Pictured are students in Traverse City at the conclusion of their
160-mile walk to raise awareness of multiple sclerosis.
Group walks 160 miles for MS
Mar 10, 2015
A group of students spent their spring break walking 160 miles to raise awareness and funds for the cure of multiple sclerosis.
About 22 members of Alpha Tau Omega, a leadership development fraternity at Grand Valley, started their eight-day walk in Allendale on February 26 and completed it in Traverse City on March 5.
In total, the group raised $39,000 for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Zachary Amrein, president of ATO, said the most challenging part of the walk wasn’t the cold weather, but the walking itself.
“For eight days straight we walked an average of 20 miles,” he said. “The most common injuries included blisters, shin splints, swelling of the feet and general soreness. However, much of what kept us motivated throughout the week was knowing that people living with MS don’t only get eight hours of pain — they experience pain 24/7.”
He said through the walk, ATO members learn what it means to serve their community. Since the walk began three years ago, the fraternity has raised more than $80,000.
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