Every year 1,000 Australians are diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) – the most common neurological condition for young people in the country. In the lead up to World MS Day on 30 May, people around the nation will be taking part in the national Kiss Goodbye to MS campaign.
An incurable disease of the central nervous system, MS strikes people in the prime of their lives:
75 per cent of people with MS are women.
The average age of diagnosis is between 20 and 40
MS symptoms include walking difficulties, extreme pain, slurring of speech and visual problems.
The Jayco Australian Opals joined Federal Minister for Sport Kate Lundy and donned red lipstick to support Kiss Goodbye to MS on Monday.
"While in the middle of our preparations for London, the Jayco Opals are proud to take time out from our training to be a part of the Kiss Goodbye to MS campaign," Head Coach Carrie Graf said.
"The Jayco Opals are working towards achieving something memorable at the upcoming Olympic Games, and the opportunity to be a part of something as important as this campaign, one that seeks to find a cure for a condition that affects so many women, is a great honour."
Chief Executive Officer of MS Australia – ACT/NSW/VIC Jim Carroll said the effects of MS were felt nation-wide.
"One in twenty Australians will be affected by multiple sclerosis throughout their lifetime – through their daughters, mothers, brothers and friends."
"It’s a cruel disease that mostly hits young women when they’re building their careers, starting their families and have the world at their feet."
"We’re excited to have the Jayco Opals and the Minister supporting the campaign and we’re calling on people across the country to show their support for the rest of May."
Funds raised will help find a cure and improve treatments and services for people with MS.
