Pawprints for a cure
By John Joyce
Published in News on August 9, 2015 1:50 AM
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News-Argus/CASEY MOZINGO
Joseph, 13, and William O'Hara walk alongside their dog Katie as she leads the pack down the Stoney Creek Greenway during the fourth annual dog walk to raise money for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Katie doesn't mind being out front.
Despite her short legs, she maintains a quick clip on most outings with her family.
So it was no surprise Saturday when the Welsh Corgi/chow/Pomeranian mixed breed, led the pack during a dual-purpose two-mile trek that began and ended at Stoney Creek Park.
Friends new and old -- and some with four legs -- banded together Saturday for a walk to raise awareness and money for research in the fight against multiple sclerosis.
Adding to the cause was that some of the dogs are up for adoption and in need of good homes. Showing off their good nature and ability to get along with other dogs and with strangers only enhanced their chances of finding forever homes.
So said Paige Rouse, who organized Saturday's event and who runs the Facebook page for the Friends of Wayne County Animals pet rescue and adoption group.
"We started at 9 and stepped off at 9:15," she said.
About 20 people showed up to support both causes, some of whom brought their own dogs. The goal was to raise money for an eight-member group heading to New Bern in September for the 2015 Bike MS ride for the cure sponsored by The National MS Society.
"We fund raise for that event, and we don't really like asking for money, so we set up events," Ms. Rouse said.
Donations were accepted from those who participated in the walk.
Back in May, the group held a putt-putt golf tournament at the All-Stars Family Fun Center on Cashwell Drive in Goldsboro. All-Stars split the proceeds 50-50 with the fundraisers.
"We were getting three dollars for every person that participated," Ms. Rouse said.
Those interested in supporting the cause can visit the Bike MS website for more information, and search for Ms. Rouse's team under the name "Trrec."
Monica Outlaw, 15, of Goldsboro, said she joined the walk Saturday to get some exercise and to help give the dogs some exercise.
"I came out because I really enjoy dogs, and I like helping out," she said.
Oakie, a mixed breed panted at her feet.
Ms. Outlaw said she does not know anyone with MS, but she felt it was a good cause.
For Ms. Rouse, however, this cause could not get anymore personal.
Her mother has multiple sclerosis.
She said MS can strike unexpectedly and affects people differently.
"It affects the central nervous system, and it is unpredictable. It can strike at any age," she said.
The disease can attack muscular coordination and vision, leaving some bound to wheelchairs, Ms. Rouse said.
Others can still get around and function, but medication is necessary to help mitigate the symptoms.
"It sort of affects people differently, like my mom. She is able to walk and do most of the things she used to be able to do, but then you also see people who are more severely debilitated," Ms. Rouse said.
The Bike MS event in New Bern is scheduled for Sept. 12-13. There are 30- and 50-mile events.
Mrs. Rouse said about 2,000 riders are expected.
For the last three years, she and her boyfriend have ridden the 30-mile course. This year they are stepping it up.
"I've never done 50 before, so we'll see," she said. "It's a really good ride. They feed you well and take care of you."