From Tatras to Danube: Registrations Open for Multiple Sclerosis Cycling Event

Bratislava, 18 November (TASR) - Registration has been launched for the cycling event "From Tatras to the Danube" to raise awareness about multiple sclerosis, with the twelfth annual event organised by Sclerosis Multiplex Hope Association under the motto "Heal. Move. Live", TASR has learnt at a press conference held on Tuesday by association's chair Jaroslava Valcekova, House Speaker Richard Rasi, Labour Minister Erik Tomas, Health Minister Kamil Sasko and Head of the Neurology Clinic at St. Michael's Hospital Frantisek Jurcaga. According to Tomas, the event is a symbol of solidarity, courage, and determination for people suffering from multiple sclerosis. "It brings together patients, doctors, physiotherapists, athletes and, as you can see, politicians," said Tomas, adding that the main goal and focus is to raise awareness and educate. "We want to send a message to people affected by this disease that they need to stay active and live their lives to the fullest, and most importantly, that they are not alone in this," stated Tomas. Rasi explained that the event was launched twelve years ago by the parliamentary committee for health. "What is routine for us is often impossible for these patients – such as brushing teeth in the morning, tying shoelaces, getting dressed, or walking without the fear of falling when losing balance," he noted. According to Sasko, in a new contract with the marketing authorisation holder of the most commonly used modern medicine for multiple sclerosis, the ministry managed to incorporate a provision ensuring that more patients will be able to receive this treatment from March next year. "It will be fully covered by public health insurance," he said, adding that another drug, which is even more innovative, is to be included in first-line treatment. "We expect the licence holder's final decision shortly," he noted. Jurcaga explained that there are some 8,000 patients in Slovakia suffering from this disease, which primarily affects people in their productive age. "Fortunately, we are one of the countries where innovative treatment is available, and we have been treating patients with modern and effective drugs for many years," he said. jrg