Ride to fight multiple sclerosis

HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH) -- Bike riders could not ask for better weather as they got together to raise money in the fight against multiple sclerosis.

Paul Wilson was diagnosed with MS in 2009 and he started things off at Hartford's Riverside Park, along with News 8's Darren Kramer.

Riders tackled 25 and 75 mile courses. Two different journeys with the same finish line in sight, both raising $150,000 for MS research, programs and finding a cure.

"I think it's great that so many people come out for such a good cause," said Cyndi Andregg, a participating rider.

Like many pushing the pedals, Andregg has MS. Others take the ride for people they know.

"We have a daughter who has MS and we've seen how research has helped her," said Joyce Crebast, of Team PAT.

6,000 people in Connecticut are affected by the potentially debilitating disease affecting the central nervous system.

"Sometimes when you wake up you don't know what your challenges are going to be," said Judy Noble, a volunteer. "You have your tremors, you have your eyesight."

Noble was diagnosed 15 years ago. Her daughter was 14 when she found out she also had the disease.

For those who can't get around so well at the ride, there were adaptive cycles that allow them to keep up with the pack.

"So, it allows them to ride in comfort and in a very stable platform because of the three wheels," said Ken Messier of Connecticut Adaptive Cycle.

Messier also has a non-profit part of his business, in which folks can come in and actually try out the adaptive cycles.

He provides them so anyone who wants to ride in events like this can.