Biking event supports multiple sclerosis

Editor's note: Joseph Jones is a Register correspondent representing vermiliondaily.com. BERLIN HEIGHTS — An annual event that raises money to fight multiple sclerosis rolled through the region earlier this month. More than 500 cyclists took part in Pedal to the Point event, Aug. 9-10. The two-day fundraiser supports the mission of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. The ride began on that Friday in Berea where participants departed from Baldwin Wallace University on one of three courses. The course ranged from 35 miles, 75 miles and 100 miles. Some completed the one-day challenge, catching a shuttle home after the finish, while others rode both days, covering up to 200-plus miles that weekend. Locally, here's where riders traveled through: • Quarry Hill Orchards in Berlin Heights — This area served as a rest stop for riders where a fall market awaited participants. Local vendors offered fresh produce, baked goods and handmade items, giving riders and spectators a warm welcome and a chance to relax before heading out again. The crisp air, the smell of apples and the chatter between cyclists made it feel like a festival tucked into the middle of a long ride. • Sawmill Creek Resort in Huron — This area acted as the finish line of sorts for some riders. The grounds were decorated for a Margaritaville-themed celebration, with tents, tables, music, and plenty of space for riders to unwind after a long day. Many of the organization's leadership members — including Julie Leggett, president of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society's Ohio chapter, and Mary Van Den Broek, a board member and volunteer — stopped out to check out the event. Both underscored their deep committment to the society's mission. Van Den Broek has lived with multiple sclerosis for several years. She stressed the importance of this event and her organization's overall mission. "You see people with MS riding, others volunteering. Everyone is here for the same reason," Van Den Broek said. "All the funds go right back into research and helping people with things they need, like accessibility ramps," she said. Leggett described the event as the society's Super Bowl, culminating a year's worth of planning, partnerships and community involvement. Behind the scenes, the ride depends on hundreds of volunteers, returning sponsors and local businesses that donate products or services. Everything from drinks to post-ride massages is made possible through these partnerships. Sawmill Creek Resort is a key host, providing space and resources to make the Rider Village possible. By Sunday morning, more than 300 cyclists were back in their saddles for the return ride to Berea, closing out another year of pedaling toward a future without multiple sclerosis. No matter how far they rode, every participant and volunteer played a role in advancing that goal, Leggett and Van Den Broek said. People can learn more by visiting nationalmssociety.org.