MS Challenge Walkers Raise $395,000 in 2015

More than 125 walkers and nearly 50 volunteers gathered in Door County Sept. 18-20 to participate in the 8th annual, three-day, 50-mile Challenge Walk MS. Together with the more than $395,000 generated so far through this year’s event, the walk has raised more than $2.8 million since it began in 2008. Challenge Walk MS participants walk 20 miles on Friday, 20 miles on Saturday and 10 miles on Sunday, covering much of Door County (a two-day, 30-mile option also is available) and commit to raising or donating a minimum of $1,500. The money funds multiple sclerosis-related research and programs.

John Haupt. Submitted.

Participants included 32 who have been diagnosed with MS, including John Haupt of Wauwatosa, who completed all 50 miles using a self-powered wheelchair and became the event’s top fundraiser for 2015 by raising more than $16,000 in donations. “I’ve been asked why I do this and I say, ‘Because I’m lucky,’” Haupt said. “Don’t get me wrong, MS is no bargain, but after 43 years of it, I’ve seen how much worse things can be. There are hundreds of thousands of others who only wish they could do the Challenge Walk.”

Donations are still being accepted and can be made online at challengewalkMSwi.org or by calling 262.369.4400. Registration is also open for next year’s walk, Sept. 16-18.