MS Canada is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing information, support, and advocacy for individuals affected by multiple sclerosis (MS). The organization offers a range of programs and connects the MS community with valuable research findings to improve their quality of life. To gain insight into their impactful work, we had the privilege of speaking with MS Canada Ambassador Patricia Wilson.
Describe your charity/non-profit/volunteer work in a few sentences.
I’ve been a dedicated supporter and volunteer with MS Canada for over 20 years, driven by a deep personal connection to the cause. As the captain of an MS Bike team called Easy Riders, I’ve proudly helped raise over $280,000 to fund life-changing research and support programs for people affected by MS.
Beyond MS Bike, my volunteer roles have included organizing MS Walk events, supporting Women Against MS (WAMS), and participating in fundraising initiatives like the annual Carnation Pinning and Eating my Way through Burgers to Beat MS.
But the work I’m most proud of is my volunteer role as an MS Ambassador, a program I’ve watched grow to a coast-to-coast network of passionate advocates. Together, we share our personal experiences and connections to the MS community to educate, inspire action and raise awareness about MS, ensuring that no Canadian has to face this disease alone.
What problem does it aim to solve?
MS is a neurological disease of the central nervous system (CNS) which includes the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerve.
Approximately 12 Canadians are diagnosed with it every day. MS Canada, alongside the MS community, push for innovation in research and advocate for policy change that removes barriers and improves the well-being of all Canadians affected by MS.
They also offer support programs such as the MS Knowledge Network, We Talk MS, Peer Support Groups and more.
When did you start/join it?
I became involved with MS Canada 22 years ago when someone in my family was diagnosed with MS. From that moment, I knew I had to do everything I could to support them—and everyone else affected by this disease. Since then, I’ve never looked back!
What made you want to get involved?
My motivation is both personal and far-reaching. I fight for my family, but I also fight for all Canadians living with MS today. Canada has one of the highest rates of MS in the world, and I want to be part of the solution—helping fund research through events like MS Bike, advocating on behalf of the MS community through my role as an MS Ambassador and ensuring that no Canadian living with MS feels alone.
What was the situation like when you started?
When I first got involved, treatment options were limited—there were only a handful of Disease Modifying Therapies (DMTs) available. People diagnosed with MS back then often had few choices, and there was much certainty about the disease’s progression.
How has it changed since?
The landscape for MS has evolved dramatically. People living with MS now have access to a range of DMTs, as well as expanded support services. There is also much more support for those facing an MS diagnosis, and anyone can connect with the MS Knowledge Network, where people can speak with an MS Navigator and get information on a broad range of topics and support that is tailored to your unique needs. Digital resources, blogs, and community networks found on the MS Canada website have also made support more accessible than ever.
In the last 20 years, we’ve accomplished so much, and research into the potential pathways and cures of MS has completely transformed our understanding of the disease. We truly are getting closer to a world free of MS, and we all want that!
What more needs to be done?
We need to keep pushing forward! Funding for MS research is critical to enhance treatment and care, enhance well-being, understand, and halt disease progression, and ultimately prevent MS.
For this to happen it’s also crucial that we spread awareness of the disease, which is why I always encourage people to support, volunteer or participate in any MS Canada events!
How can our readers help?
I always say, “Everyone knows someone with MS.” Supporting any of MS Canada’s fundraising events—whether it’s MS Walk, MS Bike, or Burgers to Beat MS—makes a real difference in the lives of those affected. MS is known as Canada’s disease because we have one of the highest rates in the world. That also means we have a responsibility to lead the charge in research, advocacy, and support. Every contribution, no matter how big or small, helps move us closer a future where free of MS.
Do you have any events coming?
Absolutely! People across Canada are coming together to celebrate MS Awareness Month, which shines a spotlight on the impact of MS and the urgent need for support this May. During MS Awareness Month, we encourage everyone from coast to coast to participate in any of MS Canada’s annual events like MS Walk, May 50K and the Digital Carnation Pinning, learn more about MS and spread greater awareness of the disease! People can learn more here.
Where can we follow you?
You can follow MS Awareness, MS Bike or MS Canada for updates, stories, and ways to get involved by visiting the official MS Canada website!
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?
My close second favourite charity is BC Children’s Hospital—an incredible organization making a huge impact in pediatric healthcare!
