Storrs Residents Take 20-Year Battle To The Beach

Storrs residents Stuart and Joan Sidney pose proudly next to their ‘Top Fundraiser’ signage at the 2015 Walk MS, presented by Travelers, which was held Saturday, April 18, in Madison at Hammonasset Beach State Park. The Joanie’s Ponies fundraising team, which consisted of friends and family of the team’s namesake, has to date raised more than $4,000 in support of the fight against MS. Joan, the team’s captain, has been battling the potentially debilitating disease for many years, and has been participating in the Walk MS fundraiser since the mid-90s. More than 500 people stepped out in Madison, one of 11 walk sites for the 2015 Walk MS fundraiser organized by the National MS Society, Connecticut Chapter. Thus far, more than $900,000 has been handed in for the event which has a $1.4 million fundraising goal with five more walks scheduled for the weekend of April 25 and 26. Money raised through events such as Walk MS, presented by Travelers, ensure ongoing scientific research to find a cure and provide for the continuation of vital programs and services offered by the chapter to the more than 6,300 Connecticut residents affected by MS. Fundraising for the event will continue into the month of May. To make a donation to team Joanie’s Ponies or to learn more about Walk MS, visit www.ctfightsMS.org.