[singlepic id=352 w=320 h=240 float=left] More than 100 Cairns swimmers will today take the plunge as part of the 24-Hour Mega Swim to raise money for MS Australia’s ‘Go For Gold’ scholarship program this weekend.
Disability Services Minister Curtis Pitt said that the event, organised by MS Australia – Qld and collective Lions Clubs of Cairns, was the first mega swim for Cairns and only the second held in Queensland.
“The 24 Hour Mega Swim aims to raise $30,000 through team sponsorships and donations to support MS Australia in its research and support for people with multiple sclerosis,” he said.
“Funds raised will go to the Go For Gold Foundation which provides scholarships to people living with MS to aspire and achieve to the best of their ability. It also helps fund financial assistance programs to support people living with MS.
“So far 130 people, including people with MS, have registered to be part of the swim team.
“The Trinity Beach Lions and Multiple Sclerosis gym group is proof that good exercise works wonders and has positive benefits for participants with MS,” Mr Pitt said.
Multiple Sclerosis is a disease of the central nervous system affecting more young adult Australians than any other neurological condition.
“In Australia, more than 20,000 people currently have MS, however, the figure is increasing as diagnostic methods become more advanced.
“MS is a lifelong disease for which a cure is yet to be found, however, doctors and scientists are making discoveries in treating and understanding MS and research to find a cure is very encouraging.”
Mr Pitt said the Queensland Government is committed to helping people with MS.
“We provide more than $5.2 million in funding to Multiple Sclerosis Society of Queensland to help them deliver a range of support services including respite, therapy, education, information and referral services as well as in-home and centre-based accommodation support.
“We also provide more than $1 million to support people with MS living in specially designed community housing,” he said.
Media Inquiries: Minister’s Office 3237 9867
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