Hundreds of people walk to end Multiple Sclerosis
PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) — More than 500 people gathered on the Peoria Riverfront on Saturday to participate in the National Multiple Sclerosis Society's annual event.
The Multiple Sclerosis — or MS — walk raised over $90,000 to support research, awareness and services for those affected by multiple sclerosis.
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system, disrupting the flow of information between the brain and the rest of the body. It occurs when the immune system attacks the protective covering of nerve fibers.
The MS Walk is one of many held nationwide, aimed at funding efforts to find a cure for MS and supporting the more than one million Americans living with the disease. Participants included individuals living with MS, their families, caregivers, medical professionals, and supporters from the local community.
Tony Hnilicka, a volunteer with the National MS Society, shared his hope for a future without the disease.
'With the support of all the wonderful sponsors and people—researchers, scientists, doctors, those really passionate about finding a cure to this illness—breakthroughs are happening every day,' said Hnilicka. 'And yes, I know I'm only 38, so I know I'm going to live to see a cure for MS.
The event also highlighted the efforts of the walk's top fundraiser, whose story will be featured during the upcoming CI Heroes special airing on Monday.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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