My name is Daryl H. Bryant and I’m the author of MS Living Symptom Free. I am honored to be representing the New Jersey Metro Chapter as the 2013 Walk MS Ambassador. Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis 11 years ago, I am determined to live the fullest life possible despite the common symptoms often associated with the disease.

Born in 1977, I grew up in one of the state’s rural communities known as Byram Township. Upon high school graduation, I attended college and later obtained employment with a New York City based software company. During this time, is when I first began experiencing symptoms of MS. While in the process of developing my own company, I decided to ignore the strange occurrences. Once I made the time to consult with a physician, is when I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Despite the obstacles that the disease process presented, I chose to overcome.

Eleven years later, I am now married with a son and have another youngster on the way. I still enjoy a productive life that includes regularly offering my financial support and time to dozens of charitable causes. Living with multiple sclerosis makes the Walk MS event near and dear to me. During the event, guests have the opportunity to hear my inspirational story. Join us at the Walk

Leading up to the event, I have taken initiative to promote Walk MS across social media and various news sources. Here are some of the events/interviews which took place over the past month:

• NJ.com shared my journey living with MS in an informative article.

• I called-in for a live interview segment on News 12 NJ on April 9, 2013.

• The Daily Record also gave me recognition for my motivation, strength and willpower.

• I shared my story and discussed the Walk MS event with Jessie Frees of WMTR AM 1250 during their “Ask the Expert” segment.

To raise additional awareness, I gave a brief public service announcement alongside Nicole Pica (South Jersey MS Ambassador,) which has been aired on News 12 NJ over the past few weeks.

 "I may not have been given a choice in the cards I was dealt, but I was certainly given the options in how to play them. I have elected to make certain that my MS does not rule my life. By making the right choices and changes every day, I have made sure that I am the one in control of my life."

MS Walk 2013

New Jersey MS supporters plan to attend the Walk MS in full force on Sunday, April 14. Registration begins promptly at 9:00 A.M. and the walk commences at 10:00 A.M. This year’s event offers 12 different walking locations for the convenience of participants. Each route averages 3 to 5 miles in length and features a minimum of one rest stop equipped with refreshments.

Walk MS remains one of the basic but efficient means of gathering people together for a common cause. New friends, loved ones and MS patients join forces to raise public awareness and much needed funds that finance groundbreaking research, influence change through education and offer MS patients with supportive programs and services.

Participants typically acquire a list of sponsors who pledge varied amounts of money for every mile walked. The 2013 Walk MS event expects thousands of volunteers with a common goal of raising over $2 million. Besides walking, volunteers may lend their efforts for a number of other activities that include installing/removing signs, working at the registration tables, rest stops or at the finish line. Individuals can also donate their time as vehicle drivers or by providing entertainment.