I live in Albert Lea, and I am one of millions of people who have joined the movement to end multiple sclerosis.

Every hour of every day someone is newly diagnosed with MS — an unpredictable disease of the central nervous system that interrupts the flow of information between the brain and the body and stops people from moving. I understand the effects of MS firsthand; I have MS. I volunteer at the Minnesota chapter as a support group leader here in Albert Lea.

March 2 to 8 was MS Awareness Week, and there were countless ways to get involved. I joined the movement to end MS by participating in Walk MS event, volunteering, spreading awareness about the disease.

Some simple things you can do include visiting MSsociety.org making a donation to the National MS Society Minnesota Chapter or calling me at 377-1473 to pledge or participate in the MS Walk event during MS Awareness Week.

During this important week, I encourage everyone to join the movement to create a world free of MS. Whatever you do, no matter how small, it can make a big impact in the lives of people with MS.

For people in our area we have a Support Group that meets the second Monday of every month at 7 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church in Albert Lea. Everyone is welcome to join us.

Carol Pedersen

Albert Lea