects of multiple sclerosis (MS). In a show of support, each year thousands of loved ones, friends, neighbors and co-workers lace up and step out in solidarity for a single cause – to end the devastating effects of MS.

Travelers, a leading provider of commercial property casualty insurance, has for a second year been named the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Connecticut Chapter Walk MS title sponsor. The corporation, ranked 85th on the Fortune 500 list of largest U.S. companies, is a longtime partner in the fight against MS.

In 1995, under the leadership of Connecticut resident and then Travelers staff member Jean Cormier, Travelers registered its first team. In 1997 Travelers partnered with the National MS Society, Connecticut Chapter as a corporate sponsor and was named Corporate Sponsor of the Year. By 1999 the corporation had enlisted more than 1,500 participants to field 54 walk teams participating in 43 chapter walk events nationwide. That same year, at its national conference in Anaheim, Calif., Travelers received from the National MS Society the Corporation of the Year award. In 2006 the Travelers MS Walk teams raised more than $165,000 combined. Last year, at its annual gala, the chapter awarded Travelers the 2006 MS Connecticut Citizen of Year.

In 2007 the walk event raised more than $1.1 million. The chapter hopes to raise more than $1.5 million this year. The Travelers Walk MS 2008 will take place at the University of Connecticut, Storrs Campus, Sunday, April 13, and at 11 additional sites across the state Sunday, May 4. The 11 walk sites are:

· Cheshire – Cheshire High School

· Clinton – Joel Elementary School

· Enfield – JFK Middle School

· Litchfield – Town Green

· Manchester – Manchester Community College

· New London – Mitchell College

· Norwalk – Calf Pasture Beach

· Simsbury – Westminster School

· West Hartford – University of Connecticut, West Hartford Campus

· West Haven – West Haven High School

· Woodstock – Hyde School

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, often disabling disease. It's generally diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50. Symptoms can range from numbness in the extremities, loss of vision and, in severe cases, complete paralysis. The progression, severity and specific symptoms related to MS in any one person cannot be predicted, but advances in research and treatments are providing hope to those affected by the disease. Funds raised at chapter events, such as the Travelers Walk MS, ensure ongoing scientific research to find a cure and provide for the continuation of vital programs and services offered by the chapter to Connecticut residents affected by MS.

Check-in begins at 8 a.m., and the walk event will begin at 9 a.m. Prizes will be awarded to participants for extraordinary fundraising efforts. Lunch is provided compliments of Subway and Coca-Cola

To learn more about the Travelers Walk MS 2008 or to pre-register, please visit www.ctfightsMS.org. Learn more about multiple sclerosis, its effects, and programs and services offered by the chapter to those living with MS by e-mailing programs@ctfightsMS.org or visiting www.ctfightsMS.org.

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