June 22, 2019 (Toronto, ON) – The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada and Spicers Canada are delighted to kick off the Spicers-Jackson-Boyer-Bergeron Ride Across Canada for MS in support of multiple sclerosis (MS). Marc Boyer, general manager, strategic sourcing and customer solutions, Spicers, and his long-time friend, Yvon Jackson, have both been touched by MS, a chronic, often disabling disease of the central nervous system (brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves). It’s this close connection to the disease that motivated the two to set a fundraising goal of $100,000 during their three-month trek and to raise awareness for the disease.

“I took on this challenge because I wanted to do my part in the fight against MS and dedicate myself to this cause,” says Marc. With more than 77,000 Canadians diagnosed with MS, Canada has one of the highest rates in the world. “Just like thousands of Canadians, I have been personally affected by MS and have seen how this disease can change lives in an instant. MS affects us all and the outpouring of support for this ride really shows the power of collective action. Yvon, Michel (our RV driver), and I are eager to get started and share our stories with everyone cheering us on.”

Marc’s interest in helping those living with and affected by MS stems from his close relationship to Spicers president, Cory Turner. Cory was diagnosed with MS in 2005. A current director of the MS Scientific Research Foundation and member of the MS Society’s Medical Advisory Committee, Cory supports Marc and his team’s ambition in taking on this event from coast-to-coast that is sure to challenge everyone involved.

“When Marc came to me and presented his idea, I was at a loss for words,” says Cory. “When the community comes together, we can do amazing things and Marc and his team are a perfect example of this. The funds raised through their efforts will go a long way in providing crucial support to MS research, programs, and advocacy to help the hundreds of thousands of Canadians affected by the disease.”

The team has a special detour planned for their stop in Edmonton. They will be participating in the Leduc to Camrose MS Bike tour on June 22 where they will be joined by Pamela Valentine, president and CEO, MS Society of Canada.

“This is one of the most unique and challenging initiatives I’ve seen in the fight against MS,” says Pam. “Marc and Yvon’s commitment and dedication to the cause is inspirational and demonstrates the difference individual acts of greatness can make. To see this come together with the MS Bike tour in Edmonton is also personally special for me. As an Albertan, I’m very much looking forward to joining my home community in coming together to fight this disease. Through our combined acts of greatness, I know a world free of MS is achievable.”

Kicking off in Vancouver on June 8, Marc and Yvon will ride their way across Canada and conclude their journey in Halifax in August. To celebrate each leg of the trip, Marc and Yvon are offering those who raise $300, the opportunity to accompany them through their ‘Ride-A-Leg’ initiative, currently scheduled in Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal with the potential for additional stops along the way.

Follow Marc and Yvon’s journey on Facebook and Instagram. To support their efforts, visit here.
Learn more about MS Rides 2019 here.

About Spicers Canada
Backed by Central National Gottesman Inc. (CNG) a fifth-generation family-owned company based in Purchase, NY, Spicers Canada is a leading distributor of commercial print and business papers, specialty products, graphic solutions, sign & display media, and industrial supplies.

Our employees are passionate about our business and understand exactly what it takes to consistently deliver world-class service and support.

Based in Vaughan, Ontario, Spicers Canada has 22 regional centres that include sheeting facilities in Toronto and Winnipeg, as well as 9 locations focused on industrial products operating under Shippers Supply, a division of Spicers Canada. Partnering with trusted global manufacturers, we source, stock, market and distribute a diverse range of quality products while adding value to our customers through an efficient supply chain.

For the past 100 years Spicers expert and friendly staff have provided products, services and support to customers across Canada. We employ over 650 employees across Canada that are united by a common set of Guiding Principles.

About multiple sclerosis and the MS Society of Canada
Canada has one of the highest rates of multiple sclerosis in the world with 11 Canadians diagnosed with MS every day. MS is a chronic, often disabling disease of the central nervous system comprising the brain, spinal cord and optic nerve. Most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 49 and the unpredictable effects of the disease last for the rest of their lives. The MS Society provides programs and services for people with MS and their families, advocates for those living with MS, and funds research to help improve the quality of life for people living with MS and to ultimately find a cure for this disease. Please visit mssociety.ca or call 1-800-268-7582 to make a donation or for more information. Join the conversation and connect with the MS community online. Find the MS Society on Twitter, Instagram or like our page on Facebook.