Dear Editor:

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic disease of the central nervous system, for which there is no cure. MS interrupts the flow of information within the brain and between the brain and the rest of the body. Thanks to growing collaboration around the world, however, there are improved treatments leading to enhanced quality of life for people living with MS.

MS divides minds from bodies, pulls people from their lives and away from one another. MS is a destroyer of connection. But it is possible to build connections that MS cannot destroy. Our connections raise questions, find answers, bring knowledge and provide hope. Every connection we make is a small victory and, together, our small victories create larger ones that will help end MS forever. Every connection counts.

I know the effects of MS; my brother, a nurse practitioner in Cullman, was diagnosed with MS five years ago. MS affects his optic nerve. His MS has the potential of causing blindness eventually. And, it is my hope that by working together we can create a world free of MS.

I encourage everyone to support Walk MS: Birmingham, an annual fundraising event that benefits those affected by MS in Alabama and Mississippi. It will make a big difference in the lives of the 4,100 Alabamians that live with this chronic disease.

Walk MS: Birmingham will be held Saturday, April 5th at Central Park in Homewood. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. and the walk starts at 9 a.m. There is no cost to participate, but participants who raise at least $100 receive a T-shirt.

It’s easy to get involved, visit www.walkMS.org. It only takes a short time to make a big difference in the lives of the millions of people worldwide who live with this disease. My involvement with the Montgomery walk prior to moving to Birmingham and now with the Birmingham walk has been very positive and uplifting for me, and even more so knowing that my efforts are part of a greater effort that directly helps over 4,100 Alabamians with MS to have a better life. Please join us in this effort.

Rick McLain

Inverness