Keeping active is important to the Frack family of Lake Mary, but not for the reasons you might think. Three and a half years ago Beth-Ann Frack, 48, was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, a little-known progressive disorder.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, often disabling disease that attacks the central nervous system, which is made up of the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves. Symptoms may be mild, such as numbness in the limbs, or severe, such as paralysis or loss of vision.  Two-thirds of the sufferers are women, ages 20-40 years.

For Beth-Ann, her husband Adam, and 14-year-old daughter, Brittany – as well as for many others coping with MS — the disease is a family affair.

“Multiple Sclerosis has affected my life and those close to me,” says Beth-Ann. “Everyday simple tasks can become a challenge when I try to do too much.  My family, closest friends, and co-workers all know when I’m tired and can use help.  I usually push myself to do more because I try not to let the disease process slow me down.”

To slow the progression of the disease, Beth-Ann keeps as active as her body will allow, with her family by her side. They have found long bicycle rides on the Seminole trail an activity they all enjoy. Recent cool fall and winter mornings have been great incentive for the family to ride together to stay active and healthy.

Beth-Ann has inspired her family through her dedication to overcome her physical challenges. Brittany is on the Lake Mary High School weight-lifting team and on the volleyball team at the local YMCA, while Adam enjoys golfing. As a family, they stay active in support of Mom and one another.

The Fracks also participate in fundraising activities organized by the local chapter of the National MS Society, such as the Walk MS: Orlando. “Since the day of my diagnosis, my family has participated in Walk MS and worked on the walk committee. We are also Bike MS tour volunteers,” says Beth-Ann.  “The local chapter has inspired me to stay involved and ‘Keep Moving’ in keeping with its motto.”

More than a thousand walkers will join the Fracks to “Keep Moving” on March 19 for Walk MS: Orlando,  held at Lake Eola in Thornton Park. This year’s goal is to raise $535,000 for the MS Mid Florida Chapter and top 2010’s total of $500,000.  The local chapter uses these funds to support close to 70,000 people locally who are affected by the disease, offering support services that include educational programs, self-help groups, research, medical equipment, and more.

Walkers of all skill levels are invited to participate in this family-friendly event with walk options of 1 or 2.3 miles. Join the Fracks who proudly wear their MS event volunteer shirts, as they often do throughout the year, to spread the word about opportunities to raise funds and to “move it” for those who can’t.  Ultimately, their hope is that money raised will lead to a cure. “It’s important to us to spread the word about MS events so research can continue,” states Beth-Ann. “Hopefully, we’ll find a cure one day.”

You can support those with MS by joining Beth-Ann and her family at Walk MS 2011 starting in Thornton Park at Lake Eola, on Saturday, March 19. Families, teams, and individuals are invited to participate. For more information on the event or ways to volunteer, visit www.midfloridaMSwalks.org or contact Bill Conway, Mid Florida Chapter, NMSS, 407.478.8880.

Sidebar:Getting Ready for Walk MS
By Patty Bobryk MHS, PT, MSCS, ATP – MS Comprehensive Care Center of Central Florida
• Challenge yourself to be more active throughout the day. Take the stairs instead of an elevator. Park at the far end of the parking lot.
• Drink plenty of water before and during the walk to help avoid muscle fatigue.
•  Stretch before your workout to help prevent injuries, as well as after your workout to allow your heart rate and blood pressure to return to normal.