For the eleventh year in a row, Burgers to Beat MS is being hosted by A&W to support those living with multiple sclerosis. More than 950 restaurants across Canada are participating in the annual fundraising for the MS Society of Canada on Thursday, August 22.
All Lloydminster locations will be participating in the event: the east side location, the south side location, the Lloyd Mall location, and the Cornerstone location on the west side of town. The Cornerstone location will also host dignitaries such as Mayor Gerald Albers and MLA Colleen Young helping serve up teen burgers over the lunch hour.
This year will also see the Just Kruzin’ Car Club Show at 5:00 p.m. outside the Cornerstone A&W. As part of the Clubs’ annual fundraising efforts in support of the MS Society, “sweet rides” will be offered in their cars. Residents can purchase tickets to ride in their favourite car, with proceeds supporting the MS Society.
This year, two-time Olympic bronze medalist, Canadian women’s national soccer team captain, and Officer of the Order of Canada, Christine Sinclair will help continue the fight in honour of her mother, who lives with MS. People are encouraged to connect with her through the social media hashtag #BurgersToBeatMS. Tammy Klotz, fund development coordinator for the Lloydminster Chapter, says Sinclair’s connection to the campaign is deeply personal.
“Her mom, and one of her soccer coaches live with MS, so she has certainly joined our campaign in regards to that,” says Klotz. “She’s been doing commercials with A&W, and with being able to follow her. This is something she has really solidly gotten behind.”
According to the MS Society, Canada has one of the highest rates of multiple sclerosis in the world. MS is a chronic autoimmune disease of the central nervous system comprising the brain, spinal cord and
optic nerve. It is one of the most common neurological diseases affecting young adults in Canada. Klotz says that all the awareness and support that’s raised can go a long way.
“I think that the public may not always be aware of that. An so, just being able to have a celebrity, an athlete, our dignitaries to come out and support that shows huge importance, and the importance of our community coming out as well.”
The MS Society of Canada has raised more than $13 million through Burgers to Beat MS, and hopes to raise at least $2 million nationally. All four locations will participate all day.