They've walked through rain, snow and sleet. Sunday, they finally got the chance to bask in a little sun.
For the first time in years, the participants in the annual MS Walk were greeted by beautiful temperatures as they took to the streets of Estevan to raise money to fight multiple sclerosis.
Thirteen teams and 75 walkers joined forces to raise $36,700 at the 2011 walk which began at the Souris Valley Aquatic and Leisure Centre. Event organizer Dave Seipp said although that total is down slightly from last year, he was pleased with the results. Seipp said he was also happy the weather co-operated for the first time in recent memory.
"We finally got a nice day for it," said Seipp. "For 10 years I've had snow, rain or cold."
Another highlight of the walk was news that the RBC Foundation had made a $30,000 donation to the MS Society of Saskatchewan. The money will be used for a micro grant program that will provide $300 grants to help people diagnosed with MS in their day-to-day lives.
Tyler McPherson, who is an account manager at the RBC's Estevan branch, also noted that employees from some of the bank's southern locations have been taking part in the various MS Walks in the region and have raised a combined $57,000.
"It's been a lot of fun," said McPherson.
Two individuals were recognized for their fundraising efforts Sunday. Hunter Siever was the top youth fundraiser after generating $1,000. Amber Ganje was the top adult, raising an impressive $7,368.
Anyone who has money outstanding is asked to get it in over the next two weeks. They can drop it off at the Spectra Credit Union in Estevan.
