The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America Announces Swim for MS ‘ Why I Swim Campaign

CHERRY HILL, New Jersey, December 4. THE Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA) announces a national call for entries for the Swim for MS — Why I Swim campaign, through a collaborative sponsorship with Genzyme, a Sanofi company. Individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) who currently swim or participate in water-based exercise programs are encouraged to visit SwimForMS.org and share their personal story about how water activities have impacted their lives. Why I Swim is just the beginning of a larger effort from MSAA and Genzyme to raise awareness and understanding of water-based exercise programs as a positive wellness opportunity for the MS community. In addition to the Why I Swim campaign, MSAA is developing a variety of tools including print, video, and web-based educational materials on aquatic exercise and MS.

The Swim for MS — Why I Swim campaign will increase awareness and education about the value of swimming for people living with MS. Swimming is known to be one of the best exercises for all age groups and body types. It can be especially good for people with chronic conditions, such as MS. Research on the effects of aquatic therapy for individuals with MS has demonstrated benefits such as improved flexibility, muscle strength, mobility function, and quality of life.

“This campaign is a great way to showcase what individuals with MS are doing to actively impact their own quality of life,” said MSAA President and CEO, Douglas G. Franklin. “The unique properties of water and its cool temperature can create an ideal exercise environment for people with MS, including those who have difficulty with traditional land-based activities. Motivating more people to take part in a swim program is a great way to promote good health and wellbeing, consistent with our mission of improving lives today.”

MSAA will collect story submissions from December 4, 2013 through January 2, 2014. Once all submissions are received, MSAA will select three representatives to:

Have their personal stories professionally produced; as well as be featured on MSAA’s website and social media platforms

Be highlighted in MSAA’s national magazine, The Motivator, and other media opportunities

Receive a personalized training session with an aquatics fitness instructor
Be recognized as an inspiration to the MS community

“Supporting people living with MS is at the heart of everything we do at Genzyme, from developing innovative treatment options, to sponsoring programs like Swim for MS,” said Carole Huntsman, VP and MS Business Unit Head, North America, Genzyme. “We are so proud to partner with MSAA on this important effort to provide motivation and resources to help the MS community stay active in new and different ways.”

Please visit SwimForMS.org for more information on MSAA’s national Swim for MS — Why I Swim campaign. For questions, contact Sarah Masino, Community Relations Coordinator at (800) 532-7667, extension 122 or via email at smasino@mymsaa.org.

The above article is a press release submitted to Swimming World Magazine. It has been posted in its entirety without editing. Swimming World offers all outlets the chance to reach our audience by contacting us at Newsmaster@swimmingworldmagazine.com. However, Swimming World reserves the right to choose what material is posted.

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