Portugal enlists major stars and hosts events nationwide

The Portuguese Society for Multiple Sclerosis or Sociedade Portuguesa de Esclerose Múltiple (SPEM) has embarked on a major programme of activities for World MS Day 2012, held across the country and involving major local stars who have pledged their support.

From Porto in the north to Faro in the south of the country, this month will see a varied selection of activities to involve people living with MS and the general public in a bid to raise awareness, improve the quality of life of the MS community and to have fun along the way.

All of SPEM’s local chapters are involved in the activities which range from awareness building in schools to a fundraising fair, from a demonstration of ballroom dancing to tai chi classes, and a painting exhibition with original works by the members of Lisbon’s Daily Centre of Occupational Activities with MS.

There are also two other exciting events in the Portuguese capital involving major local stars who care about raising awareness of MS. The award-winning star of Portugal’s renowned fado music, Ana Moura, will take part in activities in Lisbon and boost media and public interest in World MS Day. Ana, who has performed across the world and is currently one of the most prestigious singers of fado, is patron to SPEM.

On the same day, the host of the Portuguese version of the major international television hit, The Biggest Loser, will preside over a mobility class and the launch of an exercise DVD specially designed for people living with MS.