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 Cats Rock For A Greater Cause

NEW BRITAIN, Conn. - The New Britain Rock Cats teamed up with the National MS Society to help find a cure for multiple sclerosis on Wednesday, June 20. The local pro baseball team held a double header and donated 50 percent of ticket proceeds to the National MS Society and the 2007 Travelers MS Walk team Peg Leg Petes.

Simsbury resident Katherine Ryan, 48, captains Peg Leg Petes. Ryan, an artist, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) just nine months ago.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better day,” said Ryan. “The weather was beautiful and the Rock Cats donated $345.00 from ticket sales to help find a cure for MS.”

Ryan also sold specially designed bears and handcrafted soaps at the game, which raised an additional $233.00.

More than 6,000 Connecticut residents, like Ryan, are battling the baffling effects of multiple sclerosis, a potentially debilitating disease affecting the central nervous system. The cause is unknown, and, as a result, there currently is no cure. Symptoms can include, among other things, numbness and tingling in the extremities, difficulties with vision and speech, stiffness and, in some more severe cases, total paralysis. The progression, severity, and specific symptoms of MS in any one person cannot be predicted. Funds raised through events, such as the Rock Cats game night fundraiser, ensure the continuation of scientific research to find a cure and provide for vital programs and services offered by the chapter to Connecticut residents living with MS.

To learn more about the effects of MS and the many ways you can help, please visit www.ctfightsMS.org.

6/26/07

NOTE TO MEDIA:
For More Information
Contact Melissa Saranitzky
Communications Coordinator
Phone: 860.714.2300, ext. 239
E-mail: msaranitzky@ctfightsMS.org

PHOTO CUTLINE: Ryan’s son, D.J. Barron, throws the first pitch at the New Britain Rock Cats benefit game on Wednesday, June 20. The local pro baseball team held a double header and donated 50 percent of ticket proceeds to the National MS Society and the 2007 Travelers MS Walk team Peg Leg Petes.

PHOTO CUTLINE: Harriet Fisher, Florence Bergamini and Katherine Ryan sell stuffed bears and handcrafted soaps at the New Britain Rock Cats benefit game on Wednesday, June 20. The local pro baseball team held a double header and donated 50 percent of ticket proceeds to the National MS Society and the Ryan’s 2007 Travelers MS Walk team Peg Leg Petes.