Dr. David Thornton, associate professor in the Government, History and Justice Department, and Dr. Barry Jones, associate dean and associate professor of Old Testament and Hebrew at Campbell University, are participating in MS-150, a bicycle ride to raise money to find a cure for Multiple Sclerosis (MS), on Sept. 8-9.”I am involved in MS-150 because I know several people with MS and realized how badly a cure for this debilitating disease is needed,” said Thornton. “I also have always enjoyed riding my bike, so it really is labor of love.”Jones credits his participation for the people he knows who live with MS.”I have seen first hand the difference that the National MS Society makes for them,” said Jones. “This event raises money for research for new treatments, for equipment and therapy and for support and educational groups for people with MS. Sometimes the biggest difference is the hope that comes from knowing that other people care and are doing something to help.”The National MS Society organizes MS-150s all over the country; this particular ride is for the Eastern North Carolina chapter. Last year the chapter raised $1 million dollars.Although veterans to riding their bikes, Thornton and Jones still have to train for the ride.”To get ready, I train some near my home in Wake County, and also on the roads around Buies Creek,” said Thornton. “I also like to ride an off-road bike in area parks, and put in some hours at the gym on exercise bikes and other equipment.” Cycling is Jones’ favorite form of exercise.”I try to ride for about an hour two or three times a week. Beginning in June or July, I begin to go for a longer ride once a week. I begin with 25 miles and increase the distance to 50 or 60 miles,” he said. “I ride with a group of friends who make it fun to do. However, someone could start today and still participate in the MS 150. There are options for riders of all levels.”For more information about participating or volunteering contact 1-800-FIGHTMS or (919) 834-0678 or email www.nationalmssociety.org/nct. Email Thornton at [email protected]/* */ or Jones at [email protected]/* */ if you would like to help sponsor them.
Campbell faculty takes on MS challenge