Episode 78

The May 50K: Community, Fitness and Fundraising for MS Research

The May 50K is fast approaching and today we explore its impact on MS (multiple sclerosis) research, and how participants support important research advancements.

Since launching in 2019, this fun and flexible fitness challenge for individuals and workplace teams has raised more than $25.5 million to support world-class research into the prevention, treatment and cure of MS.

Each May, thousands of people in Australia and around the world walk, run, roll, swim 50 kilometres, or set their own goal or activity, to help leave MS where it belongs, behind us.

In this episode, Raw Nerve host Jeremy Henderson speaks with three passionate May 50K champions and participants about the importance of community, exercise, and fundraising in the fight against MS.

Today’s guests are Dr Fiona McKay, Deputy Head of Research at MS Australia, Sophie Drummond from our Member Organisation MS Plus and Campaign Manager for The May 50K, also Dr Amanda Kennedy, a member of MS Australia’s Lived Experience Expert Panel (the LEEP) and Lecturer in Marketing at The University of Sydney. Sophie and Amanda also live with MS.

Key topics include:

  • The significance of The May 50K event in MS research funding
  • How exercise benefits people living with MS and the community
  • The role of community and teamwork in fundraising success
  • Research priorities and breakthroughs in MS, including EBV (Epstein-Barr virus) and progressive MS trials
  • Personal stories of MS diagnosis, advocacy, and participation in the May 50K and strategies for fundraising
  • New innovations and incentives for May 50K participants
  • MS Australia’s Lived Experience Expert Panel

You will hear how to register for The May 50K 2026 and clock the kilometres, to help support life-changing research into the prevention, treatment and finding a cure for MS.

Whether you are already signed up or simply curious about how movement can drive real change, this episode is a great source of inspiration to get involved.

For helpful MS contacts in your local area, visit our Support and Services page and check out MS Australia’s new Lifestyle Guide for people living with MS.

Episode Transcript

The episode transcript is unavailable at this time.

Views expressed on the Raw Nerve Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Australia and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.

MS Australia does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist.

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The May 50K: Community, Fitness and Fundraising for MS Research