2012 Most Inspirational Walkers

Erum Ahmed - Orange County

Erum was diagnosed with MS in December of 2006, at the age of 23. In 2011, she experienced one of her most difficult years living with the disease. In March of 2011, she had painful nerve shocking and ended up in the hospital for three days for treatment. Then, in April of that same year, Erum woke up with no vision in her left eye, which resulted in another 3-day hospital stay for intensive treatment.

In the midst of all this unpredictability, Erum received her master's degree in urban & regional planning from the University of California, Irvine. In 2012, Erum wasn't able to be at the Walk because she was back in the hospital for treatment. This didn't deter her team, however, who came to the Walk with a lifesize cut out of her head and live streaming video that Erum could watch from her hospital bed. Even though Erum wasn't there physically, she was definitely there in spirit and that spirit inspired all of us.

Max Ankrom - Carlsbad

Four years ago, Max survived a scary 18-day stay at CHOC after going blind - temporarily, it turned out - and losing his ability to talk, walk or perform other simple motor skills. He was diagnosed with pediatric multiple sclerosis at the age of 7. Today, he is a shining example of hope for children living with MS.

Now, this 11-year-old walks at the Carlsbad event, and has been part of the Walk MS family for the past three years. He is truly an inspiration for everyone who is affected by the unpredictable disease and reminds us that when we put our minds to it, we can make incredible things happen.

Betsy Hough - San Diego

When everyone else at Walk MS was already packing up and heading home, one woman living with MS was determined to finish the walk on her own. Inch by inch, Betsy moved her walker the entire 3-mile journey, with her husband and team by her side. By the time she reached the finish line, all the other walkers from the morning were gone, but a crew of volunteers and staff members started chanting for her, saying "Let's go! Let's go!"

Betsy finished her walk, exhausted, shaking and in tears. And she wasn't the only one. Volunteers and staff were moved by her accomplishment and determination. This is why we walk. This is why we raise this money.