The “Thursday group” was excited to continue their winning streak for a second consecutive year.

SACRAMENTO REGION, CA (MPG) - For the 10th year in a row, the John A. Schafer, MD Multiple Sclerosis Achievement Center located at 7777 Greenback Lane, a program of the Dignity Health Neurological Institute, hosted its Annual Marathon on Dec. 2. The event brings together those with multiple sclerosis (MS) to compete, overcome physical challenges and achieve a sense of accomplishment.

The marathon was not your typical race. Participants logged miles on stationary exercise equipment, each working toward the goal of collectively reaching 26.2 miles, the length of a traditional marathon. But the primary aim of the event was not just about the miles but the opportunity to support each other and defy the physical barriers multiple sclerosis presents.

Staff from the John A. Schafer, MD Multiple Sclerosis Achievement Center were all on hand at the annual multiple sclerosis marathon event.

“The marathon started 10 years ago. It is a way for our members who can’t necessarily go out and participate in the California International Marathon to participate as a team on our stationery gym equipment,” said John A. Schafer, MD Multiple Sclerosis Achievement Center Director Tiffany Malone.

The MS Achievement Center is an outpatient services hub that offers physical rehabilitation, social connection, emotional support, and health education. The center’s mission is to improve health and wellness for people with multiple sclerosis, empowering them to optimize their quality of life.

Multiple sclerosis is a neurological condition that is often classified as an autoimmune disease, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body, explained Malone.

American River Infusion Services was one of the many sponsors present at the event.

“We have a structure schedule that includes exercise, cognitive stimulation activities, emotional support and probably the biggest piece is socialization,” Malone said.

Founded in 2014, the center originally launched with only 10 members and it now serves up to 75 participants each week. Malone shared hopes of expanding to 100 members soon, citing the immense need for such services in the community.

“In 2013, a person I knew through the National MS Society suggested that I apply for a grant to the Conrad Hilton Foundation to start the center. We got a onetime only grant for a large amount of money, opened in February 2014 and it rapidly grew to its current size. It’s been a wonderful program,” said Dr. John A. Schafer, founder of John A. Schafer, MD Multiple Sclerosis Achievement Center

Staff and other attendees cheered on their fellow racers.

Schafer noted the importance of connecting those with multiple sclerosis to a network of support.

“Multiple sclerosis is often an isolating condition,” Dr. Schafer said. “This center provides a safe space where people can come together, share experiences and not feel alone in their journey.”

The annual marathon, now a highly anticipated tradition, also serves as a fundraiser. As a nonprofit, the MS Achievement Center relies on sponsorships to continue its operations and expand its programs.

Members of the center echoed Malone’s sentiments. Joanne, a participant, shared her experience of attending the center since its opening.

“The center is primarily about socializing; it makes you get out of your bed and down here once a week. I started coming in October of the first year they opened and I’m still coming back. The staff and the skill that is here to take care of us is everything,” said racer Joanne.

While tracking miles, staff cheered on the racers every step of the way.

Schafer added that learning about MS and starting treatment early is crucial for managing the condition.

“When a diagnosis is new, it’s important to gather as much information as possible and seek out the best treatments,” he said.

The John A. Schafer, MD Multiple Sclerosis Achievement Center remains the only one of its kind in Northern California.

To join the Achievement Center, individuals can simply give the center a call to begin the self-referral process, as no prescription is required. The application process is straightforward, with three key requirements: a confirmed diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS), the ability to independently manage toiletry needs and the understanding that the center does not provide transportation to and from the facility.

For more information on how to join or support the center, call 916-453-7966.