Grab a friend and gear up for Bike MS

Girdwood, AK – Cyclists across Alaska are invited to Alyeska on Sept. 15 and 16 to experience a challenging and unforgettable ride as part of the Hope to a Cure ride. As one of the fastest growing and largest organized cycling series in the country, Bike MS raises funds to advance multiple sclerosis research and provide programs and services to people living with MS and their families. This year’s goal is $215,000.

Starting at the Alyeska Resort’s Day Lodge, Bike MS takes cyclists on an unforgettable, two-day journey through scenic Anchorage County. Riders can test their endurance on several scenic courses each day, ranging from 25 to 110 miles on day one and from 25 to 50 miles on day two, offering views of stunning landscapes as well as access to several stocked rest stops. Meals are provided and cyclists will have the opportunity to enjoy spirited post-cycling festivities, including music and a beer garden.

“This is a great event for friends, family and co-workers to join together for an exciting physical challenge, while helping make a difference in the lives of the many people living with MS in our community,” said Patty Shepherd-Barnes, president of the Greater Northwest Chapter. “As riders and teams gear up for the event, we also encourage them to invite their friends to join in the fun and the ride.”

The minimum donation to participate is $250. With online support from the Greater Northwest Chapter, it’s easy to start a new team and recruit team members, join an existing team, and raise pledges from friends, colleagues and family members. Bike MS also is a great way for corporations and businesses to support a local cause while fostering networking and team spirit and boosting morale.

For more information on this year’s event or to register, visit www.bikeMSnorthwest.org or call 800-344-4867.

About Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, often disabling disease of the central nervous system affecting more than 12,000 people in Western and Central Washington, Alaska and Montana, and upwards of 400,000 nationwide. It typically affects people between the ages of 20 and 50 with varied and unpredictable symptoms including fatigue, numbness, loss of balance, vision problems and paralysis. There is no cure for MS, but advances in treatments have helped people live with and manage the disease.

About the National MS Society, Greater Northwest Chapter
Headquartered in Seattle, the Greater Northwest Chapter was founded in 1946 and is an affiliate of the National MS Society. The organization serves 12,000 people living with MS and more than 72,000 others who are affected by the disease, including families, friends, caregivers and health care professionals, in Western and Central Washington, Alaska and Montana. To learn more, visit MSnorthwest.org.