CULLMAN, Ala. – Cullman Mayor Woody Jacobs proclaimed Oct. 17 Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Day in Cullman, recognizing residents living with the disease and those who care for and support them.
The proclamation, issued Wednesday, Oct. 7, coincides with the 2026 Move Over MS Walk, scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 17, from 8 a.m.-noon at Heritage Park.
North Central Neurology Associates, the Joanne P. LaGanke MS Center and MS Views and News will host the free event on the Olive Street side of the park.
“We have people right here in our community who live with MS every day, and we want them to know they have our support,” said Jacobs.
The mayor also recognized Dr. Christopher LaGanke and the professionals, families and advocates supporting people with MS, and encouraged residents to learn more about the disease and participate in the walk.
Multiple sclerosis affects the central nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves. Symptoms and the course of the disease vary from person to person, according to the City’s announcement.
LaGanke, founder of North Central Neurology Associates, established the Joanne P. LaGanke MS Center in memory of his mother, who lived with MS. The city highlighted the center’s work in patient care, research and clinical trials for new treatments.
The walk will offer live entertainment from The Overtones and free food, including biscuits, fruit, coffee and doughnuts, according to details previously provided to The Tribune by organizers. Pharmaceutical company representatives will have information and giveaways available.
Children are invited to participate in a Halloween costume contest, with prizes for winners. Candy will also be available.
A raffle will help support the event. Tickets are $5 each or five for $20 and can be purchased at North Central Neurology Associates before the walk or at the event. T-shirts and hats are also being sold.
Organizers have requested raffle prize donations, along with mums and pumpkins for decorations. Those interested in volunteering or donating items can email Office Manager Debbie Simonsen at dsimonsen@prn-inc.net.
The gathering continues a local tradition of bringing together patients, relatives and supporters. The Tribune reported in September 2023 that Cullman’s MS awareness walk was returning after a COVID-19 interruption, with local organizers working to bring the event back to Heritage Park.
Registration for this year’s walk is free at www.msviewsandnews.org/event/2026mswalk-cullman. Participants can select the “Going” RSVP button and indicate the number of people attending.
Those wishing to make a monetary contribution can visit www.msviewsandnews.org/donate.
For more information, contact Simonsen at 256-739-1210 or dsimonsen@prn-inc.net, or Mary Beth Sellers at 256-297-1162 or msellers@prn-inc.net.
