Bike MS, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s annual bike ride, is nothing new to Alec Baris. His parents, Lynda and Mitch Baris of Chesterfield, have been participating in this event for over 22 years. This past September was Alec’s third year to ride and he chose to make it his mitzvah project. “He did so because he loves to ride his bike and knows that the event really helps others in our community,” said Lynda.

As a member of the J.W. Terrill Trekkers team, of which his mother is captain, Alec and his family rode 117 miles over two days. His family and friends helped support his project by sponsoring him for the ride. Together they raised over $6,000 that will be used to fund research and programs that are offered to those suffering with MS.

Alec’s brother, Justin, did the same event for his mitzvah project in 2008. Alec picked this event because he said it was a meaningful cause and that he knew the money he raised will make a difference in the community and in the lives of people with MS.

A student at Crestview Middle School, Alec found the ride to be a difficult challenge but realized that it is nothing compared to living with a chronic disease like MS.

For more information about Bike MS, please visit their website at www.nationalmssociety.org/chapters/bike-ms-gateway-area-chapter/index.aspx