July 9 Conference Call Recap

As of July 8, 114 walkers are registered for 2014 (2 of the 114 are virtual walkers).

There are currently 19 Super Crew members. (Super Crew members are dedicated volunteers who pay the registration fee, raise the $1,500 pledge minimum and receive all the same benefits as walkers. These volunteers assist with a variety of responsibilities throughout the Challenge Walk weekend.)

There are currently 25 crew members. (Crew members are not required to pay the registration fee, but they are encouraged to fundraise. Overnight accommodations and meals are not included for crew members. However, those who raise $750 will receive Friday night lodging and participate in the Friday evening celebration dinner.)

One way you can help increase attendance is with the special Bring-a-Buddy offer. Recruit a new walker or Super Crew member to join you at Challenge Walk MS and you’ll each receive an orange-a-licious spirit basket at check in. This basket will be packed full of fun items, you’ll be the envy of other participants AND have someone special with you to enjoy the weekend.

Lastly, remember the $1,500 fundraising minimum must be submitted by August 29, 2014 with the final fundraising deadline being September 22, 2014.

Our Co-Host: Jane Jacobson:

Doug & Jane Jacobson

• Jane has MS and is a five-year Challenge Walk veteran. Last year she walked with her husband, Doug, and made many new friends throughout the weekend.
  
• The first year participating in Challenge Walk MS, Jane was a Super Crew member.  After the inspiring weekend, she knew she could join the others on the course as a walker.
  
• Her husband, Doug, walks 50 miles each year, while Jane walks 10 miles each morning for a weekend total of 30.

Our Co-Host: Jackie Piper

• Jackie is also a five-year Challenge Walk veteran and participates with her team, MS Warriors.
  



Jackie Piper (left) with members of her team


• Each year, Jackie completes 50 miles during the Challenge Walk MS weekend.
  
• To train prior to the event she aims for a goal of walking seven days a week, which typically means she’ll lace up her shoes at least five of those seven days.

Training Tips From the Veterans:

Typically Jane and Doug walk a five mile training route – 2.5 miles to Starbuck’s and 2.5 miles back.  This is a good distance for them and allows for a nice mid-way break if needed.

Jackie follows a similar schedule to the program on the Challenge Walk MS website, but limits the longer mileage until shortly before the event weekend.  Then she takes the last few days off to rest.

• The Mapmywalk app is a great tool to use for training or a pedometer or Fitbit is also suggested to log steps and mileage.

Listen to your body while training and during the weekend! Training every day works for some, while others may need a day of rest in between.

For the weekend-of here are some suggestions from the veterans to help keep you on the road:

• Bring snacks to enjoy nightly before dinner.
  
• Beverages help keep you hydrated – protein shakes, Gatorade, etc.  KEEP HYDRATED!
  
• Heating pads or ice post-walk each day.
  
• Over the counter pain reliever to keep ahead of any pain, rather than waiting for the pain to start.
  
• Take advantage of all of the volunteers and staff available during the weekend – massage therapists, medical staff, SAG vehicle volunteers.  Don’t try to be “big and brave.” They are here to make your experience the best possible! Benefit from the pampering that is there to make you more comfortable!

Things to bring to help improve your weekend-of experience (take advantage of your Half-day Bag and consider including many of these items):

• Bring a friendly smile – this is a wonderful rime to connect with other walkers while walking or at any time during the weekend.  The impact of the shared experience is one you don’t get very often!
  
• Two pairs of shoes that have been broken in during training.  Visit a walking store to get fitted correctly – look for a tighter ankle and a wide toe box.  Sometimes it takes a pair or two to find one that really works best for you.
  
• Plenty of moisture-wicking socks that aren’t too tight (decreases circulation).
  
• Bodyglide works well for some, while Baby Powder is also a good substitute.
  
• Wear layers!  Pants, shorts, long-sleeved t-shirts, t-shirts, light jacket, lightweight rain gear, etc.

Thank you all for being a part of this year’s second Challenge Walk MS conference call. If anyone has questions please feel free to contact us:

Nichole Shaffer – 262-369-4416

Jamie Baker – 262-369-4435

Jane or Jackie – Please reach out to Nichole or Jamie and they can connect you.