Classic cars helping A&W end MS

Worldwide, there are currently between two and 2.5 million people diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). Canada has the highest affection rate in the world.

On Aug. 21, A&W restaurants host its sixth annual Crusin' To End MS event in a continuing effort to help those suffering from this debilitating disease. MS occurs when the insulating covers of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord are damaged, disrupting the brain's ability to communicate with the rest of the body. There is no known cure.

The Crusin' To End MS event, held at more than 800 restaurants, donates $1 from every Teen Burger towards the effort to find that cure.

The highlight of the event is a classic car show and shine, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Aug. 21. The restaurant will have a bus transporting car-lovers between the A&Ws on Long Lake Road, Marcus Drive and Lasalle Boulevard.

At 5:30 p.m., the Bluez Brotherz will be rocking the venue until 8 p.m. with the Nickel City Roller Derby girls handing out swag during the performance.

In 2013, the Long Lake Road restaurant was one of the highest contributors in Canada, raising $6,000 for the MS Society.

MS is not immediately fatal and people are fully capable of living long lives with MS, although the life expectancy for those living with the disease is five to 10 years lower than the general population.