This Sunday, April 29, Susan's Squad will make its first appearance at the annual Scotiabank MS Walk in Langley.

Susan's Squad is a fundraising team of four led by Jennifer Schmidt, inspired by MS Walk Langley chair Susan Gagnon.

Gagnon was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis 24 years ago and has been very active in her community to help create awareness around MS.

After participating in last year's walk, Schmidt started her own team.

"Susan has always been so helpful in the community and is always there for everyone," Schmidt said. "I mostly wanted to do this to give back to Susan."

Schmidt is a self-proclaimed people person, and admits, "Fundraising is fun for me."

She had a lot of success fundraising with activities like a hot dog sale during Easter long weekend, and now knows to start early so she has more opportunities to reach more people.

Last year, 160 participants, 60 volunteers and fundraising teams like Susan's Squad and individuals, helped raise $36,000 for MS Walk Langley, to fund research for a cure for MS, as well as for programs to support those living with the disease.

The Scotiabank MS Walk Langley gets underway at 10 a.m. on Sunday at the Douglas Park Recreation Centre in Langley.

Susan's Squad and other participants will walk or run to end MS, and more are invited to take part.

Registration is open until Sunday morning, before the walk starts at 10 a.m., for individuals and groups.

A light breakfast, snacks, and lunch will be provided.

FACTS ABOUT MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS IN CANADA

. MS is the most common neurological disease affecting young adults in Canada.

. Canada has one of the highest rates of MS in the world, with an estimated 55,000 to 75,000 people living with the disease.

. MS is often debilitating, always unpredictable, and a cure still needs to be found.

. MS Society of Canada fundraising has supported more than $100 million in research projects since 1948.

. Canadians raise the highest amount per capita for MS research in the world.

. The mission of the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada is to be a leader in finding a cure for multiple sclerosis and enabling people affected by MS to enhance their quality of life. The Society is the only national voluntary organization in Canada that supports both MS research and services for people with MS and their families.