Fraser Valley – If you ask Nance Bass what she’s most proud of in life, she’ll tell you it’s her relationships with her family and friends. So when her sister was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) in 1997, she took action to support different initiatives with the MS Society, including the upcoming MS Bike.
MS Bike is the largest fundraising cycling series in North America that offers cyclists of all ages and abilities the opportunity to ride through scenic parts of the country in support of people affected by MS.
This weekend, more than 200 cyclists and supporters from across BC will come together to ride in the MS Bike Fraser Valley Experience, held July 13 and 14 at Thunderbird Show Park ( 24550 72 Ave, Langley ). The route will feature a scenic tour through the Fraser Valley, with stops at notable viewpoints and local wineries along the ride.
More than 9,000 cyclists are expected to participate in the 20 one- and two-day tours taking place across Canada between June and September. MS Bike Fraser Valley Experience is one of four MS Bike tours that is held in BC.
Over the past two years, Nance Bass and her team the “MS GoldFish” have raised over $10,000. Bass stressed the importance of how fundraising helps advance MS research and the quality of life of people living with MS. “The research continues to yield more options in many areas. People are able to live with MS in ways that were not possible even 5 years ago,” she said. “We are so grateful that when circumstances require a change in treatment protocol, there are options.” .
Bass encourages others to join MS Bike and find a group of people to share the experience with. “It’s another vehicle for awareness and fundraising. MS Bike is not any different than MS Walk, MS Golf, etc. It’s important for people to find something they enjoy and work the fundraising into that activity,” explained Bass. “The definition of teamwork is the combined action of a group, especially when effective and efficient. The past 2 years Team MS GoldFish was a small, effective, and efficient team – ending both [MS Bike] Fraser Valley campaigns in the top 10 fundraisers.”
Funds raised from the MS Bike will support innovative research into the cause, treatment and cure of MS while also providing valuable services, programs and advocacy for Canadians that are affected.
