Cycling for Arlie and all of Canada

 

Kim Case’s sister, Arlie, experienced her first MS attack after her son’s first birthday in 1991, “It was many years before we knew what she had, but when she was diagnosed with progressive MS her condition quickly spiralled," Kim says. In 1997, Kim and her husband Bob saw a group of cyclists ride by their house in Grand Bend and were intrigued, “We discovered that there was a bike event in our area, in support of multiple sclerosis, and the rest is history!” Since her sister’s diagnosis, the MS Society has been their family’s charity of choice, “There is not much we can do for Arlie, but we can ride and raise funds for other newly diagnosed Canadians.” Bob, a long time top fundraiser, has been cycling in MS Bike - Grand Bend to London for 17 years, and Kim has been volunteering at the event for 16.

Bob raised an amazing $7,185 this year, which landed him an invitation to the annual Celebration of Champions dinner where he was honoured for his outstanding fundraising efforts. “We have a plumbing, electric, heating and AC family company which we reach out to our friends and clients through,” Kim says. “I attach a letter to each invoice which explains our story and our participation in the MS Bike, as well as a pledge sheet for donations. It has worked out quite well, I do most of the fundraising and Bob does the cycling.” Kim and Bob are looking forward to the 2015 MS Bike as Kim explains, “The MS Bike allows my husband and I to contribute as much as possible in the fight to end MS, and we will be a part of it every year that we are able.”

Bob’s team name really hits home for himself and his family, “Our team name is MS SUCKS!” He continues, “It’s been a tough go for Arlie and our family. Arlie has been in long term care in London for four years and my wife never knows when the phone will ring, letting her know Arlie is back in the hospital again, which is challenging for the whole family along with her brother Jerry.”

“For the past 17 years I have always looked forward to the end of July when I get to cycle in the MS Bike,” Bob says. “Crossing the finish line for the very first time is my ultimate memory! In second, is meeting up with other participants and feeling the shared excitement and pride of what we just accomplished.” Bob continues, “We all know that the ride is a bit of a challenge, but it is nothing compared to all who endure the reality of MS on a daily basis.”