Altona Meadows resident Katharine Gronow is riding in Sunday’s MS Melbourne Cycle to raise funds and awareness about this disease.
The ride raises money to support people living with multiple sclerosis, the most common neurological disease in young adults.
Ms Gronow is riding as part of team Katamandah Kick Longs, which has grown from three cyclists in its first ride in 2011 to seven this year.
“We’ve had MS in our family and, for me, it’s about being grateful for our bodies that we have and showing that by using them,” she said.
“It’s staggering to think that every working day, four people are newly diagnosed with this chronic disease, which can strike anyone at any time and the symptoms vary so widely.
“For instance, can you imagine waking up one day unable to do the everyday things you would usually take for granted?
“Like not being able to see properly, or at all? You physically can’t get out of bed, can’t walk to the phone to call someone – anyone – or live a life without pain.”
Ms Gronow said others were welcome to join the team, which has a fundraising target of $1500.
For the first time since the event’s inception in 2006, children can join in.
Cyclists can choose to ride a three, seven, 30 or 50-kilometre course, with all routes starting and finishing at Flemington Racecourse.
MS chief executive Robyn Hunter said that over the past 10 years the event had raised more than $4 million for people living with multiple sclerosis.
“Whether you’re riding a two-wheeler or a tricycle, an eBike or a handcycle, you can help expose this invisible disease by taking part in the MS Melbourne Cycle,” she said.
Participants are encouraged to dress in red.
Details and donations at msmelbournecycle.org.au
