Shauna Flath, 46, is a gold medalist and a world champion in two different sports as an athlete and also as a coach. And since 2007, has been living with relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis.
“It’s a difficult disease for many, myself included,” she says. “Even then, I feel positive about my future. I have excellent support and understanding from my spouse, friends and family.”
Shauna achieved national success when she coached the Canadian Squash team. She says, “I am most proud of my accomplishments as a squash professional. Setting goals and doing my best to achieve them have shaped my life.”
Now, MS has forced her to quit a job she loved and she is being forced to slow down. She says, “I have to be more cognizant and aware of ensuring to the best of my ability to rest, keep life low-key, avoiding stress and the busyness of life. My friends fully understand my limitations and respect that I can’t always do everything.”
Despite the obstacles life has thrown her way, Shauna is intent on doing something about it. For the past seven years, she and her team Squash MS, have raised more than $30,000 for the MS Walk in Victoria. “We thought we could raise awareness about the disease, gain some support and assist in our own little way by fundraising. This is what we’re doing to find a cure for the disease.”
Funding important research being done right here in Canada would mean better treatment and an eventual cure for MS. It would also mean people like Shauna can get back to doing what she does best.
“I take much pride in being a Canadian. Representing our country abroad is an amazing feeling, especially hearing our anthem played at an international event where you win gold. It’s a euphoric feeling that I’ll never forget.”
The Scotiabank Bank MS Walk takes place in Duncan on Sunday, May 28 at the Cowichan Sportsplex. The route is accessible to wheelchairs, scooters, strollers and leashed dogs. Participants can enjoy a pre-walk java and goodie, a lively water stop, a fabulous lunch, music, inspirational words and the great company of other dedicated walkers.
Funds raised at the MS Walk are dedicated to supporting groundbreaking, Canadian-led research.
For more information or to register go to www.mswalks.ca or call the local MS Society office at 250-748-7010. Email Sheron: Sheron.chrysler@mssociety.ca