Going the extra mile for Multiple Sclerosis research

Friday, 9 June 2017

The Great New Zealand Trek goes the extra mile for Multiple Sclerosis research

“Today I will walk as far as I can. Tomorrow I may not be so lucky.” Feedback like this keeps Kitty Johnson, a Trustee of the Great New Zealand Trek Charitable Trust, committed to finding a cure for Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a chronic autoimmune disease that often compromises a person’s mobility. The Great New Zealand Trek (GNZT) is an annual event that enables people to travel the length of the country – one stage at a time.

“Thanks to the participants and volunteers who help to run this event, we are able to raise significant funds which we donate to the Malaghan Institute of Medical Research. I’m confident that the research funded through our initiative will lead to great discoveries and help to improve MS patients’ lives,” says Johnson.

After 11 years of walking, mountain biking, horse riding and a whole lot of volunteering, the GNZT completed stage 12 of the massive journey from Cape Reinga to Bluff. This event annually traverses up to 224 km over a seven-day period, often seeing countryside that is not accessible to public.

Funds raised from the trek directly support Professor Anne La Flamme’s programme at the Malaghan Institute of Medical Research which is focussed on finding better therapies for people with MS by optimising current treatments and developing new drugs for various forms of the disease.

Prof La Flamme commented that, “The Great New Zealand Trek has been a vital part of our research success. [GNZT’s] unstinting support recognises the importance of our efforts in finding treatments for MS.”

As a way of interacting with those interested or affected by MS, Prof La Flamme takes part in the trek as much as she can, saying, “I like to walk along with people so I can answer their questions about the research we’re doing, one on one.” This year was also extra special as Prof La Flamme was able to share the eight-day adventure with her 12-year-old daughter, Josephine.

On Thursday, 15 June 2017 at the Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Kitty Johnston and Professor Anne La Flamme will join Professor Graham Le Gros, Director of the Malaghan Institute, as they unveil the ‘Great New Zealand Trek Charitable Trust’ on the Institute’s honour board for GNZT’s ongoing dedication and support.

The Great New Zealand Trek Charitable Trust has raised over $250,000 for the Malaghan Institute. Prof Le Gros, stated, “We feel very fortunate to have the support and this distinguished milestone celebrates their achievements.”

Unveiling on Honour Board

Thursday 15 June, 2pm

Malaghan Institute of Medical Research

Gate 7, Victoria University Central Services Building

Kelburn Parade

Wellington

ends

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