The Gerald Ramirez team from Springfield area included (from left): Evan Guerrero, Gladys Reyes, Soukayna Oukhouya, (all from Springfield), Timothy Siridavong and Warren Simmons of Lorton, young girls Savana Rushing and Layla Ramirez, Rose Ramirez (behind two girls), Diego Gonzales and Gerard Ramirez (far right), all of Springfield. Photo contributed
More than 1,600 individuals and 50 volunteers participated in Sunday’s Walk MS presented by Booz Allen Hamilton in Reston, benefiting the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s National Capital Chapter. Meteorologist Jacqui Jeras from ABC7-WJLA hosted the starting line program after participants warmed up with Zumba led by Nikki McNutt-Thiem from Full Out Fitness.
Walk MS Reston officially started when Cathy Onufrychuk, the event’s top fundraiser from 2012, cut the ribbon to open the route. Walkers enjoyed the sunshine and cool breeze during the 3-mile walk through Reston’s scenic trails, crossing the finish line with a crowd of cheering volunteers and a celebration of live music from the Back-N-Time, lunch catered by Clyde’s, and fun for the whole family.
Teams were made up of a variety of friends, family, co-workers, classmates and neighbors, joining the movement to end MS. “The outpouring of community support for our mission was truly inspiring,” said Chapter President Chris Broullire. “Funds raised will help local residents affected by multiple sclerosis as well as fund research initiatives to find a cure for the disease.” Participants in Reston raised approximately $209,000 prior to the event. Walk MS is expected to raise $1.25 million between the six sites in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.
For more information about MS or the National Capital Chapter, call 202-296-5363 or visit www.MSNationalCaptial.org.