'Move For MS' Initiative Sees UAE Community Take Over 400 Million Steps In Solidarity
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS) recently wrapped up its Move for MS initiative, a significant campaign that took place during the holy month of Ramadan and coincided with MS Awareness Month. The initiative was designed to bolster support for individuals living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) by promoting inclusive sports and physical activities. An impressive turnout saw 2,900 participants from the UAE, including employees from Move for MS’ corporate partners, collectively contributing over 426 million steps. This remarkable effort translates to covering a distance of 296,693 kilometres, effectively circling the globe seven times.
Dr. Fatima Al Kaabi, Vice Chair of the NMSS, Director-General of Emirates Drug Establishment, and Executive Director of the Abu Dhabi Bone Marrow Transplant program at ADSCC, expressed her gratitude towards the UAE community for their overwhelming support and solidarity. She highlighted the initiative's success in raising awareness and support for those affected by MS, emphasizing the importance of community unity in making a tangible difference in their lives.
Several esteemed government and corporate entities participated in the Move for MS initiative. Notable partners included Mubadala, Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center (ADSCC), ADQ, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Ma’an, and Lulu Group. These organizations played a crucial role by motivating nearly 1000 of their employees to join the challenge. Additionally, fitness partners such as Inspire Sports, YogaOne Studio, Motion Cycling, Chapter Studio, The Bridge Wellness Hub, Seven Wellness Club, Breathes Wellness, Pilatiq Fitness Studio, and CRANK Fitness supported the campaign by donating proceeds from designated classes to NMSS initiatives.
At its core, the Move for MS initiative aimed to empower individuals with MS through movement and foster community solidarity. This goal aligns with NMSS' mission to enhance awareness, promote understanding, and correct misconceptions about MS while securing vital funding for continued support and research.
MS is a chronic condition affecting the central nervous system that can disrupt communication between the brain and spinal cord. Its cause remains unknown. In the UAE, MS affects approximately 19 in every 100,000 people. Interestingly, females are twice as likely to be diagnosed with MS compared to males, with a distribution of 67 percent women to 33 percent men.
This initiative not only showcased the power of collective action but also shone a light on the critical need for ongoing research and support for those living with MS. Through such community-driven efforts, NMSS continues to make strides towards a world free of MS.
With inputs from WAM
Sign in with Google