For Wiemans, it’s back to MS fundraising
Denise and Carl Wieman point to a bumper sticker on their motorcycle promoting the upcoming MS River Road Run. The Wiemans are collecting donations to benefit MS. Submitted photo
Just as Carl and Denise Wieman of Owatonna are revving up their motorcycle for more action this spring, they are hoping people will rev up their hearts of generosity for a worthy cause.
For the 23rd year, the Wiemans are planning to ride in the MS River Road Run that snakes across southern Minnesota and into Wisconsin. Over the past 22 years, they have collected $101,190 to benefit multiple sclerosis. This year’s goal for the Wiemans is $4,500. However, if they reach $5,000, an anonymous donor will kick in an extra $500.
“With your support, the National MS Society has achieved as much progress in the last five years as the 70 years that preceded it,” Carl said, adding it has changed all aspects of life for people affected by MS.
The money raised is used for research to find a cure for MS. The Society has invested more than $1.1 billion for research. And the Wiemans have a personal stake in this effort. Denise’s niece, Lori Surbus, had MS for 23 years before she died in 2004.
“We want to help others like Lori that have this devastating disease,” said Carl. “Together, we are stronger than this disease. Together, we fuel breakthroughs. And together, we ensure every person affected by MS has access to the resources, support and community they need.”
MS affects more than just the Wiemans. Currently, there are 469 people within the six-county area with MS that are registered with the MS Society. They include Rice- 157, Freeborn- 77, Mower- 74, Steele- 65, Waseca- 50 and Dodge- 46. Nearly 1 million people are living with MS in the U.S.
The Wiemans remind anyone that has MS to register with the MS Society as it helps with programs and new treatments.
This year’s ride will begin in Lakeville on Aug. 17. The ride will eventually end up in Winona for a banquet and overnight stay. The ride will return to the Twin Cities on Aug. 18.
Tax-deductible contributions may be made to MS River Road Run and sent to the Wiemans at 524 Glendale St., Owatonna, MN 55060. For more information, reach out to the Wiemans at deniseandcarl@yahoo.com.
“We ride because we can and for those that cannot,” the Wiemans said.
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HELP MS
Donations may be sent to:
MS River Road Run
Attn: Carl and Denise Wieman
524 Glendale St.
Owatonna, MN 55060
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